Where to Eat Right Now; The Merchant Is Open; More

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Enjoy Eater Boston's top stories this week.

HUB-WIDE—Here are eight not-so-classic cheesecakes to try right now, from the sweet potato chevre cheesecake at Artbar to the peanut butter cheesecake at The Fireplace.

HUB-WIDE—The Eater Boston Heatmap has been updated for March, revealing the hottest places to eat at this very moment. New additions this month: M.C. Spiedo and The Shawarma Place.

HARVARD SQUARE/SOUTH END—Michael Scelfo chats about Alden & Harlow's very busy first month, and Chris Coombs reflects on Boston Chops' first year.

DOWNTOWN CROSSING—The Merchant, an "American brasserie," is now open in Downtown Crossing. It's co-owned by Shane Smyth, a co-owner of Sycamore in Newton, and two Craigie on Main alums are in the kitchen — Matt Foley as executive chef and Tim McQuinn as sous chef.