A new way to satisfy your hunger-addled soul

Finally! A conference that everyone can enjoy, at least for the side benefits. Next week's 2012 Bio International Conference in Boston has provided an uber-local, valuable alternative to food preview stalwarts like Yelp and Urbanspoon. Thanks to the kind (and extremely productive) employees of Biogen, Bostonians and visitors have an all-new way to search for the perfect place to stuff your face: discovermyboston.com.

As part of a massive collaborative effort, Biogen employees offered their thoughts and reviews on dozens of restaurants in city. This simple yet effective site offers an easy-to-search format and basic information for each dining experience.

In the mood for some waffles, scones, pancakes, or a refreshing mimosa early in the morning? Try the "Breakfast" tab. If you are suffering from an especially light wallet or a close-to-maxed-out credit card, a selection from the "Cheap Eats" section would be the way to go. Maybe you are in town for another convention or have an important client meeting to plan? Try the "Business Dining" section. Want a taste of something decidedly un-American? "International Dining" options await. Finally, visitors and locals alike can get their fill of the prime seafood that this city has to offer with the "Seafood and Sushi" section.

Of special interest to native Bostonians are what these reviewers consider "Hidden Gems." While they may not be hidden for much longer, this section offers everything from ice cream to "Cuban-inspired" cuisine. Many of the locations highlighted are in Cambridge due to the proximity to the conference, but the site covers several Boston neighborhoods, from Allston to Roxbury, downtown to Jamaica Plain.

While not as expansive as the commonly-used Yelp, Discover My Boston offers readers an easy-to-navigate alternative and a brief review of each restaurant. While many of these will be familiar to Boston natives, there are undoubtedly some unexpected culinary pleasures waiting to be discovered.

Go on, bust out of your old routine a little. Your standby pizza place will still be there for you when you return.