the arch is a good option for later on I think. I've def already used Dr. Sun in Diamond City...centrally located. Here's the list of Docs and known locations (a few I didn't know about!) 

One maybe addition to the note about not cooking meat - I really love getting two for one meat by running over to Sunshine Tidings Co-op and getting the Wasteland Survival guide #9. 

Since eating is a premium, it's nice to double dip every time you can.

I don't own Wasteland Workshop so I didn't really know about the arch. 40 caps is basically nothing for a radiation cure. Plus, even if you don't have Wasteland Workshop, you can build a clinic at your settlement - the doctor also acts as a vendor.

For sure, I just picked that up a couple of days ago and it's making some of the rare meats (softshell mirelurk, Brahmin etc) much more viable - I'm pretty sure the value/healing of the meat contributes to how much hunger it removes.

I read somewhere not sure if on internet or in game... but the "value" of the food/drink determines how well it will quench your hunger and/or thirst. Not sure if that means healing value or price value though.

I believe it's by healing value not selling value. Not 100% sure though.

Added a new tip regarding food selection.

I am dreading clearing the Castle...but looking forward to tasty mirelurk omelets! Such good tips! Thanks again for taking the time to share Ponty.

Clearing the Castle is a really tough one. I actually did the nearby Chinese submarine quest to get the 3 transponders first. Laid some mines in the breach to damage the queen a bit (I've specced in to the explosives perk - very useful in survival for some extra punch) and then threw the transponders while I tried to bait her in to position. I managed to land a direct hit with the last nuke! I'd strongly recommend hiding inside the castle wall where her acid spray can't get you.

Hey Ponty - can you fast travel to and from the Institute? Railroad HQ? Prydwen? 

I just realized I hadn't heard about this yet.