BARS & CLUBS BARS & CLUBS
We hope our critiques of these Bars & Clubs will assist you in making your choices in which places you and your friends will visit. We can only ask that you DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE!!! TAKE THE “T” OR TAKE A CAB!
An Tain 31 India St., Boston (617) 426-1870 Located in Boston’s downtown financial district, this place hops during the weekend with a DJ. It is high energy! The cover varies. During the week, An Tain is a great after-work pub, plus it’s a place where the locals go and dance. An Tain is also one of the better American-style restaurants in Boston. They serve exquisite swordfish and New York sirloin.
An Tua Nua 835 Beacon St., Boston (617) 262-2121 This location is a happening Irish pub, dance club, and restaurant. Weekends hop with Hip-Hop and Top 40 with a young crowd. During Red Sox games this place is packed with people before, during, and after games. This is a very popular BU bar. The menu is typical bar food like burgers, salads, and nachos. There is usually a cover on most nights.
Aria 246 Tremont St., Boston (617) 338-7080 This dance club is not for you if you are on a budget. Many people sit at private tables and order ice buckets filled with their favorite drinks. If you are looking for international dance music with attitude, then you have found the place. The cover is usually around $10.00. Getting into this club can be a feat in and of itself. This bar is as close to a South Beach, Florida club as you will find in Boston. Log on to their website to find out what is going on every night of the week.
ATTIC Bar at Union St. Restaurant & Bar 107R Union St., Newton Centre (Behind Fleet Bank) (617) 986-6684 T: Newton Ctr. (Green Line, D). Hours: Mon.-Fri. 11:30a.m.-1a.m., Sat. Noon-1a.m. The ATTIC is the closest place to BC to hear great live music. Recently remodeled with a bigger stage, the bar features college and alternative bands on Thursdays, Rock bands on Fridays, and “real” Blues bands on Saturday nights. Most of the acts are originals, but they have slowly been expanding their bookings to bring in bands from outside of New England. The five-foot TV is the centerpiece for 10 Cent Buffalo Wing Night on Mondays. There are dartboards, plenty of places to sit and eat, a pool table, and lots of space in front of the stage. The drink prices are reasonable and draft beers are cheap. The jukebox is excellent! They serve the same great food as on the other two floors. There’s a late-night menu that goes until midnight with sandwiches, burgers, nachos, etc. The ATTIC is right around the corner from BC and the best spot to hang out with a casual crowd and catch a really good band.
Avalon 15 Lansdowne St., Fenway (617) 262-2424 T: Kenmore. Located across from Fenway Park, Avalon is one of the most popular dance clubs in Boston and the closest place to a New York club. Avalon is known as a “Superclub.” Not only a dance club, it’s also a concert venue. This progressive club attracts a wide variety of people, depending on the night. During the weeknights, Avalon features mostly progressive music and dancing. Friday and Saturday nights are usually your typical mainstream (Top 40) dancing nights. Sunday is gay night at Avalon. There is a very large dance floor and 13 bars around the room. Avalon brings in headline bands. There is a dress code (no jeans). The cover varies from $5-$15.
The Avenue Bar & Grill 1249 Comm. Ave., Allston (617) 782-9508 T: Harvard Ave. The Avenue is a college bar and restaurant that brings in both the BC and BU students due to the location between both campuses. They have live jazz, hip hop, and DJ nights. They serve American fare with pasta, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Flat screen TV’s provide good viewing of your favorite sporting event. This is a casual atmosphere and a good starting place to go before heading out to the multitude of other clubs in the Allston area.
Axis 13 Lansdowne St., Fenway (617) 262-2437 T: Kenmore. Located across the street from Fenway Park, Axis does not look like a typical college club or a very inviting place; but if you’re into interesting crowds and alternative music, it’s just the right place. If you wear black, you will fit right in. The inside of Axis has black painted walls, a high-tech look, and an excellent sound system. The DJs play a mix of progressive, alternative, new wave, industrial, and even punk music. Axis plays all kinds of music spanning decades. The cover at Axis varies between $5-$10. Axis brings in some great local bands and some national acts. Ages 19+ Monday through Friday.
Beacon Hill Pub 149 Charles St., Boston T: Charles. Located at the End of Charles St. in Beacon Hill, Beacon Hill Pub offers a fun time and a good crowd. There are very few stools, so most people are standing around. This is a popular place among BC alumni. The drinks are cheap, so it gets really crowded Thurs.-Sat. when there will be a line. This is the Mary Ann’s of Beacon Hill.
Bell in Hand 45-55 Union St., Boston (617) 227-2098 T: Government Center. Located next to Faneuil Hall right on the Freedom Trail across from Faneuil Hall, this is one of the oldest bars in the United States, basically being an Old English pub with a few modern touches. There are plenty of TV’s to watch sporting events. This place really gets packed Thurs.-Sat., and there will be a line full of college students and tourists. You can order salads, burgers, and pizza. Dress is casual, and occasionally, there’s a cover.
Big City 138 Brighton Ave., Allston (617) 782-2020 T: Harvard Ave. Big City has probably one of the largest selections of beer with over 80 beers on tap. They have one pool table on the first floor with a black felt top. Take the elevator or the stairs to the second floor where you will find one large bar that divides the upstairs rooms that contain about 10 tables per room. If billiards is your game, contact them for their pool club/league.You can order food and drinks while you play. For those of you who don’t want to miss any of the sporting events, Big City has you covered with televisions everywhere the eye can see.
The Big Easy 1 Boylston Place, Boston (617) 351-7000 T: Boylston St. Located in the heart of Boston, The Big Easy has a New Orleans theme that is conveyed through their live bands every night. Bourbon Street has come to Boston! If you have never been to Mardi Gras, then just head to The Big Easy. DJs spin terrific music that keeps everyone moving and grooving to the beat with top 40, hip-hop, and even some 80’s music. They have a lounge, pool tables, a dance floor, a balcony, and four bars. The Big Easy has a private room that can hold up to 100 people. Cover varies from $5-$8.
Bill’s Bar 5 Landsdowne St., Boston (617) 421-9678 Located on the famous Lansdowne Street behind Fenway’s Green Monster. If you are in the mood for rock-and-roll bands, top-40, or hip-hop coming from top DJs, then Bill’s Bar is the place for you. Bill’s Bar boasts cold beer and comfortable seating for your lounging pleasure.
The Black Horse Tavern 340 Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston (617) 227-2038 T: Government Center. Located in the heart of Faneuil Hall Marketplace below Durgin Park Restaurant, The Black Horse Tavern is the perfect place to start out your evening. This is a haven for tourists and is always packed. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights have live entertainment. Call and ask when open mike night is.
The Black Rhino 21 Broad St., Boston, (617) 263-0101 This location has three levels. The first two floors consist of the bar, while the top floor is the restaurant. When weather permits, The Black Rhino opens the roof top deck. From Thursday through Sunday, The Black Rhino has live entertainment. Not only is this a fun place to go clubbing, but it’s one of the better restaurants in Boston. The chef prepares fantastic tuna, salmon, pasta, and steak dishes.
The Black Rose 160 State St., Faneuil Hall, Boston (617) 742-2286 T: Government Center. One of Boston’s original Irish pubs, the Black Rose offers live Irish entertainment seven nights a week at the first floor pub and Thursday through Sunday in the upstairs pub. Excellent food is served at reasonable prices. Lunch and dinner are served with the menu offering a mix of Irish and American fare. You must try the Shepherd’s Pie. It is a popular spot among a variety of crowds especially tourists.
Boston Beer Garden 732-734 East Broadway, South Boston (617) 269-0990 Voted “Boston’s Best Neighborhood Bar” by Boston Magazine, they serve lunch, dinner, and a tasty Sunday Brunch from noon-4p.m. They have a giant TV for all of the sporting action. The big draw to this place is the type of people that frequent the place.
Boston Beer Works 61 Brookline Ave., Boston (617) 536-BEER T: Kenmore Sq. 112 Canal St., Boston (617) 896-2337 Boston Beer Works serves twelve-plus, freshly made on-premise ales like Boston Red, Kenmore Kolsch, Fenway American Pale Ale, Hercules Strong Ale, Crimson Clover Irish Red, and many seasonal specials. With a full menu until 1:00a.m., they serve big portions of steak tips, beer-basted burgers, overflowing pastas, and many grilled items. Beer Works has 16 Microbrews on tap. The service is fast and friendly. Across from Fenway Park, this is the home of the 20 oz. beer glass. No cover.
Boston Billiard Club 126 Brookline Ave., Boston (617) 536-POOL T: Kenmore. Head towards Fenway. Featured in some billiards magazines as the #1 Billiard Club in the nation. Boston Billiards can be a great night out, whether under 21 or 21+ years. The atmosphere is modern and comfortable unlike your typical pool hall. They have many pool tables, a mini arcade, private poolrooms (you can rent them for about $10/hour), darts, and foosball. There are multiple TV’s throughout and places to sit as you wait for a table. (There is usually a wait of 20-30 minutes on weekends), For those 21+ years, you can get stamped and order from a full bar. Besides drinks, the waitstaff will also bring out some great appetizer foods.
Bukowski’s Tavern 50 Dalton St., Boston (617) 437-9999 You would never guess by the size of this small Irish pub that they carry 107 different bottles of beer and 15 on tap. This is not a full liquor bar--beer and wine only. The food here is good and cheap. This is a definite hangout for the college crowd.
Cactus Club 939 Boylston St., Back Bay (617) 236-0200 T: Hynes/ICA. For great mixed drinks, you can’t beat the Cactus Club. As well as having the best margaritas in Boston as judged by GQ Magazine, the bar serves up a variety of other great drinks such as the Coyote Killer (light and dark rum, peach schnapps, ginger beer, pineapple, and cranberry juice) or the Tarantula Bite (Southern Comfort, Amaretto, gold tequila, and fruit juices). The atmosphere inside the club will bring you back to the old Southwest, and if the bartender is in the right mood, he/she will make the life-sized buffalo behind the bar blow smoke through its nose. There is also a sit-down restaurant section that serves great Tex-Mex food and drinks. They have a strict ID policy.
Cantab Lounge 738 Mass Ave., Cambridge (617) 354-2685 T: Central Square (Red Line towards Alewife). Go there on a Friday, or Saturday night when Little Joe Cook, now in his 80’s (who had a genuine ‘50s rock-and-roll hit with “Peanuts”) and the Thrillers play. With three shows (9p.m.-2a.m.), Little Joe and crew get the mixed crowd (many college/grad students) rocking with their jazz/bop tunes. By 11 p.m., the place will be packed, everyone will be dancing, and you will be an instant fan. The Cantab also hosts a number of other good local blues and jazz bands. The cover varies depending on the night. The $8 cover when Little Joe Cook and the Thrillers play is well worth it. Call to find out what night they have poetry readings and improv comedy.
Cask’n Flagon 62 Brookline Ave., Boston (617) 536-4840 T: Kenmore Sq. Located behind Fenway Park’s Green Monster, the Cask’n Flagon is a true sports bar and restaurant that could not have a better location. A normal bar menu is served here; however, they do have other menu items such as a lobster roll. DJ’s spin classic tunes while patrons play video games. This place can get verypacked during a Sox game. The staff is friendly and attentive to your needs.
Cheers 84 Beacon St., Beacon Hill (617) 227-9605 T: Arlington. This famous pub is the inspiration for the television series “Cheers.” Also a restaurant, they serve good burgers, sandwiches, and the like. It’s a good place to have a few casual drinks and take visitors in the downtown area. Of course, there is also a souvenir stand where you can get all of the “Cheers” paraphernalia you want. The dress is casual, and the prices are moderate to high.
Cityside Bar & Grille 1960 Beacon St., Cleveland Circle (617) 566-1002 T: Cleveland Circle (C Line ) or Reservoir (D Line). Cityside Bar & Grille offers a great selection of food and drink in an enjoyable atmosphere. Their menu of appetizers, sandwiches, salads, pastas, dinners, and more is sure to fulfill any craving. To quench your thirst, choose from their selection of 12 drafts & 12 bottle beers, or allow them to prepare a tasty concoction from their “Specialty Drink” menu. Several frozen drinks are featured at Cityside. Catch all of the local sports action on one of their 16 televisions, or test your wits with the NTN Interactive Trivia Game. Cityside serves up fantastic happy hour food specials starting at $1.95. Cityside Bar & Grille is renown for its Boston Marathon celebrations and is the only place to celebrate before, during, and after any Boston College football game. Download and listen to anything you choose on the jukebox while you play Golden Tee and touch screen video games. Wireless internet is now available along with team trivia for prizes.
Clarke’s 21 Merchant Row, Boston (617) 227-7800 This tavern in the Faneuil Hall marketplace is a classic bar in Boston. The music that is played is mostly Dave Matthews, but if you expect to speak to your friends, you’d better make sure you speak louder than Dave sings. Clarke’s gets very crowded which is half the fun. You can eat some typical bar food; however, there are plenty of other places to eat in the area before visiting Clarke’s.
Common Ground 85 Harvard Ave., Allston (617) 783-2071 This Irish sports bar has everything you would expect and more. Good food (try the pizza), sports on TV, and live music are all under one roof. The atmosphere is very comfortable and laid back. The owners are BC alumni. Food is served until 11p.m. and the bar is open until 2a.m.
Copperfield’s 98 Brookline Ave., Fenway (617) 247-8605 T: Kenmore. Located on the Green Line around the corner from Fenway, this is a no-frills bar. It gets very crowded, especially after Red Sox games. During nights when there is no game, this place is also good with a large population of college students from the local colleges. There is a dance floor and live entertainment every night. There are TV screens throughout that have cable with all of the sports action. If the game is sold out, or you just want to relax and watch it, Copperfield’s is a great place to go. If the place is empty, you can count on it filling up completely within a half hour after game’s end.
Corrib Pub 396 Market St., Brighton (617) 787-0882 The Corrib Pub has been around forever. You will find locals watching the Sox games, while enjoying a burger and a cold beer. If you are in the mood for more sophisticated food, prime rib is also on the menu.
Coyote Ugly 234 Friend St., Boston (617) 854-7300 Yes, this is the chain of saloons that was made famous by the movie made in 2000 of the same name. This is the place where female bartenders jump up on the bar and dance every chance they can. This place has a very strict 21 and over policy. The food is Tex-Mex, hamburgers, and wings, and it is surprisingly good. On any weekend you will find groups of bachelor and bachelorette parties. Music is always playing whether it’s from the sound system or from live bands. All types of bikers love this place. The dress is casual, however, no tank tops are allowed. When any event is going on at the Fleet Center, this place gets crowded.
Crossroads 495 Beacon St., Back Bay (617) 262-7371 T: ICA/Hynes. This combination restaurant and bar is a big BU hotspot. They offer cheap food such as pizza, burgers, and Mexican food. The upstairs is 21 years and over, and they have 16 varieties of beer and more food specials. There are jukeboxes with a variety of music both upstairs and downstairs. They have live music occasionally on Saturday nights. This is a real college bar.
Daisy Buchanan’s 240A Newbury Street, Back Bay (617) 247-8516 T: Copley. A popular Newbury St. establishment, this is a fun, classy bar that attracts much of the yuppie Back Bay crowd as well as local students. Many pro athletes tend to come here during their season. The drinks are average Boston priced, and there is usually a good crowd Thursdays through Saturdays. No cover.
Dick’s Last Resort “No Cover, No Dress Code & No Class—Ever!” 55 Huntington Ave., Prudential Center, Boston (617) 267-8080 This restaurant and bar combines good music and food to assure everyone a good time. The service is unique in that they can be rude to you--of course, on purpose and all in good fun. Everyone is relaxed and has a good time. There’s live music every night and never a cover. Make sure to park in the Prudential so that you can get your ticket validated inside for free parking.
Elephant & Castle Pub 161 Devonshire St., Boston (617) 350-9977 This is a full-service franchised restaurant and bar with a British atmosphere. Elephant & Castle Pub serves up a long list of imported beers, ales, and scotches. This is a warm and cozy pub that serves classic British menu items such as Fish ‘n’ Chips, Shepherd’s Pie, and Yorkshire Pudding. American foods such as fish, chicken, and pasta are also served.
Embassy 36 Lansdowne St., Boston (617) 536-2100 If you are looking for a very European- style dance club with a Latin flavor, then you have found it. The DJs are the best in the business, and the dancing is non-stop. The type of music depends on the night. Embassy is 19+. Make sure you are not on a budget if you plan on partying here, and don’t forget to dress to impress.
The Fireplace 1634 Beacon St., Brookline (617) 975-1900 The Fireplace is a New England grill and barbecue emphasizing the freshest local ingredients. It’s the perfect spot to meet for lunch, brunch, or dinner in a rustic, yet stylish setting. The Fireplace also features an inviting bar area where you can order food or simply enjoy a wide range of libations such as Raspberry Lime Ricky Martinis, Apple Martinis, micro-brews from every state in New England, and a broad all-American wine list. Live music is played Wednesday & Thursday nights by the fireplace. During the colder weather, you will find a fire in the wood-burning stone hearth, while The Fireplace’s outdoor seating is popular during Spring, Summer, and Fall. The Fireplace is also available for private functions.
Foggy Goggle Pub 911 Boylston St., Boston (617) 266-3399 T: Hynes The crowd here is very young, and the atmosphere is lively. This place gets very crowded and the music is quite loud. Most people who go here order Foggy Goggle Pub’s signature fishbowl drinks. This is literally a fishbowl filled with a fruity concoction. This is not meant to be consumed by just one, but shared amongst a few friends. The menu is typical bar food consisting of sandwiches and burgers. The service is fast and good.
The Four’s 166 Canal St., Boston (617) 720-4455 From the exterior you will think you are entering an English Pub; however, once you enter through the front door, you will realize that you are in a sports bar. The fact that it is only 1 block from the Fleet Center makes this sports bar the place to go during a game. The Four’s has several named beers on tap. Sandwiches and burgers are served quickly and with a smile.
Gameon 82 Lansdowne St., Boston (617) 351-7001 Not your everyday sports bar and restaurant, this two-level sports cafe features 50 HD TV screens and wi-fi computer access. Enough about the cool atmosphere. FOOD! Every sports bar and restaurant should carry the menu they do. Boston Clam Chowder is a must along with the calamari and buffalo wings, gourmet-style pizza, and a nice selection of sandwiches and pastas. If you are in the mood for some grilled meats, then try their marinated steak tips, filet mignon, or New York Sirloin. $$.
Great Scott 1222 Comm. Ave., Allston (617) 566-9014 This bar has been around forever. This is a very casual bar with a large dance floor. Live bands and a DJ get the college crowd hopping. This has more of a frat feel to it than a bar. The cover varies depending on the bands and night. Don’t expect to have comfortable seating here.
The Green Briar 304 Washington St., Brighton Center (617) 789-4100 Visit Brighton’s best Irish restaurant and pub and hear great local bands including Boston’s best Irish Sessiun every Monday night. The Green Briar serves up hearty appetizers and mouth-watering entrees at reasonable prices. Stop in before or after Eagles games. It’s just a mile from the BC campus.
Gypsy Bar 116 Boylston St., Boston (617) 482-7799 T: Boylston St. Located around the corner from The Alley in the Theater district, Gypsy Bar is a new scene in Boston. Their menu includes seared rare beef, wild mushroom tarts, and fennel crusted Ahi Tuna. The drink menu includes a variety of unique Martinis such as the “Obsession” and “The Split.”
Hard Rock Cafe 131 Clarendon St., Boston (617) 424-7625 T: Copley. The famous Hard Rock Cafe is known all over the world for its Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame. If you’ve never been to a Hard Rock Cafe, go to this one. If you have, go anyway, since there is some memorabilia here not found anywhere else. You can also add to your collection of shirts, etc. at their souvenir stand. They have some really great food, specializing in American burgers, fries, and sandwiches. You do not have to be 21 years old to get in, eat, and check out all of the great stuff on the walls, but you do need an ID if you want to drink. There are lines occasionally, especially on weekends. No cover.
The Harp 85 Causeway St., Boston (617) 742-1010 Across from Fleet Center, the downtown’s most popular Irish restaurant and pub features Boston’s best live bands every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights along with great tasting, affordable meals. Stop in before or after Celtics and Bruins games. If you get hungry, you can get wings, potato skins, burgers, steaks, chicken, and pasta.
Harpers Ferry 158 Brighton Ave., Allston (617) 254-9743 T: Harvard Ave. Known as Home of Boston’s best “live” rhythm and blues, Harpers is a three-time winner of Boston Magazine’s Best Blues Club. Harpers has nightly entertainment. Tuesday night bands and special guests are popular with students. Bo Diddley has played here. Harpers has 4 pool tables, dartboards, pinball, and video games. Harpers Ferry has an annual Blues Festival and local battle of the bands. Harpers has high ceilings and a large dance floor, so the club is very spacious and comfortable. The cover varies depending on the quality of the bands. Usually Tues. and Wed. are 18+ nights. Call and see what nights are 18+.
Harry’s Bar and Grill 1430 Comm. Ave., Brighton (617) 738-9990 T: Kelton St. A great place to kick back and enjoy good bar food and very reasonable prices. Plasma TVs play all of your favorite sporting events. Music plays constantly from the surround system; however, it is quiet enough to allow you to speak to the people sitting next to you. During the weekend this place is filled with college students from both BC and BU. A billiard table is located on the second level of this split-level bar and restaurant.
The Hill Tavern 228 Cambridge St., Boston (617) 742-6192 The Hill is very popular with young professionals. You should dress to impress when you go to The Hill. If you want to know where the beautiful people go to drink, you have found it.
Hong Kong 1238 Mass. Ave., Harvard Sq. (617) 864-5311 T: Harvard Square.
Hong Kong at Faneuil Hall 65 Chatham St., Boston (617) 227-2226 T: Government Center. Both locations are popular places with students from all of the Boston colleges. The Harvard Sq. establishment has two floors--the downstairs is a Chinese restaurant and the second floor is a bar. Hong Kong is especially known for its Scorpion Bowls. This is a must at least once in your four years. The Hong Kong is now known for its extremely strict ID checking. There is a casual dress code and small cover after 9p.m.
Irish Village 224 Market St., Brighton (617) 787-5427 This is an authentic Irish Pub that is full of locals. Guiness is probably the most ordered beer. Every seat in the house is goood for viewing your favorite sporting event. The grille serves up burgers and other bar menu items. The Irish Village is a nice change of pace with Irish charm.
Jake Ivory’s 9 Lansdowne St., Boston (617) 247-1222 T: Kenmore. If you want to go to a bar that is interactive, then you have found it. Jake Ivory’s is considered America’s hottest dueling piano show. Sing, dance, and have fun with any and all music that can be played on a piano. The crowd gets into the singable songs and makes this place what it is. You need not dress up if you are going to Jake Ivory’s, but if you plan on bar hopping, then you may want to throw on some dressier clothes. The cover varies. You should call for hours of operation because they are not open every night.
Jillian’s & Lucky Strike 145 Ipswich St., Fenway (617) 437-0300 T: Kenmore. A classy billiards club, Jillian’s caters to a rather high-class crowd of yuppies and other professionals. If pool is not your thing, they have everything else you could imagine that would be in a game room. Lucky Strike is a 16 lane bowling alley on the top floor. Located right down the street from the ballpark, this converted roller-rink has received national acclaim. There are 40 to 50 top-of-the-line pool tables and numerous tables at which to enjoy a drink. There is a charge per hour to use the pool tables, and this rate depends on the number of players. Jillian’s is a unique place, a change of pace from the typical dive bars with pool tables, and a great place to take a date. It is 18 years + and has a dress code. No cover.
Jose McIntyre’s 160 Milk St., Boston (617) 451-9460 The name says it all. This is a two level Irish pub with a Mexican atmosphere. This is a happening place that serves all of the bar food favorites. Located right near Quincy Market, Jose McIntyre’s is usually packed with the work crowd, while the weekends are filled with the college crowd. A combination of DJs and bands makes this place rock.
The Kells 161 Brighton Ave., Allston (617) 782-9082 T: Harvard Ave. The Kells has been around for over a decade. This is a bar, restaurant and a nightclub all rolled into one. If you are looking for a dance club full of college students, The Kells is it. They have two floors with four bars. The mahogany wood bar and the fully stocked bar gives The Kells its Irish look. There is a heavy BC and BU presence at The Kells. The big surprise here is that the menu is totally Asian.
Kings 10 Scotia St., Boston (617) 266-2695 This is a unique place that features 16 bowling lanes. This is not the typical bowling alley. There is all top of the line equipment with computerized scoring, plus you can even order drinks from the computer. During the day, all ages are welcome to bowl and play video games; however, in the evening, Kings becomes one of the hot spots in town. The lounge serves up hearty American-style food, while the bar serves up anything you can think of.
Kinvara Pub 34 Harvard Ave., Allston (617) 783-9400 On the Allston/Brighton line. T: Harvard Ave. Allston’s favorite Irish pub offers entertainment nightly, including some of Boston’s most popular local bands. You’ll also find a wide variety of appetizers and a complete lunch and dinner menu.
Kitty O’Shea’s 131 State St., Boston (617) 725-0100 Nestled between Boston’s Financial District and Quincy Market, O’Shea’s gets packed with students, tourists, and the work crowd. The dÈcor is truly Irish, and the live Irish music makes this place one of the more authentic Irish Pubs in Boston.
Last Drop 596 Washington St., Brighton (617) 787-1111 This is a casual pub that is good for listening to the jukebox and drinking a cold one. There is barely any seating in the bar, and the billiard table and dart boards are usually in full use. This is not the place to go for a date, but it is a good place to go with a group of friends. The patrons and staff are very friendly.
The Liquor Store 25 Boylston St., Boston (617) 357-6800 Located in the famous “Alley” in Boston. With a name like “The Liquor Store,” you can bet that they know how to serve drinks. Their motto is “drink, dance, party.” This is a 21+ club. They do have a dress code. The Liquor Store has a cover to get in. Log on to their website to get updated information on events.
Lizard Lounge 1667 Mass Ave., Cambridge (617) 547-0759 Live music 7 nights. Located under the Cambridge Common restaurant between Harvard and Porter Sq., sultry red lights, red velvet drapes, intimate circular tables, and wooden church pews give this small room its ambience. For those of you who like a New York-style bar, this is the closest place in Boston to a New York scene. Local musicians and artists perform to an amphitheater of scattered chairs, tables, and people. Cover varies.
Lucky Strike Lanes 145 Ipswich St., Boston (617) 437-0300 Located just around the corner from Fenway Park, Lucky Strike Lanes is located inside Jillian’s. This is an upscale bowling lounge. With 16 lanes, the wait can be a couple of hours before you hit the lanes. Don’t think that the wait is going to matter with the TV’s and interesting drink menu that they provide. If you are on a budget, this is not the bowling lane for you.
Lucky’s Lounge 355 Congress St., Boston (617) 357-5825 Take a step back into a 1950’s retro bar. This is considered one of the better after work bars in Boston. The dim lighting and the laid-back atmosphere change Thurs.-Sat. when funk and blues bands take the stage.
Mary Ann’s 1957 Beacon Street, Cleveland Circle T: Cleveland Circle (C), Reservoir (D). This is a popular bar among BC students, especially juniors and seniors (who, of course, should be the only ones in there). Mary Ann’s is a typically small (especially when 100 people are crammed in) dive bar with no windows and no frills. The place almost always has BC students present (even if you go in the middle of the day) with a mix of colorful locals. The drinks are very cheap, the crowd is hopping, and most of the bartenders and bouncers are BC students. The dress is definitely casual, and there is never a cover.
The Modern 36 Lansdowne St., Boston (617) 351-2581 Located below the club Embassy, the DJs at The Modern pump out dance music. Lansdowne Street is perhaps your best bet for club hopping; however, make sure you don’t leave one club just to sit on line for another. This club is 19+, and the cover ranges from $10-$15.
O’Brien’s Pub 3 Harvard Ave., Allston (617) 782-6245 Located at the very end of Harvard Ave., although the exterior of this place is not very inviting, it does have a long history of being a place to hear live local bands in a cozy atmosphere (since less than 100 people can fit in this place). When they have bands, the cover is around $5.
Our House West 1277 Comm. Ave., Allston (617) 782-3228 T: Harvard Ave. This is a rather unique bar right on Comm. Ave. The inside consists of 5 rooms. The first room, as you enter, has a casual atmosphere combining a restaurant with a number of couches, large pillows, and two large TV’s that remind one of a home (thus the name). This room is usually the most crowded and has a number of videos (movies, comedy, etc.) that can be played in the VCR (unless there is a big sporting event on which will usually take priority on the TV’s). Our House also has board games such as Clue and Monopoly that you can borrow and play while you’re there. The second room is a poolroom with one table. This is usually where the local crowd hangs out. The third room has a couple of couches, plays music from a jukebox, and can be rented for parties. The next room is more of a hallway leading to the fifth room, which is set up with a number of cafe tables. If you get hungry, they have an extensive menu with American fare that is all pretty tasty.
Paradise Rock Club 967 Comm. Ave., Boston (617) 562-8800 T: Pleasant St. The Paradise is still one of the best venues for seeing a band. It can hold up to 500 people, which makes the event very intimate. It has had big named acts such as The Police, Van Halen, U2, etc.. and of course local acts. The Paradise also has a lounge connected to the club where you can enjoy some better-than-average bar food.
Porter Belly’s 338 Washington St., Brighton (617) 254-3300 Located in the heart of Brighton Center, Porter Belly’s is an Irish Pub, which brings in the young locals. This is a small, but cozy pub, serving better than the average pub food. You should try the shepherd’s pie and the fish and chips. Over a dozen of beers are on tap, plus they have a fully stocked bar.
Pour House Bar & Grill 909 Boylston St., Back Bay (617) 236-1767 T: Hynes/ICA. This is another fun bar that usually draws a good crowd of college students and young professionals. A lot of students frequent this progressive/alternative bar. The downstairs has TV’s, etc. and is usually packed. They have good burgers, hot dogs, and the like.
The Publick House 1648 Beacon St., Brookline † (617) 277-2880 T: Washington Sq. This is a true beer lover’s restaurant and bar. Many dishes incorporate beer in the ingredients of their dishes. The ribs are what most people talk about. They have 24 beers on draft and over 90 different bottles, therefore, finding the rare beers is not a problem here. The Publick House’s atmosphere is warm and friendly. The decor makes you feel like you are in a pub in England or Germany (either way, you are not in your average pub). They carry the sporting events (especially the Red Sox) on their large screen TV, and live music is offered several nights of the week.
Purple Shamrock 1 Union St., Boston (617) 227-2060 T: Government Center. Located directly adjacent to Faneuil Hall, the Purple Shamrock offers good pub-style food at reasonable prices. They have a live-music venue that features a bit of everything, including rock, country, acoustic, and Irish folk music. They have open-mike nights with a Karaoke show (these nights are a lot of fun). The food is good, and the cover is usually nominal on Friday and Saturday nights. There is no cover on other nights. On St. Patrick’s Day, the Purple Shamrock is packed early. They serve purple beer, and there is a cover (usually $5). Call to find out what night is the Karaoke. They have a strict 21+ policy.
The Rack 24 Clinton St., Boston (617) 725-1051 T: Government Center. This is a lot more than just a billiards club. The Rack has twenty-two tables and two bar areas to serve you. The wait is longer on the weekends, of course, but you can spend the time eating and drinking until you are called on the pager they give you. The Rack has live bands every night except Sat. night when there’s a DJ. They play everything from pop and rock to blues and reggae. The Rack serves food which tastes better than you would expect. The wings and french fries are a good choice. They have a dress code. The location is perfect. You can go to the North End before shooting some pool or take a nice walk around Faneuil Hall after shooting a few games.
Roggie’s Brew & Grille 356 Chestnut Hill Ave., Cleveland Circle (617) 566-1880 Located right off of the BC bus stop, Roggie’s Brew and Grille serves cordials, Mexican dishes, seafood, pastas, sandwiches, and vegetarian foods. The wings are very tasty, and they usually have wing specials during football games. There are more than 50 beers on tap and five satellites covering all of the domestic and international sporting events. Roggie’s is very popular among the BC crowd.
The Roxy Night Club 279 Tremont St., Theater District (617) 338-7699 T: Boylston. This multi-level club boasts a 1200-square-foot dance floor. Roxy is popular with the older-than-college crowd. Occasionally, the club becomes a concert venue and books national acts. Despite the dance music, they play twenty minutes of swing music each hour. The rest of the time a DJ plays the top-forty dance tunes. On Saturdays, they sometimes have a dance troupe. Proper dress is required. The cover varies from $5-$10.
Ryles 212 Hampshire St., Cambridge (617) 876-9330 Ryles boasts the best in live music, and they can back it up. Dance to the rhythm of Latin music on one floor, while getting down to jazz, R&B, and blues on another floor. The crowd here ranges from undergrad to grad students and has a good mix of locals. If you have never merengued before, then this is your chance. Ryles’ food is served until late and is very tasty. They have a famous Sunday brunch. Cover ranges from $5-$10.
Salty Dog Seafood Grille &Bar 206 Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston (617) 742-2094 The Salty Dog is a staple in Faneuil Hall. If you cannot find a seat in the outdoor area, then you will have less luck in the cramped area inside. Since the Salty Dog is located at the corner of Faneuil Hall, tourists pack this place.
SOHO 386 Market St., Brighton (617) 562-6000 Most people will be surprised to know that this is not an Asian restaurant. This is more of an Italian restaurant, while also serving up many American dishes. SOHO is a very impressive two level restaurant and bar that looks like a scene from HBO’s “Sex in the City.” There are large windows that are open to the street as often as the weather permits. This restaurant can hold 400 patrons at one time and, with three bars and several TV’s, the service is always good even at full swing. The downstairs level turns into a dance area where a DJ spins dance music.
Sports Depot 353 Cambridge St., Allston,† (617) 783-2300 T: Harvard Ave. The Sports Depot had been around for many years, has changed its name and concept, and is now back bigger and better. With more than 50 plasmas, sports fans cannot complain about a bad seat in the house. With all the college and professional games playing, you will not miss one game. The bar is fully stocked with a large beer selection and many tropical cocktails. As you would anticipate, the Sports Depot provides a hearty menu of appetizers that are generous in size and tasty. The crowd is a mix of locals, college students, and sports fans from all over Boston.
Sunset Grill 130 Brighton Ave., Allston (617) 254-1331 T: Harvard Ave. Very popular among BC students, the Sunset Grill is a great place to go for some good food and a great variety of drinks. They have 480 (yes, 480) types of beer from all over the country, 112 on tap, and 3 beer engines. They have a full menu until 1a.m. Check and see if they still have Midnight Madness, which is a free food buffet Sun, Mon., and Tues. from 12a.m.-1a.m. They also had all-you-can-eat Texas BBQ ribs for only $9.99 Mon. & Tues. all day and all night when we were stuffing ourselves.
Sweetwater Cafe 3 Boylston Pl, Boston (617) 351-2515 T: Boylston St. Located in the famous “Alley” where there are several clubs in one small alley of Boston. Sweetwater CafÈ has a large after-work clientele. This is by far the most casual bar out of all the bars in the “Alley.” The menu is typical American bar food. For those of you who like Cajun and spicy foods, Sweetwater provides.
Temple Bar 1688 Mass Ave., Cambridge (617) 547-5055 T: Harvard Sq. This is an Irish bar, but it’s not your typical Irish bar. The dress is casual but upscale, meaning you would feel out of place with jeans and a baseball cap. American and British pop play in the background while a big screen TV shows sporting events. This crowd is older than the college crowd. While many people come here for Guinness, the Temple Bar is known for serving killer Mudslides and Pina Coladas.
Tequila Rain 3 Lansdowne St., Fenway (617) 437-0300 T: Kenmore. On the weekends this place turns into a Spring Break type of a club. College students from all over Boston come here for the wild dancing and partying that typically only goes on in Mexico. During Sox games, you can catch the game on one of their dozens of TV’s or you can sit in a booth with your own personal TV.
Tia’s on Long Wharf 200 Atlantic Ave., Boston (617) 227-0828 T: Government Center. Tia’s gets pretty crowded inside and out. This is an awesome place to go when the weather is nice. They have more than twenty tables that face the wharf and an outdoor bar. If you like seafood, then you are in luck. They have tasty lobster and other seafood favorites. For those of you who are not seafood eaters, Tia’s has an array of sandwiches and salads that will make you happy. This is a great place to meet people.
Toad 1912 Mass. Ave., Cambridge (617) 497-4950 T: Porter Sq. Toad has live music 7 nights a week featuring local bands. While Toad is not a large bar, it is big on character. Guinness is the most served beer. Toad has over ten microbrews.
Tonic and The Met Lounge 1316 Comm. Ave., Brighton (617) 566-6699 T: Harvard Ave. Brighton’s hottest restaurant, bar, and lounge, Tonic has a downtown feel without the trouble of heading downtown. Mahogany wood, rich red walls, dim lights, and comfortable seating provides the atmosphere that gives Tonic its unique feel. Tonic has plasma TV’s and large big screens featuring the big games. Head to The Met Lounge downstairs to enjoy great music and relax on their comfortable leather sofas. Tonic serves a full menu of pastas, upscale pizza, and entrees which include New York Sirloin. The downstairs lounge has DJs spinning house music and pumps out the music on an impressive sound system.
Trinity’s 63 Chattham St., Faneuil Hall, Boston (617) 367-6172 T: Government Center. Upstairs and downstairs. The crowd is a mix of younger people and college students. There is dancing downstairs to top 40 and hip hop. If you want to hear cover bands, then head to the top floor. Cover is usually $3-$5 on weekends. Trinity’s can get very crowded.
T’s Pub 973 Comm. Ave., Boston (617) 254-0807 T: Pleasant St. A popular BU hangout, the place is often crowded, especially to watch a game. There is a 12-ft. screen TV for all sports events, and the kitchen is open until midnight. They now have a new look with cafe-style doors opening to the street. They have an all-new menu with wings being talked about as the best in Boston. On most nights, there is a DJ, and Thursday is usually the most popular night when there is a line by 11p.m. Call for Karaoke nights.
T.T. The Bear’s Place 10 Brookline St., Cambridge (617) 492-BEAR T: Central Sq. T.T. is a live music venue and bar that hosts original, local, and national acts. Call to find out what nights they have acoustic nights. This place has been around forever. It is a very small and bare bar, but a great place to watch bands. The drinks are relatively cheap. A lot of the Boston bands got their start here. If you have sensitive ears, then you may want to bring earplugs. There are also two pool tables and a pinball machine. This is an 18+ crowd.
Venu 100 Warrenton St., Boston (617) 338-8061 Venu is a place to see and be seen, so don’t be surprised if you see models and celebs. The dance floor gets packed, but that is half the fun. The music pumps and makes it very hard to have a conversation in here; however, the people are interesting enough just to look at.
Vertigo Lounge 126 State St., Boston (617) 723-7277 T: Government Center. The Vertigo lounge and nightspot is open 7 days a week and each night is different. The age requirements and the cover depends on the night of the week you go here. The Lounge at Vertigo is very comfortable and very appealing to the eye. The sofas are very comfortable, and the martinis and cigars give this lounge the atmosphere that is truly unique. As the night progresses, the atmosphere changes from a jazz scene to dance scene. The two levels of Vertigo are usually packed and, therefore, reserving a table can be a good idea.
Whiskey Park 64 Arlington St., Boston (617) 542-1483 Located in the Boston Park Plaza Hotel, Whiskey Park is one of several New York-style bars that Cindy Crawford’s husband, Rande Gerber, has made successful. The crowd is a mix of Europeans, locals, and tourists. You may find a celeb or pro sports athlete in the chair seated next to you. The drinks are not cheap with prices starting at $10.00. They serve very good finger food such as quesadillas, and they have very hearty hamburgers. There is never a cover.
White Horse Tavern 116 Brighton Ave., Allston (617) 254-6633 The White Horse Tavern gets an equal amount of BC and BU students, because it is located right between both schools. Many have said that the White Horse Tavern looks like a fire station with its bright red exterior. If you are hungry, the White Horse Tavern serves up typical bar food. They have two pool tables which are always full. You do not have to dress to impress here.
Who’s on First 19 Yawkey Way, Boston (617) 247-3353 Abbott and Costello would be proud of this place. This is a pure sports bar. It’s a huge Red Sox fan’s bar--being that it is across the street from Fenway could be the reason. Who’s has a huge TV screen showing the Sox, of course. Thursday nights are filled with college students from all over Boston. If you like sports bars, then you have to go to Who’s on First first.
Wonder Bar 186 Harvard Ave., Allston (617) 351-2665 This is a bistro and jazz bar with an upscale feel. If you like live jazz then you have to give the Wonder Bar a try, then you will wonder why you have not tried it before. They have live jazz every night. They serve food until midnight, and the martinis are perfectly made. The dress code does not allow sneakers or hats. |