9 Fantastic Bars in Boston, MA
Last updated in October 2024
Boston’s bar scene is as bustling and diverse as the city itself, offering everything from classic Irish pubs to trendy speakeasies. Whether you’re wanting to belly up to the bar after a long day of exploring or gearing up for a lively night out, there’s no shortage of excellent spots to grab a drink. Places like Biddy Early's and Bukowski Tavern not only deliver on the drinks front but also bring that quintessential neighborhood vibe that makes Boston so special. If you're after a cozy local hangout, the 21st Amendment has you covered with its warm atmosphere and delicious menu, while Corner Pub's unique takes on pub food make it a hit for both locals and travelers. For those looking to champion the dive bar experience, Croke Park in South Boston definitely has that laid-back charm. No matter your mood, Boston's bars are ready to serve up a good time!
21st Amendment
Located at 150 Bowdoin St in the heart of Boston, 21st Amendment is a charming pub that captures the essence of a cozy neighborhood bar. With its rich history and inviting ambiance, it serves as a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy delicious food and a wide variety of drinks. The atmosphere is always buzzing with friendly chatter, making it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring nearby attractions like Boston Common. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or just a refreshing pint, the 21st Amendment promises a memorable experience.
What People Love
Cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels like a true local pub.
Friendly and attentive staff who enhance the dining experience.
Great selection of food and drinks, particularly the sliders and nachos.
Generous portion sizes and a well-stocked bar.
Historic charm and a central location near Boston Common.
What People Don't Like
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Some customers mention that service can be hit or miss, feeling rushed at times.
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A few find the pricing a bit high for the quality received and some items on the menu averaged at best.
You Have to Try
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Sliders that are touted as some of the best in the city, perfect for sharing or a hearty snack.
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The Casamigos Jalapeno Pineapple Margarita, loved for its unique flavor combination.
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Onion rings that consistently receive rave reviews for their crispiness and seasoning.
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The 21st Burger, considered a must for burger lovers, delivering on rich flavors and quality.
Biddy Early's
Biddy Early's is a classic dive bar in downtown Boston that captures the lively spirit of an Irish pub. Known for its friendly and welcoming vibe, this local favorite offers a solid selection of beers on tap and a full bar. Whether you're here to enjoy a casual drink, catch up with friends over darts, or savor some tasty pub grub, Biddy Early's makes for a great spot to unwind and enjoy a night out in the city.
What People Love
Friendly and attentive bartenders who create a welcoming atmosphere.
Great drink prices, especially for a downtown bar with $3 PBRs on draft.
Fun activities like darts and Keno keep the vibe lively and engaging.
A chill dive bar feel that attracts a local crowd without the pretentiousness of some other bars in the area.
Good food options for bar snacks, including classic Irish pub fare.
What People Don't Like
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Some guests have noted issues with the door staff, particularly regarding entry policies and treatment.
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Occasional complaints about service speed or attentiveness, especially at busy times.
You Have to Try
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Definitely take a shot at the darts – it's a fun activity to enjoy with friends.
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Try their bar food, especially the burgers and chicken wings – they're crowd favorites!
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Enjoy some live music or the TouchTunes jukebox for a personal touch on the tunes you love.
Bukowski Tavern
Bukowski Tavern, located in Boston's Back Bay, is a casual watering hole that embraces the dive bar aesthetic while serving an extensive lineup of beers, wines, and ciders. This cozy spot is lauded for its welcoming vibe, where locals often gather to enjoy a good drink and hearty bar food. The tavern’s decor reflects its literary namesake, creating a unique atmosphere where you can unwind while great music plays from a vinyl record player. Whether you’re looking for the perfect burger or just a cold brew after shopping or a Red Sox game, Bukowski Tavern offers a memorable experience.
What People Love
Charming, cozy atmosphere that feels like a hole-in-the-wall gem.
Impressive selection of craft beers and ciders.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff that adds to the experience.
Great food options, especially the burgers and tater tots.
Lively music scene with vinyl records being played.
What People Don't Like
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Service can be hit-or-miss, with some staff being unfriendly or dismissive.
You Have to Try
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The peanut butter burger is a must—it's a unique twist that's gained a lot of fans.
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Don't miss the tater tots, they're known for being a perfect late-night snack.
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The bratwurst sandwich and homemade potato salad are also highly recommended for a quick bite.
Cheers
Located in the heart of Boston, Cheers is not just a bar; it's a nostalgic pilgrimage for fans of the iconic TV show. Known for its lively environment and memorabilia from the series, visitors can enjoy tasty food and a range of drinks. The upstairs bar replicates the Cheers set, adding to the unforgettable experience. Whether you're reminiscing about your favorite episodes or just looking to enjoy a good meal, Cheers offers a fun stop that captures the spirit of the show!
What People Love
A vibrant atmosphere perfect for fans of the Cheers TV show.
Friendly and attentive staff, even on busy days.
Great food options, especially the clam chowder.
Iconic memorabilia and a chance to sit in famous spots from the show.
Fast service and efficient operation, despite the crowd.
What People Don't Like
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It can get overcrowded, leading to long wait times for a table or service.
You Have to Try
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The famous clam chowder served in a bread bowl—it's a local favorite!
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Buffalo wings that many rave about as a must-try.
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Local beers, including a special New England IPA that impresses many.
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The souvenir mugs that you can drink from on-site and take home!
Corner Pub
Corner Pub is a family-owned bar located conveniently near South Station, making it a great pitstop for locals and travelers alike. Established in 2008, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a unique twist on traditional pub food, particularly their famous egg rolls. With a fantastic beer selection and friendly staff, it’s the perfect place to unwind, catch a game, or simply enjoy good company in Boston's Leather District.
What People Love
Friendly and welcoming staff that make you feel at home.
A relaxed and lively atmosphere that's perfect for casual gatherings.
An impressive selection of delicious egg rolls and pub food.
Great prices for both drinks and food, especially considering the Boston area.
Quick and efficient service, especially during busy periods.
What People Don't Like
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Inconsistent service during busy times, leading to longer waits or occasional neglect.
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Some issues with food quality, particularly during peak hours.
You Have to Try
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The iconic egg rolls - especially the buffalo chicken and cheesesteak varieties.
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The signature grilled cheese and sizzling hot wings.
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Their tasty beef and cheese nachos that come highly recommended.
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The philly cheesesteak egg rolls, which many claim are a must-have.
Croke Park
Croke Park is a dive bar located in South Boston that embraces the true essence of a neighborhood pub. With its graffiti-lined walls and a lively atmosphere, you'll find a mix of friendly locals and visitors enjoying cheap drinks and games of pool. Whether you're grabbing a quick beer or looking to spend a fun evening with friends, this laid-back spot captures the heart of the Southie bar scene. It's a great place to unwind, chat with the bartenders and regulars, or challenge someone to a round of darts.
What People Love
Friendly atmosphere with welcoming locals.
Cheap drinks and heavy pours.
Free pool tables and darts.
Great service from the staff.
Amazing stories and community vibe.
What People Don't Like
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Concerns about cleanliness, particularly in the bathroom.
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Some negative experiences related to the ATM policy for ID retrieval.
You Have to Try
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The affordable domestic beers, perfect for a casual evening.
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Playing a game of free pool with locals.
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The jukebox filled with great tunes.
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The unique experience of enjoying a dive bar atmosphere.
Moon Bar
Moon Bar is an exciting addition to Boston's bar scene, offering a unique blend of Caribbean and Asian culinary influences. Located conveniently on Columbus Ave, this spot has garnered attention for its creative cocktails and high-quality food, led by Chef Nelson Whittingham. With a vibrant atmosphere and friendly, knowledgeable staff, it’s a perfect place for night outs or casual get-togethers where guests can enjoy a mix of innovative drinks and delicious small plates.
What People Love
Inventive and delicious cocktails that are well-balanced and creative.
High-quality food with standout dishes like tandoori chicken and banana leaf wrapped bass.
Warm and friendly service that enhances the dining experience.
A chic and inviting atmosphere perfect for a casual night out or a special occasion.
Exciting menu that combines Caribbean and Asian influences, catering to adventurous diners.
What People Don't Like
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Some patrons experienced issues with slow service during busy times.
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A few mentioned that the seating was uncomfortable, making it hard to enjoy the meal.
You Have to Try
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Tandoori Chicken Thighs, known for their perfect balance of spices and flavors.
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Banana Leaf Wrapped Black Bass, praised for its delicate taste and intriguing presentation.
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Mahi Mahi Ceviche, a fresh and zesty dish that's a hit with visitors.
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The innovative cocktails, especially the Golden Colada and 305 Cowboy.
Next Door Speakeasy & Raw Bar
Next Door Speakeasy & Raw Bar is a hidden gem in East Boston that transports guests to a world of creativity and charm. This intimate speakeasy marries imaginative mixology with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for all kinds of gatherings—from date nights to celebratory outings. With a menu that includes thoughtfully crafted cocktails and fresh seafood, every visit is designed to be a memorable experience, enhanced by attentive service and a unique entrance process. It's a spot that invites guests to indulge in the art of cocktails while feeling the warmth of excellent hospitality.
What People Love
Creative and well-presented cocktails that are a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
An exclusive speakeasy vibe with a hidden entrance and a secret password.
Friendly and attentive staff, especially highlighted servers like Valeria and Saul.
A cozy, intimate atmosphere that's perfect for special occasions or date nights.
Fresh, local seafood offerings and unique small plates that complement the drink menu.
What People Don't Like
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Some patrons mention long wait times and strict reservation policies that can feel inconvenient.
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Complaints about food portion sizes and the high prices, which don't always match expectations.
You Have to Try
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The 'Lock & Key' cocktail, admired for its flavor and presentation.
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The 'Tuna Tacos' and 'Ceviche', praised as standout dishes among the food offerings.
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The 'Espresso Martini' topped with fresh whipped cream, described as a delicious treat.
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Their creative presentations, such as drinks served with smoke or in whimsical containers.
Shamrock Pub
Shamrock Pub is your go-to local joint in Southie, serving up a delightful mix of local brews and hearty fare in a relaxed Irish pub setting. With its warm atmosphere, it’s a great spot to unwind, catch a game on TV, or enjoy live music on the weekends. The pub is a true reflection of the neighborhood, blending good food with friendly service, making it a staple for locals and visitors alike.
What People Love
Friendly and accommodating staff who make everyone feel welcome.
Great atmosphere that feels like a true local hangout.
Tasty food options, especially popular dishes like steak tips and quesadilla.
Perfect spot for watching sports with plenty of TVs around.
Casual vibe with live music and a fun karaoke night.
What People Don't Like
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Some complaints about the ventilation resulting in an unpleasant odor.
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A few remarks about the food being overpriced, typical for South Boston.
You Have to Try
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Steak tips, a local favorite that many folks rave about.
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Steak quesadilla, noted for its flavor and quality.
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$1 wings on Sundays, a great deal during football season.
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Live music events that add to the lively atmosphere and make for a fun night out.
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The seasonal featured cocktails for a refreshing twist.
