New to the Boston area? Moving to Boston was probably a doozy, but now that you’re here, it’s time to drink up. We’ve put together a list of the best pubs and bars in each neighborhood to help you get settled in and relieve some of that moving stress.
South Boston
- The Gallows: Yes, the name refers to the fact that this used to be the site of the city’s gallows. Cool, trendy, bar and eatery that’s great if you’re taking a girl out on a date. Not the kind of place you go with the guys.
- Delux Café: A laid-back, dirty dive bar with walls plastered in memorabilia, including a whole section dedicated to Elvis. The cheeseburger here is fantastic, and prices are reasonable. Cash only bar, so be sure to come prepared.
- Franklin Café: Great neighborhood tavern with a cozy atmosphere and live music on Saturday nights. It’s small and can get very crowded, so expect to wait. The cocktail menu is worth it!
Beacon Hill
- The Tip Tap Room: Amazing food prepped in an open-air kitchen and huge selection of draft beers and wines.
- Yvonne’s: Incredible, elegant décor with dim lighting, chandeliers, and white table cloths. Though a far cry from my typical bar, this place has a relaxed lounge area with great cocktails and friendly bartenders. If you’re planning on dinner, be sure to make a reservation as this place books up well in advance.
- Beacon Hill Pub: Dartboard, foosball, and arcade games might give you the idea that you’ve been transported back to your favorite college bar. But the drink specials and fun atmosphere make this dive-bar worth a visit.
North End
- Durty Nelly’s: If there’s anything I love, it’s a good Irish dive bar, and this place is one of my favorites. Get Guinness and other great beers on tap and enjoy a fun and occasionally rowdy night of fun.
- Ward 8 Restaurant & Bar: I’m putting this on the list for the hipster types that enjoy “bespoke” cocktails and fancy bar food. Be sure to try the 5-layer dip!
- Biddy Early’s: Another great dive bar that’s loud, dark, and a bit sticky. Drinks are cheap, eats are delicious, and the staff and patrons are friendly. After a few drinks, the chili-cheese fries are a must.
Jamaica Plain
- Brendan Behan Pub: Another fine Irish establishment, this fine neighborhood pub is known for its live Celtic music (on Saturdays), great tap selections, and casual atmosphere. Nothing fancy, just a solid place to drink and hang with friends.
- The Galway House: A bit like the Cheers bar sans all the tourists, this place is a JP gem with a kitchen that dishes up a wide range of fresh fish and other delicious eats at reasonable prices. There’s a fully stocked bar, and sports fans will be happy to find that there are 7 TVs that always have games on.
- Samuel Adams Brewery: This place is always packed with tourists, but it’s still worth a stop. You can take a tour of this Boston-born craft brewery and then enjoy free beer tastings. And nothing beats free beer.
