Back in 2014, my Boston coworkers and I began working on a Google Sheet with a list of bars to visit. Attempting to add different bars to our list of regular spots, we carefully researched and visited different bars. With this exposure, I thought I’d share a list of my personal favorites (in no particular order) – just in case you decide to visit Beantown. Please note, my taste doesn’t include obnoxious clubs. I prefer pubs and more down-to-earth places, with a few exceptions.
Boozy Brunch
Barcelona – South End
I can’t tell you enough about their wonderful Build-Your-Own Bloody Mary Bar. From choosing the alcohol and homemade mix, to adding candied bacon, cheese, sauces, etc., Barcelona always makes me happy. It’s in the picturesque South End — the perfect location before heading out to SoWa or a play at the Calderwood Pavilion.
Beer Bar
Yardhouse – Fenway
I discovered this bar while living in the Fenway neighborhood. It’s a very large space (for Boston standards) with half-yard beers, an endless food menu, and TV’s EVERYWHERE. It’s perfect for watching a game with a group of your friends or just a place to sit at the bar and munch on their delicious truffle fries. Plus, with over 100 beers on tap, you’ll never get bored.
Posh Bar
Yvonne’s – Downtown Crossing
Yvonne’s is at the center of Downtown Boston. After undergoing a name-change and renovation, it opened and has instantly become a great place for after-work drinks. The entrance looks like an entrance to a hair salon, but once they let you in through the door to the bar, you’re instantly thrown into a posh library. The artwork on the walls is fabulous, the bar is beautiful, and the seating/lounge area is very comfortable. Plus, the drinks are fresh and the food is great for sharing.
Neighborhood Bar
Crossroads – Back Bay
Oh, Crossroads… Crossroads is my favorite neighborhood bar, not only because it’s five doors from my apartment building, but because of the great specials, delicious bar food, friendly bar tenders, and cheap beer.
Irish Pub
Mr. Dooley’s – Financial District
My friends and I stumbled upon Mr. Dooley’s one night and now deem this our St. Patty’s Day spot. They have the traditional Irish pub food and a live Irish band. If you’re wanting to go to Dublin, but don’t have the money or vacation time, just swing by Mr. Dooley’s.
Live Music + Rooftop Deck
Whiskey Priest – Seaport District
Set to close soon (because Boston loves to build over-priced, luxury buildings), Whiskey Priest is a bar that overlooks the harbor and has a spacious rooftop deck that is perfect for summer. The bottom level has a dance floor and stage for local bands to jam. It’s great fun, so enjoy while you can! We will miss you, Whiskey Priest.
