Quick answer
Boston's bar scene is a captivating journey through history, innovation, and pure liquid artistry. From dimly lit speakeasies shaking up bespoke cocktails to centuries-old taverns pouring perfect pints, the city offers an intoxicating array of choices that reflect its unique character and diverse neighborhoods.
- Best overall
- Drink
- Top pick
- Drink
Top verdicts
- Drink: Those seeking a personalized, high-end cocktail experience in a sophisticated, unpretentious setting.
- OAK Long Bar + Kitchen: Anyone looking for a classic, luxurious bar experience in a stunning, iconic Boston location.
- Yvonne's: Those seeking a chic, high-energy dining and drinking experience with a touch of playful secrecy.
Steeped in history, Boston boasts some of the oldest continually operating taverns in the United States, places where revolutionary figures once plotted and sailors unwound. This rich past intertwines seamlessly with a burgeoning craft cocktail movement and a thriving local brewery scene, creating a dynamic landscape where tradition and trend coexist harmoniously.
Whether you're craving a sophisticated martini in a chic Back Bay lounge, a robust IPA at a waterfront brewery, or a no-frills whiskey at a beloved neighborhood dive, Boston delivers. The city's watering holes range from grand hotel bars and jazz clubs to cozy gastropubs and trendy spots perfect for a night out with friends.
Area map
All 10 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drink | Craft Cocktails | upscale | Fort Point |
| 2 | OAK Long Bar + Kitchen | Classic Cocktails | upscale | Back Bay |
| 3 | Yvonne's | Trendy Bar | upscale | Downtown Crossing |
| 4 | Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar | Gastropub | mid | Fenway |
| 5 | Bostonia Public House | American Bar | mid | Financial District |
| 6 | Trillium Brewing Company (Fort Point) | Craft Brewery | mid | Fort Point |
| 7 | The Beehive | Jazz Club | upscale | South End |
| 8 | J.J. Foley's Cafe | Irish Pub | budget | South End |
| 9 | Bell in Hand Tavern | Historic Pub | budget | Faneuil Hall |
| 10 | Silvertone Bar & Grill | American Bar & Grill | budget | Downtown Crossing |
1Drink
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a personalized, high-end cocktail experience in a sophisticated, unpretentious setting.
- Strengths
- Fort Point
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Drink remains a paragon of craft cocktail excellence, known for its speakeasy vibe and bespoke drink service. There's no menu; instead, skilled mixologists create custom cocktails based on your preferences, making every visit a unique experience. It's a must-visit for serious cocktail aficionados.
- What to order
- Let the bartender create something special for you. Just describe your preferred spirits, flavors (sweet, sour, bitter), and style (e.g., refreshing, spirit-forward).
🕐 Opening hours
2OAK Long Bar + Kitchen
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone looking for a classic, luxurious bar experience in a stunning, iconic Boston location.
- Strengths
- Back Bay
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Located in the historic Fairmont Copley Plaza, OAK Long Bar + Kitchen offers a magnificent setting with soaring ceilings and grand architecture. It's a quintessential Boston experience for those seeking classic cocktails and an elegant, bustling atmosphere. Perfect for a pre-dinner drink or a sophisticated night out.
- What to order
- Their Old Fashioned or a perfectly crafted Martini. Their raw bar selections also complement the drinks beautifully.
🕐 Opening hours
3Yvonne's
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a chic, high-energy dining and drinking experience with a touch of playful secrecy.
- Strengths
- Downtown Crossing
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Disguised behind a former hair salon facade, Yvonne's is a glamorous and theatrical supper club with an equally impressive bar program. It's renowned for its opulent decor, lively atmosphere, and inventive cocktails that complement its globally inspired menu. A fantastic spot for a memorable evening out.
- What to order
- Try their 'Modern Painkiller' for a tropical twist or the 'Yvonne's Martini' for a classic done right. The 'Baked Alaska' for dessert is also a showstopper.
🕐 Opening hours
4Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Whiskey enthusiasts, oyster lovers, and anyone seeking elevated pub fare and quality drinks in a lively setting.
- Strengths
- Fenway
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- A Fenway staple, Citizen Public House is celebrated for its extensive whiskey list and fresh oyster bar. It combines the relaxed feel of a gastropub with a serious commitment to quality drinks and delicious comfort food. It's a popular spot before or after Red Sox games, but excellent any time.
- What to order
- A flight from their impressive whiskey list, paired with a selection of East Coast oysters. Their 'Pig Mac' is a legendary comfort food dish.
🕐 Opening hours
5Bostonia Public House
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Professionals and visitors looking for a sophisticated, spacious bar with live music and a bustling ambiance.
- Strengths
- Financial District
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Located in the heart of the Financial District, Bostonia Public House offers a grand, inviting space with a focus on American fare and a lively bar scene. It often features live music, adding to its vibrant atmosphere, making it a great spot for after-work drinks or a festive night out.
- What to order
- Their Espresso Martini for a pick-me-up or a classic American craft beer. The 'Lobster Mac & Cheese' is a popular food item.
🕐 Opening hours
6Trillium Brewing Company (Fort Point)
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Craft beer aficionados, groups looking for a vibrant atmosphere, and those who appreciate quality local brews.
- Strengths
- Fort Point
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Trillium Brewing Company's Fort Point location is a spacious, modern taproom offering a rotating selection of their acclaimed craft beers. Known for their IPAs and innovative brews, it's a paradise for beer lovers. The industrial-chic space includes a restaurant and a rooftop patio with city views.
- What to order
- A flight of their latest IPAs or a seasonal sour. Don't miss their 'Double Dry Hopped Fort Point Pale Ale' if available.
🕐 Opening hours
7The Beehive
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Music lovers, date nights, and anyone looking for a unique, artsy, and lively dining and drinking experience.
- Strengths
- South End
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Nestled in the heart of the South End, The Beehive is a bohemian art space, restaurant, and jazz club known for its incredible live music and vibrant atmosphere. It’s an immersive experience where you can enjoy excellent food and drinks while soaking in world-class jazz, blues, and world music.
- What to order
- A classic Negroni or one of their house specialty cocktails. Pair it with some of their Mediterranean-inspired small plates.
🕐 Opening hours
8J.J. Foley's Cafe
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone seeking a genuine, cozy neighborhood pub with a rich history and affordable drinks.
- Strengths
- South End
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- J.J. Foley's Cafe is a true Boston institution, a no-frills Irish pub that has been serving locals since 1909. It's known for its friendly atmosphere, strong pours, and classic pub grub. This is where you go for an authentic, unpretentious Boston pub experience.
- What to order
- A pint of Guinness or a simple whiskey and soda. Their burgers are also surprisingly good for a pub.
🕐 Opening hours
9Bell in Hand Tavern
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- History buffs and groups looking for a lively, iconic Boston bar experience in a central location.
- Strengths
- Faneuil Hall
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Established in 1795, the Bell in Hand Tavern holds the title of America's oldest continually operating tavern. While now a bustling tourist spot in the Faneuil Hall area, it still retains a sense of history. It offers classic pub food, plenty of beer taps, and a lively atmosphere with multiple levels and live entertainment.
- What to order
- A local craft beer on tap or a classic American lager. Their fish and chips are a popular pub staple.
🕐 Opening hours
10Silvertone Bar & Grill
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Casual diners and drinkers seeking good comfort food, strong drinks, and a laid-back, retro atmosphere.
- Strengths
- Downtown Crossing
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Silvertone Bar & Grill is a beloved downtown spot that feels like a classic American diner with a full bar. It's known for its comforting, no-frills food, strong drinks, and unpretentious vibe. A reliable choice for a casual meal or drinks, offering great value in a central location.
- What to order
- Their famous Mac & Cheese or the meatloaf. Pair it with a classic cocktail like a Gin & Tonic or a cold beer.
🕐 Opening hours
Frequently asked questions
What's the legal drinking age in Boston?
The legal drinking age in Boston, as in all of Massachusetts and the United States, is 21 years old. Bars and restaurants strictly enforce this policy, and valid government-issued photo identification (such as a driver's license or passport) is required for entry and to purchase alcoholic beverages.
Are there any speakeasy-style bars in Boston?
Yes, Boston has a thriving speakeasy scene. Drink in Fort Point is a prime example, known for its hidden entrance and bespoke cocktail service without a menu. Yvonne's also offers a speakeasy-like feel with its disguised entrance and opulent, secretive interior. These spots are fantastic for a unique and intimate drinking experience.
What are the typical operating hours for bars in Boston?
Most bars in Boston open in the late afternoon, typically between 4 PM and 5 PM. Closing times vary, with many establishments closing around 1 AM from Sunday to Wednesday and extending to 2 AM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Always check individual bar websites for their specific hours, especially on holidays.
Can I find craft breweries with taprooms in Boston?
Absolutely! Boston and its immediate surrounding areas are home to a vibrant craft brewery scene. Trillium Brewing Company's Fort Point location is a top choice within the city, offering a spacious taproom and a wide selection of their acclaimed beers. Many breweries also offer food, tours, and retail shops for take-home cans.
Are Boston bars typically cash-only?
While a few smaller, older establishments might lean towards cash, the vast majority of bars in Boston accept major credit cards. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for tips or small purchases, but you generally won't encounter strictly cash-only venues among our top recommendations. Digital payment options are also increasingly common.
What neighborhoods are best for bar hopping in Boston?
Several neighborhoods are excellent for bar hopping. The Seaport/Fort Point area (home to Drink and Trillium) offers trendy options. Downtown Crossing/Financial District (Yvonne's, Silvertone, Bostonia Public House) provides a mix of upscale and casual spots. The South End (The Beehive, J.J. Foley's) boasts a diverse range from jazz clubs to historic pubs. Faneuil Hall is lively but more tourist-oriented.
Do Boston bars offer food options?
Many bars in Boston, especially gastropubs like Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar, American bars like Bostonia Public House, and even some breweries like Trillium, offer full food menus ranging from appetizers and small plates to full entrees. Even traditional pubs like J.J. Foley's Cafe usually have a selection of classic pub fare. Check their websites for specific menu details.
Is it easy to get around Boston at night to visit bars?
Yes, Boston is relatively easy to navigate at night. The MBTA's subway system (the T) operates until around 12:30 AM to 1 AM, depending on the line and day. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, and taxis can be found in busier areas. For shorter distances, walking is often the most enjoyable option, especially between bars in the same neighborhood.