
Once upon a time, Boston’s bars were limited to Irish pubs and hole-in-the-wall dive bars. But today, Boston’s bar scene is groundbreaking. While Happy Hour is a no-go in this town, you’ll still find a Boston bar to suit your mood. Whether you want something cozy or classy, big or small, Boston delivers. From innovative cocktail destinations to historic taverns and local breweries to distilleries, here are a few of the best bars in Boston.
The Baldwin Bar
2 Alfred Street, Woburn, MA 01801

via The Baldwin Bar 
via The Baldwin Bar
Visit one of the area’s most impressive mixologists at The Baldwin Bar in Woburn, just 12 miles outside of Boston. Ran Duan mixes up whimsical drinks, like flasks served in cigar boxes and beakers billowing with dry ice. Housed within a historic 17th-century mansion, The Baldwin Bar boasts dark hardwood floors, black banquettes, and impressive decors like vintage books, bankers lamps, and globes. Don’t miss Baldwin & Sons Trading Co., a library-themed bar within the bar.
Brendan Behan
378 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

Named after one of the greatest Irish writers of all time, Brendan Behan isn’t a fancy place. It’s cash-only, small, and dimly lit. And there’s no food on the menu, but that just means that you can bring in your own. And with an extensive and impressive selection of beers, you’re bound to find the perfect pairing for your burrito, ceviche, cheese pasta, or whatever else you find along Centre Street in the quaint Jamaica Plain neighborhood. Not in the mood for beer? We suggest a hot toddy to warm you up in this cozy bar.
Deep Ellum
477 Cambridge Street, Allston, MA 02134

Exuding some serious southwestern swagger, Deep Ellum is named after the Deep Ellum neighborhood in Dallas, Texas, known for its enticing nightlife, exceptional music, and incomparable food. In Allston, a student-heavy neighborhood, Deep Ellum serves up wholesome cooking, classic cocktails, and craft beer in an unassuming atmosphere. Whether you come for brunch or dinner, the drinks are flowing until the last call, so don’t miss the chance to visit one of the best bars in Boston.
Brick & Mortar
567 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139

Brick and Mortar is definitely one of the best bars in Boston, and the fact that it’s nearly incognito probably has something to do with that. Step through the nondescript door and up the flight of stairs. Once you’re in, you’ll be greeted by an imposing horseshoe-shaped bar with plenty of seating. The mixologists serve up an array of creative drinks, including cocktails like the White Mercedes Coupe, which features lemongrass-infused gin with lemon, coconut, and absinthe. The food menu is also on point, featuring unique dishes like bacon-wrapped dates and deep-fried pickles.
Eastern Standard Kitchen and Drinks
528 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Eastern Standard is touted as one of the finest bars in all of Boston. Refined yet casual, this French brasserie has been serving up praiseworthy drinks since 2005. Crafting seasonal drinks from quality ingredients, Eastern Standard is committed to a higher standard. Mixing top-shelf spirits with freshly-squeezed juices, it’s no wonder this Boston bar is a go-to for all kinds of patrons, whether they’re coming in after a Red Sox game, taking their parents out for dinner, or ringing in the New Year.
Green Street Grill
280 Green Street, Cambridge, MA 02139

Located in the heart of Central Square between Harvard and M.I.T., Green Street has been serving up cocktails and brews to its neighbors since the Great Depression. In fact, the establishment holds the city’s longest-standing liquor license. But that’s not the only thing that’s long. Green Street boasts an award-winning A to Z menu featuring carefully selected craft beers, wines, and cocktails. But if you’re still unimpressed with what’s on the menu, ask the bartender for the “special” cocktail binder for countless more options.
haley.henry
45 Province Street, Boston, MA 02108

via haley.henry 
via haley.henry
Pouring up (mostly) old-world wines crafted by female winemakers, haley.henry is a small and cozy wine bar in the largely ignored Downtown Crossing neighborhood of Boston. Sample from the selection of wines by the glass, or commit to two glasses, and the bartender will open any available bottle for you. Pair your wine with tinned fish, charcuterie, and other fancy small plates. And if you’re out with a friend who doesn’t fancy wine, there’s also a pretty legit list of craft beer.
Get ready to get your drink on at the best bars in Boston. Looking for a new place in Bean Town? Search thousands of apartments for rent in Boston on Zumper.









