The 17 best bars in Boston

What is it? A cozy 9-seat cocktail bar on the North End, just down the street from Paul Revere's house. Unlike a typical bar where you stroll in and order a drink, Farmacia offers a curated tasting menu of multiple cocktails and snacks. Phillip Rolfe, the mastermind behind Farmacia, is dedicated to making the best drinks possible. He personally selects each spirit, cold-presses every juice, and infuses every syrup used in his high-end creations. It's an experience akin to a cocktail tasting, and trust us, it's well worth the effort. 

Why we love it: The apothecary atmosphere is like a step back in time; Rolfe, or special pharmacist whipping up cures for what ails us with fresh, high-quality and enlivening ingredients. 

Time Out tip: Nine seats, a hidden treasure, cocktails you won't find anywhere else — do we need to say more about the popularlity of this place? Reservations are released 60 days in advance. Set an alarm, because everyone else is! 

Address: 5 N Square, Boston, MA 02128

Opening hours: Wed–Sat 5pm–midnight

Expect to pay: Tickets are $80 per person plus a $4 ticketing and processing fee. 

What is it: Yvonne’s, the successor to the iconic Locke-Ober, maintains the beloved 19th-century mahogany bar and clubby atmosphere while introducing a modern supper club vibe, accessible through a concealed entrance within a faux hair salon. Patrons are drawn to this dimly lit cocktail lounge to enjoy inventive drinks and creative small plates like crispy tater cubes and popcorn brûlée.

Why we love it: For starters, it's affiliated with a Boston institution. Then, take one look at the breathtaking, book-lined library bar, and you’ll know exactly why this is one of our favorite drinking haunts in town. The whole place is gorgeous, actually, with chandeliers hanging from ornate ceilings and rich upholstered sofas, stools, and chairs. It’s the kind of decadence and sophistication that even Gatsby himself couldn’t snub.

Time Out tip: Planning on booking a party or event soon? Book The Gallery room, which is located behind a secret set of stairs accessed through a bookcase in the library.

Address: 2 Winter Pl, Boston, MA 02108

Opening hours: Mon–Thu, Sun 5pm–1am; Fri, Sat 4pm–2am

Expect to pay: A few cocktails along with some small plates should run you anywhere from $60 to $100.

What is it? Wusong Road is a vibrant tiki bar and restaurant located in Harvard Square. Like any true island-themed bar, Wusong emphasizes fresh juices and unique mixes in its flavorful and potent cocktails. It pays homage to classic tiki bar staples like mai tais, painkillers, and zombies, served in fun, kitschy glasses and piled high with garnishes.

Why we love it: Situated in the historic Conductor's Building in Harvard Square, Wusong Road feels like a trip back in time. Its beautiful old brick interior, with dark wood and red accents, is richly decorated with traditional and vintage Chinese accents and thatch roofs, transporting you to a classy Polynesian beach shack from the 1950s.

Time Out tip: A bar night at Wusong is always great, but consider having dinner there sometime. The food menu blends traditional Asian American cuisine with modern twists, featuring dishes like ribeye beef teriyaki, blue crab rangoon, and short rib lo mein.

Address: 112 Mt Auburn St, Cambridge, MA 02138

Opening hours: Mon 3–11pm; Tue, Wed, & Sun noon–11pm; Thu–Sat noon–midnight

Expect to pay: Drinks average $16 to $18, so expect a minimum of $25 to $50.

What it is: Located within Sichuan Garden's Brookline Village location, Blossom Bar offers inventive Latin-inspired cocktails, providing locals with a sophisticated craft drink experience without the need to travel downtown. As a sister establishment to Sichuan Garden and Baldwin Bar, Blossom Bar is dedicated to quality and creativity, serving meticulously prepared drinks infused with exotic ingredients and IG-worthy presentation.

Why we love it: Blossom Bar is a haven for delicious, inventive, and visually appealing cocktails in a stylish and lively atmosphere. The cocktail menu, which is updated frequently, features a mix of exciting new creations and well-loved establishment classics. The bar's Latin influences shine through in beautiful drinks crafted with fresh ingredients like avocado, passionfruit, and papaya.

Time Out tip: Don't hesitate to engage with the knowledgeable bartenders, who can guide you through their creative cocktail menu and even customize drinks to your liking. Consider pairing the cocktails with the flavorful Sichuan dishes available at the bar for a complete culinary experience.

Address: 295 Washington St, Brookline, MA 02445

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 5–9:30pm; Fri, Sat 5–11:30pm

Expect to pay: One drink will run you around $20, so expect $50 or more if you want more than one and / or some food 

What is it? Different than your typical bar experience, Extra Dirty is a total of 20 seats – but what they lack in physical size they make up for in huge kudos for their unique cocktail program.

Why We Love it? A prix fixe (and pre-paid) cocktail experience from bar director Phillip Rolfe (of Farmacia fame), Extra Dirty serves up an all-inclusive multiple course cocktail experience that is served progressively, more akin to a tasting menu in format.

Time Out Tip: This place isn't easy to find. It's in the back of the Red Fox behind the curtain. The menu changes every few months, so you never know what to expect. Check their Instagram frequently (past themes have been the Autumnal Flavors of New England and Exploration of the Americas).

Address: 326 Commercial Street, Boston, MA 02109

Opening hours: Wed.-Sat. 5-11:30pm

Expect to pay: Starting at $115 per person

What is it? Haley.henry is a delightful go-to for tinned seafood enthusiasts wild about its extensive selection of tinned fish, but it's the impressive list of small-production, mostly female-owned natural wines that earned it a 2024 James Beard semi-finalist nomination for “Outstanding Wine Program.” Despite the accolades, the place is low-key in size and appearance, resembling a hip little seaside shack.

Why we love it: We love haley.henry for its laidback, no-fuss wine bar vibe and its sense of humor. The staff is incredibly friendly and happy to offer suggestions for both food and, especially, wine. The menu's playful homage to 90s hip-hop, with sections like "Biggie Small Plates" and "Bone Thugs & Charcuterie," adds to the fun atmosphere. It's a place where you can bliss out on delicious tinned fish and thoughtfully chosen wines in a buzzing, convivial setting with fun music.

Time Out tip: If you commit to two glasses, haley.henry will open a brand new bottle of wine for you—whether you finish it or not. It's a great way to explore some of the bottle options on offer.

Address: 45 Province St, Boston, MA 02108

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 3–11pm; Fri 3pm–midnight; Sat noon–midnight

Expect to pay: About $25 to $50 per person, potentially more if you intend to have a full dinner (which we do recommend).

What is it? A chic, 20-seat cocktail bar, discreetly hidden within a French bistro in the Leather District, that serves some of the most visually stunning drinks in town.

Why we love it: The "tucked-away speakeasy" aspect is undeniably cool, but the interior vibe is refreshingly unstuffy. Engaging bartenders craft wildly creative and delicious cocktails with names like “Vibe Check,” “Pick Me Girl,” and “Espresso Fucking Martini,” each beautifully served in an array of sexy glassware. Music from an extensive record collection plays overhead, elevating the experience to chef's-kiss perfection.

Time Out tip: Maybe don’t arrive hungry. The food menu is limited to three savory options, and they are quite expensive for a night out at a bar, with prices ranging from $25 to $66. 

Address: 5 Utica St, Boston, MA 02111

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5pm–1am; Fri, Sat 4pm–1am

Expect to pay: Cocktails range between $16 and $18, so $50-plus if you're thirsty. 

What is it? Originally launched as a virtual tasting event, The Koji Club has evolved into a thriving sake bar since opening in 2022 at the Charles River Speedway. The bountiful sake menu showcases a wide array of options, available by the glass, cup, or in various bottle sizes.

Why we love it: It's a perfect spot for newcomers to the sake scene, who can seek advice from the knowledgeable and passionate staff or participate in special ticketed tastings held on Sundays. And if straight sake isn't your preference, you can still enjoy a lychee martini or lemon sour.

Time Out tip: Elevate your experience with the bar snack menu, which ranges from classic seaweed or spicy potato chips to savory toasted mochi and the indulgent caviar service.

Address: 525 Western Ave #6, Brighton, MA 02135

Opening hours: Wed 5–10pm, Thu–Sat 5–11pm, Sun 2–8pm

Expect to pay: A flight of sake will cost you around $20 to $30. Sake by the glass averages $30, with 4oz pours ranging from $11 to $60. The aforementioned caviar service is priced at $95.

What is it? Chef Jamie Bissonnette, along with his business partners Babak Bina and Andy Cartin, opened this bar as part of a trio of Downtown Crossing spots (including a subterranean sushi bar and a Korean restauarnt).

Why we love it: This play is super low-key, despite also being quite high end. Inspired by '50s listening bars in Japan, it's an interpretation of an ideal bar playing eclectic collection of music (peep the vinyls playing everything from pop to jazz to rock n' roll) and creative drinks - many of which are mixed with Japanese spirits. 

Time Out tip: There's a great munchy menu, or if you're famished, head through the bar to the back and walk down the stairs for a sushi experience you won't forget. They also don't have a great beer list, so if suds are your passion, you might want to head elsewhere. 

Address: 17 Temple Place, Boston, MA 02111

Opening hours: Mon.-Thurs. 5pm-12am; Fri. and Sat., 5pm-1am

Expect to pay: Cocktails range from $14-$18, with snacks running $5-$20.

What is it? A beloved, quirky dive bar in the South End that feels a little like stepping into a dad's basement bar in the 1970s. You'll spot an Elvis lamp chilling on the bar, fairy lights strung up all over, and old records and movie stuff tacked to the wood paneling.

Why we love it: This is the place to be when you want cheaper drinks and atmosphere. The decor is lively enough, but a solid selection of specialty cocktails—all for $13—keeps the vibes flowing. In true dive bar fashion, drinkers also have their choice of nearly 20 beers and a decent selection of wines, bubblies, and ciders. Oh, and the place really goes out for the holidays. Be sure to stop by in December. 

Time Out tip: Bring cash. The Delux does not accept cards. Don't worry if you forget; there is an ATM on the premises. We also suggest arriving early to snag a good seat. We particularly love the walled-off booths for extra privacy within a boisterous room.

Address: 100 Chandler St, Boston, MA 02116

Opening hours: Daily 5pm–1am

Expect to pay: $18 to $30 for a typical night out. Cocktails are $13; beers range from $5 to $10. Wine and bubbles will set you back $12 to $16.

What is it? Swigs, sips and snacks are on the agenda until 2am at the Wig Shop, an intimate cocktail lounge by the jm Curley team in Downtown Crossing. 

Why we love it: Don’t wig out if you can’t find the sneaky place. It’s located in the former spot of an actual wig shop, with the faux bobs and weaves still on display among the neon signage. The cocktail menu is impressive and perfect for helping you let your hair down. The snacks are small but mighty – think caviar with potato chips, fried deviled eggs and lobster pancakes. 

Time Out tip: They have an incredible Absinthe Ritual for two. The restaurant is also first come, first served (with few reservations available from 5-7pm Tuesday to Saturday and all evening on Mondays and Sundays for parties of 2 to 6 guests that are released a week in advance).

Address: 27 Temple Place, Boston, MA 02111 

Opening hours: Daily 5pm-2am

Expect to pay: Cocktails are $18

What is it? Right in the heart of the Seaport, this new spot has the most gorgeous views of the water. The interior is nothing to sneeze at, with gorgeous stately antique furniture and art works. 

Why we love it: While their wine and spirit lists are impressive, cocktails are truly their craft. The extensive fundamental menu has unique ingredients like celery shrub, butter fat-washed Monkey Shoulder, rose petals, acidified mead, zaatar, palo santo, and more. Good presentation is key, and the bar team has that in spades. 

Time Out tip: Don't sleep on the non-alcoholic mocktails - they are just as innovative tasty as the real thing. The menu is also full of tasty artisnal dips, caviar service, an incredible bone marrow and tartare, and decadent lamb chops, to name a few of our favorite dishes. 

Address: 2 Northern Ave., Boston, MA 02210

Opening hours: Sat. and Sun. noon-12am; Mon.-Fri. 4pm-12am

Expect to pay: Around $100 per person for cocktails and plates

What is it? Established in 1909, JJ Foley's has been a family-run bar for over a century, making it one of the oldest continuously running bars in Boston. The unassuming, dimly lit Irish pub close to Downtown Crossing is a popular after-work hangout for locals, drawing a diverse crowd from suited financiers to tattooed bike messengers. The fact that even Bono once wandered in late after a TD Garden show emphasizes the unpredictable clientele. Regulars appreciate the fair prices and generous drinks.

Why we love it: The classic Irish pub atmosphere, inexpensive drinks, fun bartenders, and clientele … what's not to love, really? Beer is the highlight here, with a wide selection of local craft brews and more far-flung favorites on "draught," in bottles, and in pints. A menu of typical and hearty pub fare — think burgers, chicken fingers, and wings — accompanies the booze list.

Time Out tip: JJ Foley's is a blast when it's packed with revelers, but consider going during a quieter time for lower-key vibes — that would be weekday afternoons and early evenings before the post-work crowds roll in.

Address: 21 Kingston St, Boston, MA 02111

Opening hours: Daily 11am–midnight

Expect to pay: You could easily get out paying anywhere from $10 to $20, depending on how much you want to drink. Beers are cheap, and food is too. Enjoy; you don't get these kinds of prices in Boston very often.

What is it? Brick & Mortar feels like a secret. Enter through a nondescript chartreuse door on Mass Ave in Central Square and head up a set of stairs to discover a giant, horseshoe-shaped bar holding space in a moody, dimly lit room. Seating is ample, so grab a spot and order a divine cocktail.

Why we love it: The aforementioned secretive nature of the place is pretty rad, but you come here for cocktails — beautiful, glorious (and generously poured) cocktails. Bartenders here take their job seriously, shaking up an evolving list of inventive, complexly flavored drinks alongside classic favorites. Brick & Mortar also has a well-thought-out selection of mocktails, martinis, and spritzers. Bar snacks (which include anchovy toasts and prosciutto-wrapped stuffed dates) are just the complement.

Time Out tip: Looking for a kickoff to a rager of a night? Start with the DTO (Daiquiri Time Out), four daiquiri shots for you and your crew for $20.

Address: 567 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139

Opening hours: Mon–Wed 5pm–midnight; Thu–Sat 5pm–1am

Expect to pay: Around $50 to $70 for a couple of drinks and some nibbles.

What is it? Named for the Irish playwright, the Behan is a divey Irish pub in Jamaica Plain that charms with an unpretentious atmosphere and colorful clientele who gather to socialize or enjoy a pint alone. The stellar craft beer list is regularly updated with nearly two dozen IPAs, lagers, porters, stouts, ciders … 

Why we love it: Behan offers an impressive beer selection and stout cocktails in a refreshingly laid-back atmosphere; sometimes there's even live music. It feels like a place where writers retreat to discuss ideas with a frothy beverage in hand. The bar is usually packed with a lively crowd, but we love grabbing a seat in one of the wooden booths just across the way. It's cozy and private—a perfect oasis for a chat with pals. The makeshift patio out back makes for a great hangout in warmer months.

Time Out tip: You can't order food at Behan's, but you can BYOB. The bar's location in JP means you'll have no shortage of takeout spots from which to order. There's even a Whole Foods just down the street if you want to grab something from the salad or hot bars.

Address: 378 Centre St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

Opening hours: Daily noon–1am

Expect to pay: PBR night? You can get by with $10 or $15 if you want. Most other beers are around $9, so let's say around $30 for your average visit. 

What is it? Eastie gets in on the speakeasy game with this hidden cocktailerie and raw bar tucked away behind a concealed entrance near the Italian restaurant Pazza on Porter. Once through the curtains at the door, an evening of creative cocktails, a killer wine list, and even a spot of caviar awaits.

Why we love it: Tall Ship has a great vibe, sure, but sometimes a night out with friends begs for a little more elegance and sophistication. We’re thrilled Eastie has this option for gorgeous, over-the-top cocktails. The sexy, hush-hush atmosphere makes it all the more appealing.

Time Out tip: Next Door likes to keep it classy with a small dress code, so consider your attire. Time Out readers know better than this, but people will be turned away at the door if they’re wearing leisurewear, flip-flops, a tank top, or any variety of hat. Reservations are strongly encouraged, as Next Door is a small establishment with only 30 seats.

Address: 103 Porter St, Boston, MA 02128

Opening hours: Thu 6pm–midnight; Fri, Sat 5pm–2am; Sun 6pm–midnight

Expect to pay: $50 to $80 for a couple of drinks and bites

What is it? We're drawn to a bar that playfully nods to our Prohibition history (and Boston’s surprisingly enduring alcohol regulations), and Beacon Hill's Carrie Nation masterfully achieves this within steps of the State House. Taking its name from the infamous, hatchet-wielding, Kentucky-born figure of the temperance movement, this cocktail club revives some of that clandestine drinking spirit of the past.

Why we love it: The main bar, with its dark wood accents and plush scarlet chairs, is a popular spot for local professionals unwinding after work with a variety of punches, barrel-aged cocktails, and expertly made classics.

Time Out tip: For those seeking something unique, venture to the back, past the shoeshine stand and up the stairs to discover Carrie Nation's hidden speakeasy, complete with vintage billiards tables and cozy, intimate seating. Also, Carrie Nation hosts a drag brunch every Sunday.

Address: 11 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108

Opening hours: Tue–Fri 11am–2pm; Sat 4pm–2am

Expect to pay: Cocktails range from $12 to $18 so $50 to $80 for a couple of drinks and food.