The city of Boston is known for its amazing pub scene. The prevalence of pubs in the city goes hand-in-hand with the high concentration of Irish-Americans. The incredible bars present a variety of options to choose from. With that, you have the ability to head out to modern pubs, or older ones with a vintage feel to enjoy a pint, some live music, and great food. Characteristics of a great pub include:
Beer selection
Atmosphere
Food
Live music
Staff
In this piece, we will explore some of the top pubs in the city of Boston you will need to check out, along with some basic information to find each on your own.
Banshee
Summary of the Pub: The Banshee is well-known to the locals of Dorchester who want to come to watch American football, football (soccer), rugby, or any other sport. Known for its broadcasting of European teams, it is a local establishment with Irish heritage that makes it one of the more exciting sports bars in the area to check out.
Price Range: $
Phone Number: 617-436-9747
Website: www.bansheeboston.com
Physical Address: 934 Dorchester Ave Boston, MA 02125
Neighborhood: Dorchester
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Red Line - JFK / UMASS
The Burren
Summary of the Pub: The Burren has a location in Somerville that will bring you back to your Irish routes. On the Irish pub tour in the city of Boston, you need to check out this place. Always live music, every day, with amazing pints on tap. In addition, the menu offers some unique options, including a meatless shepherd’s pie.
Price Range: $
Phone Number: 617-776-6896
Website: www.burren.com
Physical Address: 247 Elm Street Somerville, MA 02144
Neighborhood: Somerville
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Red Line - Davis Station
The Druid
Summary of the Pub: The Druid is a landmark in the Inman Square area. There are plenty of beers on tap, Irish whiskey available, and much more. Three times a week there is traditional Irish music available. If you really want to immerse yourself, you can even rent out the three-bedroom space above the pub. Great food, inclusive of fish and chips, make this a must-stop.
Price Range: $$
Phone Number: 617-497-0965
Website: www.druidpub.com
Physical Address: 1357 Cambridge Street Cambridge, MA 02139
Neighborhood: Cambridge - Inman Square
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Green Line - Union Square
Ned Devine’s
Summary of the Pub: It is difficult to survive in the heart of Boston as a pub, but Ned Devine has been able to do it for a long time. Ned Devine’s has everything from Irish whiskey to brews galore. Endless food options and an atmosphere that is over the top by design make this a fun, and sometimes a corny place to visit.
Price Range: $$
Phone Number: 617-248-8800
Website: www.neddevinesboston.com
Physical Address: 1 Faneuil Hall Marketplace Boston, MA 02109
Neighborhood: Faneuil Hall
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Blue Line - Aquarium
The Black Rose
Summary of the Pub: The Black Rose is right near Quincy Market in the middle of Boston. This is a traditional neighborhood tavern that is one of the oldest in the city of Boston. Ales, hearty Irish plates, and live music in a setting as comfortable as it gets.
Price Range: $$
Phone Number: 857-465-4100
Website: www.blackroseboston.com
Physical Address: 160 State Street Boston, MA 02109
Neighborhood: Quincy Market
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Blue Line - Aquarium
Mr. Dooley’s Boston
Summary of the Pub: Mr. Dooley’s Boston tells all that they are “Dooley” invited in! Right in the heart of the financial district, it has been welcoming folks since 1991. It takes pride in being the place to grab “a pint and chat” in the city. The relaxed atmosphere, quality drinks, and food make it a terrific location.
Price Range: $$
Phone Number: 617-338-5656
Website: www.mrdooleys.com
Physical Address: 77 Broad Street Boston, MA 02109
Neighborhood: Financial District
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Blue Line - Aquarium
The Bell in Hand Tavern
Summary of the Pub: The Bell in Hand is all about history and it is proud of the heritage it has. The tavern had its first pour in the year 1795 and it continues to this day to be a place to gather, enjoy a drink, a comfortable bite of pub food, and divulge in great conversation.
Price Range: $$
Phone Number: 617-855-0061
Website: www.bellinhand.com
Physical Address: 45 Union Street Boston, MA 02108
Neighborhood: Government Center
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Orange Line - Haymarket
The Green Dragon Tavern
Summary of the Pub: The Green Dragon Tavern screams vibrancy and energy. This historic Irish pub has all sorts of quality pints, bar bites, and more. Live bands are there on weekend nights to bring the excitement and get folks dancing as they enjoy a round or two.
Price Range: $$
Phone Number: 617-367-0055
Website: www.greendragonboston.com
Physical Address: 11 Marshall Street Boston, MA 02108
Neighborhood: Government Center / City Hall
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Blue Line - Government Center
Emmets
Summary of the Pub: Emmets is the place to go if you want the traditional Irish pub feel and vibe. This classic alehouse supplies endless pub fare, beer, as well as wine. What is great about Emmets is the authenticity of it all, as it is not putting on a show; this place is the real deal!
Price Range: $$
Phone Number: 617-742-8565
Website: www.emmetsirishpubandrestaurant.com
Physical Address: 6 Beacon Street Boston, MA 02108
Neighborhood: Downtown
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Orange Line - Downtown Crossing
J.J. Foley’s Cafe
Summary of the Pub: J.J. Foley’s Cafe was founded in 1909 and is as classic a neighborhood pub as it gets in the city of Boston. You get quality offerings in terms of food and drink. In addition, there is a lot of extra entertainment in the form of televisions, dart boards, and more.
Price Range: $
Phone Number: 617-728-9101
Website: www.jjfoleyscafe.com
Physical Address: 117 E Berkeley Street Boston, MA 02118
Neighborhood: South End
Closest MBTA Stop / Line: Orange Line - Chinatown