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The 10 Best Pubs In Boston

Part of Boston tradition includes plenty of Irish pubs. These classic establishments offer the same tasty food, cheap cold drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. 

The Best Pubs In Boston 

The Banshee 

The number one spot in Boston to watch both domestic and European sports while enjoying a drink.

The Banshee is a popular Irish pub that’s always been a go-to for sports lovers as they broadcast nearly every game on their numerous TVs.

Complete with a full bar menu and tavern fare to match; this venue will give you the classic Irish pub experience everyone should enjoy at least once.

Rugby and soccer are the most popular sports you’ll catch broadcasted here, along with local Boston teams. The Banshee is a classic Irish pub and one of the best in Boston. 

  • Location: 924 Dorchester Ave, Boston, MA 02125

Biddy Early’s 

A classic basic bar is sometimes all you need on a night out, and this Boston pub answers the call.

Biddy Early’s is well known as one of the best dive bars in the city, with a menu of good drinks, pitchers of beer, and comforting classic pub food.

The interior is nothing special, just the comforting bar stools and decor you’d find in any classic pub, including wooden beams and beer memorabilia covering all the walls.

There’s nothing upscale or snazzy about this place, but what Biddy Early’s lacks in sophistication, it makes up for in character and charm at this traditional Irish pub. 

  • Location: 141 Pearl St, Boston, MA 02110

The Black Rose 

During your travels to Faneuil Hall, this popular neighborhood bar and restaurant is the perfect stop for a bite and a drink.

The Black Rose features a comfortable setting, live music, and traditional Irish pub fare. Their menu is a terrific addition to your day for either breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Here the staff is even Irish, with bartenders that feature a traditional accent, ready to pour you a Guinness to pair with the award-winning pub fare they serve.

Indulge in corned beef or classic bangers and mash, which are just a couple of the popular items on their menu.

The Black Rose is a terrific example of a traditional Irish pub you won’t want to miss out on in Boston. 

  • Location: 160 State St, Boston, MA 02109 

Corner Pub 

Find this traditional family-owned and operated pub in Boston’s historic Leather District.

Corner Pub is a roomy spot where locals love to congregate and enjoy the classic tavern fare, along with paired cocktails and beers.

This neighborhood spot is always busy, likely because of the cozy atmosphere and welcoming staff on top of a delicious menu.

Their made-from-scratch burgers are a favorite on the menu, but everything is homemade and the perfect addition to your day.

The Corner Pub is a terrific Boston tavern for great food, good drinks, and even better friends. 

  • Location: 162 Lincoln St, Boston, MA 02111 

Eire Pub 

You’ll find this unforgettable pub in one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, where it’s been a staple for over 50 years.

Eire Pub is one of Boston’s original taverns and remains one of the most popular places in the city for classic bar food and a pint.

While they originated as a ‘Men’s Bar’ back in the day, they quickly became a world-renowned place to stop for food and drink.

Even Presidents Clinton and Regan have stopped here for a bite, along with numerous other politicians, celebrities, and other big names.

No matter if you stop just once or become a local, the Eire Pub is one Irish pub you won’t soon forget. 

  • Location: 795 Adams St, Boston, MA 02124

Emmets 

Here you’ll find one of the most authentic Irish pubs in the city of Boston.

Emmets are serving up traditional Irish cuisine along with pints of beer in an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy a freshly poured Guinness or otherworldly beer to pair with something off their menu that will feel straight out of Ireland.

Locals and visitors alike enjoy a trip to this authentic pub because it’s such a different experience from your average Irish pub.

While you can find typical American pub fare, their specialties section will have you convinced you’ve traveled right to Dublin. Emmets is a Boston go-to for an unforgettable authentic Irish pub experience. 

  • Location: 6 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108 

JJ Foley’s Cafe 

Founded in 1909, this is one of the older pubs in Boston that’s still in operation. JJ Foley’s has always been the place to go for a great meal and good times with friends.

Here you’ll get to indulge in Irish-American eats and classic bar entertainment, including dart boards and TVs featuring sports games.

No matter what the occasion, this is the perfect backdrop and menu to complement that event.

This pre-prohibition cafe prides itself on being a neighborhood favorite in Boston’s South End and one Boston pub you won’t want to miss. 

  • Location: 117 E Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02118

L Street Tavern 

Head to South Boston to enjoy this classic Irish pub. L Street Tavern is found within the heart of City Point and makes the perfect location to enjoy a traditional pub meal with a group of friends.

Local hospitality and Irish charm combine here for an unforgettable experience, one you’ll want to have more than once.

This is a spot where you’ll find locals and tourists, all conjoining to indulge in a pint or two and a hearty meal.

It’s also the classic backdrop where part of Good Will Hunting was filmed, which is partially how it rose in fame. The L Street Tavern is the perfect go-to for all. 

  • Location: 658 E 8th St, Boston, MA 02127

Mr. Dooley’s Boston 

Here you never know what may go down. Mr. Dooley’s Boston is a comfortable pub spot for delicious meals, great drinks, and the occasional pop-up fiddler.

A well-known spot for both visitors and locals to converge, they often feature live music and other events to keep things interesting.

The menu is classic, with plenty of Irish and American meals that will be the perfect addition to any part of your week.

Plus, you can always indulge in a cold pint of Guinness or another worldly beer. Mr. Dooley’s in Boston is a popular Irish pub, and for a good reason. 

  • Location: 77 Broad St, Boston, MA 02109

Solas Irish Pub 

Head to Back Bay to enjoy this cozy restaurant and bar. Solas Irish Pub is a modern take on a classic Irish tavern that overlooks the busy Boylston Street.

This is a more relaxed late-night hangout found within the Lenox Hotel. The menu here consists of Irish fare and cocktails, all with a slightly elevated twist.

Find indoor seating, pints of Guinness and other local craft beer, plus comfort food favorites for both lunch and dinner. Solas Irish Pub is a new take on an Irish tavern that everyone will love. 

  • Location: 710 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116 

Final Thoughts

Don’t miss out on the part of what makes Boston so welcoming, and join locals and visitors alike for a drink at one of the many pubs.