From the Author: We lived on Revere St. on Beacon Hill for 4 years, and Mike worked on Myrtle St. for over 6 years. We love this neighborhood and know it well. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!
What I love most about the Beacon Hill bar scene is the variety.
There’s high-end bars where you can get a delicious, hand-crafted cocktail. And then there’s the down and dirty bars – open late with great draft beers, greasy food and board games.
It all just depends on what kind of night you’re looking to have!
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LAST UPDATE:
1. Teddy’s on the Hill
Teddy’s, formerly Red Hat, is one of my favorite bars on the Hill. It’s been in operation for over 115 years!
This bar feels like a traditional, old school pub, but it has loads of games like Golden Tee, Skee-Ball, Connect 4, darts, and more.
Open until 2 am – later than most other bars on Beacon Hill.
2. The Sevens Ale House
If you’re looking for an authentic Beacon Hill pub, the Sevens is it.
When we used to live on Beacon Hill, we frequented this bar a lot – it was right around the corner.
This “down and dirty” (in the best way) bar with a fantastic beer selection is a local favorite.
3. Carrie Nation Cocktail Club
Carrie Nation is THE spot for a high-end cocktail on Beacon Hill.
There’s a restaurant in the front, and a dimly lit speakeasy in the back with two pool tables.
Depending on the night, you’ll find some great live music here!
Insider Tip:
Try the “smoked” Old Fashioned!
4. The Hill Tavern
This is the “neighborhood” bar on the Hill.
The Hill Tavern has good food, and good drinks. Bit of a dive-bar atmosphere.
Mike and I used to love sitting outside on Cambridge St, eating some greasy food and drinking a Guinness.
5. The Tip Tap Room
One of the newer, hipper bars on Beacon Hill. An after-work, “happy hour” favorite.
The Tip Tap Room has 30+ beers on tap and are known for their eclectic menu – I once had a Kangaroo appetizer here!
When the weather is nice, all the exterior windows slide wide open, giving the impression you’re outside!
6. 21st Amendment
This place can best be described as a watering hole. A proper watering hole.
John Kerry used to be a regular! Loads of history in here. Has a bit of dungeon type vibe, but cozy.
Great beers on tap, but they can also make a good cocktail.
Insider Tip:
Get their nachos! It’s a HUGE dish, so you’ll only need one. Best nachos on Beacon Hill.
7. Harvard Gardens
Harvard Gardens is easily one of the most popular meet-up bars on Beacon Hill.
It’s a casual restaurant / pub and an MGH resident favorite (it’s located directly across from Mass General Hospital).
Mike used to meet up with his sister here for a Guinness after work and we’ve both watched many Celtic’s games sitting at the bar.
Food is quality, pub-style and large portions.
8. 1928 Beacon Hill
1928 offers one of the most unique Beacon Hill experiences.
It’s the only Beacon Hill restaurant/bar located on the Hill itself – right smack-dab between residential brownstones. Inside you’ll find a small, but cozy speakeasy type vibe.
They have a very classic “New England” menu and an extensive “prohibition era” cocktail list.
Insider Tip:
Try their Vanilla Old Fashioned! Sipping on bourbon in here just feels right.
9. Emmets
Emmets is Traditional Irish pub, and one of the best in all of Boston.
You’ll find live Irish music, and perfectly poured pints of Guinness here.
10. The Liberty Hotel – Lobby Bar
Located inside the old Charles Street Jail, this converted, national historic landmark is the perfect place to grab a cocktail, or two.
Great atmosphere. The only downside is how expensive the drinks are. But still worth a visit!
Insider Tip:
Take your drink from the bar and go up a few floors with it. There is seating everywhere along the old jail platforms. You’ll have an excellent view – great for people watching!
11. Roxannes
You wouldn’t know it from the exterior, but inside Roxannes you’ll find one of the most vibrant, swanky, retro bars in all of the city.
Above average vibes and service, with fun cocktails and music.
Insider Tip:
Skip the food, just get drinks!
12. Cheers
Cheers is an iconic Beacon Hill bar.
You’ve probably seen the show that made this bar famous – it was aired for over 11 seasons (275 total episodes!)
It’s incredibly touristy, for obvious reasons, but it’s worth visiting at least once.
