Bars and Cafes in Beacon Hill (Boston)

Cheers Boston

Tourists still flock to Bull & Finch Pub a.k.a Cheers Boston, which was the inspiration for the Cheers television series, which ran for 11 years and won a number of awards. Avid fans should be forewarned, however; the exterior is very familiar, but the inside is nothing like the TV version. Drinks and food are served here, but its icon status is what draws people in here. It is considered by many to be one of the top tourist attractions in Boston. The pub  is open everyday of the week from 11 am onwards.

Parish Cafe and Bar

This Back Bay establishment represents one of Boylston Street's better places to stop and eat, both indoors or outside on the patio. A pub-style atmosphere featuring wooden paneling mixed in with brightly painted walls awaits you as does a diverse menu. Among the entrees—homemade codcakes, Chipotle Pepper Meatloaf and Grilled Half Duck. The sandwiches are famous here with grilled creations, including eggplant, leg of lamb and tenderloin sandwiches available. A long list of specialty martinis are served and the bar also offers an ample beer and wine selection.

No. 9 Park

No.9 Park, located in the shadow of the State House, has become one of Boston's hottest eateries since its opening in 1998. The dark and cool interior has cherry wood and indigo walls for a modern, elegant feel. The menu blends European influences and New England ingredients. Appetizers include Salade de Petite Courgett and Terrine of Foie Gras. Roasted Beef Ribeye is equally amazing. Desserts are superb. Try the Vanilla Creme Caramel or Chocolate & Hazelnut Tart, simply divine!

Red Hat Cafe

This Beacon Hill pub is full of history complete with pictures depicting the original Scollay Square. The inexpensive steaks and sandwiches at Red Hat Cafe are certainly pleasing to those on a budget. If you are lucky you might drop in on the day when the price of chicken wings drops to 10 cents each, although these spicy morsels would be outstanding at any price. Chicken and broccoli alfredo and haddock are other delicacies. Reservations are accepted for private parties and occasions.

21st Amendment

For those who don't remember, the original 21st Amendment repealed Prohibition and allowed the nation to drink. This English-style bar, located near the State House, serves up spirits to lawyers, law students, legislators and Beacon Hill locals. A large copper fireplace blazes in the corner and there is a juke box to liven up the place, which features a lot of dark wood and brick walls. Pasta and burgers are among the food offerings. The specialty sandwiches are good too.

Beacon Hill Pub

This popular Beacon Hill bar gets jam-packed on the weekends and tends to draw the 20's-something crowd. The Beacon Hill Pub has all the characteristics of a college bar with few bar stools and a lot of people standing around enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and company. The crowd tends to feature those a little older than your typical college students but it is definitely a young, hip group. Beer prices are reasonable and there are pinball machines, videogames, dartboards and even a juke box.

Harvard Gardens

Harvard Gardens, located in Beacon Hill near Massachusetts General Hospital, offers a causal atmosphere for diners. It is nice and bright with off-white walls. The menu changes frequently, but this establishment is well known for its thin-crusted pizza and comfort food like macaroni and cheese. Pastas and burgers are on the menu and the appetizers tend to be popular as well. The restaurant has a full service bar.

Purple Shamrock

A young crowd packs this bar near Faneuil Hall every weekend. The Purple Shamrock features live music every night The food here is quite good and the menu includes a wide range of soups and salads and steak and seafood entrees. A blend of Irish and New England preparations, guests will find it difficult to make up their mind when it's time to eat. Live music and karaoke are added features of this club.

News Restaurant & Lounge

This contemporary restaurant and lounge offers a great dining experience. Start your gastronomic journey with a Shrimp Cocktail or a Spinach & Artichoke Dip. Then savour one of the house specialities, such as News Jumbo Burger, Alaskan Herb Encrusted Salmon, or Half BBQ Rotisserie Chicken. Desserts like Chocolate Marquis and Crème Brulee are truly mouthwatering. There are several rooms available for private functions, each with a 52-inch plasma screen and bar. Several events are held here. Of particular interest to the fairer sex is the Wednesday Ladies' Night where ladies can order a complimentary 3-course dinner while listening to lounge music.

BIN 26 Enoteca

BIN 26 Enoteca offers both snacks and wholesome meals, complementing them with a remarkable wine list. The decor includes dark woods and not-too-strong lighting. The clientèle is upscale and includes gourmets, couples and business executives. Pastas, soups, beef carpaccio, rabbit, seafood dishes, cheeses, and tiramisu are popular selections. The bar menu includes 200 wines available by bottle, and one can get confused—but the knowledgeable staff can provide you pointers about what you ought to order.

CLINK.

Clink restaurant in the Liberty Hotel will satisfy a sophisticated palate, while the casual atmosphere opening onto the street and garden can be enjoyed in casual style. At the restaurant consider something from the steakhouse for a main course and top it up with something from the extensive wine list. If you're not having a dinner, the Clink Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail.