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Drink

September 29, 2025 by Boston Southie

Delicious Spicy Shrimp Appetizer Pregame Bites

Heading to Fenway? These restaurants within walking distance offer hearty bites and quick service so you can fuel up before first pitch, without stressing about the clock.

At-a-Glance

  • Neighborhoods: Fenway–Kenmore
  • MBTA: Kenmore (Green Line), Fenway (Green Line D)
  • Price tiers: $–$$$ (mix of casual to refined)
  • Wait/Resy notes: Bleacher Bar (walk-in only), Hojoko (book weekends), Eventide (Resy)
  • Dietary tags: Vegetarian options at Time Out Market & Hojoko; gluten-free rolls at Eventide
  • Hours: Verified open as of Fall 2025

Bleacher Bar — Fenway Park

If you want to sit practically inside the park, Bleacher Bar is unmatched. Located under Fenway’s center field bleachers, this bar serves pub staples with a side of Red Sox history. Game days make it a lively preamble to the main event, but weekdays offer a more relaxed way to soak up the stadium atmosphere. Grab wings, nachos, or their Fenway cheesesteak while watching players warm up through the outfield window.

  • Price: $–$$ (~$15–20 pp)
  • When: Best pregame 2 hours before first pitch
  • Reservations/Wait: Reserve here
  • Dietary: Bar-style, vegetarian apps available
  • MBTA/Parking: Kenmore (Green Line B/C/D) or Lansdowne garage
  • Accessibility: Entrance lift + accessible restroom
  • Link: bleacherbarboston.com
  • Last checked: Sep 06, 2025 (Open)

Cask ’n Flagon — Kenmore Square

Steps from the park, Cask ’n Flagon is the quintessential Boston sports bar. It’s known for burgers, loaded nachos, and walls lined with Sox memorabilia. Large groups find it easy to rally here before walking across the street to the game. In cooler fall weather, the pub’s indoor space provides cozy pregame energy without sacrificing speed.

  • Price: $–$$ (~$18–25 pp)
  • When: Ideal 1–2 hours before games
  • Reservations/Wait: Call to reserve
  • Dietary: Limited vegetarian items
  • MBTA/Parking: Kenmore (Green Line)
  • Accessibility: Call ahead; entrance step varies by door
  • Link: casknflagon.com
  • Last checked: Sep 06, 2025 (Open)

Hojoko — Fenway

Man Holding A Bite of Fresh Taco with Avocado

For groups that want something different than burgers and fries, Hojoko brings Japanese izakaya flair. Sushi rolls, yakitori skewers, and steaming bowls of ramen make it perfect for crisp fall evenings. The neon-lit interior keeps the energy buzzing, while cocktails lean playful (like frozen mai tais). Pregame with shared plates, then head to the park full and warmed.

  • Price: $$ (~$25–35 pp with drinks)
  • When: Best pre-6 p.m. to avoid dinner crush
  • Reservations/Wait: Reserve via Hojoko
  • Dietary: Vegetarian-friendly sushi, ramen options
  • MBTA/Parking: Fenway (Green Line D) or Kenmore
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible (per OpenTable)
  • Link: hojokoboston.com
  • Last checked: Sep 06, 2025 (Open)

Time Out Market Boston — Fenway

When nobody can agree on what to eat, Time Out Market solves it. With 15+ food stalls under one roof, you’ll find lobster rolls, tacos, pizza, and vegan bites all in one stop. Communal tables make it easy to gather before games, and the indoor setup shines in fall weather. The space often runs Sox-themed specials during homestands.

  • Price: $–$$$ (mix; ~$12–25 pp)
  • When: Best 1.5–2 hours before first pitch
  • Reservations/Wait: Walk-in only; no reservations accepted
  • Dietary: Multiple vegetarian and gluten-free stalls
  • MBTA/Parking: Kenmore or Fenway (Green Line); Landmark Center garage nearby
  • Accessibility: Modern food hall, accessible restrooms
  • Link: timeoutmarket.com/boston
  • Last checked: Sep 06, 2025 (Open)

Eventide Fenway — Boylston Street

For seafood fans, Eventide Fenway brings a taste of Maine to Boston. Its brown butter lobster roll is a must, paired with a side of chowder or oysters. Though casual and counter-style, the food leans refined: perfect if you want something lighter but still indulgent before heading to your seats. In autumn, the hearty seafood stews add warmth.

  • Price: $$ (~$25–30 pp)
  • When: Best early evening; quick turnover keeps waits modest
  • Reservations/Wait: Reserve via Resy
  • Dietary: Limited gluten-free rolls available
  • MBTA/Parking: Fenway (Green Line D) or Kenmore
  • Accessibility: Counter height; call ahead for wheelchair seating
  • Link: eventideoysterco.com
  • Last checked: Sep 06, 2025 (Open)

Audubon — Park Drive

Healthy Burgers with Cheese Fresh Vegetables and Chilled Beer

Just a few blocks from the stadium, Audubon offers a quieter option with hearty burgers and craft beer. The interior balances modern minimalism with neighborhood charm, making it ideal if you want conversation before the roar of Fenway. Fall evenings on the patio (with heat lamps) make it especially inviting.

  • Price: $–$$ (~$20–28 pp)
  • When: Best 2–3 hours pregame for patio seating
  • Reservations/Wait: Reserve via email
  • Dietary: Several vegetarian dishes available
  • MBTA/Parking: Fenway (Green Line D)
  • Accessibility: Call ahead for details; older building
  • Link: audubonboston.com
  • Last checked: Sep 06, 2025 (Open)

Recommendations

If you want the iconic ballpark vibe, choose Bleacher Bar. For group flexibility, Time Out Market fits all palates. For seafood indulgence, Eventide wins. Hojoko shines for adventurous eats, while Audubon provides a low-key neighborhood option.

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Filed Under: Drink, Eat & Drink, Food

September 24, 2025 by Boston Southie

At-a-Glance Guide

Exterior of A Boston Patio with Outdoor Tables
  • Neighborhoods covered: Back Bay, South End, North End, Waterfront, West End, Charlestown, Cambridge
  • MBTA access: Green, Orange, Blue, Red Lines within short walking distance of all patios
  • Budget range: $–$$$ (most meals $25–60 pp)
  • Reservations: Most patios are walk-in; linked to official Resy/OpenTable pages
  • Updated: September 2025

Patio Picks (Expanded)

1. Saltie Girl — Back Bay (Newbury Street)

Back Bay’s seafood gem keeps its Newbury patio buzzing until the end of October. The lobster roll and raw bar are the highlights, with weeknights offering the best chance at a patio table. Crowds pick up on weekends, but the scene matches the neighborhood’s energy.

  • Price: $$–$$$ (~$40–60 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Book via Resy (patio is walk-in only)
  • MBTA/Parking: Green Line Copley; Prudential Garage nearby
  • Accessibility: Patio flat/even; indoor space narrow
  • Link: saltiegirl.com

2. Sonsie — Back Bay (Newbury Street)

Sonsie’s wide-open French doors and sidewalk tables make it a fall favorite on Newbury Street. Brunch runs late on weekends, and evenings bring a steady crowd for pizza, pasta, and wine. It’s casual, lively, and one of the Back Bay’s most reliable patios before the season closes.

  • Price: $$ (~$25–40 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Check OpenTable
  • MBTA/Parking: Green Line Hynes; Prudential Center Garage
  • Accessibility: Sidewalk-level patio; indoor doorway narrow
  • Link: sonsieboston.com

3. Porto — Back Bay (Boylston Street)

Porto’s chic patio bar in Back Bay combines twinkly lights, a sheltered bar, and a creative cocktail menu, making it a perfect early-fall hangout. It’s cozy yet vibrant, ideal for unwinding after work or meeting friends before the chill sets in. The mix of casual elegance and seasonal charm keeps it buzzing through October.

  • Price: $$–$$$ (~$30–50 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Reserve on OpenTable 
  • MBTA/Parking: Green Line Arlington; Copley and Hynes garages nearby
  • Accessibility: Flat patio at street level with slight step at doorway
  •  Link: portoboston.com 

4. Back Bay Social — Back Bay (Boylston Street)

With umbrellas lining Boylston, Back Bay Social is great for people-watching and a casual bite. Brunch runs strong on weekends, while weekday evenings are quieter. Drinks and shared plates are the move if you’re winding down outdoors in October.

  • Price: $$ (~$20–35 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Book via OpenTable
  • MBTA/Parking: Green Line Hynes; Prudential Center Garage
  • Accessibility: Even sidewalk-level patio
  • Link: backbaysocial.com

5. Alcove — West End/Waterfront

People Sitting at Tables in A Busy Boston Patio

Tucked by the Zakim Bridge, Alcove has one of Boston’s most scenic patios with harbor views. The menu balances seafood, cocktails, and share plates, and the vibe stays relaxed even when busy. It’s a go-to for groups who want a view and fresh air late into fall.

  • Price: $$–$$$ (~$35–55 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Reserve via Resy 
  • MBTA/Parking: Green/Orange Line North Station; validated garage nearby 
  • Accessibility: Wide patio with ramps
  • Link: alcoveboston.com

6. Aquitaine — South End (Tremont Street)

A South End classic, Aquitaine’s bistro tables spill onto Tremont with heaters ready for cooler nights. French onion soup, steak frites, and cocktails are staples, and it’s a polished yet comfortable place for a fall patio dinner.

  • Price: $$–$$$ (~$30–50 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Book via OpenTable 
  • MBTA/Parking: Orange Line Back Bay; limited Tremont St. parking
  • Accessibility: Street-level patio, accessible sidewalks
  • Link: aquitaineboston.com

7. Bar Mezzana — South End (Ink Block)

Bar Mezzana’s patio stays lively with umbrellas and a menu centered on Italian seafood. Crudo plates, pasta, and cocktails are perfect for a late fall dinner. The Ink Block location makes it a fun anchor for a night out.

  • Price: $$–$$$ (~$30–50 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Book via Resy
  • MBTA/Parking: Orange Line Back Bay; paid lots nearby
  • Accessibility: Patio on flat plaza, easy access
  • Link: barmezzana.com

8. Ristorante Lucia — North End (Hanover Street)

Lucia’s courtyard is a true North End gem, hidden just off Hanover Street. The pasta is hearty, the patio is sheltered, and the setting feels tucked away from the bustle. A strong choice for cozy outdoor dining before the season ends.

  • Price: $$ (~$25–40 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Reserve on OpenTable
  • MBTA/Parking: Orange/Green Line Haymarket; street parking limited
  • Accessibility: Courtyard patio accessible via side entry
  • Link: luciab.st

9. Mida — South End (Tremont Street)

Mida keeps its patio open as long as weather allows, with brunch and pasta nights both drawing crowds. The energy is upbeat, and the menu balances indulgent and lighter Italian dishes. Expect same-day patio reservations or call ahead.

  • Price: $$ (~$30–45 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Reserve on Resy 
  • MBTA/Parking: Orange Line Back Bay; street parking limited
  • Accessibility: Sidewalk-level, wide patio
  • Link: midarestaurant.com

10. Oleana — Cambridge (Inman Square)

Oleana’s garden patio is one of Greater Boston’s most loved outdoor spaces, lush with greenery well into fall. The menu blends Middle Eastern flavors with local produce, and the setting feels like a backyard escape. Patio seating is walk-in only, so come early.

  • Price: $$–$$$ (~$35–55 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Walk-in only, details 
  • MBTA/Parking: Red Line Central + 15 min walk; street parking limited
  • Accessibility: Garden patio with level access, compact seating
  • Link: oleanarestaurant.com

11. Brewer’s Fork — Charlestown

Outdoor Cafe with White Umbrellas, Tables and Chairs

This Charlestown favorite mixes craft beer and wood-fired pizza with a relaxed, neighborhood vibe. The patio is open and unfussy, perfect for a casual fall afternoon with friends. It’s one of the few spots where patio energy carries into October weekends.

  • Price: $–$$ (~$20–35 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Reserve on Resy
  • MBTA/Parking: Orange Line Community College; street parking limited
  • Accessibility: Street-level patio, wide entry
  • Link: brewersfork.com

12. Rowes Wharf Sea Grille — Waterfront

A Boston Harbor Hotel staple, Rowes Wharf Sea Grille offers one of the city’s most elegant waterside patios. From brunch to cocktails to dinner, the view is as central as the menu. It’s a polished choice for anyone who wants to close out patio season by the water.

  • Price: $$–$$$ (~$35–55 pp)
  • Reservations/Wait: Book via OpenTable
  • MBTA/Parking: Blue Line Aquarium; Boston Harbor Hotel valet
  • Accessibility: Waterfront patio accessible from hotel entrance
  • Link: roweswharfseagrille.com

Filed Under: Drink, Eat & Drink, Food

August 27, 2025 by Boston Southie

For Boston’s cocktail lovers, the espresso martini is more than just a pick-me-up; it’s become a citywide staple. From traditional blends to creative riffs, these nine downtown and nearby neighborhood spots are pouring some of the very best the city has to offer.


At-a-Glance

Neighborhoods: Back Bay, Downtown, North End, Seaport
MBTA: Red, Orange, Green lines within walking distance
Price tiers: $$–$$$
Reservations: Some require; bar seats often first-come
Dietary: Mostly dairy-based; vegan at select cafés
Hours: Most until midnight; some late-night
Updated: August 25, 2025

Espresso Martinis from a Boston Bar

North End

Bricco

Bricco has become synonymous with espresso martinis in Boston—over a million served. The blend of Absolut Vanilla, Baileys, Kahlúa, Frangelico, Disaronno, and house espresso is decadent yet balanced, never cloying. The sugar-and-cocoa rim makes every sip a little more indulgent. It’s the quintessential North End martini experience.

  • Price: $$
  • When: Evenings, especially weekends
  • Reservations/Wait: Expect lines after 8 p.m.
  • Dietary: Contains dairy
  • MBTA/Parking: Orange Line Haymarket; limited street parking
  • Accessibility: Narrow entry, tight tables
  • Link: briccoboston.com
  • Last checked: Aug 25, 2025

Farmacia

This nine-seat cocktail bar crafts each drink as part of a larger story. Guests are guided through a chaptered menu, with the espresso martini affogato as the grand finale. Served via Belgian coffee siphon, it’s a theatrical experience as much as a cocktail. Farmacia is intimate, exclusive, and unforgettable.

  • Price: $$$
  • When: Reservations only, timed seatings
  • Reservations/Wait: Mandatory ticketing
  • Dietary: Dairy-heavy
  • MBTA/Parking: Haymarket or North Station
  • Accessibility: Limited, small interior
  • Link: farmaciaboston.com
  • Last checked: Aug 25, 2025

Caffé Paradiso

This Italian café delivers a sweeter martini with Absolut vodka, Baileys, Kahlúa, and espresso. Their pistachio gelato-topped version is playful, adding dessert flair to the cocktail. A relaxed spot for both afternoon indulgence and late-night sipping, Paradiso feels like a true neighborhood staple. Its gelato pairing makes it stand out.

  • Price: $$
  • When: Afternoons and late night
  • Reservations/Wait: Walk-in friendly
  • Dietary: Dairy, nut toppings
  • MBTA/Parking: Haymarket
  • Accessibility: Moderate; café tables
  • Link: caffeparadisoboston.com
  • Last checked: Aug 25, 2025

Downtown Crossing

Yvonne’s

Yvonne’s sets the stage with its supper-club vibe and dramatic lighting. Their espresso martini leans traditional: vodka, espresso, Kahlúa, and a touch of vanilla syrup. Strong coffee flavor anchors the drink without excessive sweetness. It’s refined and timeless, much like the room it’s served in.

  • Price: $$$
  • When: Dinner through late night
  • Reservations/Wait: Book in advance
  • Dietary: Standard recipe
  • MBTA/Parking: Orange Line Downtown Crossing
  • Accessibility: Step-free main entry
  • Link: yvonnesboston.com
  • Last checked: Aug 25, 2025
Bladed Bar sign outside a Boston Bar

The Wig Shop

This cocktail bar hides its boldest secret in the “Rise & Grind.” Rum, cold brew, Borghetti, cinnamon-demerara, and whipped cream are finished with a chocolate-covered pretzel. It’s playful, powerful, and so caffeinated they only allow one per guest. Theatrical and fun, it’s a drink people talk about.

  • Price: $$
  • When: Evenings only
  • Reservations/Wait: Walk-in, often busy
  • Dietary: Contains dairy
  • MBTA/Parking: Downtown Crossing
  • Accessibility: Small bar space
  • Link: wigshopboston.com
  • Last checked: Aug 25, 2025

Tradesman Coffee Shop & Lounge

This café-bar hybrid offers espresso martinis that feel both indulgent and familiar. Vanilla vodka, espresso, Baileys, and Kahlúa are blended into a creamy, balanced cocktail. It’s approachable, reliable, and equally at home for an afternoon sip or evening nightcap. Tradesman makes the martini feel like comfort.

  • Price: $$
  • When: Morning through evening
  • Reservations/Wait: Casual, no reservations
  • Dietary: Contains dairy
  • MBTA/Parking: Downtown Crossing
  • Accessibility: Ground-level café
  • Link: tradesmanboston.com
  • Last checked: Aug 25, 2025

Jaho Coffee Roaster & Wine Bar

Jaho straddles the line between coffee shop and cocktail bar. Their espresso martini is classic, simple, and available to-go, making it uniquely versatile. Guests can customize creaminess with a splash of Baileys. It’s relaxed, convenient, and ideal for an unpretentious martini fix downtown.

  • Price: $–$$
  • When: Open all day
  • Reservations/Wait: Walk-in
  • Dietary: Vegan options possible
  • MBTA/Parking: Orange Line Chinatown
  • Accessibility: Café style, accessible entries
  • Link: jahocoffee.com
  • Last checked: Aug 25, 2025

Back Bay

Café Sauvage

This chic café puts a French twist on Boston coffee cocktails. The “Sauvage Espresso’tini” mixes spiced rum, espresso liqueur, Irish cream, and cold brew for layered complexity. Or try “The Dude,” rimmed with Nutella for extra indulgence. Café Sauvage offers espresso martinis with playful European flair.

  • Price: $$
  • When: Evenings best
  • Reservations/Wait: Recommended on weekends
  • Dietary: Nutella rim, dairy
  • MBTA/Parking: Green Line Hynes Convention Center
  • Accessibility: Small step at entry
  • Link: cafesauvage.com
  • Last checked: Aug 25, 2025

Sonsie

A Newbury Street classic, Sonsie’s espresso martini blends vanilla vodka, Baileys, Kahlúa, and espresso. It’s smooth, balanced, and perfect for people-watching on the patio. Sonsie’s reputation for consistency makes it a reliable stop. Lively atmosphere and polished cocktails make this a Back Bay must.

People toasting with Espresso Martinis at a Boston Bar
  • Price: $$
  • When: Lunch through late night
  • Reservations/Wait: Patio tables in demand
  • Dietary: Dairy
  • MBTA/Parking: Green Line Hynes Convention Center
  • Accessibility: Street-level entry
  • Link: sonsieboston.com

Last checked: Aug 25, 2025

Filed Under: Best Of, Drink, Eat & Drink

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