The Best Outdoor Bars In Boston
If there’s one thing Bostonians know how to do, it’s drink, and as the weather gets warmer, al fresco drinks make the local bar culture even more appealing. Whether it’s an exclusively outdoor spot or a laid-back seasonal patio, here are ten outdoor drinking establishments in Boston to put on your bucket list.
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Deep Ellum
Bar, Gastropub, Cocktails, American, Wine, Beer, Pub Grub, $
Located in Allston, Deep Ellum is the perfect place to grab a drink after a show at Great Scott or Brighton Music Hall. This hipster dive bar may be small, but its top-notch cocktails earn it a well-deserved spot on this list. Grab a seat on the cozy back patio and sip a ‘Texas Money’ (tequila and yellow chartreuse) or a speciality Manhattan. Be sure to get an order of truffle fries as well – you won’t regret it.
The Landing at Long Wharf
Bar, American, Pub Grub, $
No summer in Boston would be complete without a visit to this seasonal waterfront bar. The Landing is Boston’s only fully outdoor patio bar and promises a laid-back atmosphere with killer harbor and skyline views. Drop by after a day of shopping or exploring downtown and treat yourself to a signature fishbowl or cocktail as you watch the boats go by. If you’re feeling hungry, The Landing’s lobster rolls are hard to beat.
TRADE
Restaurant, Mediterranean, American, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Vegan, $$
Get a taste of the Mediterranean at this trendy South Boston bar and cafe. TRADE’s gorgeous interior is topped only by its unique cocktail selection and flavorful small plates. With views of the Boston Harbor, warm weather turns TRADE’s busy sidewalk seating into a scene worthy of a cafe in Andros or Mykonos. Order a ‘Fish Tank’ (it’s ‘blue and delicious’ and serves two) and a plate of fried calamari, and let yourself be whisked away to the Greek Isles.
Dillon’s
Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan, $
This Boylston Street bar is a Boston landmark. Built-in 1887, Dillon’s has had over a century to build a reputation as a trusted drinking establishment. With a vast selection of craft beers and cocktails and a sporty side patio, Dillon’s is the perfect place to grab a summer drink. Stop by after a Red Sox game or a day of shopping on Newbury Street and watch the crowds go by with a drink in hand – a Sam Adams is highly recommended.
State Park
Restaurant, American, $
This quirky Kendall Square bar and restaurant is a neighbourhood favourite. State Park’s eccentric decor, old-school pinball machines, and wide beer selection draw young, fun crowds every night of the week. The good times only intensify in the summer; when weather permits, the patio turns into an outdoor party. Order yourself a cocktail pitcher or a shot and a beer and join the fun. Come back for brunch the next day, and order off the ‘Hangry Menu’ for light fare to accompany your hair-of-the-dog cure.
The Sinclair
Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan, $
Come for a show and stay for the patio; killer outdoor seating makes this Cambridge music venue a neighbourhood favourite. The Sinclair is part concert hall, part gastro-pub, and entirely awesome. It’s a proven fact that music sounds better outdoors, so grab a seat on The Sinclair’s patio while you listen to bands like Two Door Cinema Club and The Naked and Famous. Order from their impressive beer list, or try a house cocktail like the ‘Champagne Supernova,’ made of Cava, elderflower, Cocchi Americano, and ginger beer – whatever you get, we promise it’ll be good.
Tia’s
Bar, Restaurant, Seafood, $
Spectacular views more than makeup for cocktail prices at this open-air café and bar. Just steps away from Faneuil Hall and the Boston Harbor, Tia’s is the perfect destination for afternoon drinks. Order one of Tia’s speciality frozen cocktails or a summer favourite – we recommend the ‘Frozen Miami Vice’ (half piña colada, half strawberry daiquiri) or the ‘Prosecco Pomegranate Fizz’ – and soak in the waterfront views.