Sunset Grill and Tap
130 Brighton Avenue
Allston, MA 02134
(617) 254-1331
www.allstonsfinest.com
So this one is obvious. I wouldn't call this a hidden gem by any means, but it sure is a gem nonetheless. Sunset boasts the largest selection of beer on the east coast, with 112 taps (changing frequently) and "380 microbrews and exotic imports." Yay!
This place is great for big groups, has a large and somewhat inexpensive menu, and has staff who know their beer.
There really isn't much else to say. If you like beer, then please keep two things in mind: 1) You and I can be friends. 2) Go to the Sunset.
Why it's a gem:
With that many beers on tap, how can it not be a gem?
Large space
Knowledgable staff
Tips:
They supposedly have a club you can join. I like clubs.
Above it is Big City, a bar/pool hall they own. Good beer and pool.
Showing posts with label beer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beer. Show all posts
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Deep Ellum - Allston
Deep Ellum
477 Cambridge Street
Allston, MA 02135
(617) 787-2337
www.deepellum-boston.com
By the time I finally stepped foot inside Deep Ellum, I had already lived within walking distance for 6 months. So when I looked at the cocktail and beer list, I felt ashamed. But don't fret, I have already struck a deal with Doc Brown and will be remedying the situation as quickly as possible.
Deep Ellum is a comfortable bar/restaurant focusing on old fashioned cocktails and good beers. They have a list of "Manhattans 10 Ways" which include a variety of Manhattans, customed to the generation for which they were named. The draft beer list is impressive, and they have plenty of extra special stuff by the bottle. By the way, the wine list is surprisingly good and affordable for specializing in cocktails and beer.
The food -- I will admit that I have not had dinner here, but if it's as good as the brunch and lunch, I'm sold. It's possible I haven't had dinner because it doesn't rhyme with brunch or lunch. The brunch is fantastic, especially the pulled pork with a poached egg. I'm a bit picky when it comes to burgers -- I don't find too many that are juicy enough. But this place is essential for a burger and a beer.
Definitely check it out. It's located in a completely unconventional part of a neighborhood for a gastropub. That makes it even cooler.
Why it's a gem:
AMAZING cocktails -- one of the best lists I've seen in these parts.
Outdoor patio for soaking up the sun. Or the wind. Or the rain.
Beer. Beer. Beer.
Tips:
If you're a nerd like me, you'll be happy to know they give you the key to their wireless network.
477 Cambridge Street
Allston, MA 02135
(617) 787-2337
www.deepellum-boston.com
By the time I finally stepped foot inside Deep Ellum, I had already lived within walking distance for 6 months. So when I looked at the cocktail and beer list, I felt ashamed. But don't fret, I have already struck a deal with Doc Brown and will be remedying the situation as quickly as possible.
Deep Ellum is a comfortable bar/restaurant focusing on old fashioned cocktails and good beers. They have a list of "Manhattans 10 Ways" which include a variety of Manhattans, customed to the generation for which they were named. The draft beer list is impressive, and they have plenty of extra special stuff by the bottle. By the way, the wine list is surprisingly good and affordable for specializing in cocktails and beer.
The food -- I will admit that I have not had dinner here, but if it's as good as the brunch and lunch, I'm sold. It's possible I haven't had dinner because it doesn't rhyme with brunch or lunch. The brunch is fantastic, especially the pulled pork with a poached egg. I'm a bit picky when it comes to burgers -- I don't find too many that are juicy enough. But this place is essential for a burger and a beer.
Definitely check it out. It's located in a completely unconventional part of a neighborhood for a gastropub. That makes it even cooler.
Why it's a gem:
AMAZING cocktails -- one of the best lists I've seen in these parts.
Outdoor patio for soaking up the sun. Or the wind. Or the rain.
Beer. Beer. Beer.
Tips:
If you're a nerd like me, you'll be happy to know they give you the key to their wireless network.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Russell House Tavern - Cambridge
Russell House Tavern
14 JFK Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
www.russellhouse.wordpress.com
14 JFK Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
www.russellhouse.wordpress.com
I feel a little guilty proclaiming a bar/restaurant, let alone a brand spankin’ new one, a “gem,” based mostly on one drink, but the fact that I asked the bartender, “Do you make Sazerac?” and she responded, “Sazerac the cocktail? Yeah,” in a manner indicating there is no reason on this earth she shouldn’t be able to, makes this place worthwhile. And her name is Ginny. Her name alone rocks. I have a new home.
There is much more to write about the Russell House Tavern, most certainly. But for now, I’ll be content with the bar and the fact that the atmosphere is so cozy that next time I’m bringing my slippers.
Local liquor, not just beer. Pretty darn cool.
Cozy
Knowledgeable bartenders – well, at least one for sure
Tips:
If there’s a cocktail you’re looking for, just ask if they make it. If they could make mine, I’m sure they can make yours. If not, get something else – I’m sure it’s delicious.
You can absolutely sit outdoors. Nice.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
The Local - West Newton
The Local
1391 Washington Street
West Newton, MA 02465
www.thelocalnewton.com
Mmmmmm. Truffle oil. I love truffle oil, and so does The Local. Going to this cozy "gastropub" cannot occur without getting a bucket of their parmesan truffle fries -- possibly my favorite snack in Boston. Lightly crisped and delicious, you can easily taste the truffle in these suckers. And they're only $5. Brilliant.
The Local specializes in crafting meals with local ingredients and offering a selection of New England beers.
Perusing the menu, one will find an excellent selection of $5 snacks, a real plus for this place. They have fried pickles on this menu, which I was pleased to see; however, I must add that I've had better (see Cambridge Common). Dinners are creative and gourmet (root beer braised pork), but they can get a little on the pricey side. Several flat bread pizzas are available for a reasonable price, including one with three cheeses , mushrooms, and, of course, truffle oil. Dee. Lish. Iss.
In terms of yummy liquids, there are large pours of wine and decent beers on tap, with the option of either 16oz. or 22oz. glasses. The martinis are wonderful, and there are blue cheese-stuffed olives that could leave me at the bar for hours popping them in my mouth with a huge grin on my face, not caring about the ajar mouths of the surrounding patrons.
Although the beer selection is pretty good (and there is always a guest, special brew), it is my primary qualm. For a place that boasts a good selection of New England beers, there aren't really that many, especially with all the places around that do serve many a local beer. And even though I like that Ithaca Apricot Wheat is on tap, it does not count as a New England beer. Enough of that. This place is great anyway.
Why it's a gem:
Parmesan truffle fries
Tasty snacks for $5
Blue cheese-stuffed olives
Flatbread pizza with truffle oil
Parmesan truffle fries
Comfy cozy atmosphere
Friendly, neighborhood bartenders
Tips:
There is a government parking lot next to The Local which is available after 6:00 (I think it's 6 -- you should check)
1391 Washington Street
West Newton, MA 02465
www.thelocalnewton.com
Mmmmmm. Truffle oil. I love truffle oil, and so does The Local. Going to this cozy "gastropub" cannot occur without getting a bucket of their parmesan truffle fries -- possibly my favorite snack in Boston. Lightly crisped and delicious, you can easily taste the truffle in these suckers. And they're only $5. Brilliant.
The Local specializes in crafting meals with local ingredients and offering a selection of New England beers.
Perusing the menu, one will find an excellent selection of $5 snacks, a real plus for this place. They have fried pickles on this menu, which I was pleased to see; however, I must add that I've had better (see Cambridge Common). Dinners are creative and gourmet (root beer braised pork), but they can get a little on the pricey side. Several flat bread pizzas are available for a reasonable price, including one with three cheeses , mushrooms, and, of course, truffle oil. Dee. Lish. Iss.
In terms of yummy liquids, there are large pours of wine and decent beers on tap, with the option of either 16oz. or 22oz. glasses. The martinis are wonderful, and there are blue cheese-stuffed olives that could leave me at the bar for hours popping them in my mouth with a huge grin on my face, not caring about the ajar mouths of the surrounding patrons.
Although the beer selection is pretty good (and there is always a guest, special brew), it is my primary qualm. For a place that boasts a good selection of New England beers, there aren't really that many, especially with all the places around that do serve many a local beer. And even though I like that Ithaca Apricot Wheat is on tap, it does not count as a New England beer. Enough of that. This place is great anyway.
Why it's a gem:
Parmesan truffle fries
Tasty snacks for $5
Blue cheese-stuffed olives
Flatbread pizza with truffle oil
Parmesan truffle fries
Comfy cozy atmosphere
Friendly, neighborhood bartenders
Tips:
There is a government parking lot next to The Local which is available after 6:00 (I think it's 6 -- you should check)
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