6 Best Bars in The Seaport, South Boston, and East Boston, Boston

Barbara Lynch handles this elegant den as only a chef of worldwide acclaim would—like a restaurant. Behind the bar, tenders use herbs, infusions, and elixirs to custom-create a top-shelf libation for your palate; that is, there is no drink list. There are low, beamed ceilings and a wooden bar that snakes through the space, maximizing room for a discerning cocktail crowd. A limited menu features snacks and things, including a legendary burger. Drink is one of the best bars in Boston, and it's hugely popular, so you'll likely wait in line to get in, but once you do, there's room to breathe.

Calling all gamers to this massive bar and restaurant that entertains with upscale-style bowling, billiards, air hockey, shuffleboard, foosball, and more. The ’80s kids among us can wax nostalgic while playing the retro arcade games they remember from their childhood, including Pac-Man, Super Mario Bros., and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The kitchen makes burgers, wings, tacos, and more. Kings' Draft Room serves up beers and sports. Anyone under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and no one under age 21 is admitted after 9 pm.

More than 300 people per show can share a laugh with the local comics and national headliners who take the stage at one of Boston's favorite comedy clubs. Doors are open to anyone ages 16 and older because comedic material is typically R-rated. There's a two-item minimum per person from the drink or food menu—can you really say no to a pitcher of Coors and a warm pretzel?

Located on a corner midway into the Fort Point area, this hangout was here well before anything else called the neighborhood home. Low-lit and subterranean, it replicates a Rat Pack–era speakeasy as much as it can in modern-day Boston. On the menu, find a mix of Southern-inspired dishes, Asian plates, and other snackable, shareable fare. Lucky's is known for its live music, too.

In order to score 90 minutes at a table in this exclusive bar (the waitlist to get in is booked up months in advance), you must be dressed up, charm the person guarding the door, and most important, first find the entrance—it's not obviously marked. Craft cocktails have a flair for the dramatic, made with unique premium and small-label brands, creative liqueurs, and other interesting juices, syrups, and ingredients. The food is fantastic, but secondary to the cocktails.

This historic-style ship sidles up to an East Boston pier and features outdoor drinking, games like corn hole, live music, and more alfresco fun. The unique destination does offer some food in the form of raw oysters and a couple of snack boards, and drinks are slightly overpriced, but let's be honest: you're paying for the view. If you happen to be dining in the area, there's a free shuttle to the ship from local restaurants on the weekends. The ship is 21+ after 7 pm.