5 Best Nightlife in Boston, Massachusetts

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.

Fitzgerald's The Beautiful and Damned meets the breezy tropics within this Havana-inspired nightlife spot. Mariel best serves those who appreciate good food and drink, a fun vibe, and a vivacious atmosphere---it gets louder as it gets later. Think arepas, plantain dumplings, gulf shrimp, Cuban-style pizza, fresh juices, and mojitos.

Whiskey, wine, and loads of atmosphere: they're all staples within this historic bar at the Omni Parker House hotel, where mahogany club chairs and silver-tray service might make you feel like a Boston Brahmin, even if only for a dram or two. Be sure to order Boston Cream Pie in the place where it was invented.

Open in a part of the Ciao Roma space, this apothecary-inspired cocktail bar boasts only nine seats and hundreds of cocktail potentials. During one of his ticketed progressive journeys, creator Phillip Rolfe (of Wink & Nod fame) creates individually tailored concoctions made from high-end spirits, homemade syrups, infusions and tinctures, and freshly cold-pressed juices. House-made pickles, dips, roasted nuts, and gelato pair nicely but aren't meant to fill you up. Because it's so small, Farmacia is booked months out, so plan accordingly.

Named after famed architect Alexander Wadsworth Longfellow (nephew of poet Henry), this neighborhood bar and restaurant is located in the historic Café Algiers space directly above chef/owner Michael Scelfo's Alden & Harlow, a subterranean haunt adjacent to The Brattle Theatre. Bartenders pour creative cocktails, local craft brews, and a fluid list of edgy boutique wines by the bottle. The menu features bar food intended to be passed and shared.