Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Boston

Housed in the Boston Center for the Arts, The Beehive restaurant and bar is almost like an opera house in itself with live jazz, cabaret and a lot more action. There are fine satin drapes and exquisite artifacts adorning the eatery. A popular hangout among the night birds; the bar and lounge scene here is also upbeat and lively. The food is a regular mix of the grilled and Mediterranean variety, with lamb ribs ruling the roost. Sausages, pasta and risottos also sit happily together on the menu. The wine sure flows freely on all days and everything about the place has an arty feel to it.

Tourists still flock to Bull & Finch Pub, a.k.a. Cheers Boston, the inspiration for the Cheers television series which ran for 11 years and won a number of awards. Avid fans should be forewarned, however; the exterior is very familiar, but the inside is nothing like the TV version. Drinks and food are served here, but its icon status is the main draw. It is considered by many to be one of the top tourist attractions in Boston!

Dating back to 1780, the Warren Tavern located near the Freedom Trail, has plenty history of its own. It was opened by Captain Eliphelet Newell, who it is said, took part in the Boston Tea Party. Famous visitors included Paul Revere and George Washington. Today, it has lace-curtain windows and low, wood-beamed ceilings that create an intimate feel. Try the Tavern Special - chicken breast and shrimp sautéed with sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, broccoli florets, prosciutto ham and provolone cheese in a garlic white wine sauce.

Considered to be one of the more elegant Italian eateries in the North End, this North Square restaurant is neighbor to the Paul Revere House. The candlelit main dining room has small tables covered in crisp linens, and the romantic atmosphere makes it a good place to bring your date. The cuisine features fresh and contemporary North Italian cuisine. Try the Spaghetti Bolognese or one of the seasonal specials and wash it down with a pick from the extensive wine list.

Established in 1795, The Bell in Hand Tavern has the distinction of being the oldest continuously-operating tavern in America. This bi-level restaurant and bar features nightly live music and karaoke Tuesdays for added entertainment. The uniquely designed rooms have a character of its own and are used for private as well as corporate functions. The pub has a impressive list of draft as well as bottle beers apart from cocktail specials. Nosh on the tasty American fare along with your choice drink while listening to some music. Surely you will enjoy this historic place that has been entertaining the locals for centuries now.

J.J. Foley's is an authentic Irish neighborhood pub that has been run by the Foley Family since 1909. This Irish bar has an old fashion charm as well as great moderately priced beers and a welcoming atmosphere. Since the bar is near the Financial District, it tends to draw the professional set during the week, but there is a wide range of people on the weekends. Visit the dining room to enjoy a meal in a comfortable booth or stay by the bar and admire the per-prohibition decor. Live music, quiz nights and occasional parties, add to the fun.