12 Irish pubs in Boston

From attending festive parades to cooking up corned beef and cabbage, there are many ways to St. Patrick’s Day in Boston. If you’re looking to spend the day the Irish way, grab a pint (or two, or three) at a local pub.

We’ve rounded up cozy bars and traditional pubs where you can raise a glass of Guinness and snack on Irish fare. 🍻

The Bebop, 1116 Boylston St.

The sister venue to The Burren, this neighborhood hangout is a prime destination for musicians and live music fans. After all, it’s right by Berklee College of Music.

The Black Rose, 16 State St.

The Faneuil Hall landmark has been serving up Guinness and traditional Irish fare daily since 1976 — no wonder it’s dubbed the “Fenway Park of Irish Pubs.”

Brendan Behan Pub, 378 Center St., Jamaica Plain

While this pub doesn’t offer a food menu, it has a variety of craft beers and cocktails + live Irish music every Saturday.

The Burren, 247 Elm St., Somerville

Steps from the Red Line and Tufts University, this Davis Square staple offers an authentic Irish experience. Visit for nightly live music performances + a delicious Guinness beef stew.

Mr. Dooley’s, 77 Broad St.

With down to earth hospitality in the heart of the Financial District, Dooley’s opened its doors in 1991 and has since become the place to meet for a pint and a chat. This cozy pub has no TVs, so you can fully immerse yourself in the live music + hearty pub food.

Eire Pub, 795 Adams St., Dorchester

Since opening 50+ years ago, the Eire has been visited by past Presidents, sports legends, and political figures. Try one of their 11 beers on tap — you might just run into a local celebrity while you’re at it.

Galway House, 710 Centre St., Jamaica Plain

For the last 61 years, this family-owned joint has provided quality food and a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails + five big-screen TVs.

J.J. Foley’s Cafe, 117 East Berkley St.

Family-owned and operated since 1909, the Foley family offers a wide range of food, beer, wine + spirits. It’s known as the oldest Irish pub in our city.

L Street Tavern, 658 East 8th St., South Boston

There aren’t many places that can say Good Will Hunting filmed inside their doors — but L Street Tavern can. While the interior is certainly different now, it’s worth a visit for the neighborhood charm.

Olde Magoun’s Saloon, 518 Medford St., Somerville

This craft beer and spirits bar is offering a full St. Patrick’s Day special menu, featuring an Irish breakfast + Guinness beef stew. Pro trip: try their local ale while you’re there.

Sólás Irish Pub, 710 Bolyston St.

The modern Back Bay pub offers local craft beer and tasty bites from executive chef Sean MacAlpine. Pro tip: order the Irish dinner, bangers and mash, or one of the other St. Patrick’s Day specials.

The Thirsty Scholar, 70 Beacon St., Somerville

It doesn’t get much cozier than The Thirsty Scholar — after all, the tagline is “Come, Feel Comfortable, Everyone’s A Friend.” After you sip your Guinness, peruse the shelves filled with books and old magazines.

Looking to take your celebrations to the next level? Use this map to plan a pub crawl with your buddies.