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I'm looking for a place that is T accessible in either Boston proper or Cambridge that is known for unique or at least outstanding cocktails and also has great food. I'll be visiting my boyfriend for restaurant week in March so prefer some place taking part in that, but not required. He is much more the foodie than I am, so a place that is more "traditional/American" would probably be best, but I'm open to other possibilities. We are more vodka/gin drinkers, although he is also into whiskey, than rum or tequila if that helps narrow options down. The place does not need to be uber-fancy, but a place that is more than just bar food. Hope this isn't too vague of a description :)

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  1. I think Eastern Standard fits the bill about perfectly t if you are having dinner as well. One of the top 2 or 3 cocktail spots in Boston, along with above average Continental/new American food (well, Deep Ellum also has above average food, but as you say you are not looking for pub grub).

    No. 9 Park would also be a fantastic choice but it fits into the uber fancy/uber expensive category (up there with L'Espalier and Clio).

    774 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199

    Eastern Standard
    528 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215

    Deep Ellum Bar
    477 Cambridge St, Allston, MA 02134

    1. Craigie on Main in the Central Square neighborhood of Cambridge would also work. Fantastic food and drink.

      Craigie on Main
      853 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139

      2 Replies
      1. re: Canadian Tuxedo

        It doesn't sound like the OP is looking for haute cuisine, therefore Craigie really isn't a fit. One would be hard pressed to call their food traditional. Also they don't do RW and the prices are quite expensive.

        I would second Leo's recommendation of Green Street for food and drink, though they don't participate in RW. They won't sneer if you order a vodka and soda as the staff at Craigie might, but still have the chops to make excellent specialty and classic cocktails.

        1. re: Gabatta

          But I would not put Green Street's food in the "great" category. Not even close. Perhaps Rendezvous when Scott is working is an option.

          I actually would call Craigie's food "traditional." Just not American traditional. It's not cheap, but it is laid back.

      2. Green Street in Cambridge fulfills the cocktails and "traditional" menu requirements; not sure if they do RW. Food prices there are on the low side anyway.

        1. Thanks for all the suggestions so far - definitely very helpful

          1. With the caveat that food recommendations get a lot less reliable during Restaurant Week:

            The Citizen Public House and Island Creek Oyster Bar are two newish places that come to mind with terrific cocktails and good food at not top-tier prices. Hungry Mother, Rendezvous in Central Square, the bar at Chez Henri, Highland Kitchen, Gargoyles, Toro and Franklin Cafe (South End) are some others. Dinner at Sportello and cocktails downstairs at Drink might also serve.


            1704 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118

            Chez Henri
            1 Shepard Street, Cambridge, MA 02138

            Highland Kitchen
            150 Highland Ave, Somerville, MA 02143

            Hungry Mother
            Cambridge, MA, Cambridge, MA