If you're interested in new Boston bars, consider dropping into one of these recently debuted spots. Here are the latest and greatest places to check out the next time you're in search of a new bar near you.
The White Bull Tavern
1 Union St., Downtown
Downtown Boston recently saw a new pub arrive near City Hall. Housed in the former Purple Shamrock space, The White Bull Tavern pays homage to Boston's history while specializing in modern American fare.
The White Bull takes its name from William Blackstone—believed to be Boston's first English settler—who reportedly rode a white bull into the area in the 1600s, Eater reported.
On the menu, look for elevated pub fare offerings, like the "Agita" pizza with pepperoni, prosciutto and salami; pan-seared scallops with bacon, served over sautéed spinach; and a roasted apple salad with mesclun mix, walnuts and feta cheese.
For drinks, there are signature cocktails and 24 beers on draft.
The White Bull Tavern has just one review on Yelp, which gives it a five-star rating thus far.
Erica S., who was the first Yelper to review the new spot on March 4th, said: "The decor is cool with Edison bulbs and chandeliers. There are some tables located around the bar near the wall. There are also a few TVs around the bar. The bartenders and other staff were friendly."
The White Bull Tavern is open daily from 11am–2am.
Bootleg Special
400 Tremont St. (between Arlington St & Appleton St.), South End
Billed as a "uniquely urban take on a classic underground Creole hangout," Bootleg Special specializes in Cajun/Creole seafood boils. There's also a bar that currently offers signature cocktails, beers and wines.
For seafood, look for the signature "Bootleg Special," which comes with lobster, shrimp, mussels, corn on the cob and more. Diners can also build their own boils.
Sides include garlic noodles, ribs on coke and crawfish mac 'n' cheese. (Take a look at the food and drinks menu here.)
Bootleg Special currently holds four stars out of 13 reviews on Yelp, indicating good reviews.
Yelper Lauren W., who reviewed Bootleg Special on March 4th, wrote, "Everything was super yummy. I'd love to see some Southern/Cajun favorites like shrimp and grits, gumbo and jambalaya added to the menu, but the place has only been open for like two weeks, so I'm sort of just excited to see how they expand and grow."
Tayla W. wrote, "The service at the bar was unbelievable! Tim and Ruth were so professional and knowledgeable on the menu. The food was great and the manager even came over to check on us at the bar. This place is amazing—I almost don't want more people to find out how great this is!"
Bootleg Special is open Thursday–Saturday from 4pm–1am, and Sunday–Wednesday from 4pm–11pm.
Hopsters Brewing Company
51 Sleeper St. (between Northern Ave & Congress St.), South Boston Waterfront
At Hopsters Brewing Company, a new arrival in the Seaport, beer fans can do more than drink: they can brew their own beers.
The Newton-based brewery recently expanded with its newest location in Boston. It offers nearly 20 beers brewed in-house, as well as modern American pub fare.
For food, look for a spicy lobster flatbread with shaved parmesan and Italian parsley, an English-style steak and ale pie with chips and mushy peas and the Hopsters burger with bourbon onion and thick cut bacon. (You can check out the full menu here.)
The brewery also offers nearly 20 beers brewed in-house. To make their own, brewers can brew one of Hopsters' recipes, or bring in their own. Whatever they choose, they'll go home with three cases of their custom brew. (To find out more, take a look at the website.)
Yelp users are generally positive about Hopsters Brewing Company, which currently holds four stars out of 37 reviews on the site.
Yelper Lori D., who was one of the first users to visit Hopsters Brewing Company on January 27th, wrote, "My only complaint is that there was too much to eat. The atmosphere continues to hop, just like the name, Hopsters. This place is great for after work, business groups, out of towners, and families alike."
Hopsters Brewing Company is open daily from 11am–1am.
