Backbar is a beloved craftâcocktail lounge tucked behind a nearly unmarked orange door in a quiet Union Square alley. Inside, it surprises with a moody, cozy interiorâcushioned banquettes, chalkboard art, pops of Star Wars and popâculture memorabilia, and ambient skylight panels set a relaxed, nerdâchic mood. Renowned for its rotating cocktail menu that reads like an art piece, Backbar offers playful, seasonally infused concoctionsâthink cryptidânamed creations like the âJackalopeâ (bourbon, brandy, pineâspirit, soju aperitif, maple, candyâcap mushroom) or âFiji Mermaidâ (bonitoâinfused rum, scotch, taro syrup, sherry). They also serve whimsical milkâpunch specials and bartenderâsâchoice drinks tailored to your tastes. The vibe blends exclusivity with accessibility: the bartenders are skilled yet friendly, crafting both complex and approachable cocktails. You might spot quirky decoratorsâgiant octopus paintings, nerdy knickknacksâmaking the ambiance fun and unpretentious. Backbar keeps things simple on the food side with small plates and snacks courtesy of neighboring Field & Vineâoptions like popcorn, pork buns, charcuterie, and small plates that perfectly complement the drinks. A tiny space with only around 39 seats, walkâin only; expect to wait during busy evenings, especially on weekends. Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, generally opening around 5âŻpm and closing by midnight (last call ~11:15âŻpm). Backbar is consistently lauded in Boston as one of the best cocktail barsâa âhidden gemâ for imaginative cocktails and a lowâkey, fun hangout.
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