Next Door Speakeasy & Raw Bar

Next Door Speakeasy & Raw Bar is a boutique, immersive cocktail lounge tucked behind Pazza on Porter in East Boston. The concept marries a raw bar (seafood, crudo, oysters) with high-concept crafted cocktails served in a moody, theatrical setting. To enter, you pass through Pazza’s patio, then follow host instructions to a discrete archway door equipped with a peephole and knocker — a nod to classic speakeasy ritual. Inside, the space flows from a bar area into a back dining room with a barrel-vaulted ceiling, evoking an underground wine cellar. The interior palette leans deep blues, dark woods, velvet banquettes, gold accents, and sculptural lighting. The cocktail menu is expressive and playful. Signature drinks include Lock & Key (rum, pineapple, smoke bubble), In the Mood, Eskimo Kiss, Ay Caramba, Modern Mule, and Purple Rain. Cocktails often feature theatrical elements such as smoke bubbles, clarified punches, infusions, and layered flavors. On the food side, Next Door emphasizes shareable, seafood / raw items: tuna tartare, ceviche, oysters, ahi tuna tacos, octopus carpaccio, charcuterie, duck prosciutto, etc. These dishes are designed to complement the drink experience — not overshadow it. Because it is small (≈ 30 seats) and conceptually rich, reservations are strongly recommended. The entrance instructions may change daily, and guests are guided through the hidden entry. When it first opened, it operated Thursday through Sunday with 5 PM start times. Overall, Next Door offers a balance: a secret bar feel, top-tier cocktails, a refined but not austere space, and seafood-forward small bites — ideal for date nights or those seeking a memorable, somewhat clandestine bar night in Boston.