Exploring the Historic Taverns of Boston: A Comprehensive Guide

Boston’s history and culture are best experienced by exploring the city’s historic establishments. From cozy taverns to renowned pizza houses, a tour of the city’s historic taverns promises to be equal parts education and entertainment. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the city or a life-long local, this comprehensive guide to the city’s historic taverns has something for everyone.

History of Boston Taverns

Boston’s taverns have been around since the city’s earliest days. For centuries, these establishments formed the social and cultural hub of the community, serving as places of relaxation and entertainment for the citizens of Boston. As the city grew, so did its taverns and they quickly became known for their renowned pizza offerings. While modern day Boston still boasts plenty of pizzerias, many of the city’s most iconic historical taverns remain intact, having served generations of patrons over the centuries.

Popular Tourist Taverns

Whether you’re looking for a traditional pub experience or simply for an unforgettable slice of pizza, these popular tourist taverns are sure to satisfy.

Cheers

A tour of Boston’s historic taverns would be incomplete without a visit to Cheers, one of the city’s most iconic pubs and the inspiration for the classic television series. Celebrated as much for its fascinating history as its famous bar scene, Cheers has been in continuous operation since 1895. Its interior is packed with fascinating reminders of its past and its famous on-site bar serves some of the tastiest beer in the city.

Ye Olde Union Oyster House

Another must-visit spot is Ye Olde Union Oyster House, located in the heart of downtown Boston and currently the oldest operating restaurant in the US. Opened in 1826, this seafood restaurant serves some of the best seafood around, primarily oysters and lobster. The second floor dining room dates back to an earlier era, providing an immersive experience to visitors as they explore classic local traits like an original marble oyster bar.

The Bell in Hand Tavern

The Bell in Hand Tavern is another classic Bostonian establishment located in historic Faneuil Hall. Constructed in 1795, it’s been providing patrons 12 rotating drafts and some of the finest specialty cocktails for over 225 years. It also boasts a menu featuring much-loved favorites like shepherd’s pie and roasted turkey. With its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and strong drinks, it’s easy to see why this establishment has remained such a hit with locals and visitors alike.

Classic Pizza Houses

If there’s one thing that can be said about Boston, it’s that the city has no shortage of places to get pizza. From wood fired ovens to late night delivery joints, Boston knows how to serve up a classic slice. These pizza houses have served generations of customers and remain some of the most popular among locals and visitors alike.

Santarpio’s Pizza

Santarpio’s Pizza is a favorite among locals and serves up some of the freshest slices in town. It opened its original location in East Boston back in 1903 and has been a hit ever since with tourists and locals alike. For over 115 years, they’ve been serving up some of the best pizza around, with its signature topping being sausage and garlic.

Za Grille & Bar

Founded in 1991 as a pizza delivery joint, Za Grille & Bar quickly became known for its unique combination of Italian-style thin crust pizza and delicious Italian cuisine. All their recipes are crafted from fresh ingredients and perfectly paired with some of the best wines and spirits around. Top off your meal with one of their specialty desserts, like Tiramisu Cheesecake or a classic Cannoli.

Estragon Tapas & Wine Bar

Estragon Tapas & Wine Bar is one of Boston’s newer establishments, located on trendy Newbury Street. Paying homage to both Spanish tapas culture and classic Italian pizzerias, the kitchen at Estragon crafts authentic thin-crust pizzas from locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy your pizza with a selection from their extensive list of wines from around Europe and explore the captivating menu that takes inspiration from traditional Spanish cuisine.

Explore Historic Taverns with a guided Tour

Navigating Boston’s many restaurants, taverns, and pizza houses by yourself can be a daunting task, especially if you’re short on time. Fortunately, there are guided tour options available that are perfect for exploring all that Boston has to offer. A Historic Taverns Tour will take you to the city’s oldest establishments before you enjoy samples from some of Boston’s most renowned pizzerias. With experienced guides to narrate your journey through history and food samples at every stop, it promises to be an enjoyable and educational experience that you will never forget. Book your Historic Taverns Tour from GetYourGuide today!

No trip to Boston is complete without experiencing its historic taverns firsthand – from intimate pizzerias to cozy pubs, there is something for everyone to enjoy here in America’s oldest and most iconic city! Thanks to a range of guided tours available for travellers visiting Boston, you can make sure you experience all our history has to offer while enjoying plenty delicious local fare along the way. Whether you decide to explore these spots by yourself or opt for a guided tour – Boston’s historic taverns are sure to provide an unforgettable experience!