Speakeasy style bar with masterful cocktails. I went for the special Chanukah pop-up. The creator of the pop-up was bartending tonight! Had the "have a ball" kugel cocktail. Mmm foamy creme fraiche, and blue accent on top (a nice white and blue Chanukah touch), and a creamy caramely (like the perfect sweet baked flavor of a kugel) and fruity (like the raisins in kugel) flavor. Very evocative of a kugel! Also had the latkes (superb!), with a big dollop of cream and apple sauce (with whole slices of apple). The sufganyot (jelly donut) was cakey, not yeasty (as I like my donuts). The jelly was a bit too sweet too. I had half. The cocktail would have been enough for dessert- it was exceptional! read more

See all

Been here a few times meow and didn't realize i never wrote a review. I love me some speakeasies and seek them out in every city i'm in. this place does not disappoint. It's eclectic, it's got finger foods and small snacks, and above all it's got great drinks. Not to mention the cool nerdy tatted vibe... I probably best describe this place as if two people; a speakeasy and a starwars/lego/tattoo artist took a nooner then had a baby and named it backbar. It's a nerdy-chic-tatt and inked place. each corner of the place in its own distinction. There's the traditional pull up a stool bar, booths that line the wall, and wood crates used as tables. Legos are here and there, starwar reminders ...even in the bathroom... a starwars cup filled with tampons awaits your landing. True to a speakeasy, you have to find the red unmarked door situated on the side of a parking lot. Go to the left of Bronwyn gastropub about 50 feet. A ray of light from the skies above will shine down to show you the way while birds sing at your arrival....kidding. What's nice is that there is a corridor after the main red door. so if it's like meow in the cold of winter, you really appreciate this while you wait inside. speaking of which, at the end of this corridor not only do you find the host/hostess, to your left is a room with about 4 bar stools. whiskey line the walls and you could have a sit and taste at your choice. I keep coming back and being entertained each time. read more

See all

If you love speakeasys without the overdone hype and snoozevile atmosphere, you will LOVE backbar. I've been here a few times and am finally writing a review. I've been here on a crowded weekend and a few week nights. There is a parking lot for all the retailers just outside. Likely, you will find a spot. You need to go down and alley to get in a small side door. Walk down the hall and at the end you will arrive at backbar. If there is a wait, the sign will tell you so and likely a hostess will treat you to a punch shot or take your name and number. This evening, we walked right in and sat at the bar. The wall murals are super cool. Take a look. Lots of intimate seating areas too that have table service. We were drinking and thus sat at the bar to see the magic behind the drinks. Our bartender, Andrea (I think... I'm a jerk... this is why you're supposed to review immediately :) was so friendly, cool and skilled at her craft. I love chartreuse and immediately found THE BFG. Matcha, coconut, rum, chartreuse... magical and not too much ice either. Their drinks are solid and if you don't see something on the menu, the bartender will mix you something you'll love. The bar is VERY well curated. Can't wait to go back. read more

See all

This place is cool and popular, and I'm not just saying that because they have some drinks named after Harry Potter things. But like of course, if you want to get Dumbledore's Office or Hagrid's Hut, be my guest (Note: I ordered the former). I do not recall all of what our party drank (lol sorry) but the important thing is all the drinks were good. I believe they were doing some standard cocktails as well as playing bartender's choice. Drinks were ~$15 on average. Book through Resy to get a spot and enjoy yourself here! read more

This is my fourth time coming to back bar! I truly love this speakeasy a lot. All the drinks are bear themed - paddington bear, Smokey bear, build a bear... The bartenders and servers are incredibly nice and I have always had a pleasant experience. My go to drink is the Paddington bear and the polar bear. (If you come here on your birthday, which I did, they will bring your drink out to you on a dragon!) read more

We were about 20 years older than most people in the bar, but that didn't stop us from enjoying our Sunday evening.The staff were professional, kind, and skilled bartenders. And as a bonus, gratuity was included in the stellar service. read more

See all

Really cool place! They have a concise menu and an option to let the bartender pick based on a few suggestions of things you like. I suggested something grapefruity and they serve me a tiger lily which was absolutely incredible. The noise level is loud and the music is good but you do end up having to yell most of your words. But at least you can't hear other people's conversations! The artwork is really cool there's a lot of references to Star wars and there is a really cool LED laser show going on on the ceiling. Staff were awesome and they include a 20% gratuity on the bill which is awesome so you don't have to think about tip! Highly recommend however you will be waiting in line for a little bit but the hallway is decorated with cool spray paint mural kind of stuff. There are two bathrooms and they even have tampons! This place really thought of everything. It does a few things and it does them very well. I would absolutely go back and I can see why it's so popular.. You just have to find the door from the outside which is the hardest part. read more

See all

Amazing environment and awesome bartenders. Jason and Nick really took care of my friend and I. It's a great place to meet people as well. We shared a drink with a concert pianist and had amazing drinks from their new menu. Would definitely recommend and will absolutely be back. read more

See all

Incredible inventive bar, with genius bartenders. We've had the menu items, the special menu items, the milk punch (always a favorite), and the custom-made, and never been disappointed. Be prepared for a bit of a wait depending on the day, but otherwise our favorite in Boston since 2016. read more

Such a fun time ! Lovely servers and ambiance Definitely fun if you want something a little different / unique Drinks were creative to say the least ! read more

Loved the backbar!! We had just eaten dinner at Ebi and saw this place on the map and wanted to take my friend out for drinks for her bday. Great service!!! The host and waiter that seated us were super sweet and helpful! They definitely have some very unique drinks here so don't feel scared to ask the waiter what you may like based on your preferences. I had gotten the something Sol and it was too gingery for my taste and tbh host let us know that if we don't like it then we can ask for something else and won't have to pay for not drinking a drink which I super appreciated! I ended up choosing the Venus drink and it was delicious! Very smooth and crisp, definitely a slow sipper and is exactly how it's described. Loved the attention to detail with the coaster as well! Next time I visit will for sure come back! read more

See all

I loved this place so much that I bought a T-shirt to take home. This place is legit and has some of the best cocktails you can find in the city. All of the options on the menu are excellent. I highly recommend ordering the Golden Eagle or the Mr. Owl. I also think this place attracts a cool crowd of people, and you can't go wrong with chatting it up with the bartenders working there. read more

BackBar has been one of my favorite Boston bars for many years. While it's small size can be a deterrent to some, I've found that, with careful planning, one can get a seat and an amazing drink in this cozy spot. Additionally, the drinks are clever, complex, and always changing. On a Friday night, I arrived at 5:30 PM and immediately got a seat at the bar. A mere 30 minutes later, there was a long line outside the door. I ordered a mezcal-based cocktail (forgot the name though). It also had two other pine-based liquors, citrus, and a freshly burned rosemary sprig. It was like drinking a singed pine forest. The drink was well-balanced, and, while it could have used a little more complexity, I was wholly satisfied. Plus, if I come back in a few weeks, there's bound to be something equally unique on the menu. My only regret: I didn't get a milk punch this time around. This place made me obsessed with milk punches, with their concentrated flavor and silky texture. That too always changes up here. read more

backbar - Mezcal based cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

Got to love a hidden bar. Backbar is in an alley with a distinct red door. Don't be alarmed -- instead, walk down the hallway that will lead you to greatness. I stopped in for drinks last night and I'm so glad I did. This is where you should go if you want to experience a statement bar with well crafted cocktails. There was no wait when we walked in late Tuesday, but I'm sure that's an abnormally. We sat at two open chairs at the bar and stayed for a few hours comfortably, without any rushing from the staff. I had the bartenders choice which got me a "prosecutor" -- a tart yet refreshing whiskey drink. I often judge a bar by what the bartender can come up with and in this case, I was impressed. Aside from drinks, they offer some bar snacks. I tried the cheese boards which offered 3 lovely Vermont cheeses, a marmalade with sunflower seeds and some bread. Ate it all! If you want good drinks and want to wow your friends, you simply must check out this hidden gem. I didn't get to check out the whiskey alcove they have when you walk in (closed at 10 pm) but you should! read more

backbar - Prosecutor -- the bartenders choice I got - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

See all

This spot has a great vibe and excellent mocktail menu The staff was very attentive and accommodating.

Cocktails were great! Definitely loved the decor and the vibes. Service could be a little better, maybe our server was not in a good mood that night. She wasn't so friendly, but that's ok. We all have hard days. read more

What an awesome place for drinks! Came here after dinner one day and line was so long so we left. It was always on my list to come back and finally did! We waited about 20 min for table of 3 around 8PM on a Friday. It is pretty cool that you can describe what you're in the mood for and the bartender will make you something. I was interested in a dark and stormy, and got a super gingery drink (which I loved) similar to a Moscow mule. Others asked for a sparkling grapefruit drink and a sweet tequila drink that wasn't a margarita and everyone was very impressed with their drinks. Each drink is $14 (not bad for what you get) with 20% gratuity automatically added. Also love the vibes here -- lots of Star Wars and Harry Potter references. Such a cool spot! read more

backbar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

Even though I've been once (and another time to pick up mixers) the staff at backbar made two drinks I'm still thinking about. They did what other cocktail bars can't - create a bar experience that was unpretentious and creative, and that stayed in my thoughts for a really long time. I asked for an espresso martini and was given options - dark, or creamy? I chose creamy and when it came to my table it was the color of plain milk. Not impressed yet, I took a sip and it was delicious, bitter coffee and sweet cream at the same time. The best espresso martini I've had to date. I then asked for an Aperol Spritz - but with a twist. They asked me some follow up questions and presented me with something so fun! I sadly don't remember what the alcohol was they used but to me it tasted like lemony fruit loops. I came back this week to pick up a custom mixer. For $18 you get 6 servings and a recipe to make your own cocktails at home. It was like having a date night in quarantine! I had strawberry basil gimlets which can be mixed with many different types of alcohol. We used vodka but will try gin tonight! The website form has you tell them what alcohol you have at home so they can build a drink for you at home. Awesome. read more

See all

Great drinks and fun decor! Star Wars and doctor who fans can delight in the atmosphere! read more

My friends and I had a really great time here on a Friday night. It was Harry Potter night themed so they had the movie playing on the wall and the cocktails were also Harry Potter themed too. I really like scotch so I enjoy places with an alcohol list as well as a cocktail list and this place had both. They were also spot in for recommendations when you tell the bartender what you like. 100% recommend this place, they really know their whisky. read more

See all

Absolute best cocktail bar in the area! Walked almost 2 miles to get here. Very relaxed and speak easy vibe. I showed up at 6 (as soon as they opened) so we got great seats but by the time we left, there was a line out the door. It is very spacious and they don't let groups overcrowd the bar area. If you are planning to come with a group bigger than 3-4, definitely show up closer to 6. I got 2 drinks and my husband got 3 - they were all delicious! We didn't feel rushed to drink them and our waiter was great! For my second drink I chose to talk to the bartender to describe what I was feeling and it was exactly what I wanted! Drinks are $13 but for the quality of drinks we were given the price isn't bad at all! (Especially for Boston area) My only negative is that I wish they had some better appetizers. They have a selection of snacks you can get from field & vine (next door) but non of those were up my ally (I like salty/tater tot/pretzel type apps) read more

backbar - Dumbledoors office and kulukki kush (both we're very different and phenomenal!) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

See all

Well, for being rated #25 out of 28 of the world's "coolest bars" (https://www.timeout.com/food-and-drink/coolest-bars-in-the-world/) I feel pretty let down. It has some perks, but overall I give this spot a hard three stars. It's far too cramped for a group of more than four people to have drinks and enjoy a group conversation, or hold any kind of celebration among friends. We somehow jammed over ten people - half of us standing - in the corner, closest to the front end of the bar. Our party was unable to enjoy a conversation together as a whole. We had to break off into pairs and mingle amongst each other. Throughout our visit we traded seats and standing space so that everyone had a chance to relax, but overall it was not a comfortable experience. The drinks were tasty, but a bit small and definitely not cheap. The playlist was probably my favorite thing about the entire place. The music was good and it wasn't too loud which allowed each pair in our party to hold a conversation without straining to hear each other. This might be the perfect setting for a first or second date, but it's not all that functional for a get together with friends. We were here during the week of Hannukah and EVERYTHING was themed after the holiday. On one hand, well done! I loved seeing this holiday properly represented during a season that can easily be overrun by Christmas cheer. But on the other hand, it felt like it was all a bit too much. I personally don't enjoy having that much of any holiday or event thrown at me in such a small and rather crowded space. We were lucky that we arrived when we did. We only had to wait about ten minutes, but that was a pure stroke of dumb luck. After we were seated the line continued to grow down the hallway towards the only entrance/exit to the bar (not easy to find either, btw). And it never seemed to shrink. Even after we hung out in our tight corner for roughly two hours. If giving this place a shot is really worth it to you be sure to keep you party to a maximum of four people and provide ample time for standing in line. Thankfully, the line runs alongside the unisex restrooms in the entry hallway (that also supply feminine hygiene products - very nice touch by the way, I'll give them that). At least if you have to use the bathroom you won't loose your spot in line. read more

We went to this bar because of a recommendation from a friend and because of the stellar reviews. It's definitely more of a date night spot, for a party of 4 we waited almost 2 hours, and even then we only got the table because we told the host we would squeeze at a two top. The extremely long wait time was made worse because of the hot waiting area we were forced to stay in until our table is ready. The host clearly didn't care about getting us out of the heat, but for parties of two they were able to get in fairly quickly. When we finally got to our table we were visited exactly twice by our server, once to take our order and one more time to bring our drinks and give the checks. The drinks were so not worth the wait, and we were very frustrated to find that the bar had plenty of seating available. The host did a horrible job of taking care of us. This is a great spot if you arrive with a party smaller than 4, otherwise, be ready to wait 2+ hours and sweat. read more

backbar - Big Bird - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

Amazingly tasty and themed cocktails served in an old warehouse style speakeasy - be sure to keep an eye out for entrance as it's pretty nondescript. Seating is a bit tight but love how each area feels separate from your neighbor. Super popular right now and lucked out by going early. When we left, there was a line out the door. Definitely going back asap! read more

Dear Backbar, You were the surprise hit of our entire trip to Boston. Truth. Tucked away in an old car/garage/storage space we felt truly blessed to find you. Our wait-staff/bartender was impressively helpful with notes on each and every creative and imaginative cocktail she presented to us. Loved the menu, loved the vibe, loved our bartender, and I would love to return. Cheers!!! read more

Wow!! Yes!! FINALLY made it here after months of wanting to try. It was a spectacular experience and I can't wait to go back. Every staff member was extremely helpful and kind. The cocktails were tremendous...the kind of quality where you aren't overpowered by the liquor or the sugar...where it's all very smooth and oh so delightful to sip. The space is cozy and kind of hidden which is fun. Vaccinated folks only :) Love the rotating menu, lots of creativity coming from behind the bar. read more

Cocktail menus change regularly, which means there's always something new to try! Unlike a lot of other cocktail bars in the city, backbar has a chill (and nerdy) vibe. Themed menu weeks like Star Wars and Harry Potter can get quite busy, so usually I try to come early and/on a weekday to avoid longer lines. (Although it is worth the wait!) The staff are super friendly and come up with interesting suggestions for drinks when you ask them to make something based on what you like. The milk punch is consistently delicious, even though the flavors and spirit bases are always changing. Definitely a place to stop by if you want to try cocktails that experiment beyond the standard canon. read more

Cool spot for a unique cocktail! Really enjoyed this place, the service was fantastic and they seem to really enjoy what they do here. Cool atmosphere and artwork. Make sure you arrive early as seating fills up quickly! read more

backbar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

See all

I'm going to set the scene for you first: I came on a Sunday over a three day holiday weekend at 6pm. There was no line and I thank God I found another couple to stalk to the entrance because although I had looked up pictures, I didn't want to wander around looking like a dingus looking for this place. It's super cute. Super hipster cute? Do hipsters say cute? Small and intimate. Like very intimate because it's so dang dark in there I can't really tell what anyone else is doing. Okay, maybe not that dark, but I definitely patted myself on the back for being able to read the menu without pulling out my iPhone to use as a light. (Although I did pull out my glasses..) Drinks were great. The bartender's choice was fantastic and spot on. Give them an idea of what you want and let them do their thing. I also was just feeling a gin and tonic at a certain point. Still a solid one, and a very nice pour so take it easy. I didn't get any food from the kitchen, but have been told over and over that it's great. Our server was nice. One of the restrooms was broken, so I didn't have to wait in the line to get into backbar, just to pee there. Great spot for a date. Soooo many first dates happening around us. I think.. like I said, it was pretty dark. So yes, I recommend for a date (hopefully a good one, since cocktails in Boston aren't cheap) or even catching up with some friends. Would not recommend large groups however. read more

Amazing place! We didn't have food, but the service was great. If you are looking for artistic cocktails/mocktails, this is the place.

Longtime fan of backbar - and I still recommend this as the best cocktail bar in the Boston area. It's remarkable when a place can be this consistent over so many years. Service, quality and attention to detail are superb - and yet no two visits are the same, thanks to the rotating menu of amazing specials they routinely whip up. Funky intimate vibe - not to be missed. read more

Backbar is a really cute hipster-y bar in an alley that would be way cooler if it wasn't as well known. It's in an alley way behind a red door with a small sign that says "backbar" and you have to walk down a dark hallway. I came here with my boyfriend and another couple at 10 pm on Friday. There was a 20 minute wait which wasn't bad, but then they could only give us a standing space even when spaces opened up because, well, they said it was a fire hazard. So, I definitely would say, if you're going on at a typical busy bar time don't go with more than a few people. The drinks were fairly good. We always give the bartender a few interesting flavors that we are looking for.. like spicy, salty, whisky. They brought out fascinating flavored drinks, but I can't say they nailed our request like a few other places we've tried. With that said, the bartenders did expose to unique blends, so that was awesome. The nice thing about this place at this hour is that it's so dark, no one knows what you're wearing, so wear anything comfortable or dress up. Do whatever you want! I think this place would be sweet during the day with less people and since they have really big sky lights. Can someone please confirm this. I'd love to know! UPDATE: The place is SO cool during the day. (Changing my review from 4 to 5 stars). Without it being super busy and dark, backbar is so beautiful. It's filled with interesting art and the bar is .. well I'll just put a picture so you can see. The server really took care of us and the drinks were adventurous. read more

backbar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

See all

My first experience at a speakeasy and it was semi pleasant. The wait was long since this place was so small, but it was cosy with good drinks. I would not advise a party of over 8 because it's difficult to get seating together. The servers were friendly and answered our questions patiently. I ordered a mocktail but it was not as tasty as I would have hoped but I was still impressed by the hipster and down to earth vibes. read more

backbar - No big flashy sign - just a small one next to the door. Almost missed it! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

See all

I am an absolute cocktail snob and this place was amazing. I have been to the best cocktail bars in San Francisco, New York, Vancouver, etc and this bar absolutely deserves a place amongst them. read more

Saw this spot on many "hot" lists of bars to check out in Boston. Living in Chicago I love these speakeasy cocktail bars, and backbar is one the coolest ones I have been too. We mad reservations online. Once we got out of our uber we walked past the entrance like 3 times.. I wasn't until we paid really close attention that we saw a sign for backbar. You have to call the phone number listed, then they will come and get you..Space is limited but I guess that lets the staff really take care of the few people who get in.. The drinks are amazing!! Our favorite was the "milk punch" read more

backbar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

After visiting some breweries we came here for an after dinner drink. Not the easiest place to find, but when we did we were blown away by the decor and atmosphere. Definitely a fun bar that looks more like a NYC bar than anything. I ordered an espresso martini, and my husband had a drink with tequila in it ( I forgot the name of it). If your looking for a fun place for drinks with friends or a significant other, check out backbar, I know you won't be disappointed. read more

backbar - Such a cool and fun way to display their drink menu! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

I came with a group of friends to grab a cocktail before dinner for my husband's birthday and we loved everything about Backbar - the hipster paint and chalk murals/drawings/overall Star Wars decor worked in thematically, the friendly service, the inventive cocktails and serving glasses, all with a banging 80's playlist. I had a drink special called the Oracle, with almond-infused gin, vanilla, lemon, absinthe, and garnished with a tiny tarot card! What?! A couple of friends raved about the coconut and cold brew coffee cocktail, describing it as similar to a Horchata. Someone got the Bananakin Walker cocktail in a whale glass. Then they brought my husband his whiskey drink in a GIANT DRAGON WITH A CANDLE! They overheard we were celebrating a birthday and surprised us with quite the presentation! We couldn't have requested, planned, or paid for anything cooler, so we really appreciated the awesome gesture! We had some of the cheesy bread to snack on and enjoyed that as well. Restrooms are in the hallway and single-person unisex. Reservations are accepted Sundays-Thursdays for 6 or more. By the time we left for dinner, there was quite a line, so I'd go early, on a weekday, or ready to wait a bit, but being able to appreciate the drinks and the atmosphere without being overcrowded is worth it. read more

Loved. I almost hesitate to write this review, because part of the appeal of this place was that it wasn't completely packed and we were able to get seats, talk, have fantastic drinks and relax. I kind of hope that this place never gets ridiculously popular. We arrived around 8/8:30 and managed to get a seat. One of our few things we'd change is the seating- the benches are not quite wide enough to be 100% comfortable, and the small square wood seats weren't super comfy either. But it wasn't that big of a deal, and we really liked the decor. The waitstaff was dressed nice fancy, and took our order quickly. They had a lot of interesting drinks, some of which we hadn't heard of before (i.e. milk punch). I got an Old Fashioned, and it was one of the best ones I've had. The drinks were pretty stellar, and about $10 each. The kitchen closes at 11pm, but after the kitchen closed we still managed to get some popcorn- it had a spicy caramel flavor which was perfect. While the kitchen is open, you could order food and dessert- everything on the menu sounded awesome, but we were too full from dinner to try anything. Our only other "complaint" is that the bar was at the end of hallway which was obviously not heated, and when people came and went, they would leave the door open. Since we were sitting right next to the door, we'd get cold pretty quickly. The staff was great about closing the door when they walked by, but we- and the tables around us- still had to keep getting up throughout the night to close the door. It would be great if they could make the hallway a bit warmer, or put some weights on the door to make it close when people went through it. But honestly, it wasn't that big of a deal, and really only affected 2-3 tables. Throughout the night, a good number of big groups came and then left- this is definitely NOT a place for a group of more than 2-4 people. By midnight, there were only a few people left, and when they dropped off our check, they also gave us some tasty little bite-size treats. Overall, this bar was the perfect place to catch up with my friends, have amazing cocktails, and enjoy the decor and ambiance. Which a few small tweaks, this bar would literally be perfection. Next time I'm in Boston, I'll definitely be back! read more

See all

My friends are regulars here, and they rave about Matthew's creative cocktails. It definitely did not disappoint! Bartender's choice is $13, and I asked for a lavender flavored drink and got a lavender bee's knees. The flavor was a little more subtle than I would have liked, but the drinks here are STRONG. My boyfriend always asked for drinks "involving fire," and Matt keeps inventing new stuff. It's a fun time. read more

Been here a few times over the years and I just love to see the faces of people who've not been before come for the first time ha. The non-descript back door entrance and the sketchy stretch of a worn out hall into the bar makes the weary newbie think they're being led somewhere to be robbed. Then, when you least expect it, you open the door and poof, eclectic artwork and a nice unpretentious ambiance awaits you. Staff is super nice, service is always on par and drinks are very good. This is the epitome of a Cambridge bar of yesteryear that's found a home in Somerville. read more

See all