This review is for The Independent as a watering hole, as I've never eaten here. The bar area is wonderful, with a cozy, effortlessly artsy feel to it. Being in Union, it's not an overly crowded bar, but the kind of place where you can almost always get a seat. The selection of beers on tap is PHENOMENAL, and frankly impresses me beyond my wildest dreams. They have 16 beers on tap at all times. Some stand-out beers included: Rogue Dead Guy (I miss Oregon!!!), Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout (have I died and gone to beer heaven?), Chimay, Stone Pale Ale, Berkshire Pale Ale, and Sixpoint (a yummy craft ale from Brooklyn). I mean, really. With a quality beer list like this, I could drink here every night. That would be bad for my liver, but great for my soul. Oh, and this past Friday, while my boyfriend and I sat sipping our brews and people watching, we fell in love with the scene. A gaggle of preps on one end of the bar, the bartender in a Texas t-shirt and rocking a porn 'stache, the DJ mixing indie/jazz/metal/techno/soul (I made up that genre for lack of other explanation) and gazing at the ceiling from his corner booth, and of course, the requisite skinny hipster couple in the corner making out for over an hour. As a bar, this spot is dynamite. read more

The vibe here is on point. While it was packed to the gills, I was totally okay because everyone was respectful, not shoving, and the drinks were on point! It's rare you find a great beer AND cocktail list. It's either you're strong in one and lacking in another. Strong... get it?! But alas, both where fantastic. My first choice was a beer, Pretty Things. Then I moved on to the Bee's Knees and a Manhattan. I was feeling good not only from the alcohol, but also from the quality of the drinks. And can we take a minute to talk about the barware? I wish my purse was large enough to steal it! I received my first beer in a large goblet, resembling a red wine goblet. Probably was one, but whatever, I felt super cool sipping out of it. Second drink was in a mason jar, and third was in a crystal cocktail glass. Independent, you are winning in the glass department, my friends! read more

This is definitely a neighborhood bar, but not a dive bar. I came here this past weekend and was thanking my lucky stars we didn't go into Boston (for several reasons) 1.It was a two minute walk back to our destination and when you are holding someone up, it helps 2. The waitress was on top of it. She even brought carafes of much needed water and put up with our shenanigans 3. It is small, but has enough space for a medium size group - oh and there was no dancing. I was happy for that, because sometimes you want to just actually talk to the people you are with 4. There is a bus stop right outside - so you don't have to drive 5. The bartender is mad cool and for that matter quick 6. Cheap. I'll be back, sans the Bachelorette debauchery. read more

Time to update. The Independent has quickly become my favorite neighborhood bar in a neighborhood I don't live in. I have never had a bad meal here, always delicious. The staff is amazing, even in the busiest times they do all they can to make sure everyone is happy. The specials for beer and food are always interesting and creative. It almost makes every visit like a new one! read more

My old review for this place was really dumb, so poof, there it goes. Starting over, I will say that I, like Rob B., "like the Indo a lot." It's in my 'hood, Union Square, in which it is slightly out-of-place, but that's fine, variety is the spice of life. The decor is sleek and sophisticated in a Harvard Square type of way. I think its strongest suit is being a classy place to go for drinks, to watch sports (without it being sports bar), or (theoretically, since I've never been) for free movie nights. Their food is higher quality but less reliable than typical bar food (which I happen to love). I mentioned last time their odd clam chowder (still in-shell) for $13, and generally speaking, they have a number of other "creative" dishes that don't totally satisfy. Last night I went for a celebratory, you-just-got-a-job drink with my boyfriend and got a regular salad (very, very fresh greens--recommended) and a plate of "frites," which I think is a totally annoying way to say fries. Not total perfection, but it's got a great vibe and is a unique option for 02143. read more

Very very sad to share that, with the advent of the menu reboot, the best mac and cheese in town is no more. It's been replaced with what looks like velveeta shells and cheese in a skillet, but tastes like alfredo pasta with breadcrumbs on top. Service still not great. Beer selection still excellent. Sigh. read more

Much, much better than expected. Extremely perfect "perfect" Manhattans. Oysters were not wellfleet or island creeks (where, oh where were they from, I can't remember.) excellent, meaty, sweet. Roasted beet salad was fresh and crisp. Fried chicken was giant - an entire half a bird, breast and thigh were deboned - but moist, crisp and wonderful. Excl lent crumb batter. Mac and cheese consisted of fusilli with a rich, creamy blend of cheddar, Parmesan. Sitting on the "quiet" restaurant side, you may even be able to hear yourself think. Very impressed, very unexpected. read more

It's cold outside right now you know that guy, Old Man Winter. Well he just slapped you in the face you're embarrassed and it hurts Go into The Independent right side bar order a hot buttered cider stop pretending you're Frosty the snowman read more

I'm might just be getting old (le sigh) but the packed-to-the-gills, play-your-music-as-loud-as-possible bars just don't do it for me anymore. But for an out-of-towner, The Independent shined through the crowded, loud environment with delicious, creative cocktails and attentive service. We were exhausted, sweaty and dirty from a long night of labor and partying--so yes, cocktails were needed. When I walked in and saw just how busy it was, I admit, I wanted to run. I'm glad we didn't. Our small group snagged some bar seats and placed our order. It did take a minute to get noticed--understandable. Plus, like I mentioned before, their hand-crafted cocktails are not quick to make. Be patient and you'll get treated right, promise. While my friends opted for some great beers and creative drinks of the menu, I sipped on some sparkling wine, served at the perfect temperature for sipping: chilled, but not too cold so you can taste the flavor notes. Yum! I didn't get to try any food, but I'd definitely come back with friends after taking a look at the reviews/menu. Solid bar choice for the neighborhood! read more

I love a good dining experience and I was hoping that this place would be my go-to neighborhood spot because it seemed cool enough and the menu looks good. I have been here 3 or 4 times and given it more than a fair shot, but I wouldn't recommend it. If the food was better I might be able to put up with the horrible service, but it isn't so I won't be going back. I've been here a few times, once for dinner and a couple times for brunch, because it's close to my place and you can usually get a table. And while the hostess and wait staff are very nice, they are completely inattentive and unaccommodating. Each time I've been here I've waited about 15-20 minutes before someone even came over to my table to give us water or say hello. The food takes forever to come out and when it comes out hot it is decent, but it is often room temperature or cold (which is a deal-breaker when you're talking about eggs or a burger) The last time I was here my girlfriend got cold potatoes with her breakfast and then when we asked for new ones the server asked her to scrape the rest of her sandwich onto a side plate so that she could microwave the cold potatoes. Having worked as a server for 5+ years, this was pretty irritating. It took us more than an hour and a half to eat and leave from the time we got there and they weren't even that busy. The final straw: I just checked my credit card statement and they charged me $5 more in tip than I added to my card receipt (which was a generous 18% considering how miserable the experience was). I will definitely not be going back. read more

This is one of our new favorites in the Somerville area. Its a restaurant that clearly can't decide what it wants to be when it grows up, but the eclectic menu is fun. I especially love the steak and cheese appetizer and the peppery mac and cheese. The drinks are also delicious and they have Boddingtons on tap, if you dig that creamy ale thing. The menu items change pretty regularly and it seems like there's always something new and original. Fried grits anyone? Yum. Last time I was there they happened to be playing my favorite album of the moment, so that wins them points as well. Odd tip- they also participate in certain dining-for-miles programs so you can rack up miles while eating tasty food! read more

I always want this place to me more than it is. I rarely come here, but when I do it's usually because I've forgotten the last experience by that time, and wonder why I've stayed away. It just always seems dead in here...even when it's filled with people. Other gastropubs like Green Street, River Gods, B-Side, or even new Somerville darling Highland Kitchen sparkle. Everyone is laughing, drinking up, and indulging in amazing food...which is what you think would be happening at the Independent...but for some reason it's just not. My husband and I were just here for a late Saturday night dinner this weekend, and it was really quiet, as it has been the past few times we've been. Like really quiet. The place was half full, but the vibe wasn't very fun. Our waitress also seemed to be in a bad mood, and there was a strange smell wafting throughout the place, which I noticed as soon as we walked in. Our food and drinks were fine, but didn't hold a candle to the other places I mentioned above. We just had pressed sandwiches and fries, but there were little things off about the meals: veggies in the sandwich weren't cooked enough, pork too dry, bread really hard, way to many fries with way too much salt... I don't know, maybe I'm being to critical, but if the Independent is a gastropub, which it seems to want to be from its menu and prices, they better step it up with all the fierce competition in the Somerville/Cambridge area! read more

This has been our favorite local joint since we've been in Union Square, and we got there at least every few weeks, sometimes more. We've been there on many important days-we've come in our wedding day. Birthdays. My bachelorette party. Can't beat The Independent for a casual brunch or dinner as well. The food has only gotten better over time as well. Within the last six months, the menu has definitely changed in good ways. The fries are better, and you can get some good aoli to go with them as well. They use lots of Iggy's Breads, which makes any sandwich great. The veggie burgers aren't pre-made frozen patties, but fresh in house made patties of fresh veggies. It's so good. They have a great rotation of specials, and definitely do yourself a favor and order off of it. The last thing I ordered was the chicken salad sandwich with bacon, and it was amazing. Definitely the best chicken salad sandwich I'd ever had. Micah couldn't keep his hands off of the chicken that kept falling out. I was nice and let him eat it, even though I really wanted to break his fingers and eat it myself. The staff here is so great-the majority of the waitstaff recognizes us and is so very welcoming, especially Nicole, who is usually there when we go in. The staff clearly loves food and drink, which makes dining here a good experience. There's nothing that you can't ask that they don't know about or haven't tried, which is great when you want to order. Food and drink highlights: Abita Purple Haze, The Aviation, Ruby on Rails, BLT, Veggie Burger, Fried Chicken Sandwich, Burgers are always fantastic, Roast Beef Sandwich, and the Pastrami Sandwich. I haven't ordered anything here that I've been disappointed by at all. The Independent is my go to bar. It would be if I didn't leave down the street too, it's just that good. P.S.-there's free parking in the lot out back if you go in during the evening! read more

First off, I love the staff here. We (me + the boyfriend) always sit on the bar side (as opposed to the larger restaurant side), and we have never had bad service. The bartenders are friendly, not overly attentive but there when you need them. The small plates menu is very reasonably priced and great if you just want a snack with your beer. The entrees run between $9 and $24, and include basic (though well-executed) pub food like pulled pork and burgers, as well as seafood and some more fancy(ish) options. In general, the food is on the heavier side, though there are also salads, and a killer pressed veggie sandwich. The decor is simple but nice -- dark wood, exposed brick, not too crowded. The restaurant side has a more upscale vibe with upholstered chairs and cozy booths. Easily the best place to stop for food or a drink in Union Square. read more

I love this place, and I love living near it. It's really a very versatile spot - whether you want a nice dinner, a quick snack, a late brunch/lunch or just to grab a beer. The dinner menu has a little something for everyone. I've gone here with foodies, vegetarians and my culinarily unadventurous parents, and they've all found something they really enjoyed. The entrees here are usually quite good, but I think the stars of the menu are some of the appetizers, soups and salads. Anyone who remembers the B-side will remember their skillet baked gouda - it's here and virtually unchanged (slightly downsized, but also a dollar or two cheaper). The French Onion and clam chowder soups are both excellent, and the roasted beet salad is an interesting presentation - no greens, just warm golden beets with goat cheese, seasoning and a tiny amount of dressing. If you're more of a burger person, the fries here are excellent as well. The beer selection here is worth mentioning - larger than most neighborhood bars and rivaling some of the celebrated area beer bars. While a little too reliant on IPA's, there is good variety in both styles and price ranges. The draft selection rotates regularly, and recently there was a special cask ale tasting with several different styles served the traditional way. The cocktails are also very well made, and if you're a fan of whisky, The Independent has a large selection of bourbons, ryes and single malts. As far as the atmosphere goes, the pub side often has DJ's spinning, so head to that side to be in among the action, or to the restaurant side if you want a little peace and quiet. read more

The Independent is a good all-around joint. If I had a random selection of friends or family to entertain, I would take them to the restaurant side because it offers something for everyone. Big TVs will thrill sportsfans (my dad). Big selection of beers will please micro brew types (my highschool friends). Big fancy wine glasses and nice wines by the glass will tickle the faux wine enthusiast (my college girl friends). Deviled eggs, fried food, and other comfort cuisine will satisfy the oldskool and newskool lovers of southern cooking (my mother and my Cambridge friends). Raw oysters will delight the localvore (my bf). The old fashion decor and pink mood lighting will put everyone in a relaxed mood. On nights where I can't seem to find standing room in other bars in Somerville, I've found there is usually a booth or table in the restaurant side of the Independent. Here I can hide out, sip my wine, eat my appetizer, and talk trash with my friends. Once we were surprised to find a $15 margarita on our bill, and that was a little distressing, but overall - I'd say this place is solid! read more

It's a shame that I have to do this, but my last experience at The Independent will be my last. A group of friends and I visited for Sunday brunch. My friend went to order something that was a minor modification from what was on the menu (basically replacing something in a dish with something from another dish), and the waitress came back and told us it would be "more expensive." She was not able to tell him a specific number, so my friend quipped, "How bad could it be?" and proceeded with his order. When we got the bill, we saw they had charged him for two separate entrees, which totaled nearly $25. Huh? For replacing something in a dish with something from another dish? You charge full price for both dishes? Really? Lame. Really lame. Sorry, Independent, I won't be back. read more

MY FAVORITE BAR IN SOMERVILLE. But recently they redid their menu and got rid of the pressed veggie sandwich and now a cloud has descended over my city. Four star a only because I'm hoping someone is paying attention and will undo this error! (A good place to go alone, with one more, or with a group. Great foods, great cocktails, great beer selection. And, too, many a very interesting night my life has begun at The Independent.) read more

In town for the weekend and in need of brunch. The Independent came highly recommended. Aesthetically, The Independent was perfect - white, colonial, "New England" feel to the exterior; dark, woody interior. Boyfriend and I were seated and started perusing the brunch menu. I went with the sweet potato biscuits and gravy. Now, I must admit that I come to this dish with a bit of a history. No one on earth will ever make biscuits and gravy that top my grandma's. That said, I'm a fan of the combo and always looking for a silver-medalist. This dish, however, would not end up on the medal stand. While the biscuits were good overall, especially the thicker, yeasty parts, but the sausage gravy was overwhelmingly peppery. Pepper dominated the entire flavor. Meh. On the upside, the beer list was quite robust and featured several local brews. Good beer washes anything down. read more

Eeek gadz....save your money. My experience at the Independant was so mediocre, I almost didn't yelp about it at all. The atmosphere is nice if you're going there for a drink. Nice lighting, attractive bar, etc. But... Friday night, 8pm. I had a hard time with the menu from the very beginning. I couldn't find anything exciting. Settled on a flatbread pizza with onions, blue cheese and a white sauce. I rarely send things back. But the white sauce was glop-ed all over the thing and it had the flavor of minced garlic from a jar. The BF's French dip tasted like those Steakums we used to have in elementary school. The fact that they put it on Iggy's bread was just an insult to Iggy and everything he stands for. The chicken and boar fritters were crispy on the outside, but runny on the inside and just "ick". We had to chase down the waiter to order, to get another beer, to get my food sent back. He came by to ask if everything was ok and then walked away before I could tell him "no". I wish I hadn't wasted my $$. Hope other people have better luck. read more

Food is consistently good (the burger is tasty, salads usually fresh and crisp) but don't recommend the drinks here. They are unbearably sweet/not mixed well. Stick to beers and two ingredient drinks if you have a bev read more

USED TO BE OUR GO-TO DATE NIGHT... My boyfriend and I have been coming to the Independent almost once a month for brunch or dinner. BUT, they recently changed the menu and we are not fans. Drinks: The first thing we noticed was the much reduced cocktail menu. Food: Two of our favorite entrees are still on the menu but majorly changed for the worse. I almost exclusively ordered the trout which was piccata-style with rice and spinach. Sometime last year they changed it to green beans but I was able to order it with the spinach anyway. Now it is with a buerre blanc sauce, cauliflower puree, and kale chips. The buerre blanc looked like oil on the plate and made the kale chips soggy. The cauliflower was terrible, thin and I didn't eat it. While the flesh of the trout was properly cooked, the skin was soggy. The mac and cheese was also changed for the worse. The menu in general seems heavier on sandwiches and fried food. On the bright side: the Crab and Pancetta Chowder was really good but I still think the old chowder was probably better (and again heavy) P.S. The music was too loud. It is fine on the bar side but on the restaurant-side, the server should be able to hear me when I order. read more

I can't believe I've never reviewed the Independent before since I go there on a weekly basis. I'll keep this short. I was skeptical because they recently hired a new head chef and radically overhauled parts of their menu. I must say it's a great improvement and the food is absolutely delicious. Some of the shining stars of the menu: Stuffed Peppadew Peppers Briouats Crispy Pork Belly The mixed drinks are always creative and tasty and the beer selection is expansive. I love the dark wood, and just the general vibe of the place. My only complaint is that they must have changed their Bloody Mary recipe. I go here for brunch quite a bit and loved their Bloodies. But now they are watery flavorless and gross. Please bring back the old recipe!!! Otherwise, five stars! read more

I don't know why this place has been getting such bad reviews, but personally speaking I a had a good time. Okay so they are under staffed, but the hostess was very attentive and courteous. Server (even though she was alone) was very prompt with water and drinks (one of which was running late and she came to explain the reason for that in advance). She had a pretty good know-how of the specials on the menu and was quite friendly even though I asked a lot of questions, again bcz of the reviews. Great beer selection & great food as well. Ordered the calamari, wont be doing that again, it wasn't just up to the mark however the accompanying Korean bbq sauce was pretty decent. Beef ribs (3 for 9$), probably one of the best I have had in MA so far. Soft and tender meet, fall of the bone ribs with excellent flavor. Grass fed cheese burger pretty damn good (can tell the beef quality is excellent). Friend ordered the chicken sandwich and he had no complaints either. Substantial fries on the side which were pretty decent. The only issue was when we needed the check, there was a bit of delay (but not a lot considering some of the reviews I have seen), for which again the server was apologetic. Will definitely be heading back for some Beef ribs soon. read more

I had my first Lobster Roll here. And while it was very good, it was also very pricey. Their menu is way overpriced for what it is really worth. Also, another evening I came here, we were going to have a party of about 15 and they weren't able to accommodate. Also, apparently, everyone in the party had to be eating dinner in order for them to sit and serve us. Thanks rude hostess, but not everyone here is looking for dinner, some are here to just drink. Sorry, but I guess I'm going to have to give my money to another place of establishment that wants to make some money for the night. Thanks, but no thanks! read more

Be pepared for bar food although they have tried to make things a little fancier. I was disappointed with this place because every time I wanted to order something they were out. It was a Saturday night and most places usually have a line although this place did not, so I don't understand how they could be out of so much stuff. I tried ordering the smoked trout fritters, the French dip sandwich, and red sangria...all out. Instead I had some garlic shrimp, lots of buttery garlic goodness. Also had the pressed chicken sandwich; a little dry but still okay. I had a peach bellini to start with which was a disappointment but the white sangria made up for it at the end. They had a variety of beer which was nice. I don't understand why they have a $13 bowl of clam chowder as an entree, but I certainly wasn't going to pay that much to find out. Our service was good but had a late start. Other than that it was a pretty good night. I also like the fact that they have plenty of parking. read more

My first experience glows in my memory, stumbling here at 1am, having closed PA's Lounge, to imbibe those 2 or 3 needed, but unnecessary, last drinks. Subsequent visits are bound to disappoint, but The Independent has amazing staying power, at least for its classy low-lit interior, friendly waitstaff, and bookcases on the walls--are they real or fake books? I so want to reach out to pull one of the shelf, but what will I find? "Hard Times" or "Jonathan Livingston Seagull?" The mind boggles... I have yet to venture to the dining side, but meals are available in the bar, and my last visit found me with food to compliment our yummy, creamy Boddingtons Ale. She and I shared the Grilled Flatbread Pizza ($9) with spicy sausage, roasted garlic, roasted red peppers, fresh mozzarella, and shaved parmesan, which arrived soon, its longitudinal shape pleasing to the eye despite it's lack of several of the listed toppings. No matter, it was tasty and just the right size. My friend devoured, slowly of course so as not to suffer burns, the French Onion Soup ($9) with gruyere and crouton which came in a cauldron. He approved, though he did point out that his favorite part about FOS, the crispy bits of cheese that often collect round the rim, were nowhere to be found, save for a few drippings down the sides. Having enjoyed one too many Ozzyfests in his prime, my friend's hearing is not what it once was and now, as he nears the dotage of his 40s, his expressions during conversation verge on the questioning, followed by a curt, "huh?" Therefore, Sunday night was an unfortunate choice as it was DJ Evan's night to spin punk and hardcore. Heavy on The Clash, Evan succeeded in playing some interesting tunes as loud as he could despite lack of an audience for such volume. I thought about asking him to turn it down a bit, but come on, has it come to that--being the guy who asks to please turn down the punk rock? I'd rather resort to Semaphore. read more

Since I have moved to the Union Square area, the Independent has quickly become one of my favorite places. The beer selection is fantastic and the menu has a great selection of comfort foods and also a few great vegetarian and even vegan options. Most recently I've had the macaroni & cheese with broccoli and bacon (how could anyone possibly make mac & cheese any better??) and a vegetable and gouda panin (YUM)i. The french fries here are awesome. The service has varied for me... usually good but it sometimes seems like they are understaffed (one bartender on a busy Saturday night??). Lastly... there is always some great music playing in the background. read more

I live a couple blocks from this place and come at least once a week for dinner or brunch. I've had a handful of bad experiences (something doesn't get cooked right, a waiter is off their game). But, I've had so many more great experiences and the food is usually anywhere from very good to totally great. There are so many great options to eat and drink, but I usually end up getting a burger, an Old Fashioned or a choice from their vast beer collection. Cook on, Indo. Cook on. read more

A tornado warning in Boston? It's 6 PM on a Monday, and things are already getting dangerous. Thankfully, I've seen Somerville Beat's tweet regarding great things to eat and do in Somerville this week, and of the 14 places suggested for a Monday, I pick The Independent: "$1 half-off oysters when you sit at the bar" sounds like a fantastic way to sit out the rain. I arrive excited about my oyster scoop and head for the bar. There are actually two, owing to the unique design of the space: the main bar on the restaurant side to the right, and a quieter, more intimate bar to the left. In the mood for a lively time, I head to the right, where my bartender (Sean) tells me that if I order a dozen oysters, the oysters come to just $15. It's a steal, especially with the oysters on hand: lush Riptide oysters from Westport, Mass; salty Northern Cross oysters from Virginia; and Wellfleet oysters from The Cape, which turn out to be the most delicious of the three. As I wait for my order, Sean and I chat about local digs, and he gives me a great insider tip: the Lone Star in Brighton serves tacos until last call, which feels like a small coup in a town that shuts down its kitchens quite early. To complement my mollusks, I order a Cornado Idiot IPA ("8 different hops") and then a Racer 5 IPA. Next to me, a customer orders a "Black and Tan", a special brew made of three-fourths ale and one-fourth Guinness; because of the beers' different densities, he tells me, the two don't mix in the cup, but they sure come together nicely when you take a sip. I'm a fan of nice historical bonuses, and Sean adds to the experience by explaning that the drink is named after a controversial episode during the Irish Revolutionary War of the 1920s (note: do not order a Black and Tan in Ireland). I finish my meal and begin to head out, but not before noting that my bar neighbors' Grilled BBQ Steak Tips platter and Fried Chicken Dinner (with incredible-looking mac and cheese) look ripe for plundering on subsequent visits. With a manager, Jess, that has been here for 13 years and takes customer service seriously; a helpful, friendly, and seasoned bartender in Sean; and a selection of quite decent oysters and IPAs, The Independent (did I mention how fantastic of a website it has?), I will definitely be back again on a Monday. Thanks, Independent. Great for decent oysters and spirited beer on a weeknight. Make it a Boston day. www.abostonday.com read more

Well, what can I say? The Indo is my place on Sunday nights and beyond and it is a great place to be a regular! I'm always on the restaurant side and often at that side of the bar, I just like the atmosphere better than the pub side. The bar tenders and waiters are great and it certainly ads to the experience when you know each other by name and you get a hearty welcome. I have not found that in all places where I thought of myself as a regular customer. The Indo's food and drink selection is great and there have been very few times when the food wasn't absolutely fabulous. Try the fish and chips if you like spicy - it comes with a pretty unique tartar sauce. The salmon that they've had on the menu for a while now is brilliant! If you want smaller things, the artichoke dip and cod fritters are great starters, or get a cucumber salad. You should ask for bread before your meal comes out, together with olive oil and balsamic! They don't serve it as a default, but if you ask, you'll get it. The balsamic reduction they make is out of this world!! Maybe unexpectedly sweet at first you'll be addicted to it in no time. If you're a beer drinker, you'll be in heaven. Lots of good stuff on tap, including many New England beers. I haven't had their wines much, but have had various cocktails which have always been very nice. I have to agree with other reviews that the prices aren't on the cheap side, but for the quality and quantity, I do not think it is over-priced. I also like to support businesses that are environmentally conscious and am happy that the Indo chooses to use local, sustainable foods and local seafood for specials. For me, that is worth the extra buck. read more

I've been rockin' the Indo for years and years. The best thing about this place is the very, very great beer selection. I've had many beers here for the first time that I went on to love. The burgers they're serving lately are awesome. Make sure to get the house-made bacon. It rules. The bar side is definitely better than the restaurant side. We recently went to eat there and the process for getting seated was, lets just say, ramshackle. Some of the food was good, though a little overpriced. The chicken pot pie, however, is a MUST AVOID! It was $18, but small, bland, cheesy (not a big cheese guy but regardless, pot pies aren't supposed to be cheesy in my book) and there were bones still in the chicken! Any time you can count the ingredients in a pot pie (oh... 3 pieces of carrot, 4 potatoes, 7 peas...) its a cheapskate shitty pot pie. My other slight beef is that on the restaurant side, none of the employees seem to be loving being there. Its a subtle vibe thing, but it affects your experience as a patron. The boiled dinners and Pogues tribute band they have on St. Patty's day are great so set your sites on the Indo for March 17th. read more

Just finished my second dinner at The Independent. I will be back for my third, fourth and so on. I'm puzzled by the wide range of reviews here and am trying to put my finger on why there's a lack of consensus. The layout of The Independent reflects - and might contribute to - the disparity. It's 1/3 indoor pub, 1/3 "pubstaurant" and 1/3 outdoor pub. When my husband and I visit, we aim for the middle. We think of it as a restaurant with a side of pub; some think of it as a pub with a side of restaurant. Both reads are correct, but I think the former yields better results. What does The Independent do well? Beer. (Multiple choices on tap with guidance from knowledgeable servers.) Cocktails. (They use lots of fresh ingredients and make their own infusions and flavored syrups). Wine. (A short but well-chosen list.) Food! (The late-afternoon and dinner menus, though limited, are wonderful. Small plates, raw bar items, salads, entrees. Mostly upscale, but you can get burgers and fries. The mussels with coconut milk and kaffir lime are divine.) Service. (Bright, professional, timely.) Ambiance. (Dark wood interior, soothing lighting, cozy booths, real candles; none of that sticky feel and "off" odor you sometimes encounter in establishments that sell a lot of beer.) Parking. (Ample "pay to park" spaces at a buck an hour. Free after 8 p.m.) When would I avoid The Independent? Peak pub hours on weekend nights and on Sunday nights when there's a live DJ. Why? I like The Independent when it's behaving like a restaurant. Go for an early or late dinner and you can practically get the "pubstaurant" to yourself - great ambiance, food, drinks, service and all. A hidden gem if you work past the dinner hour, want a drink or two, love great food and hate searching for a parking place. read more

I absolutely love to eat here, and have yet to be disappointed! The place never seems to be as busy as it deserves to be, but I won't complain. There's a fine line to be drawn for raving about places. On one hand, you have to give credit where it is due. On the other, you kinda want to keep hidden gems to yourself. Part of what makes it great is never having to wait. I've enjoyed both sides, the bar and the dining room. I love the glass bottle of water they put on your table, the sea salt in a ramekin with a spoon, the candle, and super dim lighting. I love the board games in the bar. Really, what do you want to do? Perfect, you can do that here! They have a list of original cocktails that are generally scrumptious. They are not all knock-offs of other well-known mixes either, some are, but not all. My most memorable so far was the Sweet Basil Vodka Gimlet. You could tell fresh basil was infused in either the vodka or fresh lime juice. Hell, you could tell it was fresh lime juice (screw that sweetened Rose's crap)! Unfortunately, whomever is responsible for the oh-so-creative hangover inspiring list has a thing for gin. I do not have a thing for gin, but I guess that narrows down what would otherwise be a lengthy bit of choices to digest. Also, I once went (on a Monday maybe) and found some sort of crazy poker thing going on. Cool for everyone involved, I'm sure, but I just wanted to eat and couldn't find anyone to confirm that this was still possible amongst the chaos. Update: Recently I had ordered the fried onion rings and green beans. What is usually delicious turned out to be quite the opposite. It was like they'd been battered with hot peppers, that burn that approaches slowly but quite solidly once your tastebuds are officially gone. Unusual to what I am used to, I inquired with the bartender to make sure this was not a new recipe and a dish I should now avoid. He even tried them himself, cringed, and agreed that this is not how it should be. What irked me the most is that he didn't even take this barely touched dish off my check after all of this!?! So that one incident is what keeps this place from getting 5 stars... Another Update: Crap! The crab cakes seethed hotness too! I want to taste my food, not have my food take my taste away!?! What is happening here!?! (Thank goodness for the spinach and goat cheese salad.) read more

By now, it's official - the Independent is my new neighborhood spot. I love stopping in the pub after work or just to have a fun night out. The place is great for a well-made cocktail, a diverse beer list, and tasty meals to nibble on. I find the prices are affordable for the quality and quantity received. And the service is excellent; the bartenders are always more than willing to pour you a taste of something, be it their fig-infused bourbon or a new beer on tap, to see if you'd like it enough for a full pour. I adore the Arabesque cocktail, perfect for those chillier evenings or just when you want something strong and tasty to sip on. I've snacked on various things across the menu: the deviled eggs and fried brussel sprouts stand out as favorites. I had the gnocchi for dinner once and enjoyed the freshness of the sauce that didn't weigh the gnocchi down, and my friends loved the steak salad and the cod. No rush, even when the room is packed, or when you want to sit in the corner with a glass of wine and a book - just enjoy the atmosphere and a delightful drinking and dining experience. read more

The Independent makes me wish I lived closer to Union Square. It's split into two sections -- coming in the front, the left side is a dark, pubby area and the right side is a classy-looking restaurant area. The split here makes it a great place for almost any scenario. Here with a big group? Hit the pub. Want to sip cocktails with a date? The restaurant side is perfect. On either side, you get a reasonable beer selection and an excellent selection of well-made classic cocktails. I guess I've only been here late-night so I can't attest to the quality of their "real" food, but the bar food I've had here has been top notch. I'm a big fan of the "pimp my fries" -- fries with chili flakes, parmesan cheese, and truffle oil are a great, great use of $6. read more

The bar side (there's a brighter restaurant side as well) is nice when it's less crowded -- it's dim, cozy, tastefully decorated with old law books and dark wood. The bartenders are polite, the food and drink (food 'til 1 some nights) is good, but just growing even more unreasonably expensive than it already was. 10-15 beers on tap, with a decent number of rotating smaller brews, plus many fine bottles on the wall. Plus they have a whole bunch of board games to choose from, DJs many nights, and even bands here and there. It used to have a very, "hey, I know you from the neighborhood" feel to me, but nowadays it feels, I don't know, like just another in a string of overrated generic bars catering to the bo-bo crowd (see: Green Street Grill, Alchemist Lounge, etc.). Victim of its own success? Probably not, because the expensive eyewear and accoutrements adorning the clientele indicates the young and moneyed are still paying the bills, which is all that counts in the end, I guess. The Independent has clearly become the hangout of choice for the Grand/Bloc 11 set, so if you're into that, great, but it's not really what I'm looking for. Open 'til 2 Friday and Saturday, a rarity in Union Square, so get your last call on here, but it'll cost you. The $3 Pabst you may remember here in quieter days has been supplanted by draughts starting at $5.50. read more

Oh, the Independent. I fear that I am a bit of a snob on drinks. I'm all about all our local pubs and have to admit there are more decent pub burgers and the like in the area than anywhere else I've ever lived, but I am not always so overwhelmed by the cocktails at these place. There are some outstanding beer selections to be found, but sometimes this lady wants a yummy, complicated grown-up drink, without going to Craigie on Main or Hungry Mother and blowing the budget. The Independent serves that purpose. Their cocktails, such as the Bees Knees, the Corpse Reviver, the Alaska, the Yellow Bicycle and the classic Sazerac are all really excellent. The Grapefruit Gimlet is spectacular; I just tried it yesterday. They too have a lengthy and thorough beer list, including some random cheap options like Porkslap and, well, Lonestar (that one confuses me a bit, but go Texas?). The food is pretty delicious, as well. I like their burger a lot, and after a sampling of some appetizers, I was pretty impressed. And there are oysters. Yummy, perfectly salty oysters. I know this is true of many places, but it still completed my good impression of the Independent. I have not even mentioned the atmosphere. The restaurant side is lovely and perfect, with mirrors and heavy dark wood and almost Arts & Crafts light fixtures. The bar side is darker, but also wood-encased and small. The contrast seems appropriate to me, and I've really enjoyed being both places. The music is also usually pretty good, and on the bar side, they have DJs on various nights that make it really fun. It's not like it becomes some sort of dance space, but it does have a pretty great and lively atmosphere. read more

I am a fan of the Independant. I like that they have a full bar area as well as a dining area that are separate from each other. The bar area is cozy and look a bit like the inside of an old church. It has a lot of seating and a nice selection of drinks. They do serve food on the bar side, a abbreviated menu with more sandwiches and snacks. I find that the atmosphere is very friendly and there a good amount of regulars who frequent the Independent. The dining portion is also nice. I like the way they integrated a modern decor with some traditional Irish touches. The menu is really diverse, I have never been disappointed with my choices. The chef has also accommodated my request to alter menu items as needed. They also have a few vegetarian options on the menu. The Independant has live music on the weekends. Once the dinner crowd moves out the dining area becomes the entertainment section. I have liked many of the bands I have heard. I really like going to the Independant for brunch. They have a nice, reasonably priced menu with good hearty portions. They make a good, strong mimosa too!! read more

I have only been here once, so maybe I should give this place another chance. This review is only based on that one experience... Which SUCKED. My old boss took me and my ex here for drinks and apps. We eyed the french onion soup but it was 9 BUCKS. Seriously, do people pay that much for a little bowl of soup? Unless it's served in one of those Pho bowls or contains the serum for everlasting youth, I don't want it. My cocktail was mediocre but whatever. What stole the show was this nasty, gross, disguting grilled calamari with watercress salad thing we ordered off of the apps. I can't believe a place like the Independent would actually serve something this gross. Chef's are supposed to taste things before they serve them. It was one of the most awful things I've eaten in this city. I am SO glad my boss payed because they would have had to pry the money out of my hands if I were picking up the tab. My money and I are going to stick to the Temple Bar. read more