Boston's happy hour is about quality over quantity—oyster deals, craft cocktails, and neighborhood pubs with character. Most spots run 4-6pm or 4-7pm. Note: Massachusetts has strict happy hour advertising laws, so deals are often word-of-mouth.
Oyster Happy Hours
Row 34
Fort Point | 4-6pm
$1 oysters and great beer selection. One of Boston's best seafood spots.
Island Creek Oyster Bar
Kenmore | 4-6pm
From their own oyster farms. Premium oysters, craft cocktails.
Select Oyster Bar
Back Bay | 5-6pm
Small but mighty. $1 oysters in a cozy Newbury Street spot.
Cocktail Happy Hours
Drink
Fort Point | 4-6pm
No menu—tell them what you like. One of America's best cocktail bars.
Backbar
Somerville | 4-7pm
Union Square gem. Creative cocktails, great atmosphere.
The Hawthorne
Kenmore | 5-7pm
Hotel Commonwealth bar. Elegant cocktails, comfortable vibe.
Brick & Mortar
Cambridge | 5-7pm
Central Square favorite. Creative drinks, neighborhood feel.
Boston Happy Hour Tips
- Word of mouth: MA law restricts HH advertising. Ask bartenders.
- The T is your friend: Skip driving in Boston. Seriously.
- Cambridge counts: Great bars in Harvard, Central, and Kendall squares.
- Patio season is short: When it's nice out, everyone's outside.