Backbar

Backbar is a full cocktail bar. I hadn't been here in several years and it felt so good to be back! (Ha) The menu is variable, but the server can also assist in ordering a "bartender's choice" by asking what you like and making a surprise cocktail. Lots of fun and with great results! They can also make standard cocktails on request. However, their unconventional options are really fun and delicious. The atmosphere is relaxed and dim, with loud music making it a good spot for an intimate chat. (Note, my camera did some night correction making it look brighter than it is.)

First time visit from out of town. Glad to see the cocktail game is alive and well in Boston. This place has amazing talent and vibe to go with it. Service was attentive and the bartender really helped you navigate the menu to help you find what you like. COVID-19 vaccination is required to enter. It looks like their menu theme changes often but I'll add photos to this review. The Panda Bear and Smokey the Bear were delicious.

Very clever menu but definitely has some areas for improvement 1) Atmosphere - feels like a dive bar but charges like a fancier cocktail bar ($14 per cocktail ) 2) Drinks taste too much like liquor instead of flavorful 3) Very cramped and crowded space 4) Service - we were given a standing table that was right next to the cash register such that my elbow kept hitting the cash register. A bit surprised by the review — as high as Blossom Bar and Yvonne’s but the experience isn’t as strong

The staff here are extremely nice and kind. One of the wait staff sat outside with me to make sure I got home safe. Loved the atmosphere and the bartender kept making drinks based on the conversations we were having. It has a speakeasy kind of vibe and it’s hard to find, but it’s by far my favorite bar I’ve been to in the Boston area

Could not rate this place any higher. Going back for the third time, I was excited about the LOTR week and the social media managers assured me I could order those drinks even after the special ended. My sister and I were able to go the week after, and after learning why we were so eager about the drinks (our mom passed recently and loved the series, it is special to our family), they even created special menus for us! The manager brought over a little Gandalf Lego figure to our delight and let me keep it…I have the Saruman one already! I teared up at their kindness, playfulness, and understanding. It is pretty special to find a bar owned and staffed by people like this. Go to Backbar - but go early, they have many fans like me ready to take up their few tables!