Dine & Cook | Alternative food journalism

Boston has rightfully earned the reputation of being one of the United States’ most historic cities.  Between colonial history, presidential legacies, museums, tours and memorials, it’s hard to turn a corner in this city without being reminded of America’s past.

And a lot of this history was made in Boston’s pubs, what’s more patriotic than enjoying a pint or two?

Here is our top five historic Boston pubs.

Union Oyster House; 41 Union Street, Boston

The Union Oyster House opened its doors in 1826 and is known as the oldest, continuously operating restaurant in the United States.  Located in the heart of the Freedom Trail it is a perfect spot to take a break from “learning” and “reflection” and settle down with a cold one.  While the Union Oyster House does still serve food, you would be wise to stick with a beer and a trip to their raw bar for sustenance.

The Warren Tavern; 2 Pleasant Street, Charlestown

Any good first-time visitor to Boston should make a trip to the legendary Bunker Hill Monument.  After climbing to the top to see with your own eyes what the Revolutionary slogan “don’t shoot until you see the white’s of their eyes” looks like, you deserve a celebratory pint and the Warren Tavern is just the place to do it.  The tavern has been in the same spot, same building, since 1780.  That means that the wall you’re leaning against could possibly have been leaned on by George Washington.

21st Amendment; 150 Bowdoin Street, Boston

Originally built in 1899 as part of a luxurious hotel, 21st Amendment, though under different names, has served as a hot spot for local celebrities.  From Louisa May Alcott to John F. Kennedy, all used to call this bar their own.  The name today pays tribute to the constitutional amendment that repealed the ban of alcohol, and throughout the establishment you can read snippets of newspaper articles dating back to the prohibition period.

Marliave; 10 Bosworth Street, Boston

In the great tradition of Boston being made up of all different nationalities, Marliave, located in the Downtown Crossing district, was originally opened in 1885 by French immigrant Henry Marliave.  Lost to time, local restaurateur Scott Herritt reopened the space a couple years back and the newly reincarnated Marliave pay homage to its past greatness.  The original Marliave survived prohibition and throughout the bar the décor pays homage to this.  Signs line the bar’s walls informing patrons of exactly what was allowed and not allowed during the reign of alcohol regulation.  Marliave also serves some great food and has an extensive cocktail list.

Beantown Pub; 100 Tremont Street, Boston

Our final stop on our historic pubs list here in Boston really isn’t all that historic at all.  The Beantown Pub is not old, nor particularly known for anything other than the simple fact that it is the only spot in the world where you can enjoy a pint of Samuel Adams Lager, while looking at Samuel Adams’ grave.  That’s right-- the restaurant faces one of the oldest and most beloved cemeteries which serves as the final resting spot for Samuel Adams, as well as several other notable Bostonians.

Fiona Coxe lives in Boston, you can read more of her writing at A Boston Food Diary.