The Bell In Hand Tavern
45-55 Union St, Boston
(617) 227-2098
Recent Reviews
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Great music and beers! Happy to have a brew where are county began.
Very nice and authentic place! I loved it!
Well not very often do you get to say you have had a beverage at the oldest tavern s in the United States. That was a must have opportunity and we took it.
We were able to get a table without a wait (got lucky with that). We were able to talk normally and had no issues with the noise or acoustics. The wait staff was very good and attentive. We didn't have any food, but the beverages were good.
I stopped in on Sunday, July 6 for a drink and a quick bite. I sat at the bar and after I arrived it quickly got busy. The bartender, Denver, was phenomenal. He moved quickly and efficiently and served everyone with a joke and a smile, all while moving at a quick pace. I was really impressed with his service.
Bell in Hand Tavern: Historic Charm with a Lively Pulse 🍻🎶
Stepping into the Bell in Hand Tavern feels like a walk through history – and it truly is, as America's oldest continuously operating tavern since 1795! You can almost feel the echoes of revolutionaries and literary giants in its walls. For that historical gravitas alone, it's definitely worth a visit.
The atmosphere is undeniably vibrant, especially on weekend nights. It often gets packed with a younger crowd, giving it a high-energy, almost party-like vibe. If you're looking for a quiet, intimate chat, this might not be your top pick, as it can get quite loud. However, if you're in the mood for a lively night out, meeting new people, and enjoying a bustling bar scene, Bell in Hand delivers. They sometimes even have live bands, which adds to the fun.
As for the food, it's solid pub fare. Their Fish & Chips get a lot of rave reviews, with some even calling them the best they've had! Other popular options include their lobster rolls, sliders, and standard bar appetizers. While the food isn't necessarily gourmet, it's satisfying and exactly what you'd expect from a historic tavern.
Overall, Bell in Hand is a fantastic spot for its historical significance and its undeniably fun, energetic atmosphere. It's a prime location near Faneuil Hall, making it a great stop for tourists and those looking to soak in some authentic Boston nightlife. Just be prepared for a crowd, especially if you go on a busy night! It’s a 4-star experience for its unique blend of history and spirited good times.
Went for the fourth and DJ P aka Paul was on and he absolutely smashed it, I had the time of my life here. Great bartenders and security.
Glad I got to say I had been there. Beer was fine, we didn't have any food while we were there. I went hoping for a centuries old bar but it was small, updated, and busy. I would go back again but not out of my way to do so.
Great service, good food, and thank God the bathroom isn't original from 1795!!!
It's not a cheap place but it is the first tavern in America. And they have tap to pay .
Food is really tasty
Great historic tavern. They have 3 bars inside, and they play live music.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Bowl of New England Clam Chowder, Chicken Wings
Restaurantji Recommends
The bartender was very friendly and on top of our order. This is what you want - a touristy place that provides great food and drink with fantastic service. Highly recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great spot for drinks and apps.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
The food was delicious. I got the hot lobster roll which was a very generous portion and then my daughter got the baked mac and cheese that was excellent. Fries were quite good as well. Service was very good.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This place is the balls or should I say the bells, hahahah. The drink selection is out of this world. Anything you can imagine they have it. The workers are super nice and the burger was delicious. Super juicy burger and some amazing fries. If you’re on the fence about where to eat, this is the place! Kid friendly as well!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great spot to unwind.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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