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Drink

4 star rating
based on 203 reviews

Category: Lounges  [Edit]

Neighborhoods: Waterfront, South Boston
348 Congress St
Boston, MA 02228
(617) 695-1806
Nearest Transit:

Courthouse (Silver)

South Station (Silver, Red)

Parking:
Street
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Price Range:
$$
Good for Groups:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
No
Outdoor Seating:
No
Music:
DJ
Best Nights:
Mon, Thu, Sat
Happy Hour:
No
Alcohol:
Full Bar
Smoking:
No
Coat Check:
No

203 reviews for Drink

Review Highlights   

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"This is a great reason to come to Fort Point." (in 14 reviews)
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"Hands down best bar and bartenders in Boston." (in 86 reviews)
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"Overall, a cool place to get an excellent cocktail." (in 57 reviews)
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Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites'
Photo of Sam G.

 

32

19

Sam G.

Cambridge, MA

5 star rating
11/17/2009

Dear Drink,

I am angry. I am angry because your drinks are so good, your bartenders so skilled, that I can never be fully satisfied by another bar.* If I ever move, my thirsty destitution might kill me.

Angstily,
Sam

* Other than Eastern Standard

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Photo of Melissa P.

Elite '09

71

43

Melissa P.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
11/17/2009

As evidence by their kabillion five stars it has received, the wonderfulness of Drink has not been lost to drink reviewers. I found myself sipping on cocktails made by bartenders dressed in fedoras, tweed, and suspenders and look more like a team of 1930's reporters than bartenders. And, oh yes, does this team really know their shtick. What a lucky girl am I to be taken here on a date.

At Drink you will find beverages made with the best kept secrets of mixology, here revealed: homemade bitters (including chocolate mole), freshly picked herbs, squeezed citrus (which I was told gets squeezed a lot on Fridays and Saturdays). There is plenty of bar and table seating. The bar wraps around the bartender so you can watch them while they shake their little hearts out and pour you somewhat of a fickle drink of cleverly layered flavors.

The staff adds to the experience, solid suggestions of what you should drink, the fact that they never seem to be scurrying you is a relief at a place with such abundance of choices. If you get lost in making a decision, they will patiently suggest drinks based on what you might be in the mood for tasting. "I would like something bright and asparagus please...and make it with bourbon!" And what you will get? A well-made, handsome, thought provoking drink.

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Photo of Daniel R.

 

0

12

Daniel R.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
11/13/2009

This place should cost far more than it is.

In trips to NYC it's hard to find a place this thoughtful and technical in approach. Indecisive girlfriend? No problem, just give them your palate profile and they'll create something for you while regaling you with the full history behind the concept. If you're looking for a rum and coke, get the hell out- this is a place offering an opportunity to appreciate a rare find; a well balanced cocktail.

It gets a bit packed on the weekends, so this is really an ideal Thursday night spot. Everything (except for the liquor) is made in house. I think the only price point skew is in their appetizers, however their steak tar-tar is worth the full $12. $10 dollars for a drink that you would have tremendous difficulty finding elsewhere in the pub cluttered Boston is worth every penny.

I will continue to head here as long as they can maintain their service and content; even the atmosphere is welcoming with that contemporary streak.

My favorite place for a quiet, composed, and thoughtful drink.

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Photo of Jeff C.

 

0

6

Jeff C.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
11/22/2009

Hands down the best drinks in Boston. There isn't much else to say. And somehow Drink manages to pull it all off without the pretentious vibe of similar high-end establishments.

Weekend evenings are packed, so I'd recommend trying an off night and time. The quieter vibe coupled with personable bar tenders make for the perfect night out.

While Sportello upstairs excellent, the appetizer food menu at Drink is light, fun and tasty.

I'm just hoping it doesn't get too much more popular so I can keep getting a seat.

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Photo of Ellen C.

Elite '09

28

111

Ellen C.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
11/8/2009

Awesome.  Unlike many of my college-y friends, I'm completely fine with paying $10 for a drink, as long as I like the atmosphere and it's delicious.  It's not affordable all the time, but both of these were the case. It was disappointing they couldn't seat eight of us together, but given we showed up on a Saturday night at peak hours, I'm not surprised.  The corner seats are great if you have four people. Much easier to talk.

Onto the good stuff: They really do attempt to make something you'll like. On our first drinks we were all very vague and ended up with delicious things. On the second round we all had specific criteria from having watched all the ingredients go by, and again winners.

Two things stood out about the bar tenders:
1) My friend Erik said something along the lines of "hey do you know that Brazilian drink with egg yolks" and they figured out what he meant- turns out it's Chilean, Egg White and has a huge history.
2) My friend Alyshia said "I want something pear, vanilla, and with a twist!"  The bartender looked horrified, and explained in detail the types of flavors a twist and other garnish add to the drink, and why they're so important.

A final note? The Ginger Beer is awesome. Order a dark and stormy. Or, if you'd rather have something you can't get at home, order something with one of their fresh juices.

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Photo of alison k.

Elite '09

18

58

alison k.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
11/8/2009

Oh man I have found my favourite bar in Boston for sure. Everyone has said it all before and I do feel that I am jumping on the bandwagon, but the concotions at Drink are serioulsy yummy and very very reasonable for the quality (and quantity) of the pour.

I had my first Dark and Stormy here on Friday, and, whilst I am still not a rum convert, it was absolutely fabulous. As I wanted to sample what that the bartender would recommend for a gin lover, I didn't partake of a second, instead opting to leave my choice of drink to the liquor gods. Let's just say, this was a very very wise move - even for a control freak like me!! The gin gin (or whatever it was called - basically subbing the rum in the D and S for gin) was sooooooooo amazing and worked really well the the divine ginger beer.

Thanks yelpers for introducing me to Drink and I am truly sorry that there will now be at least another 2 people angling for space at the bar!

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Photo of Evan Y.

 

12

10

Evan Y.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
11/1/2009

I don't really want to give Drink a good review because it gets crowded enough as it is. I know it's a yelp cliche to say that, but it's completely true when it comes to drink.

At 10 dollars, the drinks here are well worth the money, not to mention strong and very very tasty. The really amazing thing about Drink is the amazing atmosphere. The bartenders are not only knowledgeable, but very chill and easy to chat with. This was the first bar to break me out of my normal Asian night hangout routine (I had a bar/club for every night of the week), which is saying quite a bit.

This place does get crowded however and it can be a pain to get a drink (when they take more than 5 minutes to make), but it's still definitely worth it.

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Photo of Kelly Z.

Elite '09

53

162

Kelly Z.

District of Columbia, DC

5 star rating
Updated - 10/22/2009

I keep coming back and bringing more people, and I don't even live in Boston anymore. There's no question, it's just not worth spending money on alcohol anywhere else after tasting how good it can be here.

I brought my foreign cousin here on our one coinciding night in Boston. At first she declined a cocktail at all (!!), claiming she doesn't really like alcohol. Then I coerced her into trying my St. Germaine Sour and she decided she wanted "something like it, but less sweet". That's the perfect sort of order for Drink bar staff-- they made her an Aqueduct and she conceded that it was very tasty indeed.

We both enjoyed the truffled gougeres and the grilled cheese (with fancy mustard and carmelized onions). Though we only had one (tiny) order of each, it was enough of a dinner for the two of us to split. Not bad!

She was struck by the niceness of the other patrons, and that it wasn't just a dive. Nice!

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 5 star rating
    2/9/2009

    I'm a lightweight.*
    And a teetotaler.

    This place makes developing a tolerance totally worth it.
    I'm not… Read more »

Photo of Peter M.

 

0

1

Peter M.

Charlestown, Boston, MA

3 star rating
10/25/2009

6 stars for the drinks. 2 stars for the mingle potential. I watched for about 2 hours and didn't see a single person try to talk to anyone outside the people they arrived with. I tried to chat a couple of people up (I'm friendly, smart and not ugly) and was rebuffed. Probably the first night I've ever gone out and didn't meet anyone or even have a conversation with anyone. Boston tends to have this problem more than other cities I've lived in.

Great place to take a group or SO with if you don't expect to interact with anyone else. I just find that attitude odd, so this is not my scene other than the drink quality. (They have multiple types of Manhattans!)

On the good side, the bartenders don't mix drinks; they craft them. And the ambiance is classy without being pretentious. And the lighting is low, and the music is not so loud that you have to yell (Why are there not more places like that?) But apparently not conducive to mingling or simple friendliness.

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Photo of lauralee s.

 

9

41

lauralee s.

Boston, MA

4 star rating
10/26/2009

How about a little essence of lemon in your beverage?  Okay.  Wait, let me slice off a piece of lemon peel, squeeze and twist it, shimmy it over your beverage while educating you on the fine ingrediants I have added to your cocktail.  Hold on, let me chip off a few ice cubes, shake till my elbows smack me back and then garnish away on the drink I just invented for you.  

Who am I?  Your bartender at the ever entertaining, great atmosphered Drink.

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Photo of MiRIAM w.

Elite '09

2033

2091

MiRIAM w.

New York, NY

5 star rating
9/28/2009

As I watched my barkeep shave thin slices of grapefruit rind and line my glass with them, I knew I was gonna love whatever he served me. This made to order libation turned out to be a lot like a grapefruit version of a creamsicle, which might just be my idea of a perfection in a glass. Balanced and not overly sweet, this was one of the most outstanding drinks I've had the pleasure of sipping lately.

If you're a fan of Apothéke, Flatiron Lounge or Raines Law Room in New York,  Bourbon & Branch in San Francisco, or The Gibson in Washington, D.C. you'll appreciate Drink in Boston.

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Photo of Hillary M.

Elite '09

18

87

Hillary M.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
Updated - 11/9/2009

Man, as if I didn't love Drink enough already, I am currently 'in the family way' and was very happy to learn that one does not have to avoid the bar in this state.  In fact, Drink will whip up all sorts of awesomeness sans alcohol for a mere $3!!!!

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 5 star rating
    12/8/2008

    OK, the first review I wrote I was still pretty buzzed from my drinks at drinks - so, you see, it… Read more »

Photo of Linda E.

 

8

32

Linda E.

Suffolk, MA

3 star rating
10/25/2009

Not sure what the huge fascination with this place is all about.  I've been here twice and the drinks were ok.  I asked the bartender to make me something I might like, but not too sweet and it was very sweet unfortunately.  I hear they make drinks based on your personality....do I look like I need a sweet drink because I can't handle a strong one?

I went again for a friends going away party on a Thursday, it wasn't very crowded and it was good to chat with my friends.  People rarely chat with people they don't know here, so if you are going here to meet people, this isn't the place.  I saw a few couples who looked like they were probably on a first date.

This place is good, the prices aren't too bad, but the flat set up of 3 spread out bars and no music playing at all makes for little or no interaction with random people.

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Photo of Angelina C.

Elite '09

39

92

Angelina C.

Jamaica Plain, MA

4 star rating
10/21/2009

This place doesn't need another glowing review (though mine is  one, too) but I'm writing to say how much I love whisky and bourbon. Especially when the temperature outside dips below chilly. In my mind "winter = whisky" and, boy, does this place have it goin' on.

My Sazerac the first time around was syrupy, spicy and a little liquorice-y. A perfect twist on an Old Fashioned. The next time brought me in for a Vieux Carre (I'd asked the barkeep for something "warming"). It did the trick: smooth, a little sweet and strong. The Vieux Carre required a larger chunk of ice to keep me from falling off  the chair.

Drink is wonderful. Period. There are fewer places with friendlier service or such a cozy atmosphere. I also really like the preserved bugs on the walls. (Booze *and* oddities of nature? Yes, please.) Drink is a little out of my way to make it a consistent go-to, but I'll be back next time I'm in the 'hood.

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Photo of Karen C.

 

20

82

Karen C.

Norwalk, CT

5 star rating
10/19/2009

You would never even know this place is here...I didn't. I almost walked right by as my friend practically pulled me through the door!

I had heard they had good gingerbeer so after talking with the bartender who thought I might like a dark & stormy (gingerbeer with rum), I said I wasn't a huge rum fun so they recommended a Moscow Mule (gingerbeer with vodka)...PERFECT!

Very strong ginger taste and so delicious!

I like the decor of this place, dark and intimate yet inviting. They have a place near the door to hang up coats and have a pretty ample bar area. Despite coming in around 10/10:30 on a Friday night my friend and I waited just a couple minutes to grab 2 stools at the bar.

Prices aren't bad, especially considering the level of service you get from the bartenders. I look forward to coming back!

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Photo of Sara S.

Elite '09

327

578

Sara S.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
Updated - 10/5/2009

In my personal opinion, bar tender Sam is the man.

He works wonders with cilantro!

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 5 star rating
    1/31/2009

    Um.

    This place is ridiculous.

    Ridiculously AWESOME!

    What the eff is wrong with me? Why haven't I come… Read more »

Photo of chris k.

 

10

51

chris k.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
11/10/2009

Hands down best bar and bartenders in Boston. That is all.

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Photo of John P.

Elite '09

26

75

John P.

Cambridge, MA

5 star rating
9/29/2009

You go to Drink because you don't just want a cocktail.  You want a particular experience.

First, you descend an anonymous staircase into a broad, dimly lit room with exposed brick and bare bulbs.  Take an empty seat (or stand along the side, near the placarded bugs) and get the attention of one of the men or ladies in the vest and suspenders.

Don't place an order.  Give them a preference.  "Something with gin," perhaps.  Or: "I'm feeling like a Manhattan."  Or: "something sweet, but also strong."

The bartender will vanish for some length of time (2 to 4 minutes) and return with a glass, some herbs that were ground onsite, and a bottle of expensive liquor.  He or she will narrate the drink that they're pouring you: its history, its ingredients, the bar at which it was invented.  The concoction appears on a small napkin, with a shot glass of palate-cleansing water set next to it just so.

Many of the other reviews complain about the price or the crowds.  The cocktails are pricey and the place does get crowded on a Friday (name a bar worth going to in Boston that doesn't).  As I said, you're paying - in cash and elbow room - for a singular cocktail experience.  If you want to feel like a classier human being than 40 hours in a cubicle would suggest, Drink is the only place to go.  Everywhere else is just faking it.

Protip: They have a bar menu: expensive appetizers in small portions.  Get a burger or some pasta at Lucky's across the street, then settle in here for cocktails.

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Photo of Mary B.

Elite '09

71

152

Mary B.

Malden, MA

4 star rating
9/28/2009

Come to Drink armed with the following:
- plenty of $
- an open drinking palate
- time
- patience

The place is a bit hard to find, you inevitably walk past the door and see all the people in the basement and have to circle back. The sign is tiny and at a height that's perfect for an alcoholic 5 year old to read. But I think that's all part of the charm that makes you feel kinda special when you finally make your way inside.

There was a host dude, who looked like he could have been an extra in Gangs of New York. The seating is first come, first serve, but he will help point out if there's any open spots and save you the trouble of wandering the crowds. He also helped us close our tab later, he's supa dupa.

It was pretty full around 8 pm on a Friday but my partner in crime and I found a couple seats at the bar. We told the bartender what we were in the mood for and ordered a series of drinks over the next couple hours.  Most were amazing (including the most exquisite looking mint julep ever), there was one that was a definite miss.  My advice is - be clear if there are things you want or do not want going on in your drink.  The grilled cheese was expensive but very good. I'm a h0r for melted cheese when I'm drinking through, so I'm not a truly fair judge. They also dropped off free roasted chickpeas and olives.

The service was very good when we got there, but really dropped off towards 10 pm, they literally forgot about us until I tipsily waved my arm at the bartender. "HAI!!!" I'll chalk it up to them being very busy but I'm glad I legitimately didn't have anywhere I needed to be because I would have been way more annoyed.  

I really enjoyed my time here overall and will be back, armed with the knowledge above and a powerful thirst for lovely beverages.

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Photo of Chris C.

 

2

18

Chris C.

Boston, MA

4 star rating
11/10/2009

Certainly not at all overstated (Drink is nearly impossible to find if you don't know the area), Drink manages to serve up some impressive drinks at prices that are...well, nearly overstated.  On your way to the bar, you can expect a second-guess or two on the directions since the place has no sign visible from the street.  Located in the basement of a moderately sized commercial building, Drink is identified only by a small sign on the interior door (take a right in the hallway once you enter the proper building and go down the little steps...yup, you're going the right way).  Once you've reached this point, Drink will be proud to let you in on its little secret.

I was immediately struck with how small the place was.  I expected something larger, for the reputation it had, and I also didn't expect it to simply be, a bar...and nothing more.  However, there were plenty of bartenders willing to jump in and make you a drink (or two, or more).  Certainly a welcoming touch...if you can find a seat.

We gave fairly open-ended drink orders in an attempt to challenge our bartender's creativity, and were very well rewarded.  I ended up having a house drink, which I didn't find quite as interesting as the "something sparkly and sweet" my girlfriend ended up with.  Before we left, I gave it another shot and was mixed a lovely, minty concoction similar to a mojito with less sweet and more mint.

I was satisfied enough with this last drink to decide Drink was worth returning to, despite the $10+ dollars we paid for each drink.  It was certainly a memorable experience, especially when we were offered service from one bartender only to be "sniped" by another bartender clearly more hungry for our tips.  Awkward?  Yes!  Necessary?  No!  

In summary, definitely check out Drink.  The drinks are tasty and it's quite a fun little adventure, between finding the place and having the bartenders compete for your business.  I must say, however, that this last quality in addition to the high prices, cost this establishment a star.

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Photo of Rosie Z.

 

5

5

Rosie Z.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
11/10/2009

Very attentive service even on busy nights. I am not picky so every time loved the drinks they made. Interesting decor and the crowd is surprisingly not pretentious. Considering the quality of the drink, prices are very reasonable.

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Photo of Stephanie G.

Elite '09

16

56

Stephanie G.

Somerville, MA

5 star rating
9/22/2009

Since the very first time I went to Drink, it has been my favorite bar in Boston. The atmosphere is fantastic - low lights, soft acoustics (so you can hear the people you're with - how novel!) and the bartenders look professional in a way that makes me feel I'm somewhere that important people go.

But the drinks, the drinks. There is no menu, and when I go I just tell them what I'm feeling like. They'll make the drink for me based on what ingredients I want - grapefruit juice, something with lime, something in season. Plus they always have some special ingredient that they're featuring that's good to try.

I think all the drinks are around $10. Some are very small though - this place is not a deal, it's just the best done cocktails in Boston.

I've never gotten the food there because there is very bad price-to-food ratio (the servings are tiiiiiny).

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Photo of Mindy L.

Elite '09

9

125

Mindy L.

Somerville, MA

5 star rating
9/30/2009

I had never heard of Drink before my first experience - not only was I going to Drink for the first time, but I was going on a first date as well. As far as a great spot for a first date goes...Drink is key. If things don't go well (which they did for me!!!) it is such a unique place that the conversation can ebb and flow and you still find yourself entertained.

Things important to note: There are no menus (with the exception of an appetizer menu that features about ten items) and the reason for this is that you are being served by world-class bartenders. You tell them the flavors you like, the kind of alcohol you prefer and they make it for you from scratch. And from scratch means...they are squeezing the fruits in front of you, they are chipping ice from huge blocks into your glass...it's no joke!

I had two drinks here (I believe each drink is a standard $15 if I'm not mistaken) - one was a dark'n'stormy that was so spicy (they use a signature, home-brewed ginger beer) that I swear I grew hair on my chest. Bet you like that imagery. The second, I just told our bartender that I wanted something light and fruity. She made me a "Sky Pilot" and as she poured the drink from the mixer into the glass she called out "skkkkyyyyyyy ppiiiiiilot". Lol - well worth it (as was the date). :-)

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Photo of Cindy C.

Elite '09

35

178

Cindy C.

New York, NY

5 star rating
Updated - 9/10/2009

TIKI sundays are the BEST

i'm only sorry that I discovered the place so late and didnt get to know sam, the best bartender earlier. He makes awesome drinks and plays with his coconut breasts on tiki sundays.

i am so there.

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 4 star rating
    6/27/2009

    I've been here twice now, and I've been quite satisfied both times. Personally, the mojitos are one… Read more »

Photo of Matthew S.

 

0

6

Matthew S.

Brooklyn, NY

5 star rating
10/12/2009

I went in with pretty high expectations and was not disappointed.  Granted, was there on a Tuesday night and as such, avoided the crowds, but sometimes you've just got to go out in the middle of the week.

I was with a group and we each got 3-4 drinks and got to sample a wide variety of things.  We had to do the usual "tell the bartender a flavor/mood/color/etc." and see what they come up with, and they did not disappoint.  Bonus points for a spicy tequila/chile pepper concoction as well as a gin/basil/lemon balm mixture.

In short, excellent vibe, wonderful drinks, and a menu of small plates that looked delicious had we not eaten 20 minutes before arriving.

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Photo of Heidi L.

 

36

91

Heidi L.

Cerritos, CA

5 star rating
9/10/2009

Awesome awesome place.  Like my friend Courtney said, we came here for her birthday and we were all pleasantly surprised.

First I was surprised by the location.  Totally would not have found it on my own.  There are no signs outside and it's below Sportello.  I was then surprised by the crowd.  For a random Tuesday night it was a good mix of people, luckily not too crowded.  I can only imagine how packed it gets on the weekends.  My next surprise came when the bartender told us there's no drink menu, she was just going to make us a drink based on our preferences.  I told her I'm a girly fruit drink person and off she went to mix a drink.  My raspberry grapefruit gin with egg white foam was delicious!  I didn't even know it was egg whites until she told me.  I love how they really care to make you a drink you WANT to drink.  My next drink was slightly bitter but I didn't want to complain until she convinced me that she'd rather make a good drink than a drink I'd have to deal with.

I have a friend who is EXTREMELY picky when it comes to alcoholic drinks so I'm going to bring her here to find something she'll like!

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Photo of Trevor S.

 

9

27

Trevor S.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
10/7/2009

You know that place hidden in a dark part of town you'd never really go to? That place you wouldn't see if you walked right past it, hidden in plain site?

Well that's Drink.

It's in some old industrial basement with odd looking lights. The bar itself is stocked with obscure and wonderful liquors, and staffed with people who know how to use them. It's rare to find a place with a selection of different bitters. It's rare to find a place that squeezes fresh fruit juice when a cocktail calls for it.

Great find.

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Photo of Courtney P.

Elite '09

11

144

Courtney P.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
9/10/2009 1 photo

OMG this place is AWESOME!

I was looking for a unique place to go on my birthday for a few drinks that wasn't one of my usual haunts. After searching on Yelp, I read all of Drink's reviews and just had to check it out.

I took my boyfriend and my friend, and since we don't really hang out in Fort Point, I was surprised by how deserted the area is on a Tuesday night. Not expecting crowds, but did expect some more people. Finding Drink is definitely not the easiest, but I didn't have much trouble after using my handy Yelp app on my iPhone. (Can you tell I'm a Yelp addict???)

We sat down and I told my friends that I read about this place and that they make drinks for you based on what you say you like. I even mentioned that sometimes they put egg white in them which I thought was very different. The bartender comes up to us and explains that there is no cocktail menu but take a look and she'll be back to have a conversation. SWEET! Now I'm pumped. Since it's my birthday she recommends champagne. I get some French something with some lemon zest in it. I usually don't like champagne but it was so refreshing! My friend says she likes fruity. "Are you allergic to egg?" the bartender replies. She gets egg white in her drink! I was so glad because I really wanted to try it out. It makes it so frothy!

I was incredibly impressed with how intimate the conversation is with the bartender. We started asking her about Absinthe since none of us had ever actually tried it. She explained how to drink it, gave a demonstration using water of how to pour it, told us what countries make the best kind, explained the offending ingredient that the US makes them take out, and even gave us all a tiny taste of it. I could taste in in my mouth for like an hour after it. Wow is that stuff strong!

Seriously very impressed by this place! I probably won't be going all the time as it is a hike, and I'm sure I'd spend a ton of money there every time, but I will DEFINITELY be back. I'm not sure how it could be that good when it was busy, so I would prefer to go to Drink on a slow night. It might just be the coolest bar I've ever been to.

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Photo of Jennifer N.

Elite '09

17

220

Jennifer N.

Cambridge, MA

1 star rating
9/27/2009

Totally over-rated cramped basement bar; Drink features a bunch of awkward places where one can lean, balancing one's jacket, handbag, and a drink.  It feels as if no thought was put into how to organize the space, and so people are inevitably bumping into each other, made worse by the suspender-clad expert-bartenders who are roaming around suggesting drinks to patrons.  So the deal is you tell the bartender "hey, I like something fruity," and he produces something fruity. The problem is oftentimes, he'll produce something that tastes like hell (as was the case with my friend, who was given something that tasted like spit infused cough syrup).  Thankfully, the bartender was gracious enough to take it back.

Oh- the other weird thing is that if you are going to Drink as a pre-Sportello wrap-up, they don't exactly seem to be coordinated.  You can't take your drink from Drink upstairs, nor does the Drink staff seem able to communicate with Sportello to let them know that you are on your way up.

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5

37

Ryuji S.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
11/2/2009

If you are a conspiracy theorist who believes that the world is run by a couple of powerful men and women never mentioned by the mainstream media, they would be meeting in a bar like this one. It has style, good relaxed atmosphere, and simply awesome drinks. I'm sort of glad that it's out of the way for many people, and it's not easy to find. Only those who know this place go there for some simple purposes, to enjoy good drinks and conversation, period.

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2

13

Hieu H.

Atlanta, GA

4 star rating
9/30/2009

Blink...and you'll miss the sign for Drink.

Reminiscent of a modern "speak-easy". A non-descript sign down a non-descript stairway is the only indication that there's something waiting around the corner.

Open the door, and you're instantly hit with a wave of noise and sea of people knee-deep at the bar.

There's no drink menu here, just tell the mixologist what you're in the mood for, and he'll probability take ten minutes to make it, but those ten minutes are pure entertainment.

He'll start off by putting a clean fresh white napkin in front of you and pour you a glass of water and the theatrics begin...

I wanted something "fruity, but not girly". He made me a drink with St. Germaine Elderflower liqueur. Seems like this libation may be the next "big" thing in drink trends.

I was mesmerized at the skill he used to make my drink. Each movement led into the next in what seemed to be a carefully choreographed dance of flare and finesse.

And the drink was exactly what I wanted, but it ain't cheap, but it's well worth the price of admission.

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15

27

Calli C.

Somerville, MA

5 star rating
9/16/2009

Walking down the stairs into Drink is like walking into an alternate universe, where the bartenders are extremely well-versed in their craft, the atmosphere classy and comfortable, and the drinks delight the senses.

The name of the place sums it up perfectly. Every aspect of Drink revolves around the innate pleasure that comes with a well-mixed cocktail. The first thing one notices is the decor: warm light but not dim, with dark wood and exposed brick walls, while the legs of people walking the street above gives it a speakeasy feel. This is a place where people go to actually talk to each other, not to shout over loud music or yell at a sports event on TV. In fact, there are no TVs - a huge plus.

On a Thursday after work, we easily found two seats at the bar and started munching on - spiced fried chickpeas and olives? Amazing. After asking us what we wanted, the bartender served me up a Gin Gin Mule. I forget what my friend ordered, as I was so wrapped up in the ecstasy of my own drink - made with real ginger beer! - but our drinks were served with small glasses of still water, which were perfect for cleansing the palate before each sip.

The bar food is served exclusively to complement the drinks. If you want a real meal, go upstairs. We had the decadent grilled cheese with carmelized onions and the ham on biscuits, which were perfect in their proportions. We drank more, talked more with our fellow barmates and bartenders, and felt right at home.

So give your wallet some exercise and go to drink. You'll thank yourself later.

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11

82

Phat B.

Salem, MA

5 star rating
9/25/2009

Best execution of an Old Fashioned anywhere in the city (w/ Rye, not Bourbon). And if you get bourbon, on the rocks, it is a ROCK. One big block of ice in your rocks glass. As I was told, it keep the dilution of the bourbon to a minimum, and provides the cooling temp. I usually order Bourbon neat, but have been impressed by this one big block method.

Side bar: can we line up and shoot reviewers who complain about a place being crowded during prime drinking hours? What the F do you expect?

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7

18

Ryan M.

Norwood, MA

2 star rating
10/31/2009

I had to ask around to make sure I hadn't mistaken the date. This was 1am on a WEEKnight, right? The place was crowded -- hipsters as far as the eye could see.
Interestingly enough, the $10-20 cocktails hadn't driven them away. If anything, I imagine the allure of spending too much on pretentious alcohol was the very thing that drove them in flocks to be there.
So much for drinks based on my personality, the bartender barely made eye contact with me while taking my order -- too busy talking to more interesting-looking people, I guess. But my French 75 was good. Not amazing, but good. I didn't discover anything new in the realm of French 75-dom by partaking of it, nor did the bartender bother to tell me what sort of champagne they used, or where their lemons were organically grown.
However, I imagine they used the expensive stuff (not that I could taste it in a mixed drink...) because it was about $14 with taxes (not including tip) for about 3 ounces of actual drink.
Okay, so to be fair, it's not my type of bar. The decor is nice, the atmosphere is carefully tailored to be enchanting, but be prepared to pay for the hype.

GREAT date restaurant if you're paying, and you want to impress.

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Elite '09

259

255

Christopher M.

Somerville, MA

5 star rating
8/8/2009

I could tell from the smiles on all the bartenders' faces that this place was 1. going to be amazing and 2. going to be a bit more expensive than I'm used to.

It's nice when I'm right.

Had to wait a minute for a seat,  but upon sitting my butt down on a stool a very friendly bartender came over and recommended a series of drinks.  For as much as I wanted a periodista, and for as amazing as I'm sure it is, I wimped out got a pomegranate mojito I'm a sucker for mint).  You could actually see the disappointment in his eyes.    

Next time

Well, time after next.  Next time I'm getting a mint julep.

Now typically, I would expect a bartender to schlep through a drink when IWas met with that reaction, but the same time and care was put into every drink I watched him make (including my own).

The taste?  

Unreal.

The verdict?

I'll be back if my job continues.  I'll move in if I win the lottery.

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Elite '09

64

107

Alayna J.

Somerville, MA

5 star rating
8/23/2009

I am giving this bar 5 stars for its remarkably unique nature. This is the kind of bar you go to when you want to try out some new cocktails and see some impressive bartending skills. The way those female bartenders shake their cocktail shakers put all other bartenders to shame.

The bartenders here are mixologists who make an art out of their job. It's like watching a show as they chop the ice in their hand, peel the fruit right there, and shake those cocktails like they're beating off an elephant. They ask what you like and concoct some yummy new drink for you to try. They try to be creative and they definitely achieved that goal with our drinks.

If you know what you like and only like that, then be specific and tell them exactly what you want. But if its specific liquor brands you crave, then you may be out of luck. However, if you like to experiment with new drinks, they will probably find a new gem for you to call your own.

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Elite '09

47

171

Jillian Y.

Brighton, MA

4 star rating
8/13/2009

I will say from the beginning that the single missing star is based on the serious hit my wallet took at Drink (particularly on the high price of their fantastic grilled cheese sandwich!).  But, my wallet took said hit because Drink is possibly the most fantastic place ever.  So, draw your own conclusions.

First of all, Drink is a very interesting experience.  The stools are placed around the blond wood bar, and no, you may not move them (as we were so abruptly told upon entering).  That said, once we actually did get seats (on a Tuesday night, it took perhaps 15 minutes for all 5 of us to sit, not bad), we were served up with a fantastic imbibing experience.  The good:

1) At Drink, you do not consult the menu, rather, you tell your bartender what you're into, and they serve it up.  I was craving champagne, ginger, and berries - 5 minutes later, I was drinking champagne, ginger, and berries.  For real.

2) They've got every detail down.  The ice is chipped differently for each drink.  Soda-based drinks are served with glass-bottle soda.  The champagne is re-poured until the glass is perfectly full.  Love it.

3) Order the grilled cheese.  Do it.  Five perfect little slices of sandwich heaven, topped with mustard and caramelized onion. OMGNOM.

All in all, an excellent experience, but I warn: not a place to get schnockered, unless you don't work at a non-profit...

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19

31

Kim D.

Medford, MA

5 star rating
7/30/2009

I rarely give out a five star, but Drink deserves it.  The music, the atmosphere, the DRINKS... splendid!  It was my first time coming, my first UYE (as a host and as a guest) and my first Mint Julep.  

A good drink isn't a glass filled with ice, splashed with rum and pop... It takes time.  So if you're looking for a slam bam, thank you mam, please, don't come to Drink.  My mint julep was exactely what I expected, maybe a little stronger, but I was a virgin to Kentucky Bourbon...  The drinks here take time, they are developed, mixed, blended, shaken, splashed, and I swear mine had love in it...

For a Wednesday there were quite a few people there, I had an extremelly enjoyable time.  Music was varied, but good, temperature (for it being a balmy 80 degrees with 80% humidity outside) was nice inside, lighting, not to dark not to bright.. It was the goldylocks of places, "not to big, not to little, just right"

I will definitely be back...

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1

14

Amanda N.

Somerville, MA

5 star rating
9/8/2009

If I could give Drink 10 stars I would.

Thank you, thank you, thank you Drink owners for bring a cool and DIFFERENT bar to Boston.  I've been in this city for a while and have watched many a bar go from chic, different, and notable, to cookie cutter, same-old, same-old.  For once a bar which has not conformed to the Top40-Budwieser-let's play "Living on a Prayer" at midnight-industry standard.

Reasons why I will go to Drink as much as possible:

1. Our bartender gave us personalized attention and made us feel like we were the only ones there;
2. They played Michael Jackson's "P.Y.T." and Toto's "Africa" within 3 songs of each other;
3. The music was pleasant but not so loud that I couldn't speak with my friends; and
4. The drinks (I had three different ones) were FABULOUS!

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2

33

Laura C.

Boston, MA

5 star rating
10/26/2009

This is a great place for Happy Hour or any low-key drinking occasion. The bar tenders really know what they're doing, and they made us three perfect drinks based only on "I like sparkly drinks" and "make me something with mint." This is actually the only place where I've ever truly enjoyed a drink just for its taste. They are also really really good about refilling water glasses. You will never be left wondering where you're bar tender is.
I only have one complaint about this place: There seems to be a really awkward and obvious competition thing among the bar tenders. When we walked up to the bar, one bar tender started to help us, but then another came in and like, claimed us... it was strange.

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