Brendan Behan Pub

Brendan Behan Pub in Jamaica Plain is one of the few truly traditional Irish pubs left in Boston. There’s no kitchen, but that hardly matters. The pub is built around conversation, community, and a well-poured pint. Travelers and locals mix easily here, and the room often fills with the sound of live Irish session music on weekends.

The bar offers a strong lineup of craft beers, wines by the glass, and classic cocktails, with Guinness a clear favorite. If you’re lucky, a visiting food pop-up might appear — everything from burritos to oyster shucking or sushi has shown up over the years. Inside, the atmosphere is comfortably old-school. Portraits of Irish writers line the walls, there’s a dartboard for a casual game, and the lack of TVs keeps the focus on conversation. Free popcorn is always on hand, and the outdoor patio with large communal tables makes a good gathering spot in warmer weather.

The pub is cash only, though there’s an ATM outside if you forget. Simple, welcoming, and full of character, Brendan Behan remains a true neighborhood institution.