Editors’ Choice
Barrel House American Bar, Beverly
Standout qualities: With its busy bar located in a Depression-era building, the Barrel House features a bustling dining room, authentic tin ceiling, reclaimed wood floor, period lighting, and tufted banquettes. It’s made for long chats, getting deals done, and drinking like a man. When their shakers fire overhead, you know something delicious is coming your way. Get tough with Against the Strain, made with Cynar, Campari, lemon, and rye gin. Find your inner nerd with Schrodinger’s Cat, made with bourbon, pineapple rum, rock & rye, or go for broke and try the Hot Blonde with habañero vodka, pineapple, and lime.
What’s unique: Throwback Thursdays offer up a dish reminiscent of your boyhood.
Insider tip: The steak frites is a great dish on the menu—simple and classic.
252 Cabot St., Beverly, 978-998-4627, barrelhousebeverly.com
Readers’ Choice
TIE
The Port Tavern, Newburyport
Standout qualities: Sip from a few of the 30-plus beers outside in summer or in by a warm fire on crisp evenings. Great Irish pub for a beer and a chat in the heart of Newburyport. Pulled pork nachos and shepherd’s pie are hearty offerings for hardy fellas.
What’s unique: Drink N’ Draw on the last Thursday of every month and Stump Trivia on Tuesdays.
84 State St., Newburyport, 978-465-1066, portnewburyport.com
Brick & Ash, Newburyport
Standout qualities: Comfort food and craft beer complement the pool tables, dart boards, and all-weather patio with a 60-inch TV for game days.
Insider tip: On the snack menu, Warm House Pretzels with beer mustard and Crazy Poutine can fuel an entire evening of darts and drinking.
10 Center St., Newburyport, 978-255-2642, brickandash.com