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Name: Bell In Hand Tavern
Address: 45 Union St, Boston, MA, 02108
Telephone: (617) 227-2098
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.13

Bell In Hand Tavern

45 Union St, Boston, MA, 02108

(617) 227-2098
Store is closed

Bell In Hand Tavern Menu

Appetizers

Chicken Tenders

Hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Buffalo Wings

Shrimp Wrapped In Potato Strings

Eggplant Fries

Root Fries

Buffalo Chicken Nachos & Cheese

Spicy Fried Calamari

Bruschetta

Coconut Chicken Tenders

Fresh Vegetable & Cheese Platter

Shrimp Dumplings

Angus Slider

Sampler Platter

Edamame

Shrimp Cocktail
Soups & Salad

New England Clam Chowder

Homemade Soup Of The Day

Our House Salad

Cobb Salad

Caprese Salad

Grilled Asian Chicken Salad

Crisp Caesar Salad

Buffalo Chicken Salad
Burgers & Sandwiches

Freedom Trail Burger

Black & Bleu Burger

Sam Adams Burger

Two Grilled Cheese & Tomato Sandwiches

Vegetarian Burger

Shaved Pepper Steak

Monty's Cajun Chicken

French Turkey Club

Open Faced Reuben

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Roll-up

Turkey Burger

Chicken Caesar Roll-up

Tuna Roll-up

Crispy Fish Sandwich
Tavern Favorites

Crab Cakes

Baked Scrod

Herb Battered Fish & Chips

Steamed Mussels

Marinated Steak Tips

Fisherman's Platter

Shrimp & Angel Hair Pasta

Margherita Pizza Buffalo Chicken Pizza White Pizza

Grilled Salmon

Grilled Chicken Fajitas

Baked Macaroni & Cheese

Baja Tacos

Chicken Quesadillas

Top Sirloin Steak
Dessert

Chocolate Fudge Lava Cake

Diabetics at Taco Bell

The biggest concern for diabetics is to find healthy food with less sugar at restaurants. The hunt for the right food becomes even more challenging for diabetics when dining at a fast food restaurant. Well, Taco Bell changes that with Fresco style. Simply ask or order an item from the Taco Bell menu in Fresco Style.

Food Suggestions for Diabetics at Taco Bell:

Crunchy Taco Supreme

Nutrition Fact: 190 calories, 11g Fat (4.5g Sat. Fat), 340mg sodium, 15g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein

Fresco Steak Soft Taco

Nutrition Fact: 150 calories, 4g Fat (1.5g Sat. Fat), 460mg sodium, 17g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 10g Protein

Fresco Soft Taco – Shredded Chicken

Nutrition Fact: 150 calories, 6g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 9g Protein

Fresco Soft Taco Beef

Nutrition Fact: 160 calories, 6g Fat (2.5g Sat. Fat), 480mg sodium, 18g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein

Veggie Power Menu Bowl

Nutrition Fact: 480 calories, 19g Fat (5g Sat. Fat), 970mg sodium, 65g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 13g Fiber, 14g Protein

Bean Burrito

Nutrition Fact: 380 calories, 11g Fat (4g Sat. Fat), 1060mg sodium, 55g Carbs, 3g Sugar, 9g Fiber, 14g Protein

Mini Skillet Bowl

Nutrition Fact: 180 calories, 11g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein

Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for Diabetics:

You must avoid all kinds of Drinks and Freezes at Taco Bell if you have diabetes. Almost every beverage offered at Taco Bell contains high sugar content.

High Cholesterol at Taco Bell

Fast food restaurants are known for serving high calorie, greasy food with lots of sugars. Taco Bell changes this trend by offering Fresco Style option where your favorite food item is prepared using pico de gallo as it will cut down 20 – 30 calories easily from the original meal.

Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Taco Bell:

Mini Skillet Bowl

Nutrition Fact: 180 calories, 11g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein

Breakfast Soft Taco – Egg & Cheese

Nutrition Fact: 170 calories, 9g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 330mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, less than 1g Fiber, 7g Protein

Spicy Tostada

Nutrition Fact: 210 calories, 10g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 440mg sodium, 22g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 5g Fiber, 6g Protein

Fresco Crunchy Taco – Beef

Nutrition Fact: 140 calories, 7g Fat (2.5g Sat. Fat), 300mg sodium, 14g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 6g Protein

Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla

Nutrition Fact: 200 calories, 10g Fat (3.5g Sat. Fat), 490mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 1g Fiber, 10g Protein

Crunchy Taco Supreme

Nutrition Fact: 190 calories, 11g Fat (4.5g Sat. Fat), 340mg sodium, 15g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein

Spicy Potato Soft Taco

Nutrition Fact: 230 calories, 12g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 460mg sodium, 27g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein

Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Cholesterol:

It is best to avoid Bacon or Steak dishes at Taco Bell as such dishes contain a lot of fat. Also, try to avoid all kinds of Drinks and Freezes which are full of sugars resulting in empty calories.

Healthy Meal suggestions for Bell In Hand Tavern

Appetizers

Chicken Tenders [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Buffalo Wings [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Wrapped In Potato Strings [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Eggplant Fries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Root Fries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Buffalo Chicken Nachos & Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spicy Fried Calamari [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bruschetta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coconut Chicken Tenders [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fresh Vegetable & Cheese Platter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Dumplings [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Angus Slider [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sampler Platter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Edamame [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Cocktail [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Soups & Salad

New England Clam Chowder [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Homemade Soup Of The Day [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Our House Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cobb Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caprese Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Asian Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crisp Caesar Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Buffalo Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Burgers & Sandwiches

Freedom Trail Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Black & Bleu Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sam Adams Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Two Grilled Cheese & Tomato Sandwiches [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegetarian Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shaved Pepper Steak [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Monty's Cajun Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

French Turkey Club [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Open Faced Reuben [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Roll-up [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Turkey Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Caesar Roll-up [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tuna Roll-up [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crispy Fish Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Tavern Favorites

Crab Cakes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Baked Scrod [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Herb Battered Fish & Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steamed Mussels [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marinated Steak Tips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fisherman's Platter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp & Angel Hair Pasta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Margherita Pizza Buffalo Chicken Pizza White Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Salmon [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Chicken Fajitas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Baked Macaroni & Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Baja Tacos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Quesadillas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Top Sirloin Steak [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Dessert

Chocolate Fudge Lava Cake [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

High Blood Pressure at Taco Bell

People with high blood pressure must avoid food with high sodium levels. You can either ask the people at Taco Bell to add less salt in your food or choose the food items with less sodium content or customize your order using Taco Bell's own nutrition calculator.

Food Suggestions to Control Blood Pressure at Taco Bell:

Fresco Chicken Soft Taco

Nutrition Fact: 150 calories, 6g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 9g Protein

Spicy Tostada

Nutrition Fact: 210 calories, 10g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 440mg sodium, 22g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 5g Fiber, 6g Protein

Grilled Breakfast Burrito - Sausage

Nutrition Fact: 340 calories, 17g Fat (5g Sat. Fat), 730mg sodium, 36g Carbs, 3g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 11g Protein

Veggie Power Menu Bowl

Nutrition Fact: 480 calories, 19g Fat (5g Sat. Fat), 970mg sodium, 65g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 13g Fiber, 14g Protein

Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Blood Pressure:

Taco Bell offers a wide range of Grande Scrambler Burritos, Crunch wraps, and Quesadillas which are high in sodium. It is important to limit the sodium intake at Taco Bell and avoid any meal with over 750-800mg sodium.

Visit below restaurant in Boston for healthy meals suggestion.

Boston Common Coffee Co. ( 97 Salem St )

Einstein Bros Bagels ( 725 Commonwealth Ave )

High Cholesterol at Taco Bell

Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Taco Bell:

Mini Skillet Bowl

Nutrition Fact: 180 calories, 11g Fat (2g Sat. Fat), 430mg sodium, 16g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein

Breakfast Soft Taco – Egg & Cheese

Nutrition Fact: 170 calories, 9g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 330mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, less than 1g Fiber, 7g Protein

Spicy Tostada

Nutrition Fact: 210 calories, 10g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 440mg sodium, 22g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 5g Fiber, 6g Protein

Fresco Crunchy Taco – Beef

Nutrition Fact: 140 calories, 7g Fat (2.5g Sat. Fat), 300mg sodium, 14g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 6g Protein

Shredded Chicken Mini Quesadilla

Nutrition Fact: 200 calories, 10g Fat (3.5g Sat. Fat), 490mg sodium, 15g Carbs, less than 1g Sugar, 1g Fiber, 10g Protein

Crunchy Taco Supreme

Nutrition Fact: 190 calories, 11g Fat (4.5g Sat. Fat), 340mg sodium, 15g Carbs, 2g Sugar, 3g Fiber, 8g Protein

Spicy Potato Soft Taco

Nutrition Fact: 230 calories, 12g Fat (3g Sat. Fat), 460mg sodium, 27g Carbs, 1g Sugar, 2g Fiber, 5g Protein

Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Cholesterol:

It is best to avoid Bacon or Steak dishes at Taco Bell as such dishes contain a lot of fat. Also, try to avoid all kinds of Drinks and Freezes which are full of sugars resulting in empty calories.

Visit below restaurant in Boston for healthy meals suggestion.

Einstein Bros Bagels ( 725 Commonwealth Ave )

Write An Anonymous Review

Delante B.

Just here for a company event and used my 2 drink minimum here. We took over the upstairs to this place which was fantastic for a large event. I've actually been here one other time with a friend visiting from New Hampshire, and in both cases I've had a good time. It is difficult for me to give a bar more than 3 stars when I haven't tried the food; however, now that I've just discovered that this is one of the first bars in the United States, I will bump it up a half a star for just pure historical richness. 4.5 stars so far in my book. I will be back here again.
(4)
Sarah E.

So this place is the oldest tavern in the country which was kinda cool. I had a fun time here, but there were some odd moments that just left a bad taste in my mouth. So I came here with my boyfriend and we met up with a lot of his buddies from college to have a few drinks. In order to get into this place, we had to 1) wait in a line outside the door 2) show our ID's 3) get an "X" on our hand with black marker 4) pay a $10 cover fee Everyone has their own preferences, but this was just off putting to me. I wanted to have a nice time and hang out with friends at a casual bar. I was not ready for this trashy clubby type of experience. There was a live band here which played adult rock type music, and they were pretty good. Maybe that explains why there was a cover. There was also some dancing which was fun. The crowd here seemed like a mix of college/graduate students and young professionals. Mostly mid-20s in age. However, there were some creepy old dudes mixed into the crowd, some of whom made me feel uncomfortable with the attention they were giving the other young women and myself. I guess the bar can't really control stuff like that, but it would definitely factor into my decision to return here. They had the standard drinks and some draft beers. Nothing special. It was also pretty expensive.
(3)
Michaela S.

If you want to be on an overcrowded dance floor and have to fight your way to the bathroom, come here!!! Couldn't even list all the annoyances that I've experienced here. First off you wait in line outside and then again inside to get to the upstairs, very fun. When I was there I guess they forgot about replenishing the bathroom toilet paper, gotta love using napkins..... Anyways it's overcrowded, sometimes there is a good Dj but besides that I honestly wouldn't come here again. Despite this the bartender I had was very attentive but does not compensate for all the other aspects of the bar.
(2)
Deb M.

I wasn't blown away by this place. There are soooo many good places to eat in Boston that I was wishing I had made another choice. I didn't realize this was the 'oldest tavern' until I pulled out my trusted Yelp app and saw it mentioned. To me there really was no indication of this. The food was ok, but nothing that stood out as being great. The service was just ok, slight mix up on our order that took a while to get corrected. Ordered at our table: soup, salad, chicken nachos, a Ruben sandwich. It was all passable but not memorable. The second part of the restaurant had live music when we were there. The one set of bathrooms are shared between the music area and the restaurant making for long lines. I will say it seems like a fun place to watch sporting events. We were there during the Patriots opening game and there were plenty of tvs and fans watching the game!
(3)
Jennifer H.

Go for the history, for sure. They had a good selection of beer on tap and the food was so-so. But it's definitely a cool atmosphere and was a good quick stop for a beer and appetizer on a hot day in Boston.
(5)
Preston M.

So, this is the oldest bar in the United States. That is definitely awesome. Does it look old, antique, or historic at all? Nope. It is pretty modernly decked out with new lighting, tables, etc and just has an old wooden bar in the corner that may or may not be original. It doesn't have much of a "oldest bar" vibe. We stopped in for a drink after a long day of exploring Boston. The service was pretty slow and we set at our table for probably 15-20 minutes before being approached by our server. I had the Sam Adams beer that is specifically brewed for Bell In Hand and it was delicious and I would drink it again. Our overall service was mediocre, but good beer and better company are always great to have. There was a pretty sweet cover band with a guy playing guitar and singing and a guy on cajon that kept us entertained, but we left feeling pretty underwhelmed.
(3)
Natalie P.

I came here because you kind of have to when you're visiting Boston. It's the oldest tavern in the country! Very cool spot. It is pretty nice on the inside too and played good music at least during the short time I was in there. I got the Bell in Hand Ale by Sam Adams and it was really good! Didn't order any food because we had dinner reservations else where that night. Would definitely come back if given the chance.
(3)
Ames N.

So hot, no air conditioning? Beers on tap were a good selection. It was easy to drink the large version since it was blazing hot. Bill came to 8.95 for large and 5.95 for the small. Ladies room with 3 stalls, always a plus when you have had a large one! The history of this place is on a printed piece of paper. Ask the bartender. He doesn't answer too many questions though but will just point to the piece of paper for you to read.
(3)
Cliff B.

It was as good a spot as any around this part of Boston to pop in for a beer, but the service was lousy. Hard to get their attention, wait-staff seemed more interested in chatting to each other than customers, we waited 40+ minutes for one order while on the same table another of our party got the exact same thing in 5 mins. We had to go and so we asked for a refund for that meal, which was made to be a painful experience too. Bar is fine, but service needs to lift.
(2)
Anna R.

We walked the Freedom trail and noticed the sign claiming to be the oldest tavern in America! This impressive claim along with the various historical figures who have purportedly frequented the tavern. We walked in, no reservation needed. We were seated right away by a friendly and attentive server. We ordered typical fare such as fish and chips, lobster roll, hamburgers and salad. The food was good but not great. What was great was the service, ambiance, there was a live band playing some great songs including violent femmes! I ordered a Harpoon chocolate stout and I can't stop thinking of how smooth and chocolatey that was going down my throat. This is by far the best beer I've ever tasted. My husband and son both ordered Bell and Hand Samuel Adams Ale. They really enjoyed their beer too! The food was good, the beers were great, the music was amazing, the prices were reasonable and the service was fabulous. I would definitely make this a stop in your Freedom Trail adventure you won't be disappointed. We give this place our highest recommendation!
(5)
Pete C.

I expected it to be a tourist trap. Offering the same old blad food you find at places that have some historical significance. Was I in for a supprise. The staff is very friendly. The food is very good. It's a nice littke place. I wasn't a fan of the band. I think its unnecessary in this pub. When in Boston please visit this place.
(5)
Doreen L.

This was one of the worst experiences I've ever had at a bar, and I'm from New York. Incredibly understaffed. Staff was clueless about an event posted online that was taking place at this establishment. Took the waitress a good 20 minutes to even acknowledge we were sitting there. Plenty of dirty tables which diminished the amount of tables we could even sit at. All around, a complete joke of a place and not worth a visit.
(1)
Toby R.

Didn't spend much time in here while in Faneuil Hall, but we had a couple of drinks. That is all. Carry on.
(3)
Tracy S.

Pop over when you're visiting Fanueil Hall! I love this bar. It has a classy and historical atmosphere without being stuffy. You can definitely be casual here. There are multiple rooms and your can rent out the top floor for a company event. There are 3 or 4 bars in there total, so you do not really have to worry about lines being long. They have a projector so you can watch the game on a really, really big screen. In terms of beverages, all of the usual suspects will be there. Fair prices for he atmosphere and history.
(4)
Cori W.

Bell in Hand is a bizarre spot. They are one of the oldest taverns in the US but you wouldn't know by looking inside. There are a couple of spaces to chose from, I sat at the front bar. I was surprised by how large their beer selection was, including beers from my state Oregon as well as other good California beers. The bartender was friendly enough and kept the glasses coming. The negative about BIH is the amount of fratty-ness or partying that seems to happen at this bar. Why order cans of Coors with all these nice craft beers around?
(3)
Lupita L.

You can't come to Boston without having clam chowder or lobster. This is by far the best clam chowder I have ever had. You just can't go wrong. BTW if you make it here order a bowl not a cup, even then you might want more lol. The lobster roll is great too. So maybe order a lobster roll and a cup of soup but roll is also small. Enjoy !!
(5)
Nicole J.

I can only review this place for the 15 minutes I spent in it, but during those 15 minutes, I deemed them 4 star worthy. Cocktails were strong and good, bartender was very quick and friendly. Manager walking around giving out free wifi password was very nice, even went in search of latex gloves for my mother when she asked (that's another story). Oldest bar in Boston (I think in the good ol' US of A as well) and definitely worth a stop for a cocktail while on the Freedom Trail!
(4)
Mike K.

Whenever we are in the city walking around we stop in for some quick beers before catching our train back to the suburbs from North Station. I have never had food here, so cannot comment on the quality. The service is somewhat inconsistent, but the people watching if you have a window seat is fantastic. Nothing like drunk tourists on a Saturday afternoon. Yes, I will be back here again soon.
(3)
Chris W.

Such great history, got their specialty made Sam adams bell in hand ale, was very good. Also got a bowl of chowda, very good.
(5)
Pete H.

The best part of this place ( besides being one of the oldest taverns in the nation) are the tables by the windows. The open air, the ability to people watch, while enjoying a cold beverage was awesome! A must visit in the summer.
(5)
Cari R.

Great for midday drinking and people watching. We sat in the corner window seat and had a blast trying to photobomb tourists' pictures. I'm not sure I'd like the "scene" at night, but it was fun during the day.
(3)
Edward W.

Touting itself as the first bar ever in the good ol' USA, I dropped by for a visit, if only just so I could say I came here. The place itself is fairly large, with 2 floors and a good number of tables and stools to sit in. During the day it is usually filled with tourists, and at night it's occupied by a younger crowd since the place turns into a bar/club. The food is nothing special, with food that you would probably expect at any other bar. Taste of the food is again nothing to write about, but if you're hammered it could taste like a slice of heaven. As for drinks, there is a respectable amount of beers on tap, as well as enough alcohol stocked up that I could at least order what I wanted. Prices are just like any other place in Boston, and usually the drinks aren't watered down. All in all, the place is nice to visit at least once. However, I wish they gave the place a more historical feel to play up the whole "1st bar" title, instead of looking like any other bar around the neighborhood.
(3)
Greg T.

A must stop when visiting Boston. The oldest tavern in the US - rich in history, thoughtful, knowledgeable, friendly bartenders. A must try is their "Bell in Hand Ale." Originally crafted at the Tavern and now produced, exclusively for the Tavern. A really great Amber Ale. Also, grab a table at the window and enjoy people watching. My 2 cents. Greg T.
(4)
Brad K.

Food was terrible . Worst New England clam chowder I've ever hand ( ironically it was in New England). Basically just a bowl of cream. Kale salad looked like it was store bought kale straight from the bag and nothing else. While this is deemed the oldest bar in Boston, really nothing old about it ( besides probably the food). It's located Ina a really cool looking alley/ block and service was nice. Probably fine for drinks but I'd eat elsewhere.
(2)
Mike P.

I may come back to give Bell in Hand a 5th Star, but all I had here were drinks. And drinks a plenty did we have. The history alone makes this tavern a pretty interesting place to relax. The bartender was polite and attentive and that is all that one can ask.
(4)
Tim F.

I'm a fan. What a great location and awesome place. Now to the food, I was in Boston so I had to get the clam chowder. The chowder was right up there with some of the best chowders I've had. For my main meal I had the Fisher's Platter which is a plate of fried goodness, calamari, scrod, shrimp and fries. The fried food is fried food but I did enjoy my meal. I would probably return if I find myself in Boston again. 4 stars
(4)
Andrew B.

It was pouring and 1 am and these fine folks let us in for a beer and some food. The food was decent and the beer was the same at the last place, but the people were super nice and welcoming- which made my experience very nice. Also there was a huge fight outside the door, which judging by the bouncers reaction, wasn't the first fight the bar had seen-that night
(5)
Christie M.

I was fortunate enough to stop in on a recent trip to Boston. It was a rainy weekend afternoon and I was looking for a place to get a beer and get out of the rain. I was very impressed by the quality of the food here. The bar itself is pretty standard, nothing terribly interesting; but the food was quite surprising. My husband and I split the brie & fig spread on French bread which was so wonderful. I'm a huge fan of brie and this did not disappoint. I also tried the hot lobster roll, which was my first ever. It was a wonderful meal, although I will say i'm not the most discerning when it comes to lobster rolls, but I liked it! The serving was on the small side, but maybe that's standard. Great, yummy food in a chill, non-pretentious environment
(4)
Cristy Z.

We were walking down the street after dinner and saw this place full of people. It wasn't crazy but it was busy and had good music that still let you talk to your group, so we went in. We were quickly ID'ed, so the bar is clearly a 21+ place, and then found our table. (I noticed there was also a restaurant attached.) Took our waitress 5-7 minutes to get to us but she was prompt about bringing out our drinks (not so much the water though). Again, the music was good, playing a bit of modern and classic songs and even had a live band play. Unfortunately we had to head out although I would have loved to have stayed. As we headed out, I noticed they had moved some of the tables out of the way to allow for dancing room so I could tell the night was just getting started at this place! Lastly, I do need to say, the women's bathroom was clean and had three stalls. However, it was very hot in there and the hand dryer was incredibly slow. In fact, it really wasn't worth using.
(4)
Kristin B.

My boyfriend and I decided to take a quick break off of the Freedom Trail and this was right off the path. Really good atmosphere with history to it being the oldest tavern in the country. Food was good. Beer was cold.
(5)
David H.

This place is blast to visit. The business itself is one if the oldest (if not the oldest) taverns in Boston. The building alone is worth stopping in to see. Built on an oddly shaped lot, one side is triangle shaped with lots of windows. An interesting dining experience if you are on that side. The food is average, I usually get wings or a burger. A lot of the workers in the surrounding businesses seem to come here to eat during the day. The real reason to come here is the atmosphere. In the evenings they usually have live bands downstairs. There is a fairly good sized dance floor and three bars so if the band is any good then people will be making the most of it on the dance floor. Upstairs is another bar and dance floor. This usually seems to just have DJs vs live bands. Crowd has a good age range. Alas this is Massachusetts so no happy hours.
(5)
Frank M.

Another amazing pub in Downtown Boston near Faneuil Hall. This is a great place for beer, liquour, and good food! Try the fish tacos made with haddock and served with a homemade mayo and mango chutney. Plenty of local beers, including the Bell In Hand beer, and liquour available and the staff are very friendly and helpful. Live music often adds to the charm of this historic pub!
(5)
Jason O.

When I first arrived to Boston several months back, I was told that this was the oldest bar in America. It's definitely not true but it is still amazing that this bar first opened in 1795 and is still going strong. Despite the colonial-esque themed decor, the bar looks very modern. The price of the drinks are what you would expect in North End. Beer and shots run around $8-9. The shots were well shots.... A group of 6 of us came and bought 30 shots right off the bat. We wanted to see if we could fill one of their small round tables with shotglasses but one of the workers came and took all our glasses before we could do it :( We came on a Saturday night and they had live music playing. The band just played a bunch of old covers. They were good and it was enjoyable. The bartenders seemed generally indifferent...not overly nice but not jerks either so I was fine with that. The crowd had quite a mix but most seemed to be in their 20s-40s. They have a dance floor but no one was really dancing. With the songs the band was playing, it's not really something you could dance to anyways. Overall, I had a fair experience here. Nothing too memorable - especially after our attempt to fill the round table with shot glasses was ruined. This is a cool bar to come with friends from out of town to show them a little 'history' while getting wasted but as a local I don't know if I would come back to this specific location. There are plenty of other bars that are much cheaper and probably more fun.
(3)
Peter B.

We came here 2 hours before our train left for Philly. Jaquline the bartender a short blonde woman was more then helpful. She suggested beers (which we bought) told us about the bars merchandise (which we bought) and even walked us to the next bar. Service eggselent and selection eggselent. Way to go Jackie o. Ps go birds. Go fly guys. Go phils. If anything is spelled wrong or is grammatically incorrect I apologize. I've been drinking at the oldest bar in the greatest country in the universe
(5)
Sean N.

Oysters were great. Burger was fine. Service was excellent. There was also a band playing which made it fun as well.
(4)
Stacie R.

Nifty little place on a busy street.great history. The red brick Sam adams was tasty and I usually don't like sam adams. The oysters were also good. Pick a seat next to the window for people watching if possible.
(4)
Rachel L.

The reason I'm only giving three stars is because the waitress sucked ... 20 mins without her even coming over and another 20 waiting for lemonade! The food was delicious, but she was just horrible... Had to go find her to ask for a refill ... Would come back but would request another waitress
(3)
Nicole P.

We did not go into what seems to be the more "club" section. We sat in the better lit-point of the bar. The beer selection was good. Bartender was good. Great place to grab a few drinks.
(3)
Robin W.

Being the "oldest bar in america" I was expecting a lot more. Bartender knew nothing about the beer or food that her resturant served. We ordered lobster mac and lobster grilled cheese thinking that since we were in this old bar that it would be delicious and a new take on the classics. We were wrong. Friendly's could have made a better lobster dish. The lobster mac tasted like they threw generic kraft mac and fake lobster onto a plate. Regret eating here when mcdonalds is down the road.
(2)
Ann J.

Whenever I have friends or relatives visiting Boston, I always take them to the Faneuil Hall area to grab some food or a quick drink before making our way to the North End or back towards Park Street. Bell in Hand is always a great stop along the way due to the history, its location and overall ambiance. Located right next to Union Oyster House and across from the Green Dragon, Bell In Hand holds the title of oldest tavern in the US. The bar its self is a good size compared to some of the other options in the area. There are also lots of windows and tables which makes this a good place to sit down after a long day of touring. Food wise, Bell In Hand offers the typical Boston bar menu with lobster rolls, clam chowDAH and the usual bar bites (wings, burgers, fries etc). Like most of the bars in the area Bell In Hand serves Boston brick red which for tourists is a major plus because you can only get this beer in Boston. Another bonus, Bell in Hand has its own personal brew on tap. Its a light beer but is usually my go to choice after Sam Adams. At night, Bell In Hand turns in to a lively bar/club. The first floor maintains the pub feel while the second floor has a large dance area, live music, and huge TV screens. My Advice: When tourists come to Boston they love the historical feel of the city. Being able to say they had a drink at the oldest tavern in the country is a great story for back home. The prices aren't bad for the Faneuil hall area, and the bar itself is bright, lively and offers some good bar food for munching on after some beers.
(3)
Christopher G.

The Good, Bad, and the overall. The bad: This place could be so much more! Is how my wife put it. The entrÃ©es were just okay nothing that you would come for. The menu needs to be more Boston. The good: Great location and atmosphere. Very good service and attentive. Loved the clam chowder and a beer we had that was only served there. Overall: I can only recommend the chowder and a beer before going to dinner elsewhere. I loved the decor and the feel of the restaurant. It peaked at the appetizer and went down from there on the food quality. They need to refine an identity in my opinion something that is more local and Boston.
(3)
Julee F.

Oysters were amazing and so was the calamari. Slightly crowded though. Might have to wait for a table on the weekend.
(4)
Rock G.

BEWARE! NOTHING BUT A TOURIST TRAP. It's about as original as the location of Benjamin Franklin's Birthplace... Which is now a building that houses a Quick Copy. I'm a history buff. So while I was in Boston for work, I had to do the tourist thing and walk the Freedom Trail. When I arrived at the 'Bell In Hand Tavern', it was a no brainer to go in and have a beer. What a total disappointment. Yes it has been renovated. Yes it is small, and yes it is filthy. Staff is rude, which is a surprise considering that Bostonians are friendly and fun. Slammed one beer and I was gone. Been there, done that, have the T-Shirt... Won't do it again.
(1)
Michael M.

Seated quickly and food came hot. Wife didn't enjoy the Dark and Stormy drink so the staff comped it and gave her a choice of something else. Since you're in Boston you must try the Sam Adams Brick Red if you're a beer lover. Brick Red is only available in Boston area. My veggie burger and fries were great.
(5)
Linda R.

Only had a beer and a glass of wine here before we were asked to pay up and pack up the back end of the bar as they were " closing" that section down? Oldest bar in the country, great history!
(3)
Shawn H.

WORST SERVICE!!!! I was sitting directly in front of a bar tender and bar manager for over 10 minutes trying to get their attention.....and the place was not busy......I then said out loud "how does someone get a beer around here" and the bar manager then sees 2 guys who just walked into the bar and says "welcome to the Bell in Hand Tavern, what can I get you?" He said that only because I said that, had I not, these 2 guys would have also been ignored. This place completely relies on it's history and the current owners have no idea how to be friendly and serve customers and do business the right way. If you're in downtown Boston and want to go to an old tavern, do yourself a favor and avoid this one, there are plenty that are also very old and know the right way to treat their customers. If I could have given zero stars I would have.
(1)
Edgar L.

I came here with some friends for drinks. It's an OK place. Not too expensive, but the drinks aren't that amazing either, I guess. Live music was kind of nice, though, so I'm a fan of that, but the location isn't ideal and there isn't an amazing amount of space to sit. So there are pluses and minuses; thus, 3 stars. Verdict: If I'm in the area and want a place to drink, Bell in Hand isn't a terrible choice but it wouldn't be my first.
(3)
W D.

Visited Boston for the first time and how could I not stop by "the oldest pub in America." Came by myself and the bartenders were extremely friendly. They even helped me out and told me places to visit while I'm here. Shannon and Manny are the go to bartenders
(5)
Rita W.

Ate here twice while visiting Boston, ordered baked haddock tacos both times. Fish was very fresh, nicely done, and served with mango salsa and a side of spicy sauce. Yum! For downtown Boston, price was amazingly reasonable.
(5)
Eve W.

I am only giving this bar four stars because of Shannon... Otherwise I would give it two or three. Was there two nights and both of them they felt we were a flight risk and kept insisting we pay our tab early! Shannon has to be the most magnetic bartender I have ever met in my life and I hope you have the opportunity to have her serve you!!!
(4)
Angie G.

The only reason I am giving this place two stars is because of its poor service. Which is so disappointing because the food was delicious. It was my first time in Boston. I went with this place because of its history. Hostess was extremely kind. The waitress took our orders and disappeared. I probably saw her maybe once again for the check. Long story short, they got our orders mixed up. I got up from my chair twice to request blue cheese since the waitress was nowhere to be found. The guy that was suppose to bring my side order came back around my area three times with nothing. I then saw him outside in his illegally parked car. My French fries were served cold. I thought we were the only ones having these problems but I over heard the table next to us request to speak to a manager. Don't regret coming here but I definitely wouldn't return.
(2)
Taylor V.

I've noticed a lot of bad reviews on here, so after yet another amazing evening at The Bell In Hand I had to leave some positive words. Now, I cannot speak from a diner's standpoint, because I haven't eaten here, but I leave my review as someone who comes here for a good time on the weekend. I hail from Western Mass, and my friend's and I came out to Boston to celebrate my birthday. Since we had such a large group, I called to see if there was anything they could do for us. The owner contacted me immediately and told me that they would waive the cover charge, let us jump the line, and even give us our own private room. He (Adam) was incredibly friendly. Upon arriving, we were greeted at the door by the staff. We hung out in our private room for a bit while we loosened up. The bartender was quick and attentive (young girl with long hair). After a few drinks, we all wanted to dance, so we made our way upstairs. Some of us got stuck waiting in line to get upstairs, but it seemed to move pretty quickly. Once up there, we danced the night away to the DJ's awesome playlist. This was my 3rd time at the Bell In Hand, and every time I have more fun than the last. I love it here, and I will continue to frequent this establishment whenever I'm in Boston!
(5)
Lander P.

My wife and I didn't eat so this is just a review about the service. Probably should be a 1 star review but I'll assume all bartenders there weren't as bad as ours. Our bartender was pretty bad. Wasn't friendly at all. Felt like we were a huge inconvenience and her bar wasn't even busy. Again since we didn't eat it could have been a 5 star review with the right bartender.
(3)
Rhonda-Lisa K.

Lovely location, love the history but both my drinks were sour, the service was very pleasant but slow and it was far too loud for a couple to have a cozy drink and conversation. We did enjoy the window view, the pedestrian traffic and the location. Worth a stop just to say we drank at the oldest ale house in America.
(2)
Shell S.

The place is cool but the wine was horrible and the beer was eh. We didn't eat but saw everyone's good and it looked like frozen food. Go somewhere else!
(1)
Tricia T.

This is supposed to be the oldest bar in Boston, but it sure does not look like it. Atmosphere is like any other bar; drinks are nothing special; service is fine. I would try to find something more authentic & interesting next time.
(2)
Josh L.

Not sure if it's really the oldest bar in the country, but this place is absolutely terrible. Drinks are watered down and expensive as hell, the floor is sticky and gross, and the cover charge is definitely not worth it. Navigating sloppy drunk chicks and the college douche bags trying to hit on them is not how you want to spend a Friday/Saturday night if you're downtown. Instead, go literally anywhere else.
(1)
Keith B.

Yeah, the bartenders spend too much time fucking with their phones when they are busy. The place was jam-packed when I popped in on a Thursday night, but I couldn't get anyone's attention to attempt to order food, so I gave up and ordered a beer, got tired of the place, and hit up a brewery instead. I can see why it's popular - tons of people, a little inattentiveness on the staff's part (my glass was empty, and I was sitting at the bar, but the bartender was on his phone... so not exactly a place to go wind-down solo). The place has history, but I'm sure no revolutions would be planned here. Maybe I can make it for food next time, if I feel adventurous.
(3)
Vanassa S.

This review is based on my one and only time here. I was expecting really good tavern food, but unfortunately that's not what we got :(. The service was slow and I overheard the GM yelling at someone at the door. I just didn't think that was a conversation that I wanted to hear. Wasn't for me. Won't be going back. I was expecting more but highly disappointed.
(1)
Jennifer S.

We decided to do some bar hopping during our most recent trip to Boston and the Bell in Hand was 3rd on the tour. Great pub with live music - very popular and pretty easy to get a drink. Nice atmosphere in a cool, historic part of town.
(4)
Robyn T.

I'm not sure why the lower reviews. I like this place! I've been there several times and haven't had a bad meal or bad service. Plus it's always packed so they've gotta be doing something right. Yes, Boston is full of taverns and pubs and oodles of restaurants, so competition is fierce. And I've never really experienced it as just a bar, but more as a restaurant. But I love the history and the lovely old building. I've ordered clam chowder, burgers, steak bites, and chicken. Each time the food was very tasty and the portions were filling. Of course, I paired it with a Sam Adams which works every time. I've never had issues with any of the staff. They always have been prompt and friendly and have made me feel welcome.
(4)
Adam K.

Awesome hot lobster roll with a tall Bell in Hand Ale Going to Country night there tonight Bartender told me it is a great time
(5)
John V.

As a bit of a beer snob I had to stop in at the famed bell in hand tavern while I was visiting Boston. As other reviewers have mentioned it's very modernized which is quite a bit of a let down. If you want a bit more of a historic feel (but not by much) check out the green Dragon tavern next door which is older but has been out of service/unoccupied I believe for quite some time. Although it was the alleged meeting place for the brothers of freedom. Anywho back to bell in hand. I went for the bell in hand ale for the most local feel I could get. Didn't ask but I'm thinking they must brew that on site. It had a red ale taste to it. Not my cup of tea but it was a tasty beer none the less. :-) if you're in Boston stop by its a must for any beer lover. It's a tourist trap I'm sure anyway so may as well! Bottoms up!
(4)
Erin W.

Did a little bar hopping and wanted to add this one to the list. If you like over-crowded, loud spaces, but hate getting talked to or smiled at from a bartender, this place is for you. We each ordered a beer and found a spot on the end of the bar. The other bartender didn't even speak to us (once we moved in her section). Just strange... We had one and left, guess we can at least say we've been here
(2)
Jess S.

Stopped in here during my first few weeks in Boston just to say I've tried it. Hugely disappointed. Not enough tables in the back room, making the space awkward and we had to just stand around with our drinks around 3pm. DISGUSTING bathrooms much like what you might expect at a frat house that hasn't been cleaned in a few months. Terrible. The floor was also sticky and wet. Just over all a lame pub that lacked the atmosphere I'd hoped for when I heard it was the "oldest pub in America." Skip it for somewhere better or more authentic - or most likely, anywhere else would be better AND more authentic!
(1)
Kyle H.

We brought the kids and although it was busy the servers were very nice, food was excellent (oysters were perfect) and we were generally impressed. I'd recommend this place to almost anyone.
(5)
Katie H.

If you want to go out for a night on the town this is the place to visit. Always busy... great staff...fast pace atmosphere. Have to try their specially drinks. Huge selection of draft beer...and pub food.
(5)
James D.

Same as always. But please teach your bartenders how to pour a proper Guinness. You should at least tilt the glass!
(3)
Kimber C.

I had The BEST NE clam chowder of my life here. Super creamy, and the flavoring was spot on! The clam was tender and perfect! I got some in Maine a day later thinking all NE clam chowder would be great, but the Maine chowder doesn't even belong in the same category as bell in hands! The special Sam Adams bell in hand brew was also really good. This is a must check out place if only to say you've been in the US's oldest pub!
(5)
Michael P.

One word: GIMMICK! Has anyone honestly verified the whole "oldest bar in the country?" This place is tragically lousy. Let me recount the tale of our adventure. Ordering a drink at the bar is a process live I have never seen before. I came with friends and ordered a club soda. Hold on to your watch, this could take awhile. They'll take your ID and move out of eyesight. What are they doing with your ID? If I wanted to have my identity stolen, I would have gone to Target. All I wanted was a club soda and they had to practically run a background check on me. I'm tempted to go on for days but I'm sick as a dog. Service was horrible, drinks were horrible, and I'm confident they're up to something shady here. Take your business elsewhere.
(1)
Lisa L.

Questionable service. We were told the second bar was not opened but right after we were seated at a table for two the bar was opened. Asked for our check two times and finally caught the bar tender who came over with the total but no check.
(2)
Greg M.

when I first arrived around 11pm, I was able to go upstairs. a few minutes later, I came downstairs to use the loo (as there's no easily accessible one upstairs.) However, when I returned, the gentleman had changed and I was no longer allowed to return to my friends. I waiting for 20 minutes to be allowed back up. Do not come here. There are better, less expensive bars in Boston.
(1)
Kristi L.

Great food (order the fish tacos), great service, way more affordable than anywhere else we ate in Boston. Highly recommend!
(4)
Michelle R.

I know, I'm a difficult customer. I come in, all I want is gin and tonic, I don't really have time or the urge to wait on overpriced pub food, though I'm sure it's high on the mediocre side. But I mean, an hour for 2 drinks, with a sparsely filled dining area and just a few of us at the bar? And the 10 min I spent trying to get the bartenders attention, bc it's gin and tonic, not soda. And I don't even like speaking up. But at $7.75 for well gin? It should have friggin sparkles. And don't assume I want well. That's just rude. Tourist folk- whatever first pub blah blah blah but it's not worth more than a drink so you can selfie and say you did it. Just remember most of boston is pub fare, don't worry that you need to order everything. Even if the kitchen is bangin, it's not worth having to flag down someone who works here. Two stars because I did finally get a gin and tonic. And I'm feeling generous. And I got to see your staff flirt with each other, my favorite thing in the world.
(2)
Jing Z.

I came here for drinks, and I got the Moscow Mule. It was okay, but kind of expensive at $10 - and I didn't even get my drink in one of those cool copper mugs. :( The service here is not great. We didn't get napkins with our drinks, so there were puddles of water everywhere on our table from the condensation on the glasses. I dripped a lot of water on my pants. They also gave my boyfriend the wrong beer, which they changed when we told them. I don't mind the service, but since the drinks aren't great, and they have the same beer offerings at most other bars, I wouldn't come here again. It's also loud, not just from the music here but also from the bar behind it.
(2)
JP V.

I need the support of everyone on this, seriously. Last night, I met up with my friends at the @BellInHandTav after working all day. My friend dropped his wallet when he first walked in and over $400 cash fell out. It was all the money he had on him for Memorial Day Weekend (He was visiting from out of state for our buddy's bachelor party). When he tried to pick it up, a bouncer pushed him out of the way and scooped all the money up. He said he needed to "verify the owner with the security camera" then ran outside. When we chased him outside he ducked inside an employee only entrance. 20 minutes later the GM came outside and gave my friend $130 cash. He said that was all that was returned and that the "camera showed him dropping. This was very odd we thought, but he offered us two free drinks, if we didn't complain. When I walked inside, I noticed that none of the security cameras were anywhere near where he dropped the money. When I asked the GM this, he snapped "I've been working here 10 fucking years, I know the cameras", but still didn't explain why they weren't anywhere in the vicinity. When I pointed this out, he demanded I pay $9.50 for the drink he just comped me. I told him that was ridiculous at which point he kicked me out and one by one my entire party of 8 people out. Obviously to turn me into the "bad guy" in their eyes. I tried to have a civil conversation with this gentleman but he berated me and called me a "pain in the ass faggot bitch". I asked to see the camera footage and he said that it wasn't "available". He said he was going to call the police, which I encouraged him to, but they never came. I was completely sober at this point and wanted to speak to them. He had the bouncers surround me as an intimidation move, but I calmly got off "their property" (the sidewalk) and waited. They obviously are trying to take advantage of people who they think are intoxicated. But they weren't expecting someone who is sober with criminal justice experience! Please spread the word! Shady bouncers and even shadier management who unprofessionally handle customer complaints should not be allowed!
(1)
Cass G.

A place to go for happy hour. The apps were decent. Staff were not the friendliest.
(3)
Jen S.

"Bell In Hand" Should Rename Itself To "Dick In Hand While Standing In Line All Night" Yeah, I gave it three stars. That's because if you come here for a really cheesy dance party, and you manage to get past the endless lines and get upstairs, they play fun music and have an awesome air conditioning system so that you only sorta sweat all over the people you're dancing up on. But does Jen S. ever just stick with the positive? Don't be ridiculous. What is the MATTER with this place? It's like they don't want to make money. It's like the manager of Bell In Hand woke up one morning and was like hey you know what we should do? We should keep as many people as possible in a line OUTSIDE and keep the BAR practically empty all night. THEN when we let them in at a snail's pace and it finally starts filling up and people want to go upstairs to dance....we should have ANOTHER LINE INSIDE THE BAR! It's awesome, see, because upstairs is empty too, so basically we maximize the amount of empty space and minimize the amount of liquor sales. Which is a great idea...since this is a bar...and a business. Then there is the clientele. First of all, for those of you who are adults, require some kind of ID before taking someone home from this place, because I venture to guess there are a fair amount of 16 year olds miley cyrusing about. My friends and I are in our mid to late 20s and might I add quite youthful and glamorous in appearance, and yet one gentleman at the Bell In Hand once guessed that Balison was 40. I mean obviously this was hilarious and we mock her about it to this day, but in no way shape or form does Balison look 40. Not even when she's puking down her boobs at 2am (which she wasn't that night, in her defense). Then we realized: this guy was a friggin fetus. Dakota Fanning probably looks 40 to him. Douche. My little sister had her 24th birthday party at Bell In Hand this past Saturday night, and although they waived her cover (nice of them) they charged the rest of us $10 each to get in. Uh, seriously? First of all, we brought at least 20 people, so that's 20 extra people they can make stand in line all night and not allow to purchase their overpriced beer. Second, $10?! Even Saint (see my review of Saint to learn why this is my most hated place in Boston) lets big birthday groups in for free a lot of the time. Whatever, enjoy my $10. Use it to hire someone to clean the preposterously disgusting upstairs bathrooms. Hate. Lastly, a brief anecdote from the night. We were walking out of said gross bathroom when Jabba the Hut checks out my sister in a really obnoxious manner. After he walked by, she drunkenly made a "Wow, you're disgusting face" at his back, but coincidentally he turned around for another look at her as she was making this face at him. Now at this point, you'd think he would cut his losses and walk away. But no. He turns to her and is like "Yeah. I'll remember you when you want to come into the House of Blues. I work there." Excuse me, are you THREATENING SOMEONE for not enjoying being stared at like a piece of meat? Thanks, and I'll be sure to mention to your employers at HOB that you're running around Bell In Hand sweating on women and threatening them with your high-powered job cleaning toilets at HOB. Anyway, come here for a dance party on a ridiculous, drunken night, but plan to double-fist beers while standing in line inside after you've stood in line outside for half an hour.
(3)
Julie S.

When I was told that my office holiday party was going to be here, I will admit that I was a bit skeptical, but we actually had a blast! They put us in a private area upstairs which they opened up to the public around 10:00. The bartenders were friendly. The coat check was free. The drinks were strong--though a bit pricey. The baked ziti and appetizers we had were surprisingly good. And the DJ did a great job of mixing kitschy 90s music that we all loved dancing to with more current stuff. While it's not my usual crowd, the atmosphere was fun (nice brick walls, big windows that counter normal club claustrophobia...) so I can imagine that going with a large group of friends again would be enjoyable. All in all, a great night! And if any of you are thinking about hosting a private gig here, I definitely recommend it.
(4)
Mark M.

The Bell in Hand may be the worst bar in the Fan Hall area. I have been plenty of times in the past but the haze of drunkenness must have blacked out the shitty nature of this place. First of all the beer special was $4.50 Coors Light bottles. Are you F*cking kidding me? Really? REALLY? really?..... wow. On the special's merits alone I hate this place. But charging $4.50 for a Coors light on a Wednesday at 7pm is insane. Next, this bar has no real defining features. I never understand the folks who head to the BIH on a Friday night. It is a tourist trap... and a Ed Hardy trap, apparently. Note to self: Whenever Bell in Hand is suggested dump your friends. You can do better all around.
(1)
Kate A.

Although this bar has had varied reviewed from friends and yelpers alike, I think it is a great place for a mixer. I went for a cocktail event and it was amazing. The group bought a few mediocre appetizers, which might have been provided for free since we were all drinking. Highlight - the really big beers on tap were $7.50, I'm used to paying around $6 for something half that size! I think this is a place to drag a friend for a big 'ol beer if you want to avoid the heart of Faneuil Hall insanity, but are stuck in this touristy area.
(3)
Sean S.

I came here once when it was a Friday night and filled with idiot college kids. I stayed for a pint and left with the intention of coming back on a quieter night. I've been back several times. it's a novel place to take out of town guests when it's quiet. The ambiance is slightly above OK and does somewhat retain a rustic feel to it. I've had appetizers here and they were OK. The two letters this place seems to always gravitate back to is O and K. For America's oldest Tavern (which they love to advertise), I would definitely expect more. Although, if you happen to be in the near area and want to sit down and have a Sam Adams at America's oldest Tavern, it's worth it at least once. Just don't go on a Friday night. Early evening in the start of the week I found to be best.
(3)
Patrick O.

Alas my Pub Crawl with the New Englanders continues... Know ye fact that thy bar who is claiming "Oldest Tavern In America" is going to be filled with out of towners ordering up "Sam Adams" because they think that it's "an original idea". Or, for the more cunning visitor a pint of "The Bell In Hand Ale" a dark copper ale that features robust amounts of hops and a flavor similar to that of Sam Adams....go figure. I can definitely say I liked this place, the layout was that of a true pub for the most part, small bar, all glass flatiron corner front (to identify which patrons may or may not be coming into the place) and a bowl of chowdah to will knock your socks off. I took one star off because of the back area with it's dance floor and abundant seating...seems old capitalism showed it's dirty face here and they kinda ruined the "oldest tavern" theme. Just my opinion.
(4)
Sara S.

Not my scene... at all. At 24, I am about five years too old for this place. Gosh. I swear, I've seen college kids wearing their high school varsity jackets to Bell in Hand. I don't have a problem with college kids at all, but when you are rude, sloppy, cocky, and arrogant (my perspective, these are the types of guys I've met here), no one is going to like you. Sticky floors. Long lines to get in. Long lines to get drinks. Cover charge. Music downstairs is good, can't say so much about the live band upstairs. Instead, hang out at Adam's Pizza two seconds away. Sit at the counter, grab yourself some slices of eggplant pizza, chill with the employees, listen to Borat music, people watch, and take it all in. It'll be a lot more fun and a lot less expensive.
(2)
Kyle D.

Another small dive bar. It is hardly a lounge. Hated it!
(2)
Courtney B.

Im not sure who labeled this a dive bar, but they need to check their standards. Bell in Hand is by far not a dive bar. Rather, it is a really old and historical bar that's been renovated and modernized. The people who go there don't call this place their local watering hole, like many old (dive) bars are referred to. Plus, there are huge dance floors and a loud sound system- two things not found back in the 1700's when this bar was established. The place has two floors of dance space, in addition to a pub area. The food was okay. Granted, I only tried a few fries off a friends plate. It looked like typical pub food, which is why I don't recommend counting on this as your restaurant. There's not a lot of room to eat, and it becomes too loud to carry on conversation if you're there in the evening. On the other hand, the dance floor was fun. Bar wasn't cheap, but I've been to worse places. They have a full selection of liquors too.
(3)
Virginia M.

good place to have a drink
(3)
Josephine P.

So yeah, it's all relative. My friends and I migrated from Durty Nelly's to this place after listening to a scary drunk Irishman sing anti-semetic songs. After running away in search of more beer, but less racism, we ended up here and it is here that I discovered one of my all time favorite beers, hands down! Droool. Ship Wreck Pumpkin ale on tap. My god it was good. And they had alive band playing some of my favorite songs pretty competently. I did enjoy it infinitely better than Durty Nelly's. It was equally cramped and honestly the beer ain't cheap here, but what can I say, I have experienced much worse. This place is sort of a tourist trap and a gimmick, but I liked the music, the beer and I had a window seat, so can't complain.
(3)
Tom D.

Bar is really fun on game nights. There's two lines though, first outside and then a separate line to get upstairs where the DJ is. Upstairs is much better than the bar on the first floor, but you gotta get there early or you'll never get in. Line gets crazy around 11.
(4)
Cesca B.

Q. What do I hate more than a lame bar that has a line to get in? A. A lame bar that has a line and charges a cover to get in. Q. What do I hate more than a lame bar that has a line and charges a cover to get in? A. A lame bar that has a line, charges a cover to get in, and has yet another line inside to get upstairs! Q. What do I hate more than a lame bar that has a line to get in, charges a cover, and has yet another line inside to get upstairs? A. A lame bar that has a line to get in, charges a cover, has yet a-freaking-nother line inside, and CHARGES YOU FOR A SODA REFILL WHEN YOU GO THERE FOR DINNER! You see what I'm getting at? Why anybody would wait in line for this bar is beyond me. And yet every weekend I'd leave my apartment and walk past all these pathetic souls waiting in the cold Boston air in their micro-minis trying to get into this LAME bar. AND THEN! There's another line inside just to get upstairs. Are you kidding me? This place is way more pretentious than it has any right to be. And okay seriously? WHO CHARGES FOR SODA REFILLS???? Not that any place is justified in so petty a charge, but Bell in Hand is the LAST place that has any business charging for soda refills. The service is extremely slow and the food is mediocre, even by bar food standards. Now, I know the area leaves much to be desired when you're looking for a quality bar, but it isn't such a long walk to Sully's Tap by the Garden. Go there instead. Or the Harp even! At least they have good cover bands. The history buff in me likes the "oldest tavern in America" claim, but I bet even in Revere's day they wouldn't charge for a soda refill..or whatever the 18th century equivalent would be.
(2)
Jarrod C.

The only thing, and I mean only thing this place has going for itself are the strong drinks. Outrageous $10 cover to even walk inside. Once inside you get jam packed into the downstairs portion and wait in an hour long spiraling line just to walk upstairs. Once you've waited an hour you go upstairs and a bouncer directs you to a less busy part of the bar to try and even out the crowd, but you tell him to fuck off and you walk around to where everyone is dancing. The music is mediocre, the people are lame and all you wish is that you never went to Faneuil Hall for a night out. I DO NOT recommend Bell In Hand.
(1)
Nicole S.

I went here with a group of a dozen people. We jammed ourselves around a table and had a great time. No problem there. My issue with this place was the service. It was a light thursday night and it took our server too long to get around to us. Although our table had a waitress but we ended up going to the bar more often because we were waiting for our server quite a bit. I ordered 2 stoli orange and cranberry drinks (they did not have grey goose). The first drink was weak and not very cranberry. I expect a certain amount of tartness that goes along with vodka cranberry and did not get it. My second drink was not tart either but it had a lot more vodka. i could actually detect it. While I watched both the guy and girl pour my drinks the girl was more heavy handed with the vodka- I liked her. Either way too much ice and not enough drink- but isn't that the case most of the time? Food was pretty good. We got the sampler which was okay. It was good for the group to share. One of our group was a regular and talked the guy into giving us a free app since there were quite a few of us ordering multiple drinks. We got eggplant fries which were so good that we got another order that we paid for. They were crisp and seasoned well, plus served with some marinara sauce. I suggest the eggplant fries and sticking to a beer.
(3)
Laura C.

Bell in Hand's a fun bar for karaoke on Tuesdays. Much more than that I'm not sure, but definitely fun for a raucous crowd of 20- and 30-somethings who aren't afraid to sing along (and there seems to be a causal relationship between amounts of alcohol and volume)! They've also got a second room with live acoustic music (don't know who the guy was, but he wasn't bad) Tuesday nights, which makes for a nice little place to go if you're trying to get away from the masses in the main room for a bit. Don't know about their food, but from what I saw other people eating it looked decent. All in all, not a bad place to spend an evening. I've heard it can be a pain to get into on the weekends, so I would suggest heeding that advice, but definitely a good place to grab some dinner and a few drinks on a weekday.
(3)
Stephen G.

Boston deserves some kind of special award for taking USA's oldest, most historic tavern ("The Bell in Hand", dating back to 1795) and turning it into little more than a shoddily-average sports bar. However my fries DID taste like they were cooked 216 years ago, so that was something.
(2)
Haley T.

I admit, I have no love for Fanuiel Hall. All of these places seem exactly the same. I'm neither age 22 nor a tourist, and I really don't like dancing (unless I'm at least 3 drinks in) I can't fault this place for being just another Fanuiel hall bar, though. It falls squarely in the middle of the pack. It has a cover, a line out front and a line to get to the upstairs dance floor. It's easy to lose your friends in this, and never mind getting a cigarette if you plan to go back upstairs. The cover bands are half-decent. Lots of bachelorette parties, drunk college kids, etc, dancing to top 40's stuff. The drinks are pretty typical prices, and a bit weak. Not a bad time, however. You won't find this place quiet after 10!
(2)
Jillian Y.

For the record, I'm only reviewing the Tuesday night karaoke. Proceed with caution... I am a karaoke nut. I love it. I will do it just about anywhere. Here's the thing though: I hate karaoke ringers, and the bars that serve them up. Sure, it's always great to see an excellent singer get up there, but if you're on stage like you're performing on American Idol, just BLECH. Bell in Hand attracts some great singers, but all of them are ordinary folks, full of entertainment value, and most are drunk. The crowd that watches them are also fantastically fun. I sat there for a good twenty minutes asking myself where on earth they found all these people. The one bad? Unless you get there AT nine pm, expect to wait hours for your turn.
(4)
Cheryl S.

If you feel compelled to visit the "world's oldest tavern" while touring Boston, go for a drink and venture elsewhere for food. Our meal was mediocre, at best, and over-priced for the quality.
(2)
Mark K.

Cool place for the historical value. Nice to get a Sam Adams that's not available in CA - Brick Red.
(3)
Carrie H.

Cool atmosphere - dark, old, & friendly staff! Lots of character! Had a kick butt homeade veggie burger with bacon - excellent. Plus they had skinny fries which I love! BF had the clam chowder and said it was a tad salty. Had the Bruins game on & seemed like mix of locals & tourists. All in all a good time!
(4)
Jeannie S.

After searching extensively for a bar to meet up with friends when I was in from the West Coast, we choose this one. The cover charge was a bit insane- $10 really? I could accept $5 but $10 was a bit overcharged. Arrived around 9:45pm and there was no line but they do only accept cash to get in. They alos charge for just regular soda- that is a bit ludicrous. As DD you get charged $3 for a fountain soda that cost them $.5 I swear they did not have the ac on! The women's bathroom was like Hades so beware ladies when you need to go- you do not want to be stuck in line in there. Music was pretty good, really enjoyed the dj. Left around midnight to go elsewhere and i was not super crowded yet which was nice. Overall- expensive nice out for a tavern but I guess Fanueil Hall is like that.
(4)
Chris B.

Fun nightlife, capacity sucks when traveling to and from the 2nd floor, especially bad during the winter when you just want to get your coat and leave.
(3)
Ligaya T.

I generally think that Fanueil Hall is the arsehole of Boston (can I say that outloud?) so it took a dear friend's birth to coax me into the area. I should have stayed clear when I saw the doormen in their logo-embroidered matching polos. The next clue was them hassling me for having an Iowa ID. (That's right, pork state, baby! If I was making a fake wouldn't I have picked a better place than that?! Anyway, I digress...) Strip this place of its overly tanned/hairsprayed bridge and tunnel/yah dude clientele, gruff staff and LED danceboxes and you'd have a decent two-floored venue with live bands downstairs and a DJ/dance area upstairs. But the way it is now, our founding fathers are rolling in their precious graves.
(2)
Kate B.

I'm from Wisconsin and chose to spend my birthday in Boston and was told to go to Bell in Hand. Had an amazing time!! Staff was friendly and didn't take forever to get a drink. Buffalo chicken nachos were spot on! I highly recommend this place!
(5)
Janina T.

My friends and I have been to Bell in Hand quite a few number of times in the past 3 months. I'd go as far as to say that it's one of our default locations on weekends where we can't decide what to do but still want to have a good time. I love the fact that you have a choice of listening to a live band downstairs (who, in my experience always plays decently good covers) or whip out a Dougie upstairs to the DJ. My friends and I absolutely LOVE dancing so it's kind of nice that other people want to come dance with us too everytime we come around. The one pet peeve I have when certain people come up to dance is that their always trying to just grind with you. I will gladly support R. Kelly in his viewpoint on bump n' grinding. However, when it gets to the point that that is ALL THEY'RE DOING WITH YOU, it gets really tiresome and i'm kind of a firecracker when it comes to wanting to dance battle. Overall though, it's a really fun place. 90% of the music played upstairs is great. Downside is that you'll have to wait anywhere between 5-20 minutes (depending on the night/time) to get up there. People get pretty ruthless too; cutting and shoving just to get closer to the front of the line. Seriously. Take a chill pill. You'll get your bump n' grind on soon enough. I think you can keep it in your pants another 5 minutes. I would suggest coming here with a group (directed to either gender) because whether you're looking to just have a good time with your friends or you're actually looking to pick people up (and most people come here in groups anyway), you'll have a ton more fun when you're surrounded by people who just wanna have fun. Pros: Great music (live and DJ) Decently priced drinks (for the Faneuil area) Good demographic of people (doesn't feel divey) Cons $10 cover charge -- rainbow after the rain -- free coat check so the $10 isn't so bad Wait in line to get in to BIH then wait in line to get upstairs....length of wait will depend on what night/time it is
(4)
Meghan M.

I do NOT like this place. I have been there once and it will stay that way. I, as a rule, try to avoid the Faneuil Hall area. I'm just not a fan of the tourists and obnoxious breed of college kids it attracts. I went to Bell in Hand to meet some people who were in from out of town (surprise, surprise that they picked this place). The line was INSANE. The cover charge added insult to injury. Lastly the bar service was unbelievably horrible. It took me over a half hour to get a drink. And the bar wasn't even crowded! There are so many wonderful places in and around Boston that I'd much rather give my business to...I just don't get this place.
(2)
Natasha A.

I have always had a great sloshy time at the Bell in Hand and is usually the place of choise in the area despite the half hour wait to get inside on most weekends. Fanueil Hall in general would be so much better if the bars did not charge a cover, thus allowing for some bar hopping. =(
(4)
Celeste M.

Last Saturday, all I ate was a burger and fries for lunch and a burger and fries for diner. That should have overwhelmed me, but having Bell in Hand for the second burger put me into less of a meat-sick stupor than I expected. I got the Chipotle burger and it had a nice amount of spice and was nice and juicy, especially since I got it medium well and some cooks think anything "well" is burnt. Fries were tasty and kept disappearing off my plate. The large Magners I got was sorrt of worth the price at $7.50 but I thought shots were a bit overpriced.
(4)
DeeJay M.

The oldest tavern in the United States since our independence. The Bell in Hand has only shutdown once, for prohibition! I knew I had to come to this bar and soak up some American History. It was a popular spot with a relatively long line, but we got inside in less than 10 minutes. It had a great crowd and we got drinks easily. It was worth the stop to see some history and to say I was there.
(4)
Raymond W.

As the oldest tavern in the United States, it certainly keeps itself modern with a $10 cover on a Friday night. The line to get was roughly 10 minutes even though it wasn't near packed. The second line to get upstairs was roughly the same even though there was plenty of room in one of the 2 rooms available. Questionable indeed. Those flaws aside, I still ended up having a good times with standard prices on drinks and a lively crowd. Ended up bumping into a former high school classmate of mine as well and she was definitely enjoying herself. A good night overall, but nothing too special.
(3)
Stephanie F.

The Bell in Hand is my favorite place to dance in the city, hands down! I picked this place to end the bar crawl. I have been there many times before and I always have so much fun dancing upstairs. They play dance music and hiphop (Brittany, MJ, Sean Kingston, etc). Downstairs they usually have a band, but my preference is to head straight upstairs. Because there were so many of us, we stayed downstairs longer than expected so by the time we wanted to go upstairs there was a line and a 20 minute wait! That was a real bummer and was pretty disappointing. Maybe that was 10:30p. If you want to dance, head upstairs early before the line -- if you like to shake your moneymaker, it's worth it!
(4)
Foodie F.

Total lack of atmosphere. I expected something more than a run of the mill party bar. It looks like its taken more of a beating from rowdy partiers than years of service. Even the restroom was dive-ish/lack of care with a stall door missing & the locks on the other doors barely working. The staff are not interested in your experience or earning a tip.
(2)
Poof A.

A touristy spot, but for a reason. We sampled the delicious Bell in Hand ale while sitting by an open window, watching the drunk Bruins fans go by [keep in mind, this was in the middle of a weekday afternoon...] I can imagine this place being annoyingly packed with visitors at night, but by day it was a great spot to relax and watch Boston pass by.
(4)
Cory N.

For the age of the place the bar and food are about one would expect from an average, more modern pub. Except for the excellent Sam Adams Brick Red, the tap selection was mostly lite lagers. The fish and chips were good and though the service was a bit on the slow side for a quiet evening it was friendly. It was the cleanest of the bars that we visted, a definite plus.
(3)
Kirstin K.

Decent food but most of the menu was a little overpriced and the service wasn't very good. Their beer selection is decent but they charged $7.50 for a 22oz Harpoon which is $,49 less than a six pack at the brewery. Interesting spot for the history but definitely not a great spot for the value.
(3)
Kate C.

What a crying shame. One of the oldest bars in America, and the "old part" is being renovated? And the other side has flat screen TVs? What happened to preserving history? Or even from a profit point of view - why make new what you could attract people to from the simple established date? Total shame. This place could learn a thing or three from McSorley's.
(1)
Kevin B.

Well, before I start talking about this place, there is something that you should know. I have never actually been here on a standard night. I went for a gay guirella night when a bunch of homos invade a straight bar so my perceptions are going to be a little warped. I wasn't that impressed by the Bell in Hand. The wait staff wasn't pleasant at all. And I seriously take a bare minimum of service. You basically just have to make me a drink and smile once and I am happy. What doesn't make me happy is grunting, smirking or the always popular head shake. I am not sure where this particular bar tender learned his communication skills but lifting your head slightly in my direction never quite works as well as actually asking what I would like. They do have a nice space for dancing on the upstairs although there was a big line to get up there and still lots of space when I got there so I am not really sure what that was about. Overall, I did enjoy myself but then again I did get to grind on a few very attractive young men and that always fills my heart with glee. I will digress before going into detail what it does to other of my organs.
(3)
Ellen N.

Having been to this bar several times, for drinks and good music, I thought it would be a fun place to grab some dinner. FALSE..... I just attempted to grab some drinks and have some appetizers wanting to show my sister a good "classic Boston bar" I say attempted because I did not even get a chance to order. The reason? The server was so terribly rude, that other patrons commented to her after seeing how rudely we were treated. We walked in and she did not so much as look up (it was not that busy). We sat and waited for so long I wondered if they were no longer serving dinner (it was only 7) we did not so much as get a menu for about 20 min, mean while this extremely rude server continued to serve the tables around us, until one of the tables commented to her, saying they would order there SECOND round, after we received our first. We didn't bother, and left on principle. On the way out this server had the nerve to ask if everything had been alright....really?? I guess if all I wanted was a chair to sit in for 20 min. I will never be back.
(1)
aubri o.

everything everyone says is true, the good and the bad. it took a week to get a call back from the manager regarding having a space and buffet prepared for my sister and b.i.l.'s jack and jill party this past weekend. however, when i DID speak with the people in charge, they were very friendly and helpful. because it was so last minute (i finally reached someone on wednesday, and the party was saturday), the more private rooms weren't available, but they reserved a space for us at the side bar, with it's nice street views, and reasonable seating. luckily we weren't in the mood for sitting, we simply wanted to devour all the tasty buffet style american tapas they offered, dance, drink, and mingle. it was a great sampling of their food, and while only the brie and raspberries really surprised, none of it was disappointing. we had the italian meatballs, pork dumplings, mini burgers, beef teriyaki, bake brie, potato skins, and chicken tenders. our group of 23 payed under $20 after tax and tip and we had two boxes of leftovers to take home with everyone full. we had also been offered free entrance for the bride and groom if we showed up after $9, and they were willing to set up outside line privilege for late arrivals in our party. it's the little things that make your event better, and they know that. thankfully we got there at 8, and didn't have to use any of that. we had a waitress servicing our group exclusively, and she was excellent. plus, if for any reason a person needed a drink faster, the bar was right there. some people may not like that other people were sharing part of the bar space with their group, but we went to a bar to have fun, and the guys and gals hanging out near us were great fun. all of this to say, the first half of the event was great. great support from management , great support from the staff, and a great time getting the party started. the trouble began when i saw it was 9:50 and we still hadn't closed our tabs and gone upstairs. have you ever tried to get 23 drunk people close their tabs and stand in line? it's not easy! especially if you're tipsy yourself. so, it was about 10:30 before people were making their way up. the bouncers had started their arbitrary line policy, but it was not super clear where the line formed. they were only letting people up 2 at a time, which means the bride and one of her friends got up, but the groom and his groomsman were told they had to wait. when they tried to explain how we're a group, and we're all going to go up anyway, the bouncers decided they were too drunk and didn't belong there. they kicked one of the groomsmen out, and were about to kick the groom out! how do you throw a groom out of his own bachelor party!!? especially when you just let his bride go up! i tried to get them to change their minds but they were adamant that the groomsman couldn't come back in, and the people in the line were getting really aggressive towards the party (who wants to be stuck behind a big group when you're standing in line, after all?) people in line were fighting, bouncers were getting aggressive, and bell in hand was suddenly MUCH LESS hospitable. so, 30 minutes later, everyone has downed their cocktails, grabbed their jackets (free coatcheck, btw! win!), and transported to hong kong, who was much friendlier to our party for the rest of the night. all said, i'd suggest trying to contact them a few weeks out for a party, get a private room, and have everyone in the upstairs dance floor for drunken dancing and adventures BEFORE 9:30. otherwise you're better off just going somewhere else, and saving yourself the drama of the angry line and juiced bouncers.
(3)
Matt S.

whatever. oldest tavern my ass. the original was torn down during so called urban renewal. what a disaster that was. (EDIT: AND the original closed for Prohibition AND was a teetotaler bar--HA!) still, nice to kick back here once in a while, but I'd rather go to the Union or the 21st Amendment.
(3)
Gayle B.

This place was okay and that's it. The chowder was good, not great, the fish sandwich was just okay and the fries sucked! I hate overcooked shoestring fries. Your meal comes with coleslaw as well, but that is a complete joke, barely a fork and a half full. My co-worker and I came in and there weren't any tables. The hostess-ish person offered for us to sit at the bar, but neither of us wanted to do that. We waited for a few minutes and got a table near the window that was closed and when it was opened for us, you couldn't sit at the table. As well the table had zero light and you couldn't even see the menu, let alone read it. Our first waitress was nice to start. Then another table came open and we moved. Fully open windows, light over us, more room and much more comfortable. This apparently really pissed off the waitress and she no longer served us (one table away). We got a different waitress Kathryn who was MUCH nicer. The first one had a BAD attitude. Kathryn was attentive and checked on us throughout the meal. Here is what we ate and drank; both of us had the same food.... cup of chowder and a fish sandwich. My co-worker had a glass of wine and I had a beer. The bill total was $53 and some change and of that there was less than $2 tax. To me this is VERY expensive for what we had to eat. It is supposedly the oldest tavern in America and really the only reason we went in there. Several other "bar/pub" options on the same street. We were there too early for this cover charge and dancing/live music the others mention, thank goodness! I was seriously disappointed in the experience. I won't go back even when in Boston again.
(2)
Eric G.

I always have a good time here!!! great drinks and usually great crowd. I have not tried the food yet tho.
(4)
Meredith K.

We had out of town guests this weekend. We walked all over Boston doing a quasi pub crawl - part of which included Fanueil Hall en route to the North End. Naturally, that meant stopping at the Bell in Hand and I have to say I've always liked this place. Sure this area is touristy and I normally avoid it at all costs, but we had guests - and we all wanted to see the new Greenway. Why do I like it here? Maybe it's because they serve Guinness in giant 22 oz. glasses - score! or Maybe it's that I've come with good people? Perhaps it's been because every time I've come here it's been a good time. Maybe it's that Fanueil Hall set the bar SO LOW with places like the Purple Shamrock that I think this place is fantastic in comparison. Plus it's the oldest bar in America-that's got to count for something!
(3)
Ploy K.

I really enjoyed the Bell in Hand. My boyfriend and I were just in the area, looking for a place to eat. We're both pretty nerdy and into the history of the area, so we were excited to try a place that calls itself the oldest tavern in America. The beers were huge and reasonably priced, and though we only ordered bruschetta, it was pretty delicious as well. I would love to go back and try some more of their food. We were there right around 6pm, so I don't know what the night life is like, but the service was fine and friendly and the atmosphere was wonderful. I would definitely go back!
(4)
Don M.

Have not been there in 10 years. I see it's not cheap. but it's a great people watching location
(3)
Heather W.

We only came here for the whole historical thing and we heard live music so we wanted to check it out. The live music took a break as soon as we got there. 45 minutes later when he still didn't return, we finished our drinks and left.
(3)
Ken M.

Bell in Hand was pretty good this night. Went on a Saturday night with a couple friends, $10 cover, usual for bars in Boston. More of a rock type band on the first floor with a DJ on the second floor. Drinks were a little expensive, but again, it's Boston, get used to it. Overall had a good time, would definitely go there again.
(4)
Janette W.

Went here to get my fill of the history of Boston, and by that I mean drink at the reported oldest bar in America. Great location near Fanueil and it's long shape means all the windows open on each side providing the best 360 degree cross breeze ever. I also love that when you order a beer, they don't ask what size, just give you the big one. Good times.
(5)
Deb K.

Although they seem to be pushing the cover charge to start earlier and earlier, The Bell still ranks high in my book. Close to home, big beers, cheap mixed drinks, awesome music from the DJ and some of the cover bands, dance floor upstairs and the food is decent. It's a little touristy, but in the summer they open up the windows and it is almost like sitting outside. It's a solid place to meet up with friends for happy hour or an evening or to bring out of town guests to get a little of Boston history.
(3)
Nathan B.

On Saturday, December 26, I flew from Seattle to Boston. I landed at about 5:30 PM and took a cab from Logan to the Bell In Hand Tavern to meet up with my girlfriend and her friends on a pub crawl. I walked through the door and into a drunken debacle of 20 people drinking beers, taking shots of Crown, and swearing with Boston accents..... Loved every minute of it!! Somebody told me the oldest bar in America (another told me "ids da oldes' bah in the woahld!!!""), so it's worth checking out simply for that fact!
(4)
D J.

Free band
(4)
Amanda B.

To start things off on a positive note - they make strong drinks. Oh, two more things. Upstairs they have a cool mini lighted dance platform, and downstairs has a free coat check. Everything else about this place is nothing special. I cringe every time somebody in my group of friends suggests going to Fanueil. (Ooh, a bar with an upstairs AND a downstairs. That means there's probably a crappy ass live band AND a DJ!) I think whoever built Fanueil though it would be great to have 25 bars all with slight variations on the two floor theme. Barf. Anyway, every time I've been to the Bell in Hand, the staff has been consistently dumb, aside from the coat-check girlies. I will just use my last visit to touch upon just a small sample of what is wrong with this place. Upon entering I got 10 $1 bills for change after forking over for the cover charge. Really? Really?! You can't be better prepared than that? It wasn't even 10 yet. Then there is the ridiculous concept of having to wait in line in order to go upstairs. 7 people come down, 7 people go up. 2 people come down, 2 people from the ominous line go up, etc. You can wait any amount of time, and when you get upstairs, it is scarily vacant. Last time my best friend and I were the next two people in line, and another friend who happened to also be at Bell in Hand saw us in line and came over to say hello. The bouncer yelled at him for cutting, which he WASN'T doing. I told the bouncer we were just talking, bouncer then proceeded to usher my friend and I upstairs...EVEN THOUGH NOBODY HAD COME DOWN! I can't stand the power tripping attitudes that people can have. I am well aware it's a possibility to encounter this in any bar, anywhere in the world, but Bell in Hand seems to have a concentration of this particular brand of people working for them. If I am paying for a night out of drinking and dancing, I want it to be F-U-N with capital letters and exclamation points galore. Upstairs, after buying a drink, I gave the bartender a couple of extra bucks to ensure that I got a $10 bill back, instead of a pile of $1 to add to my already huge pile of $1. She threw back the excess money at me and handed me a bunch of ones, even though I had specifically asked for a $10 back. DON'T WORRY BITCH, I STILL HAVE PLENTY OF ONES TO LEAVE YOU A TIP! If you want a pissy staff and a night full of aggravation...there ya go.
(2)
Dixon T.

Cold, smelly, overpriced, crowded, loud, and uncomfortable. Don't get lured in by the claim of it being the oldest pub in the US. It just isn't worth it.
(2)
Chris S.

This place claims to be the oldest tavern in the USA. The White Horse Tavern in Newport, Rhode Island also stakes that claim. Frankly even if the White Horse is not the oldest tavern in America I'd much rather believe that it is over The Bell In Hand. There is simply no comparison. This place is a no-frills bar and there are better choices in the Blackstone zone. I tried their namesake beer, which is brewed by Sam Adams, and it tastes just like (surprise!) Sam Adams lager. Move along people, there are more interesting old taverns in Boston..
(2)
John S.

This place is great for a night on the town!
(4)
Jennafir E.

After reading the reviews I assumed all the negative comments were just because people were drunk and disorderly. But nope! Bih security are really just overzealous, rude, and try to start fights with the people in line at the bar. Let me just give a quick rundown of their horrible service. The food was great, bartenders were great, and service for my Bette party was great. That is until we tried to go upstairs. I wait in line with the 20+ people I brought. Security tried to start a fight with me by claiming I was never in line. Mind you I have 3 people who were in line with me stating I was. Even people who I didn't know! They try to get me to start a yelling match, but I wasn't going to stoop to that. Instead, everyone in line: friends and strangers go to them and say she has been here for the last 15 minutes. Mind you we finally get upstairs and 6 people are up there yet they make everyone wait. As soon as I get up there they start yelling at a friend of mine, telling her she is hammered and needs to leave. She isn't, oddly he was ok with the guys who were obliterated. He then proceeds to throw her boyfriend out by his shirt when he tells the henchmen to take his hands off his fiancÃ©. Four people later and we are all forced to leave. Mind you the reason they were kicked out was because one of my friends didn't answer his question when he spoke to him because he was chatting with a girl. They said he was too drunk and couldn't be there and had to leave. My friend didn't even know they were talking to them because he was working it with this girl. When one tried to step in and explain what was going on to the security, BIH stated my friends were instigating a fight, while really it was the security all night. Never going back. Way to loose out on a ton of money.
(1)
Chase W.

The Bell! I really (like most people that actually are from Boston) HATE Faneuil Hall, and hate it worse when we're coerrced into going out to dinner and or drinks there... but if I have to, then I guess the Bell isn't the worst option in the area. Glowing remarks, I know. Maybe if I was 22, I'd change my tune, but I'm not. Week nights feature Karaoke, live music, and the occacional DJ with the clientel a mixed bag of the afterwork crowd and younger 20 somethings from out of town and college kids. It's not an awful crowd, but it's never a great one either. Weekends are a different story- the dance floor upstairs is a big attraction, as is indicated by the perenial lines and cover charges to get in; as is expected, this draws a younger crowd and the place gets packed pretty quickly. Once you wait in line to get in, there's often ANOTHER line to wait in to get upstairs to the dance floor. So that sucks. Or doesn't. For me it doesn't cuz I wouldn't go to a bar that boasts the special feature of waiting in line twice. Anything taht interrupts my beer drinking time is NOT ok. Ya Digg?!? The food is pretty bad, but not unedible; it's standard fare and basically what you'd expect from a middle of the road bar in the area. One positive is the newly renovated bathrooms; previously you needed a tetanus shot upon departing the bell... now you just need some purel.... So some bias here, but I'll give it three stars for being mildly charming in the 'its been arround since before my dad was a live' kind of way.
(3)
Leang E.

I had been shopping for a few hours and my tired feet appreciated getting to this tavern and getting a seat at the bar. I entered the quieter side where a nice couple from California were watching the Red Wings and the Stars play hockey. It was perfect. Another couple from Detroit came to watch the game, so it was nice that the bar left the tv on that channel for us especially since the Celtics game was going on. As we cheered louder they turned up the volume for the basketball game. It was kind of annoying but kind of understandable. They turned it up 4 times. It's surprising how loud 5 people can be when the bar got busier and busier. The food here is pretty good as far as bars go, and it's got a great history. I believe this is the oldest bar in the country, orginating from the town crier. The prices are reasonable, and the bartender was nice enough.
(4)
Orly M.

I only kind of like it here. I don't like the crowd at all. Only so many button downs and sox hats I can tolerate. Don't get me wrong, I love the sox but come on now. Speaking of come on now, what is with the cover bands? They totally suck. But Tuesdays this place has one redeeming quality...Karaoke! I am a karoke connoiseur you see. This Karaoke night is awesome because the same people sing every week and they are decent. They are decent because they clearly think they are on American Idol. They practice at home with their hairbrush in front of the bathroom mirror while people with lives go out and do stuff. I almost gave this place three stars of mediocrity but I deducted one because I remembered a karaoke night a few months ago when I was ROBBED. I sang some Cure and kicked ass -- yeah, I don't have as good a voice as some of these other people or a hairbrush as covered with saliva, but I am a fun hot mama and I rocked the house. The crowd loved me. Did I win? NOOOO. Some old guy who sings the same cliched shit every week won. He and his hairbrush probably had an intimate night of celebrating when he got home to his empty bed. So, in summation, kiss my ass Bell in Hand.
(2)
Kisbee B.

Was out with an intern from Cali and she begged us to go to this bar because she said she heard this was the "oldest bar in the US" So we get there-- 5 dollar cover.. and a small line, but both were doable. It has two floors, and the downstairs had a live band and the upstairs had a DJ with a more clubbier feel. They had some decent beers on tap~ So we're having a good time when the intern decides to find the manager to ask how long this bar has been open... she then finds out its only about 30 years old... so she was so upset, we finished our drinks and headed out. Nothing exciting about this bar... I've been to better, but I have also been to much worse.
(3)
Eric B.

Bon Jovi and Def Lepard are alive and kicking in this bar. I went in on a weeknight and the band were doing 80's rock covers. It was a good time had by all. I drank Harpoon IPA like it was going out of style. Needless to say I drunk and puked in the back alley that Paul Revere puked in 300+ years before, I think. Oh well, that's my story and I am sticking to it. I also got stalked here by a school teacher from Peabody. Don't ask me how I know what my stalker did or where she lived. The Bell in the Hand is a hip spot for everyone.
(4)
Dana L.

We came here to watch the Celtics disappoint us, and I finally decided to order some food. Even though I have been here to drink before, I have trouble rating a place until I actually eat the food. Pluses: Lots of TVs - God bless flat panel TVs Decent Beer Selection Minuses: Rude Bartenders - The bartender was being mean to my friend, and she had him kicked out for allegedly throwing a straw at her (we were standing next to him, and none of us noticed this). Crowded - Very narrow - you're always squeezing by someone, and there isn't enough space to sit down. The food - I had the sliders, which were pretty uninspired mini-hamburgers. Kind of cold by the time they got to me. The calamari was a bit better. The bathrooms - the guy who designed the men's bathroom was clearly retarded. The sink is set up such that, if you are washing your hands, someone coming into the bathroom has to squeeze behind you to use the toilet. I can't speak for the women's bathrooms. Overall, an ok place to watch the game, but there are clearly better places in Faneuil Hall.
(2)
Kelly T.

I am a big fan of the Bell in Hand. The location and the history of the place alone should sell you on it. But then the amazingly great food and wonderful service put it over the top. I have worked with Debbie Kessler and her wonderful and accomodating staff to put together very successful fundraising events at their venue. The food is just fantastic, many surprises on the menu like the delightful fish tacos let you know that this is a RESTAURANT as well as a tavern. And the food is definitely not an after-thought. I am hooked on their mixture of fries called Root Fries that have sweet potato, idaho and waffle fries all on one platter. Their coconut chicken tenders are addictive as well. It is a great place for people-watching in the warm weather with the windows open and all of Boston passing by (and stopping in!) It is always a pleasure to have an event here, to stop in during a holiday pub crawl, or to come in on a Friday or Saturday night to enjoy the fun and the live music. I am definitely a "bell-ringer" and want to spread the word to everyone to go down and enjoy a cold beer and a great meal.
(5)
Justin R.

This bar is the epitome of everything wrong with the Boston bar scene. Overpriced booze, woefully long lines, absurd covers ($10 on a Friday or Saturday night), infantile clientele. You name it, this bar has it. It's disgusting, the bouncers are idiots and it attracts people who have no concept of bar etiquette. Count the number of times you see (1) a fight (2) some girl crying and screaming at the bartender and (3) some kid falling down the stairs. Awful. Go elsewhere in Faneuil Hall. Or better still, don't go to Faneuil Hall.
(1)
jonathan u.

Who doesn't love a big long unnecessary line? OK once inside the Bell in Hand is an OK time but nothing fantastic. Their are two floors, a club atmosphere upstairs and a band playing down stairs. What really got to me was waiting in line at the door to get into a bar that wasn't full, then waiting in another line to get to a dance floor that was half empty.....very aggravating. But the down stairs band was good and hell if you cant have fun with Tequila then my hypothesis is you cant have fun period. Not a bar that will change your life, but its not a bar that that ruins your night either.
(3)
Diane D.

I've been putting off writing a review for Bell in Hand because I just don't know how to summarize all my experiences here. When people ask me for recommendations for a good all-encompassing place with dancing, somewhat affordable drinks and a decent crowd - I feel somewhat guilty recommending the Bell in Hand but sometimes I just want to. Especially if they specify the Faneuil Hall area, because lets be honest, its the best bar there. See the fact is, I've never really have had a truly bad night here. Granted, I've learned the tricks for success to help the Bell in Hand out...I'll share. You get there a bit earlier so you don't wait in the line. You maybe stop at like Hong Kong first for a Scorpion Bowl so you're all ready feeling good when you walk in. Take advantage of the free coat check which is great for the winter...I refuse to be one of those crazy people walking around with no coat in January. If you know you want to dance the night away or prefer hip-hop, you go upstairs (DJ) early before there is a line, which is pretty lame to stand in. Not to say I haven't had my disagreements with the place. Sometimes the downstairs band is disappointing. Sometimes I overstay my welcome and get bored and should've just left half hour earlier. At the end of the night its walkable to the North End for some late night food, which is never a bad thing. 3 stars is very fair...a reliable fun night out almost any time of the year but nothing real special. If you insist on a Faneuil Bar one night, this would be the one I'd direct you to.
(3)
Liz K.

This place is so cozy. I like all the windows and the ambiance. Can't wait to go back!
(4)
tammy w.

I felt the service was horrible when i stopped in here. My friend also got pushed down the steps by the bouncer because he didn't see there was a line gaining access upstairs. There is a good crowd that comes here, lots of young middl-aged. But I felt there was too much attitude and anger coming from Bartenders and doormen.
(1)
Roxanne G.

Fun! This was the first (of two) stops mom and I made on the Saturday night we had in Boston. The place was a lot bigger than I expected, at least 4 sections that I could see. A dining area, a room for live music, backroom bar and an upstairs section. We had a good time here, had a beer before we realized the band was about to start and get REALLY loud. I would go back again, but not go out of my way to do it.
(3)
Fernando A.

The bell in hand has been getting people drunk for over 200 years. I can now be added to the list, yes folks, the Utahan got drunk at the Bell in hand. Service was spotty -so it is best to order at the bar. The place is larger in size than what you see outside and gets filled up quickly on the weekends. I would come back here again and hope to emerge in a better state of mind next time.
(4)
Dan C.

My boss and I decided to grab a bite to eat after a long day of science-ing and this place just happened to be the one we stopped at. We both got burgers. My burger was your basic cheese, bacon, and bbq sauce fare, rare. The waitress initially told me that they didn't do anything below medium, but I batted my eyelashes, coaxed her, and asked for the rarest side of medium, and managed a nice rare, borderline medium-rare piece of beef. I'm not entirely sure why we suddenly can't order things rare, I mean its my body, if I get sick it's my own damn fault. We polished off our burgers with a pair of large beers, but all and all nothing special. Now If we talk Bell in Hand as a bar/club, then it is more or less of the same, just a-ok. I went here on the V-day pub crawl of '09 and managed to talk my way past the line, which went on into infinity. First thing about this place is it has way too many bars. There must be five separate bars in this place. Downstairs there is the two in the main room, then one in the back near the tables for food. There is a stage on the first floor, perhaps for bands, or maybe just so people can climb up there and show off. Curious about that second floor? Well wait in line. Yeah, you have to wait in line to get to the second floor...there is a special place in hell for bouncers, always making me wait. Upstairs is nothing to be impressed about, just two more bars and open space for dancing. Now when I say nothing to be impressed, I mean it is fun and enjoyable, but you aren't going to see a couple perform acrobatic intercourse on the dance floor. If you are lookin' for goodness like that, you need to hit up the Roxy. Bottom Line:If you are in the area why not give it a try.
(3)
Eddie F.

Love this pub every time I come here. It is the oldest pub in America the Ale is my favorite!
(5)
Bridget B.

One of my favorite bars in Boston. Free coat check, fun music both upstairs and downstairs, usually enough room to breathe but enough people so you don't feel like you are drinking in a half-empty basement.... Four stars for being a solid bet for a fun night. I considered giving it five stars, but I had to restrain msyelf because after all, it IS just a bar - and one that has a line after 9 pm, at that. Still, great fun, good crowd, and dance parties to Cher are fully acceptable.
(4)
B D.

This place sucks. It has the potential to be awesome, but they make you wait all night long in line, as if the place was full (just so ppl walking by think the place is packed) and when you get in, there is not that many ppl, then if you wanna go upstairs, guess what? line again, i stood there for half an hour, went upstairs, and the place was empty, it sucked so bad, i'm never going back there again. Oh yeah, did i mention 8 bucks for a beer? Dont waste your night there!
(1)
Jaime D.

always have liked this bar. the tourists seem to be intimidated, somehow. or perhaps it's the Union Oysterhouse that devours them before they even have the opportunity to aproach. perfectly tame, and full of locals and service-industry cats that have just gotten off work. I was drunk at the time, so I cannot elaborate further. mmm...Jameson's. I like the idea that I might be sitting in the same spot where a colonial may have been planning the Boston Tea Party, the Revolution, etc. supposedly, this is where it all went down. mmm...history.
(4)
Lindsay H.

My mother and I arrived in Boston around 4pm on a Monday. After checking into our hotel we were looking for something decent to eat. After checking out Cheers at Faneiul Hall we decided that was too touristy. Just down the road we happened upon Bell In Hand Tavern. It was the most crowded bar/restaurant on the block so we decided it had to be good. Inside it was seat yourself and all of the tables lined the window so it was perfect for people watching on the street. We sat next to two older men, in their 50s and my mother began to chit-chat with them. Oooh embarrassing. Our waitress took our drink orders (Jack Daniels + sprite) and returned with something that was not jack and sprite. The taste was horrid. We soon figured out there sprite dispenser had run out of soda and was just shooting out soda-water, very very bitter. Our waitress was not very helpful towards the problem with our drinks. She informed us that none of the bar ladies knew how to change the soda dispenser and that when the cook was finished doing his thing he'd attempt to come out and look at it. How can you work behind the bar all day and night and not know how to change the soda dispensers????? That's part of your daily job. She offered to mix our drinks with ginger-ale. Not a very pleasant taste either. So next we ordered (before the men next to us I must add) and they were finished eating before we even got our dishes. I had just asked for a chicken salad (something I'm sure sits in the fridge all day like tuna would and then they slap it on a plate) and my mom a hamburger. Not very complicated at all. Well we waited, and waited. When they finally fixed the soda dispenser our waitress asked if we wanted refills but didn't opt to take off the original drinks off our bill that were sent back to the bar because we had taken too big of a sip of them or something like that. What?? When the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce arrived it was decent. Nothing more exciting than something I could of picked up at a local sub-shop, scraped off the bread and slapped on some lettuce. Like the rating says... meh i've experienced much better.
(2)
Jason H.

Ehh? This place is so-so. Oldest pub? Who cares? Food is mediocre. Service was HORRIBLE. Decor was awful. Just a plain crap-hole. I came thinking there'd be a little authenticism. Nope. I think it's probably most frequented by tourists.
(2)
Bryanne R.

Even if this is the oldest bar...don't make it look like nothing's been done since it opened. Clean the damn place up. I don't want to be in here and think I'm going to get an STD from touching the wall. I only go here when my friend's band plays because they draw an awesome crowd and get the place fired up.
(2)
H S.

Lots of history here, but you would never know unless you did a little outside research, which I'm sure most people who come here have. It is one of the oldest bars in Boston, but I believe the Warren Tavern in Charlestown outdates it by a whopping five or so years. I was a little disappointed because Bell in Hand seems like any other bar in Boston... was I missing something? But other than that, it has drinks and nice bartenders. I believe that is called a bar doing their job right.
(4)
D. A.

As I said in my review of the Oyster House: I am a sucker for a gimick and old things draw me to them. I went for lunch before I hit haymarket on a Saturday. I had a good burger and found the 'Bell in Hand Ale' to be quite delectible. I liked the cozy, open air atmosphere. I sat by the open window where I could do some prime people watching (there are lots to watch on a saturday afternoon near Faneuil hall). The open windows are nice in theory, but there was a lot of traffic on that little crowded street (with lots of pedestrians), which was the perfect recipe for lots of cars blowing their horns about 5 feet from me. The service was prompt and curteous. As soon as my beer was empty, I was asked if I wanted a second, but it was not overly busy at that time. I recall the prices being reasonable: I got a burger and fries with two large beers for $20). I would definitely go again.
(4)
Annie K.

I was in Boston this past weekend and thought I'd hit up my trusty friend Bell in Hand. The line outside was not bad at all, we practically walked right in. I realize it's May, but it is New England and stil coat weather, so I was a little disappointed that the coat check wasn't open. Ah well. Headed to the bar and my best friend headed to the line to get upstairs. Waited a couple minutes, but the bartender saw me and when a guy walked right up and tried to order, the bartender came to me first which I thought was very nice. I ordered, word for word, an "Absolute and Diet Coke and a Malibu and Pineapple." He walked away and then came right back and asked me to repeat. I did. Wasn't paying attention to what he was doing, he comes back over, puts a drink in front of me and says $7.75. I thought I heard him wrong, so I handed him a $20. I look down and there is only one drink in front of me and it looks like throw up. My friend steps over and says, "I think he just put everything in one." He comes back with my change and I ask him what he just handed me and he was like "that's why I asked you to repeat it." He definitely knew he screwed up. I was so baffled by this disgusting concoction sitting in front of me that I didn't even ask him to make me a new drink or ask for my money back. He made a Malibu and Pineapple (my friend's) and told me to drink that and give the other to her. I am a good friend and would not submit her to that, so I drank it myself. And you would think he wouldn't charge me for the second drink, but he did! So I paid for that nastiness (which I blame my next day's hangover for because I never get hangovers) and I suffered through it. The saving grace of it all was, of course, the DJ who is always a good guy and plays great music. This kid kept rubbing up on my ass and I am only polite the first time, so the second time I told him off he told me that I was in his bar and he was going to have me thrown out. Okay. He goes up to the DJ and tells him some story. This was shocking to me because 1. I never encounter really skeevy guys here and 2. Does he really think someone's going to believe his sad story over mine? I spoke with the DJ after and explained what really happened and he was super sweet, called the manager over and explained to him about the "really annoying kid in the hat who's here every week." Hilarious. All and all, another 4 stars for my good friend Bell in Hand.
(4)
Alvin P.

meh. if its 10pm on a weekend and you want to go to Bell In Hand, be prepared to wait on a long ass line. Its typical Boston Bar BS. They keep the lines super long, and the bar empty.
(2)
Lee D.

Our team doesn't have a company Christmas Party and instead we opt for a beginning of the year January party. This year we decided to rent the second floor of the Bell in Hand Tavern for the last Thursday of the month. We worked with Debbie on a menu of appetizers for our party of about 50 people where she gave us her opinion on what options may work best for our event and how much food we should order. At first we didn't know if we wanted a live band or a DJ for our music loving staff. Debbie helped provide us with both options and she then arranged the entertainment for us. Throughout the whole process the entire staff of the Bell in Hand was beyond helpful and accommodating even with our last minute changes and requests. I would highly suggest the Bell in Hand Tavern for any company party or gathering. We had such a great time that Friday morning came a little too soon for many of our employees.
(5)
Jack M.

I don't like this place too much. It has an odd layout, usually some really bad band playing in the corner with the windows open so even as you walk by outside you are blasted by their crappy music. This place is for the tourists.
(2)
Lester H.

Fair. I like the history of it all, but this place is only fair at best. It's always so crowded. I just don't get standing in line to get into a place when there are 30 places just as good within a 2 minute walk. I am overcome by the urge to violently shake some sense into people when it's 5 degrees outside, 11:30 pm and they're standing in line. Come on, people, that's so lame.
(3)
Andrea H.

Another drinking establishment I had VERY high hopes for...I will ut it some slack, MAYBE the night I went on was college night or something, but it seemed to be a trendy type crowd and I'm sorry, but $4.75 for a 12oz of Miller Lite is rediculous. Waste of time. We were in and out.
(1)
Michael C.

This is downtown's best little rock bar. The Bell in Hand is a hidden jewel playing some of Boston's best cover bands.
(5)
Bob B.

Friend and I had only a pint here (the Red Brick Ale from Sam...quite good actually) but enjoyed the place. There is plenty of window views of the surrounding old town of Boston. The bartender said the taps in the back room were the original. Not sure what "original" meant but the thought of it was cool. Though interestingly enough, the new taps in the front were experiencing difficulties in pouring a pint so we had to make a 2nd visit to get that Sam. In any event, we would return...looks like it would be a blast during happy hour.
(4)
Felecia C.

This is the only Faneuil Hall bar that has consistently shown me a good time. Just accept the fact that it embodies all the sterotypical qualities of a Faneuil bar (long line to get in, long line to go upstairs, pointless cover charge, suburban guys in button down shirts and girls in tank tops) because there is major dancing potential and fun to be had once inside. Just make sure to do a Jagerbomb, or 2.
(3)
Trish F.

Alas.. Bell in Hand makes me ask the age old question when considering a review. Is this place fun? Or are my friends just so fabulous we can turn any venue into a party? Hmmmmmmm.... I've been here a few times. One of my alumni events was actually held upstairs a couple years ago. So the company has always been good and the drinks well mixed.. but when I was there the other night it just seemed all wrong. The crowd, although it was a Sunday night, must have been the general club crowd since most people didn't have work on Monday. Okay.. so most people that know me, know that I'm not exactly from the striped-polo-shirt-hot-pink-halter sect. And I'm not gonna judge clothing because I don't want to be judged either.. but dang. This is mecca for them or one of the base camps before mecca. My problem is the sitting. Why sit around a dance floor? I mean, I've been in parties where half of us were dancing and half were just hanging out, but when all the people in your party are just hanging out against the wall (not talking).. it just makes me feel awkward. Judging panel? On top of that.. there was a weird breakdance fight happening. Sans breakdancing.. but more of the intros into breakdancing moves. Then again, I wouldn't want them on the floor seeing as that it took about 10-20 minutes for the crew to clean up a glass that was dropped (not mine, although its contents ended up on my leg). There was also a couple that was doing salsa or the lambada or something. It must have been on during a movie marathon for the long weekend. Oh and I almost forgot the hoe-y girls dancing (I think that was dancing) on the elevated light up cube/floory/thingies during 'Billie Jean'. Weird weird environment. Other than that, the DJ was pretty much playing the soundtrack to "Save the Last Dance". Mad props to Tarah and Beth who were attempting the choreography. The downstairs had the game playing on a few screens (HAHA Lakers) and a cover band that seemed fun enough. The ladies rooms are sweltering and SMALL. It's so awkward trying to maneuver your way around since there are three ill-situated stalls in the middle of two ill-situated sinks and one ill-situated hand dryer. I'd probably come back with friends if there wasn't a ridic cover.. but probably not. 2.7 stars? IMHO.
(3)
Ken S.

Good times are had by all... So many options at Bell in Hand...stay in the front and people watch out the big windows, go in the back room and party your ass of (especially if theres a pub crawl going on), or head upstairs to get your groove on...youve got it all here.
(4)
Mere G.

My husband and I stopped here for a beer while waiting for friends to arrive at the Haymarket. The place was not busy, so we sat at the bar. The bartender was surly, grunted rather than spoke and made sure we understood she did not want to wait on us. We got our two VERY overpriced pints, were made to feel uncomfortable the entire time we drank them, then paid up. She grabbed the credit card receipt before we were finished and turned around to snarl at my husband for giving her an 18% tip (which was MORE than generous considering the service). Other servers seemed more upbeat, and maybe we just got a dud, but it's not worth visiting again as long as this bartender is working. Big thumbs down!
(1)
Erin F.

Staff is extremely rude and disrespectful. We called twice to see when the cover started, we were told 9:30. We (3 girls) arrived at 9pm, told there was a $10 cover. They got very verbally aggressive when we suggested (nicely) they inform their staff of times in the future. Both bouncers and manager used foul language and refused to even have a conversation with us. I will never be going there again and will tell all of my friends to never go either.
(1)
Sarah S.

been a couple times now and just don't care to go back... this place is a douche bag meat market!
(2)
Tommy S.

This is the kind of bar I expect to see as a visitor to Boston. Historic, friendly, good food, good beer selection.
(4)
Justin C.

I made a yelp account just to give this place a bad review. I wanted to like it , I really did, but after waiting in line for an hour only to realize everyone wanted to go upstairs "this took another 45 min" I would much rather be at sissy K's. It had potential but sucked, Oh ya , before i leave, when i finally got upstairs , there wasn't alot of people. the lines were like, just for show. WTF
(1)
Lisa W.

I went to the Bell In Hand Tavern on a Saturday with a cousin of mine. Upon approaching the door we were hit with a cover charge, which is understandable, since a band was playing that night. But, feeling a little tipsy, I flirtatiously asked the bouncer if they gave a discount for cute girls, to which he responded, "Let me know if you see any". Fortunately, I have pretty good self-esteem as to not let a meatheaded bouncer ruin my time. I would recommend that the bar train their staff to be a little more friendly. Other than that, the band was great, and it was a good time and a pretty good crowd.
(3)
Matt L.

This historic location is in a prime area in downtown Boston. It is one of the oldest taverns in the city and is historic and a great place to grab a drink in the summer since it opens its windows. It is set up strange having a bar on one wall but being more of a mess of tables scattered and has two floors. If you get caught in here on a weekend night, you will find yourself crowded in with college kids with a DJ playing all kinds of music. The food is typical bad bar food good for eating when you are drinking heavily but not much else. It is worth a visit though and on a street lines with some good pubs!
(3)
John B.

Apparently the oldest tavern in America. Didn't really get that feel when I walked in though. My buddy who was my tour guide said we have to grab a drink which turned out to be many drinks. Service was great and it was fun to people watch. Especially fun to watch all the people who did the marathon the previous day hobble around. Nothing like getting your drink on at 2 in the afternoon after running a marathon the previous day.
(4)
Emily S.

When I first moved here, I thought this place was really cool (for the historical aspect of it anyway). Then I learned. It's the typical tourist lameness. If you want real beer with real Bostonians, go to the Kinsale. If you want to mingle with tourists...then hit this place up. The Green Dragon behind it is much nicer too.
(3)
Lia M.

This place was a blast. Definately a pleasant surprise. Bands downstairs & a DJ playing pop/hip-hop upstairs. I also met the nicest girl, who complimented my shirt. Far too often, girls try to compete with each other. I felt totally relaxed there, and will definately go back.
(4)
Colin B.

Came back again Friday and Saturday. I love you.
(5)
Susan A.

Everyone has to go here at least one time while in Boston. What's your desire? Live band? Collegeville? DJ and grindin' upstairs? It's a small adult playground that has been enteraining patriots for centuries. You'll probably make new friends here! Get the UFO.
(4)
Barney B.

"Oldest tavern in US" that gets lumped in with "longest continuous city street in US", "oldest brewery in US", and "first subway in US" meaning, every city claims one - and who can do anything but agree with the last joint that told you it was in fact the holder of such a title? fact is, you don't argue - and you know that no matter what slight asterik of a situation that allows this place (or any) to claim 'oldest' - you are still in an old F N joint - and it's kinda cool. to think that guys who look like the 'fanueil hall dressed-up" colonial dude outside actually dressed like that when they drank here and weren't technically in costume - kinda cool. oh, and large guiness, cool service, and no one rushing a table of seven drinking and playing cards on a Sunday afternoon - cool no matter how old the place. chill
(3)
Brian S.

I like the place a lot. I know it has it's fair share of shortcomings but the place is a lot of fun with friends. The beer is plentiful and cold and it is close if you are on your way to see the Bruins or Celtics.
(4)
Caitlyn L.

Ok, the line does suck, so I'm taking a star away from my original thought. But other than that, my friends and I always manage to have a great time here, probably because we take over half of the upstairs dance floor and feel free to be as rowdy as we want without random guys coming at us from behind. Other than that, we've met some interesting characters here and it's a good place to have a relatively casual but fun night with friends. I haven't eaten here, but I'd like to try it....
(3)
Stephen K.

Tourist trap shithole of a bar along the Freedom Trail. Typical disgusting Fanueil scene. Avoid all bars within a six block radius of Fanueil.
(1)
Adam B.

"excuse me bouncer. can i wait in line for 45mins to get in, when there is clearly enough room in the bar in freezing cold?" "THEN wait in line for another 45 mins to get up stairs and dance?" i guess for being the oldest bar in boston, its cool to go and say you went. other than that, its nothing special. ive been here a few times. mainly for birthdays and get togethers with college friends. i of course have no say in where we go because we'd be at ZUZU or enourmous room dancing our faces off. i usually oblige to go, just to see and hang out with my friends. its really not much different then any other bar in the area. it packs a huge line on the weekend after 10pm and another one to go upstairs to dance. you can dance down stairs but it gets pretty packed and the floor is right next to the bar and there is usually some sort of scuffel towards the end of the night. i wouldnt suggest staying too late there (well any time after 1:30) because its a HUGE cluster fuck to get a cab
(2)
Lisa A.

I went to visit Boston not to long ago! Had a great time. Small bar with a fun feel! Staff was quick and friendly. You get to say....you have been in the oldest bar in America!
(4)
Terry C.

ughhh Bell in Hand was filled with people that were wasted and the place smelled...and it was only a Saturday afternoon.
(1)
Formicas F.

We stopped in for live music and had a Guiness! Can't go wrong with that- the musician who was playing was excellent and that is what pulled us in. It was the perfect break from our pavement pounding all day!
(3)
Lyssa M.

I bought a groupon for dinner here - the single worst meal I have ever had. We started with an inedible clam chowder. It was completely salty and devoid of clams. The waitress offered me a salad as a substitution and it was so bad, it made me wish I hadn't sent the soup back! Barely dressed romaine lettuce with untoasted walnuts, dried cranberries and a foul cheese of some kind... Completely flavorless. My digestion was not aided by the loud music. A waiter then brought us a fisherman's platter to share. It absolutely sucked. We live in Boston, not Duluth - how could they have ruined fresh fish? They filled most of the plate with McDonalds french fries and a soggy lump of cole slaw that was turning - it had an unpleasant, tart aftertaste that made me avoid a second fork full. Even the tartar sauce was bad - Instead of cocktail sauce, they put a small container of marinara sauce on the platter. Horrible. We didn't stay for the promised flight of beer or lava cake dessert. A complete waste of my time and money. The only good thing I have to say is that I found a parking space on the street around the corner. Go anywhere but here for fish if you're in Boston - there are innumerable, wonderful choices for you - this is not one of them!
(1)
Crystal M.

I was some what dissapointed because I thought this would be more Pub like. They were playing main stream Popish music though, and I couldnt wait around to see what type of crowd showed up there......Th e food was not that good either!!!
(2)
Brad D.

This bar is just okay. That's about it and this is sadly the best of the Faneuil Hall bars. Maybe it's because I'm older now that I go out in Faneuil about once a year, but there isn't really anything special about this place. They don't have that many beers on tap. I don't even know if they serve food. If you have a private party upstairs, it actually can be a great time. I don't think I've ever said the following sentence, "Hey, let's all go to the Bell & Hand!"
(2)
Robert R.

Perfect place for some good old fashioned saturday afternoon day drinking. Also, if you are heading out on a 8 hour pub crawl, it is a good idea to start out a place that makes more than a passing attempt to serve food. Big ups to 'fill me out like an application'.
(5)
Kelly E.

From an outsider's perspective....only in Boston can an "Irish Pub" feature a hip hop DJ and a good mix of people shaking their groove thang. Back here in WI....an Irish tavern means lots of Guiness and stiff drinks. The line took FOREVER...probably 30 minutes+. All-and-all though, I had a great time and I liked the crowd. Kudos to Boston though on smoke free bars...we started that last year in Madison and it is quite wonderful.
(4)
Ashley M.

What a dump! I can't believe people wait in line for hours to pay $10 to get in this place to see some cheezy ass cover band and have cheap drinks spilled on them. The ONLY appealing thing about this bar is that the windows open so you don't have to smell all of the drunk sweaty people who are too crammed in. UCK!
(1)
Lindsey W.

I went here on a Monday night and unexpectedly had a blast! The band was good and the crowd wasn't bad either. I have no idea what it's like on a weekend but I plan to find out.
(4)
Caitlin C.

OK, so I thought the Warren Tavern is the oldest Tavern in Boston/USA....Anyway, this place is all right. I never choose to go out here, but when I am invited by others to go, I tend to have a decent time. Ok, that's not true, I would willingly go to Tuesday-night Karaoke again. That was a great time and I recommend it (the only reason this place is getting 3 stars). But as for the regular Friday/Saturday scene, it's not love or even like (it's 2 stars). Take, for instance, last weekend. I went there for my friend's cousin's co-worker's boyfriend's going away party. We wanted to avoid the $10 cover, so we called ahead. The lady on the phone said cover starts of 9:30. When we got there at 9:28 they were charging cover....reeeally?? The guy at the door informs us they start cover at 9 pm. Not uncool at all. Now, I would've liked to have turned right around and gone to a place that doesn't employ blatant liars, but we were meeting others, so we sucked it up and paid (at least we avoided the dreaded line). Live bands are fun, dance floors are fun. Being charged $2.25 for tonic water and lime is not fun. And to end on a positive note, they make a decent Vegas Baby.
(3)
Kate S.

Sticky. Wooden. Crowded.
(2)
Jen and Tim S.

Jen hasn't been here, but I have (Tim). It was pretty interesting, as soon as we entered we pretty much had nowhere to go and were more or less ushered upstairs. What's cool about this bar is that it has 3 very different parts to it. Downstairs they have a live band and a bar, and upstairs there's a big bar that's open on two sides, but on one side there was a band and the other side there was just dancing music. It really seemed like it was good for a variety of people. When I went, neither of the bands were very good, but I still had a fun time. The other great thing is that it's so close to a ton of different bars that if it really sucks, you can just go to another one. *Edit - Tim, I have been here. It is totally fun that there are two bands, but when I went I was not feeling the DJ. On top of that, getting upstairs took forever, so then I never went down to check out the other band, at all. It is a fun vibe, for sure, but be prepared for a crowd & a wait.
(3)
josh k.

GIven that most of the bars around Fanueil are pretty much exactly the same (yes, they are, don't argue!) Bell is my pick of the bunch. Big windows over by the tables allow for much nice people watching / inviting bypassing friends in. Two floors for bands, and some dancing. One thing kept running through my head though... "This is the oldest pub in the US, and they can't they come up with something better than %^&ing kareoke?"
(4)
Jackie G.

One of my favorite bars to go to in Fanuiel. They have good bands downstairs and a DJ Upstairs so there is something for everyone. Always a energetic crowd and a really fun atmosphere. and because if its location I find it is a much easier getting a cab, which can take hours, in Fanuiel. Loved the bartenders...very assertive and drinks are reasonably priced.
(5)
Nicole P.

I have had some of the best nights of going out at this bar. My roomate and I take our friends there almost every weekend. However, they have recently upped the Saturday night cover price to $10!!!!!! Paying that much for this place is outragous. The line is always long as hell and the boucers are rude. However, the upstairs is always great for dancing and the DJ plays all songs we request. Big, cheap beers are always a good thing, but come on Bell in Hand, you aren't a high end place, $10 is TOO much. We have stopped going on Saturdays and have advised all we meet to do the same.
(3)
Irene F.

Bell in Hand is always great from some drunken belligerence on a Friday or Saturday night! The cover isn't too bad, around $5, but makes you want to stay longer than you probably would otherwise.
(4)
Meredith M.

Came here with my mom during lunchtime just to say we've been to the oldest tavern in America. The service was great and so were the buffalo wings!
(4)
Kate S.

Loved this place...was in town for the week and went straight here to meet peeps when I got off the plane. The crowd was super fun and friendly that night, and the music was great. Nice low-key place with a good vibe - however, I was there on a Monday night so I'm thinking it gets a little more rowdy on other nights. Only reason they're missing a star is because I was robbed of my buffalo wings - kitchen closes at 10pm. Sigh. Bass Ale makes for an OK dinner, though...
(4)
Mark Y.

Sit in the corner by the window. Cheap, very good pub food. And they serve beer!
(4)
Mandi M.

I always have a good time here. There are a couple different options depending on the mood you are in. There's a more chill area right when you walk in with just a bar and some tables around to hang out. Then if you walk further in there's a place where there seems to usually be pretty good bands playing. Then if you venture upstairs there is sometimes a band but usually a dance floor with hip-hop and the like. I really like the dance floor upstairs it always seems to be a fun crowd. Only negative on this place- they make you wait in line to get upstairs. There is nothing more annoying to me then waiting in another line inside after waiting in a line to get in the bar to begin with. But once I suck it up and wait a bit I always have fun... if you go on the earlier side (10:30-11:00ish) you can usually avoid the outside line which helps.
(4)
Brendan M.

I think this is the biggest of the pubs lined up between Faneuil and Haymarket, with 3 full bars inside. The DJ'ing was ... eclectic, going from The Pretenders to 50 Cent and back to The Cure all within 10 minutes, but the overall atmosphere was good. I do think that the Green Dragon right across the street is older, though.
(4)
James M.

Great place! Good people! Kareoke on Tuesday is so fun.
(4)
Angel S.

They had a guy who did an Oasis and Radiohead cover here. It was not very good, but it wasn't very bad either! I got drunk and sang karaoke. I don't sing karaoke. I DO NOT SING KARAOKE. I've been drunker in other karoake situations and did not sing karoake. Yay to Bell in Hand for getting me to sing "New York, New York!" which may I add, everyone hated because this is Boston and Boston's oldest bar. HAHA
(4)
Matt P.

One of my favorite bar/pubs in Boston, great live bands and fair prices.
(5)
Kristen G.

I would siggest Bell in Hand during the day and at night. They have live bands at both times. The crowd is usually energetic, young and fun. The food is pretty good as well. It is my favorite bar in Faneuil Hall.
(5)
Mike L.

Why would you turn a landmark into a cheesy dance bar. This place should be kept as a drinking pub. the set up is horrible for anything else.
(1)
Sherie J.

Fun Fun F-U-N especially when it's warm and all the windows are wide open. The live bands rock out and you can chill w/Sam Adams. Way cooler than any of the other bars in the Fanueil Hall area.
(4)
Anne B.

This is a fun place with good live music. Everyone in this bar is definitely over 21. It's a great bar if you're looking to dance to some cover bands and get a little crunked, maybe even meet some interesting people.
(4)
Eugene H.

Just another generic Fanueil Hall bar. Plasma screen TV. Wood floors. Cover bands in one area, DJ's in another. Guys in backward Red Sox hats. Hot skanks everywhere--lots of birthdays and bachelorette parties. Mostly tourists and college students. Made out with a girl from CHicago while her boyfriend went outside to smoke. My friend got kicked out by a very aggressive bouncer. He deserved it though. He was vomiting on people.
(2)
JOHN r.

if people with taste had suicide bombers, this place would be long gone. ok no, that was a bit much. sorry. i get worked up. it's kind of like harvard ave. it's frat. word. frat. obvious right. but the thing is, it's also kind of not like harvard ave. cause the lines suck, and the beer is expensive, and nobody there is still in college. the dudes there? their umass years are over man, and they've gotten kind of fat. and so have all the drunk girls they're hitting on. but yo, on an upside, if you're at a cool bar this weekend maybe you're going to be thinking "hey, whoa. no low level stock analysts with suffolk bachelors degrees. whoa, no paralegals wearing bu hats. this is nice." and you know why you're thinking that? it's cause all those kids have been coraled at the bell in hand tavern.
(1)
Adrienne B.

I would have to agree with Brandy's review on this one. Went once and the band was not that good and the night definitely seemed long. There are tons of rooms so you would think just go into another room and dance to a hip hop mix but the good crowds and music seem to be where the bands are. I'll definitely have to check to see who's playing next time around.
(3)
Michael G.

This is a must-stop pub for any crawl through Faneuil Hall. They have good bands, and the atmosphere is the traditional Boston pub place. Older than you are and continuously operating since 1795, it fits right into the history of Boston and is a killer place to boot.
(4)
Brandy S.

This place is only as good as its band. If you have a good band, you will have a good time. Otherwise, it can be a lllloooonnnnnggggg night. The place is always packed, but the crowds can sometimes be iffy. Check who is playing before you say you are going here.
(5)
sunny n.

always a good ol time..and the live bands..now and then are awesome...
(4)
Brenden L.

This is my favorite place to go in Fanueil Hall if I'm looking to have a more raucous night. There is usually a band playing live music downstaris and loud obnoxious music and people dancing upstairs. Some of the drinks can be a little expensive but overall not too bad. The crowd here seems a little more ready to have fun than some of the other bars in the area on most nights.
(4)
Jen R.

Oldest bar in Boston. Young, lively energetic crowd. Bar is quite large and has a few different rooms. Bar gets loud and crowded and be prepared for a late night if you come here. Bartenders are funny and young.
(5)
Jeffrey W.

Everyone loves the open air feel and the live music, plus it's one of the oldest pubs in Boston, but the real attraction is the food. I had some of the best marinated steak tips and mashed potatoes here. The portion was huge and the price was relatively tiny ($10 I think).
(4)
Jen P.

Great cover bands play there. Crowd really gets into them. You'll find more young professionals there than college kids, making the atmosphere less hormonely charged. Only bad thing, is there is often a line.
(4)
Peter H.

Great burger, OK beer options. Fun atmosphere. Old pub, worn wooden tables, has TVs with sports. Friendly and helpful wait staff. Mac and cheese wasn't great - cheese tasted like cheap American cheese. Crab cakes were great but salad they sat on was iceberg and average. Good homemade kettle chips if you like BBQ flavor.
(3)
William F.

America's oldest tavern would be pretty cool if it wasn't an overpriced tourist trap. Skip the food and soak up the history with decent beer. Can get crowded on weekend nights.
(3)
Kristin M.

No toilet paper in all 3 of women's stalls, long wait to get in, long wait to get upstairs, and too overcrowded.
(2)
Tamara W.

The line blows, their drinks are watered down, and it's the most BOSTON bar ever but their upstairs is fun. However, my friend's favorite jacket got stolen here and there was no regard for any help from the staff in this matter. If you go try and get there before 10pm and also do not go there on the weekends for lunch as there is always a long, touristy line...
(2)
Angelina V.

Visiting from the West Coast try the "Boston Cream pie" you won't be disappointed. Fun to say you've had it here in Boston and it's great! :) Small in size but rich enough for two to share. Drizzled in chocolate and a cold cream in the bottom layer.
(4)
Steven F.

Come here and have your identify stolen. Or so I think. I don't know, they run your driver's license through some weir scanner attached to a computer. That being said though I only came here to enjoy a beer at America's Oldest Pub as they claim. I had the Bell's Ale, a very good beer. Unique in taste. Other than that I can't speak much of the place, but the girl behind the bar was very nice and helpful. I'd come back again for another Bell's Ale.
(4)
Kacy P.

This is, by far, the friendliest bar I've found in Boston (so far). I popped in on a Tuesday night for a bite and a bit of karaoke. The bartender, Allison, was prompt and attentive. We chatted a bit about a few of the menu items and I ordered the fish and chips. Unfortunately, the kitchen plated my dinner incorrectly (I am an avid hater of all things coleslaw). Allison noticed right away and corrected the dish. The fish was flaky and tasty, the fries were ok, just not my preference (they serve shoestring fries, but I'm a fan of the big ol' fat steak fry). They have a pretty small selection of single malt Scotch, but they carry the tried and true and pour it in a proper glass - an old fashioned glass versus the shot glass that lower end bars use to serve. I was able to strike up conversation with the patrons next to me, which is fantastic. Other bars have patrons that are far less chatty and even a bit hostile. I'm a Southern girl in a frozen land, I need a little conversation to thaw my jaw and make my nights happier! Any-who... I made a few new buddies and managed to delightfully mangle my share of karaoke tunes. The KJ, Paul, was outstanding: polite, helpful, engaged with his audience, and just plain fun. I took away one star for expense. My little outing was a pricey affair! I will certainly visit again. I hope to see you all there!
(4)
Christopher D.

This bar was great. After walking a few miles around the city and Faneuil Hall with a friend, we decided to stop here and rest and talk. The environment was very good and quaint; I couldn't complain about the size (very small), but it was so convenient considering the time (too damn cold) and the upbeat mood between my friend and I. My friend had an apple cider to which I forget the name. It was very good! The bartenders were extremely nice and attentive and the drinks were rather cheap. I spent $11 on two drinks. That was nothing considering the fact that I thought that it would cost me more for one mug of lager. Overall, a great time and a nice compliment to Thai food from the Hall. Definitely going back.
(5)
Melissa B.

We decided to stop in for a drink after dinner and had the best time. They were having a Captain Morgan's promotion and all the employees were very fun and friendly. We will definitely stop in again the next time we're in Boston.
(5)
Nino R.

Oldest bar in America? I'm down. Just don't have any expectations prior to your visit. The entire building had undergone a renovation, so don't expect to find lots of history here. However, the street behind the bar is definitely a nice touristy spot to take a photo. It's a small alley, reminiscent of Diagon Alley for you Harry Potter fans. The interior of the bar is pretty standard. Lots of bar tops, two bars, and lots of pub food to quell your fit of drunkeness. Forget about parking in this area and forget about nostalgia. Come in for a beer and cross it off your things to do list while in Boston. It was a bit of a letdown for me. Maybe you can create a better experience...
(3)
Vanessa H.

Had a great time on a random Tuesday night when we stumbled upon karaoke! Didn't give it 5 stars b/c it isn't the cleanest place and the beer selection was average. But had fun and stopped by a second time on the same trip.
(4)
Esther G.

When we walked in it was self seating, it took almost ten minutes for a server to approach us and give us menus. We ordered the kettle chips, which were cold. Wine, that we had to remind the waitress to bring, even though she walked passed us multiple times and was eating and socializing with other staff a table over. When our food finally came it was luke warm. I told the waitress my fries were cold, she took my plate back without asking my friend if her food was ok, which it wasn't, it was cold too. The food itself was pretty gross, even once it was reheated. After all of this, our bill was $42. I spoke to the manager, who was argumentative about the level of food and service. He offered us a round of drinks, which we declined, but he still kept arguing about our experience. I left, but decided to go back and ask for a business card or the general managers. He came out and was slightly aggressive. He was standing on the step above us and when I asked for a card he said they don't have one. I asked for the general manager's name and all he said was he was the manager on duty. I had to ask who his boss or the owner was before he would give me any other information. I've been to this area of Boston several times a year for about 5 years and have never had such bad service, food, or behavior from a "manager" of an establishment.
(1)
Sarah S.

We had the best time here. Beer selection was great. Pretzels were good. Our bartender, Shannon, was the best. When we get back to Boston, we will be back!
(5)
Mike H.

Well... I was pretty stinkin excited to be walking into one of the oldest bars in the U.S. Then I walked into what looked like one of the newest bars in the U.S. They seemed to have remodeled a bit and took all the character with it. I expected something more like McSorley's in NY.... where it feels historical.... nope... The bartender was awesome and we had fun while we were there but I sure as heck wouldn't have gone out of my way to visit this place if I knew it was just a new regular type of bar.. but.. I was a tourist so maybe they get the local business or something...
(2)
M F.

Because of JP V's review. I will not come and we have a party of NINE PEOPLE. NOT COOL. You don't scoop up money and take off! IF a customer asks to see the film--you show them the film. A-HOLES ARE NOT COOL and ruin businesses!
(1)
Johanna P.

The food is amazing!!! Ate here twice during my stay in Boston. Everything we had was delicious! Fish and chips, lobster roll to die for and the clam chowder is unbeatable! I wanted to bring a gallon home with me!
(5)
Damon F.

Very poor service. Very unprofessional staff. After being seated by one waitress and waiting 10 minutes, we were approached by the manager to ask if our order had been taken and when we said no, the manager said "well she's an idiot"and took our order. 20 minutes later we were ready for another drink but hasn't seen the waitress/manager in a while so I went to the bar to get it. I was told by the bartender that I should go through the waitress. I explained that she hasn't been around and the bartender took my order, an AMF and a Long Island. As I paid the bar tab, the manager approached me and reprimanded me for going around her. To add insult to injury, both drinks were terrible and not made properly. Also, even getting the food check to leave took 20 minutes after asking with most of the restaurant/bar empty. Food and specialty drink menu is great, but service is poor enough for me to rate as one star.
(1)
Jeanne B.

We went in because the location was interesting and because my husband was intrigued by "Oldest bar in Boston" sign, however we noticed the pub across the street was established at an earlier date, so I'm not too sure of their claim. The guy that appeared to be in charge was very eager to please. His eagerness added one star to my review. The bartender had no idea what a "Black and Tan" is (and this is an Irish/English style pub???). We only had beer. Selection was decent although few were highly rated beers. Okay place for a beer, not great.
(3)
Chasity M.

Of course I had to grab a drink at America's oldest bar! They have a ton of beers on tap and an inventive cocktail menu. We sat at the bar and the service was super friendly and fast. The only downside is that pubs aren't my style of place to grab a drink. :)
(5)
Nikhil J.

Supposedly America's oldest tavern, it didn't seem all that different from any other bar. They did have a decent selection of craft beer thought, from both Harpoon and Sam Adams. As a tourist here, those were the main breweries I had on my itinerary. Regardless, it didn't seem all that different from any other bar. They had the Sox game on, a decent number of TVs, and it definitely felt like a tourist trap haha. The food itself was actually not that bad. They had quite the selection of burgers...... for non-vegetarians, le sigh. BUT! FRET NOT! Us veggies aren't left behind. If you ask the waitress, she might be able to get you any burger on their menu with a veggie (black bean/quinoa, I think) patty. So we have some liberty my friends. Personally, I wasn't a big fan of their fries on the side, it was cut a bit too thin for my liking. But overall, it seemed like your typical tourist trap haha. Attracting a bunch of families. I wouldn't necessarily go out of my way to HAVE to come to this bar, it's meh. We did get window seats, which was a plus. And the waitress seemed to have a bit of attitude, like she hated her job lol. Maybe she was just having a bad day haha. To be fair, it was Independence Day weekend, and it was crowded, which could've added to her "stress".
(3)
Meg S.

I've been to this place plenty of times. My husband's school does events here from time to time and we've taken friends there who were visiting Boston. I thought it was an okay bar - nothing to rave about and nothing to complain about. It's expensive, but it's a tourist trap so that's to be expected. However, my opinions of this place changed significantly after an awful experience with the staff. My brother in law was visiting for a few days from Florida. Naturally, he has a Florida license. We decided to take him out for drinks while walking the Freedom Trail. We sat at the bar, ordered our drinks and the bartender used some sort of scanning machine to check my brother in law's license. He didn't bother to scan mine or my husband's, which are both MA licenses. We're waiting for him to give the license back and serve our drinks and the bartender says to my brother in law, "sorry bud, I'm not falling for it." Of course we're confused and ask him to clarify, to which he says, "your license is fake." What made it worse was the tone of voice that he used with my brother in law. The fact that he jumped to conclusions about his intentions, who was over 21 and whose license was legal and unexpired, was insulting, embarrassing and incredibly rude. I asked to speak to the manager, who refused to use any other way to "check the validity" of his license. Needless to say, we promptly left and went to Paddy O's, which had NO PROBLEM accepting his perfectly legal and unexpired license, along with every single other restaurant and bar we took him to in Boston while he was visiting. I understand what's at risk if a bar serves someone underage and that they reserve the right to refuse drinks to anyone, but the unapologetic and accusatory treatment of my party was shameful. I never rose my voice, swore or insulted the manager or the bartender and they still couldn't manage an apology to try and salvage our experience. Bottom line: there are far better bars in the city of Boston to go to, especially if you're looking for a non-touristy bar with good hospitality. It doesn't appear that they value their customers, but maybe that's what comes with going to a bar where the majority of the customers are tourists. I will never enter this establishment again and will advise visiting friends and family to go elsewhere. I would hate to have them humiliated by the staff.
(1)
Jim D.

The food was unremarkable but not bad, it was like a slightly better Applebee's because the beer selection was better. Admire that they've been open forever but eat somewhere else first.
(2)
Emily Y.

TOURIST TRAP. We popped in so my husband could get a beer at the supposedly oldest tavern in America. We waited. and waited. and waited some more for someone to come help us. Like precious reviewers have stated, the service is terrible. Staff was just standing around yakking to each other and not really paying much attention to the patrons. We ordered a large beer and received a small size. That's $7.50 we will never get back.
(2)
Alexandra M.

Just came here for a drink to finish the night and show a friend an older Boston bar. Drinks were fine, service was fine, and the man at the table next to us was awesome.
(4)
Lexi S.

Classic place, friendly service and great variety of beer on tap. Stopped in for a brew just to say that we did and enjoyed the atmosphere.
(4)
Phy G.

My husband and I have stopped here for dinner several times for dinner, the food has always been very good, despite the poor service by the wait staff. We will never be going back after our dinner experience yesterday. We both had a cup of clam chowder as a starter, it was good, but I only had 2 bites and our dinner was brought out. I had ordered the chicken salad sandwich, it was so dry I drank a half a glass of water to get the first bite down. I could not eat it at all. The worst part was the waitress came to the table 1 time asking how are dinner was while I was taking the 1st bite of the sandwich, i obviously couldn't answer her, and she never came back to the table. My husband and I both attempted to get someone's attention for more water and to let them know I didn't care for the sandwich, but they were to busy talking to each other to notice. When they came back to the table, I told them how dry the sandwich was and no I didn't want to take it home. The young lady said Oh that's a shame and walked away, I never received any water, we were charged for the sandwich, no apology, no offer of something else for dinner. Not a single worry that they just lost not only any possible tip, but a customer that despite the lousy service on previous occasions still would stop for dinner. Management needs to really take a good look at why so many people stop coming back!
(1)
Emily L.

You can't visit Boston in the fall without having chowder, or so I told myself as I was roaming the streets in the hours before my plane departed. It was really, really raining, and Bell in Hand, on a flatiron corner with Old English signage, looked like the perfect antidote to the weather and my empty stomach. I was alone, so sat at the bar and was looked after by an attentive but professional bartender. Everyone else there appeared to be watching one of the different televised sports events, which was pretty annoying in a "historic" tavern, but I was able to mostly block it out once I had a microbrew and a bowl of hot soup in front of me! The soup came with a really nice, fresh salad: greens, carrots, tomatoes and crispy fried onions on top. I appreciated the nod in the direction of a healthy meal, especially after tasting the soup -- it was pure cream, studded with chunks of clam, bacon and potato. I love rich food, but I couldn't finish more than half of it -- it was just too much. I did enjoy a few bites, though, and would definitely return.
(3)
Stacey B.

I held a private event here recently. The staff was super helpful in reserving the space, bringing out food, having a bartender to serve drinks, storing the cake, and even having signs to point our guests to the correct location. Debbie was super easy to contact and organize with. There was also no minimum or room fee, which was perfect (although I'm sure we spent plenty). The space does open up to the public at 9 which was totally fine for our needs. We had a blast!
(5)
Phoebe D.

Service was good. Not outstanding, but the servers were very nice. I ordered the grilled chicken sandwich, which was horrible. It was bland and tasted almost artificial. My friend had the burger and bruschetta. The burger was bland. And the bruschetta tasted old. All in all this place is in a great location. Go for the drinks. Don't go for the food.
(2)
Brianne M.

I was in shock by the way the (blonde older lady) bartender downstairs treated me. They got our order wrong, yelled that was the only option because the kitchen was closed, and when I told them I wasn't able to eat it because of a food allergy - she told me how I should be ordering. She threw my plate at me once they corrected it (to what I originally ordered) and was extremely rude. Although the dj upstairs Dj p is awesome - next time I will take my group of 20+ elsewhere. As a business owner I was in complete shock and could not believe what a disgrace she was. I will never return.
(1)
Michael C.

This place is ok, what ruined it for me is I had to deal with the rudest bar tender I've ever had to deal with. Whoever the blonde lady is that works down stairs is completely ridiculous. She got our order wrong and literally yelled at us and had rude comments about our inability to order for ourselves. Completely ridiculous for anyone in any profession. I would never return to this place because of how rude she was.
(2)
Zachary R.

What a great meal! America's oldest tavern truly held its own. The service was excellent and the prices were very reasonable. I had the chicken fingers for an appetizer and the fish and chips as my main course. The chicken fingers were well above average and the fish and chips were perfectly prepared. My companions had burgers and thought they were excellent (perfectly charged was the word used). I would recommend this tavern to anyone coming to Boston and will be returning.
(5)
Julia K.

Lovely old building, good location, but overall nothing to rave about. The staff really need to put away their phones. It's kind of embarrassing to be standing there going, "Excuse me?" over and over because the person behind the bar is too busy texting to pay attention. The upstairs room was freezing cold. Middle of winter in Boston, shivering indoors - seriously? That being said, the food was decent and there were some friendly staff.
(3)
Maricar V.

we had to stop by the oldest tavern ever! at our table: calamari bistro burger eggplant fries fish and chips bell in hand ale i think everybody must get a drink here at least once! the big open windows and the buildings character was my favorite. as for the food... it was just ok. if i had to pick a highlight... it would be the eggplant fries... but thats if i had to pick!
(2)
Indy S.

We were only in Boston for 48 hours, and were lucky enough to be with a few locals who dragged us to the "Bell in Hand Tavern". When looking for some place "Bostony" this place is spot on. They have a wide range of beer on tap, friendly staff, great pub menu, and the place is full of character. There was a $10 cover at the door, however, this ensures the place was not jam packed. I believe they offer live music, and they have a large dance floor with full bar on the 2nd floor. Definitely a casual scene, and an ambiance that lets you relax as the beer keeps flowing...... I would definitely go back!!
(5)
Sharra C.

The fact that Bell In Hand is the U.S's oldest tavern, makes this sport cool right out-the-gate. I have been here several times, but never to eat. With that said, this review is only for Bell in Hand as a spot to mingle: It seems as though every time I visit, Bell in Hand is a 'hot spot' for my fellow west coasters. It never fails - every time I am here, I meet people from my neck of the woods! 'California Love' comes on, and somewhere within the tavern's four walls, there's a rowdy group of WC folks, just going crazy. It's hilarious!!!! Always makes for a great time. The live music can be hit-or-miss. Friday night's band was great! Saturdays, not really my 'thing'. If you're wanting to go and dance upstairs, get there early or you won't make it up there. The 2nd floor hits capacity fairly early. The $10 cover may not appeal to everyone either. Aside from the cover charge, the hit-or-miss bands, and the packed upstairs, 'BIH' is really one of my 'go to' spots in Boston, for a fun night out!
(3)
Laura M.

If you like to see the oldest bar in America then don't waste your time, the bathrooms are disgusting the doors won't close so someone has to hold it for you, no soap, paper towels, crap all over the floor, makes me wonder how the staff washes their hands after handling food that they serve, manager did not care when I told him and one of the other staff members told me " it's a bar What do you want" GROSSS!
(1)
Charles F.

Had lunch here - a vinaigrette salad with chicken. It wasn't bad, but wasn't memorable either. The atmosphere is nice when the windows are open on a nice spring day, but seem pretty cramped otherwise. There is nothing special though, nothing that tells you this is the oldest pub in America besides the sign. Might as well be any other random bar in any city in America.
(2)
Melissa C.

Great experience! Great food! Great beer! Traveled to Boston many times, yet we'd never stopped in there. Awesome!!
(5)
Adam G.

I was having a good time at Bell In Hand until my friend and I got kicked out because a girl we were with had a "heated dispute" with the Waitress. (I think she may have been kind of "Stimulated" that night) Despite this, (Not their fault) I think this place is cool. I like the way the building is shaped like a wedge. I would definitely classify this as tourist material (being one of the first bars in Boston that's bound to happen) but not discount it. I guess I am biased because I had one really weird experience here when I came, and haven't been back since.
(3)
Gwen S.

The Bell in Hand Tavern had fantastic fish and chips and also a wonderful beer on tap.The atmosphere was awesome. My friends and I sat across to the original rock walls.The windows had been wide open with a great breeze coming through. If i'm not mistaken,it's off one of the oldest streets in Boston.Two thumbs up!
(4)
chelsea h.

This place is a sham. The service is horrible, the food is just OK and they charge an obscene cover for this type of place ($10) and then once you get inside and through that line, you have to wait in yet another line to go upstairs. The owners (Debbie and Adam apparently) are horrible, and can't be bothered to call people back who are trying to make a reservation to SPEND MONEY there. I called in 3 times this week, 3 separate days, and was continuously promised a call back, which didn't happen. It wasn't until I told the girl on the phone that I would be taking my party of 15 elsewhere that she was finally able to reach "Adam." Best part- I could hear Adam tell her what to tell me. The owner couldn't even be bothered to take the call! And this is after an unhappy customer who has been trying to simply make a reservation for 3 days who has been promised a call back is expressing concern. They then wanted me to email him my questions. Why? So I could wait 3 more days to call in and be told to send yet another email to another "owner?" HA. Fat chance. I took my business elsewhere. Might I suggest Ned Devine's or the Harp for a better experience with similar music/type of bar... With just much more space and WORLDS better service. Don't go here. It's a waste of time and it's a typical touristy dude-bro bar with flaky, rude owners who clearly don't know how to run a business. Sad seeing as how it's supposed to be "the oldest still operating bar" or some crap in Boston.
(1)
Thomas W.

Cool to see "the oldest bar in America" good beer on tap. That's about the only two things this place has goin for it. Service sucks and it's crowded. Worth it to stop in for a pint.
(3)
Jenny V.

So whats cool is that this place is kinda awesomely located, walking distance from the North end and along the freedom trail...and its next to a frites place. When we walked in it was pretty dead, but it was karaoke night and out of no where the place was pretty full. The beers on tap were pretty standard, bathrooms were clean but the womens bathroom was fresh out of toiler paper.. its cool to say that i've been to the oldest tavern in america..
(5)
Dave G.

Read a lot of poor reviews on here but thought we would give them a go. Nope. Surly staff, demanded an ID when we ordered (we are 30&35) stating it was the law. Generally gruff and unhelpful. We left without ordering. Recommendation: don't bother......
(1)
Francesca R.

If you can get a seat by the window on a summer's day, it's a good spot for people watching and having a beer. Union Street is so historically adorable that it's nice to be in the middle of it. The food is passable pub food but always a bit dissapointing. It's not gross, just pretty weak for items that any other pub can do well in their sleep. The couple of times I have found myself upstairs dancing, I have to admit I had fun. But I also have never paid the cover--I've just been there for a work do and ended up staying and dancing. If I could give 2.5 stars I would, but I'm averaging down because the service is so consistently bad. Not once have I had a server here who isn't slow, rude, sloppy and snippy. Conclusion--good if you've got a visitor in the summer for a wee mid-tourism beer stop (with the understanding that service will be bad). Good for dancing if you don't pay the cover.
(2)
Ashleigh P.

If I could give Bell in Hand zero stars, I really would. The only thing that makes it deserving of one star is that they validate parking in the Parcel 7 garage, so it's only $3 for up to 3 hours. My friend is moving to Israel for a year for a Master's degree program. She wanted to have her going away party here, starting at 10:00 P.M. I hadn't been to Bell in Hand since I was about 21 (I wonder why...hmmm...). I got there at about 10:15, and the line was around the building - strike one. The bar was almost empty, as could be clearly seen through the windows - strike two. The line barely moved, and these stupid clearly-college-aged girls in front of us had more and more friends joining them to the point that three people became a group of 20, spilling onto the street, and the people I was standing with in line (whom I didn't even know before our horrible experience here) wanted to "beat the crap out of them.' The line was so long, people were leaving (doesn't the bar realize it's losing money?). My friend was not answering her phone, so I just kept on waiting. I finally got into the bar at 12:15 A.M. - no joke. The cover charge is a ridiculous $10 - strike three. I couldn't find my friend. I walked around 5 times downstairs and couldn't find her. I tried to go upstairs, where the a-hole bouncer treated me like an infantile imbecile. I had to wait in line another 20 or so minutes (maybe more at this point and ALONE) to get upstairs, where I still couldn't find my friend. In this process, drunk, annoying, and probably underage girls were spilling their drinks all over the place, so I had to watch myself (not fun!) to make sure they would not spill their crappy drinks on me after they did it the first time. I finally found my friend, downstairs, of course, at about 12:35 A.M. The bar still had plenty of empty, open space, too, with a line around the building. It should NEVER take over 2 hours from arrival to get inside and where you are going at a bar - strike 4. A cover charge should also never be more than $5 if they want you to spend money INSIDE. My friends then decided to leave around 1:15 A.M. to beat the rush for cabs. Thanks, Bell in Hand, for cutting my time with my friend short, as well as making me spend $13 including parking for a whole 35 minutes inside the bar. I greatly appreciate it and will never come back again. I don't care where you are or where you go. I've never had to wait so long to get in anywhere. And oh yeah, once I was at the front of the line, a girl hit on the bouncer and he let her and her friend in not too long after me, despite the fact there were at least 100 people in line behind me. Classy. Had I known that from the start...
(1)
Dan A.

This bar is in a great spot in an area of Boston filled with Irish pubs. It is supposedly the oldest pub in the country. They have a decent draft list with a "special" beer brewed special only for them by Sam Adams. The food was decent. Pretty much bar food. There are a ton of Irish pubs in Boston. This one is fun but there are other choices.
(3)
Corey H.

This place is made for tourists. The place is SMALL! They have a larger area in the back (down a hallway) for dancing and bands. Its a typical little bar. I went here during the early afternoon for a beer during the week while on vacation. There was only about 5 people in the bar. The bar tender was nice but the waitress was a total brat and made me feel uncomfortable. She was texting away on her phone in the middle of the resturant so I made a joke about how slow it was and texting on your phone and she smiled and went right back to texting. When I was leaving she was standing by the door, I said "thank you" as I was leaving and she didn't even look at me or say anything back. Im wondering if this is the same girl that is being talked about in other reviews. Im not sure if she is just dumb or trying to be a brat. Either way, this place might be worth seeing the outside for the history but don't go out of your way to go inside.
(2)
Dave C.

I had an afternoon to burn on a Friday of a weekend trip up to Boston. My GF and I stepped in here to have a couple beverages of the adult persuasion to help the afternoon along. They made a mean Black & Tan but the bartender was also mean much to our dissapointment. She was too busy talking with her other bartender friend then to come over and refill my gf & my drinks. Although it was an awesome drink, the service ultimately killed it. They had live music getting set up here but our time with the Bell & Hand was over before that happened. We went and walked to somewhere nearby and got drunk there... all was happy after that.
(3)
Kaylee O.

Drinks were good and the live music made for a great environment. Only thing that could have been better would be to have more chairs/seating but the place isn't big enough.
(4)
John P.

Dive... but it gets 5 stars out or bar respect.... respect the bar man!!!!
(5)
Erin F.

I'm truly shocked at all the negative reviews for this place! Sure, I went as a tourist, but we had a BLAST! There was a great live band playing upstairs, and downstairs there was karaoke, dancing, another live musician playing in a corner and a huge area with seating and tables. I made all kinds of new friends, from Guidos (eesh!) to doctors to bouncers (part of the fun of being a tourist I suppose). I loved that there were so many different rooms that all had a different vibe, we had a great time. Plus... it's the oldest tavern in America. I drank to honor my countrymen.
(4)
Craig C.

I stay away from this tourist trap row of bars at all costs normally because I am claustrophobic, hate strangers touching me, don't ever wait in a line, have never had a draft worth 8 bucks, and hate tourists in general. Went after the booze cruise with a group. Almost had to wait at the door but bouncer thought better of it, paid 8 bucks for a beer, had strangers touching me, and felt claustrophobic. However I watched Christopher shove a pineapple up Chris's nose, I saw Sara upside down, met Mary in the top hat, Sally from the convent, Orly and her brother were fun, the girl in the zebra dress and rocked out to a great band and it was Monday after all. So all in all not too bad. But I'm heading back to Silvertones for some meatloaf.
(3)
Jenna P.

Mixed feelings..... It's fun here, but the cover is ridiculous ($10), drink prices are high (Bud Light bottle $5.25) and you have to wait in a seperate line to get upstairs. Kind of ridiculous. But in my case, on Halloween, we got here early enough where there wasn't much of a wait and no cover yet.... Upstairs is better since I like DJs and not much of a live band lover. Food is pub food and it's pretty decent.
(2)
Stephen S.

one of the bartenders was awful. more worried about her text messages than her service.
(2)
Alison D.

it's historic? They serve alcohol? There's giant open windows on a nice day? It's like walking the freedom trail, except you can drink and sit while watching others walk. It's a fun cheesy bar at night. but as the years pass, I prefer heading in there in the daytime to chill out from time to time. I get a lot of visitors who want to do touristy things, and this is a great place to take a break from that, because what good is the freedom trail without a few pit stops in bars?!?!
(5)
Jason B.

I don't get how this is classified as a dive bar, any place that girls get dressed up and are willing to wait in line for 20+ minutes is definitely not what I'd classify as a dive bar. Prices are high, the atmosphere sucks and it is the cliche boston tourist bar because it is "the oldest tavern in America". If our founding fathers really did drink here I am sure they would be disappointed with how their "beloved tavern" has become a sample of everything wrong with America today.
(1)
Chris K.

I liked this place for what it was. We went for drinks. I didn't like the side that resembled a dance floor in waiting, but when we went to the other side, my beer actually came in a glass, as opposed to a plastic cup and it was a much more pleasant experience. Solid option for a couple drinks before dinner. Great location.
(3)
The Hungry American E.

Oldest tavern in the U.S. And it's just that, a tavern. Enjoy.
(4)
Nicole L.

A bunch of us came to Bell in Hand for a pre St Pat's celebration it was empty at first but it gradually filled up. There was a smaller area with a bar on one side and a bigger bar with a stage on the other. A two-men band later performed on stage but it was way too loud for comfort. They had green beer but friends who ordered it said it wasn't good. I sticked to Stella Artois. We also ordered the clam chowder which was delicious and the corned beef and cabbage - the beef tasted processed and cabbage was not cooked well enough it was tough to chew. The bartenders were prompt with their service at least.
(3)
Matthew W.

Heather the bartender ROCKS....so friendly.....soo good....and sooo cute!!! Stopped in on a Tuesday evening and really enjoyed ourselves - not too crowded, everyone having a great time..... FUN!!
(5)
Daniel R.

It was my first time here as a visitor... I'd say it could've been a bit better.
(3)
A J.

The best thing about this bar is that its a great compromise and perfect if you arent sure what you will be in the mood for. I say that because the downstairs has a band and the upstairs has a DJ. I usually prefer the DJ, but after an hour or two, sometimes a little variety can spice up the night. Plus some of my friends prefer bands over DJs, so thats where the compromising comes in. The crowd at this place is great for people watching. The upstairs is filled with girls who look like they are barely old enough to vote, let alone drink, and they are backing their @$$es up to the music. And then there are a few of those creepy guys on the prowl who bounce around from group to group, dancing with all the girls in search of the perfect conquest. It is highly entertaining to watch, but unsuspecting girls beware! The downstairs is more of a tame crowd, along the lines of the usual bar scene. There are of course a lot more guys downstairs because it seems like males tend to prefer a band over a DJ; likewise, the upstairs seems like a 10:1 ratio of girls to guys. There is a line to get upstairs which can be annoying, but I love how it keeps the upstairs much less crowded. The back bar upstairs is by far the fastest place to get a drink and the little tables up there are usually open.
(4)
Lauren C.

I went to this place while spending my very first weekend in Boston. As a person who loves trying home brewed ales, I had to try the Bell in Hand Ale and it was just delicious. It's got a very mild taste to it with a slight kick at the end of every gulp. We also ordered the clam chowder and it was divine and decently priced. It was more on the thicker side as opposed to creamy but that's the way I like my clam chowders. Yummy! Overall, I enjoyed my experience there and learning about it being the oldest bar in the US definitely made it more interesting. Seating wasn't too bad for us considering the fact that we were there on Halloween weekend. It was crowded but we waited less than 10 minutes for a table. Try the Bell in Hand Ale, you won't regret it!
(4)
Dana M.

Cool spot i think one of the better places to go in Boston. Really good atmosphere, good spot to go with friends. wack $10 cover tho.
(3)
Paul S.

This place is cool, right in the heart of downtown Boston. They claim to be the oldest bar in America. Pretty sweet. If you are walking the Freedom Trail, you can't miss it. Stop in for a cold beer - they have a huge selection. And also a decent food menu.
(3)
Jen H.

One of the bars that I would prefer to go to in the Faneuil Hall area. I've been here a number of times.... Tuesdays for Karaoke... Saturday after a scavenger hunt in the rain... random Friday night out, etc etc. I've always had a decent time here... regardless of what day it is, what event is going on, what the weather outside is like... and I really like that it's not jam packed full of tourists, like you might find in some other Faneuil Hall bars. Bartenders have always been nice. The food I had was fairly decent in regards to bar food.... so all around a solid spot.
(4)
David M.

Expensive. Rude staff. The separate bars cannot communicate, so you either have to close your tab after every order or close 5 tabs at the end of the night. They try to get away with a bar-within-a-bar and have lines (and charge separately!) for this "other bar." Overall terrible!!!!
(1)
Carrie S.

Oldest tavern in Boston. Great tourist spot along the freedom trail. Good clam chowder and lobster rolls. Friendly waitstaff too.
(4)
Robert B.

We came for a few beers and a casual experience. On the back side of the place is a club at night, but we hung out in the front and people- watched. Good beer and good prices. A regular Boston staple.
(4)
Juan F.

Oldest tavern in the US! Good selection of beer and prices are decent. They have live music and it does get kinda popping on weekends. Bartenders have always been nice and friendly. The place is also pretty big with a second level. Not a bad place to stop by for a beer if you are in the area!
(3)
Don C.

Walking the freedom trail and had to try "the oldest tavern "in America". Nice help. Medium prices. I had a lobster grilled cheese sandwich. Lots of lobster, but low on cheese. I know sounds dumb but a grilled cheese anything should be full of melted cheese. Right? Some kind of white cheese it was. Still good. Anything with lobster has to be. Just not Great. Open windows allow you to watch the passing of lots of varied humanity. Fun.
(4)
Emily Y.

I thought maybe this place could be good and maybe the 3 star reviews were just because of service- it seemed fairly busy. But it wasn't pretty good, it was barely good. The beer I got was a Sam Adams Amber ale served only at that location- it was a good choice. The chowder and calamari were good. Nothing to leave an impression but it was prepared adequately enough. The entrees (pei mussels and hot lobster roll) just did the dinner and experience in. The mussels were tiny and not the fresh quality you would expect while in Boston. The lobster roll left much to be desired, which we fortunately found the next day at boston chowda co. It seems this place hangs it's hat on it's history and not it's quality of food and service. Stop in for a brew to check it out but don't stay for much more.
(2)
Timothy M.

I would have to say this place relies strongly on the fact that they are the oldest tavern in America. They do have a nice selection of beer on draft. Stepping inside is nostalgic with the old brick walls and the worn floors. They had a musician playing, who sounded pretty good. As for the food, I got the Baja tacos which is made with fried haddock. The corn tortillas tasted like ones that you would by at the grocery store (mission). The haddock was seasoned nicely and was plentiful. Nothing else was good about the tacos. I had to ask for the cole slaw that it was supposed to come with. Maybe I just ordered the worst thing on the menu but the Baja tacos left a bad taste in my mouth.
(2)
Guy P.

We ordered the fish and chips and their burgers with blue cheese. Both were delicious. Also the bell in hand ale was really good I'd highly recommend this place! :)
(5)
David H.

This is the oldest tavern in the US so that alone makes it worth stopping in along the freedom trail. They have an okay but not overwhelming beer selection and they were out of several of their draft beer varieties. The root fries basket has large baskets of waffle, sweet potato, and shoestring fries and is perfect for sharing. They have colonial re-enactors there on Sunday afternoons if you want to have a beer and get a picture.
(4)
Matt E.

2.5 stars... Bell In Hand Tavern holds the claim to be the oldest (1795) tavern in the country. It's named for the last Boston town crier, Jimmy Wilson. In actuality they've changed owners and locations so many times that the claim is a stretch by anyone's standards. This location is in the very historic North End but the interior looks brand new. Like any Boston bar they carry food but I only came for the beer. They have three full bars in separate areas on the first floor as well as a second floor (that was closed for a private event when I came). The crowd seemed to be mostly a young business crowd, not suprising as drinks were astoundingly expensive (my beer was $8). Another Boston trend that's extremely annoying is that beers are never even numbers, my beer was actual $7.50 and I think the cheapest beer (Bud Light) was $6.75. On the plus side these guys often have something going on. When I was there it was a really good cover band.
(3)
Heather J.

We are legitimately 1/2 a mile from the TD Garden during a Bruins at home game so close to playoffs and they REFUSE to put on the game. The waitress was such a bitch about it and refused to come to our table afterwards. So dumb. Disappointed by the Boston and New England loyalty I expected from this place.
(1)
Kevin L.

Historic so very cool... Bell is hanging from the interior... If you didn't know it's history, you'd think it was any other bar. We grabbed a few Sam Adams brews but we had already eaten so we didn't sample food.
(3)
Heather W.

Love the old historic buildings in Boston. This has great seats in the large windows, service was quick, and food and drinks were great.
(4)
Rob S.

A friend of mine was throwing a graduation get together here. So me and a friend both under 21 tell the bouncer that we are just going up to say hello and then leave, he lets us in, we go up and ask the bar tender for a cup of water. Soon after the bouncer from the door approaches us with the manager saying that he's pissed of because he saw us at the bar, we tell him we didn't order any drinks, he proceeds to swear and yell at us while the bar tender claims we both ordered alcohol. At that point we just decided to leave but on our way out and while saying goodbye the manager hovered over us giving no privacy or space. Every employee we dealt with was rude and very unprofessional. The bar tender was none other than a lier which isn't surprising coming from a place that claims it is "the oldest bar in America" but it has the same feel as any other bar. Go somewhere else for a better experience
(1)
Giovanni A.

Amazing Place! They literally have a beer that Samuel Adams makes for this place! I love this place since it has history! My girlfriend tried their "Clam Chowder" it was honestly deliciously good! This place is a must, if you like sport then definitely come check this place out. But like I said this place has history, you feel it!
(5)
S M.

I was visiting Boston with some friends for St Patrick's day this past weekend. We went to Bell in Hand on Saturday to grab a pre drink before dinner. There was a massive line outside, but when we asked the bouncer if that was the line, he opened a side door for us for just drinks. We were able to sit at a table immediately. Then the waitress let us put our phones to be charged next to her and kept checking on us for drinks. We returned there on Monday before our flight for lunch and our waitress was extremely friendly and was able to answer any questions about the menu that we had asked. We would have stayed at that one bar just for the ambience and the friendly staff.
(5)
Nicole C.

Cute little pub. The beer selection was mediocre, as was the service. Its a place to go to check in and say you went for the history. Didn't eat, but the food looked and smelled great, with good portion sizes.
(3)
Daniel H.

Decent beer selection not huge but not small neighborhood is very unique and cool with cobblestone prices are on high side but not ridiculous
(4)
Vinny M.

I'm not a one-star rating kind of guy, but this place is about as fun to be in as an open cesspool. Look, I'm sorry that your life consists of dude-bro college kids and white-girl-wasted white girls, but f*ck you and your attitude, sh*tty bartenders. Also learn how to pour a beer from the tap properly. And the BALLS on this place to call themselves a "gastropub." Do you even serve food, bro? Finally, I left my ID there - which means I suck but whatever - I got sent to 3 different bartenders to get it back and every one of them gave me attitude. In short: f*ck this place.
(1)
James C.

Went here for a company party. Music was so loud it was next to impossible to hear anyone. So loud in fact it was distorted coming out of the speakers and you could barely tell what songs were playing. 24 hours later and my ears were still hurting. I guess the staff has gone deaf at this point and don't realize how loud it is (or at least was that particular night). Most of the bartenders were great. Also generous on the wine. One was constantly texting on his phone and not paying attention to people at the bar. Nice venue- I like the way it's laid out. Would have done 3 stars if they got the music to a manageable (but still loud) level.
(2)
Lucy S.

Liked what I ordered and the menu was decent, but our waitress was way too attentive in the beginning and then didn't show up for most of the meal. At the end, she was rushing to get us out of there so she could clear the table for more folks. I get that it's a busy area and they want to seat everyone, but don't take my drink if I clearly haven't finished it yet.
(3)
Jay R.

Good for drinks...meh for food. Better food options in the same area. Fish and chips tasted weird and the tarter sauce was gross. Buff chicken wrap was ok.
(3)
Jeff W.

With the government shut down and not much to do in terms of being a tourist, you make your own bar crawl....this was on my list. One of the oldest bars you say? Sam Adam's makes a special brew just for you, you say? I'm in! I really enjoyed this place. The staff was friendly and the bartender was on her toes. We stayed for a few beers but from the looks of things people were definitely enjoying themselves...and so did I! Add it to your stop on the Freedom Trail!
(4)
Joe T.

I recall waiting to get in in a line. I was supposed to meet a colleague yet I had no idea that it was crowde let alone a bar tender with black hair and aggressive attitude juste kept starring at me given my ethnicity and he was really rude. This happened years ago before yelp ears founded. I assumed the dude just had a bad day. I ignored him. He would not serve me. I went to the bar downstairs in the right and it was ok. Left as it was crowded and my colleague could not make it. Few weeks later, I visited the place again .... And was watching a game. The same bartender in left side bar as you come. Short build. Dark hair. Aggressive look. No idea why. Imagine as an immigrant, you wonder why? Is this dude confusing me with someone? I just hated it and left. I hope I will make it back one day to see if he is still there and ask him what was the problem? Food terrible.
(1)
Steve N.

I hate this place. The bouncers tend to be rude, its overrated, and the music is too loud. The staff spend more times on their phones than doing their jobs. Must be nice
(1)
Nick S.

An average tavern with lackluster service. Worth a visit if you like Sam Adams and want to try the Bell in Hand ale. Otherwise, it's full of tourists and not nearly as nice as other bars on the same block.
(3)
Karen M.

Enjoyed the personalized service. The GM approached us a couple of times to make sure our food was good. We only had beers so I cannot comment on more elaborate drinks. Enjoyed the experience, I would come back.
(4)
Giovanna A.

The food was good, service was okay and a little too dim for my liking. The wait staff kept walking passed us and getting confused when bringing out the dishes or the beverages. i had the fish and chips, which were good, and the clam chowder, which was delicious! My fiance` had the grilled chicken breast, which he thought was okay. It's a self-seating restaurant and close to some main areas in Boston. Cute place, but the oldest tavern did not wow me.
(3)
Cynthia M.

America's oldest tavern so we definitely had to visit during our weekend in Boston! Friendly service, delicious nachos, yummy beers and Jameson made for a perfect afternoon of relaxing after a lot of walking and sightseeing. We were able to snag a table right by the window so it was great for people watching as well. Definitely worth a visit for at least one drink while in Boston for sure!
(4)
Andrew M.

Every city has a place like this: a bar with some sort of historical significance that makes it "the oldest bar in America." Well Bell in Hand is Boston's variety. Proud of it's apparent distention as the oldest CONTINOUSLY OPERATED bar in America, this place makes no effort to keep its customers happy. First, there's the cover charge that's double any other place in the vicinity. Then there's the bouncer at the door who nearly broke my driver's license in half while just making sure it was authentic. We got inside and paid obnoxious prices for drinks ($10.25 for a red bull and vodka?). Oh, and apparently the prices change throughout the night too. The prices we paid for a round of tequila shots were about $10 off between the first and second round. Obviously I didn't like the prices. But what really makes this place a one star is the fact that there is nothing at all inside that would make you appreciate its historical significance. No character at all, just another bar in the Fanuel area that looks like the others. Live band, dance cluby on the second floor, but overall, pretty pedestrian. Check out some other "historical bars" like NYC's McSorley's or Philly's McGillin's if you don't catch my drift. Not planning on returning here. Would not recommend it. Go have a beer elsewhere.
(1)
John T.

Pretty good beers on tap. Awesome bar band at night. good times. good old fashion location. cool area of town. good times.
(4)
Scott B.

Surprisingly, after 6 years of living in Boston, I had never patronized the Bell in Hand, the oldest pub in the United States. I'm glad I finally did. The highlight of my visit was definitely the service. Our bartender/waitress was chatty and welcoming; she was clearly an experience server. The history of this place is exciting, and it was amazingly empty on a sunny weekend afternoon amidst peak tourist traffic. We snagged a great table right in the open window front, and settled in to beer and bloody mary's. The food was terrific. Burger cooked to a true well done (rare to get these days -- no pun intended), and the turkey club was awesome. The most historic bar in the country, small crowd feel, great prices, excellent service, and delicious food and drinks. I'm definitely a fan.
(4)
Karin M.

Stopped here as part of the historic pub tour. The stories that were shared were very interesting and they had a nice beer selection. Part of the tour was a food and beer sampling from each location on the tour, so we didn't even look at a menu. What we had was good, if not memorable
(3)
Elli R.

How could I not stop into the Bell in Hand?! Great location with HUGE open windows. Food is amazing (Try the kettle chips with Wasabi Ranch) and they have an extensive beer selection! A ton of local beers on draft including a Bell in Hand Ale by Sam Adams that is delicious! Staff is so friendly and talkative! My favorite spot in Faneuil Hall!
(5)
Melissa F.

So I've been to Bell in Hand a couple of times on different days of the week. I just went there today for a less than mediocre lunch and felt I had to yelp about it. This place is really hit or miss. I've had 2 good nights there but that's it. Lately their night life has sucked and I haven't been too fond of the crowd. Definitely not worth the cover charge. Food wise it seems some menu items are better than others. I had their nachos a while back and those were pretty good. The chicken tenders are dry and their fish and chips is horrible. I thought it was funny that the fish and chips is one of their "signature dishes" and it is the worst I've ever had. Two wicked small pieces of over cooked, bland fish served on top of french fries. If you find yourself in the area and want to grab a bite, I'd suggest either Red Sky or Hennessey's. And if it's night life you seek, try Purple Shamrock, Hennessey's or Ned Devine's.
(2)
Adam K.

Staff was so overworked. Seems like a touristy spot where the management is trying to minimize on overhead and maximize on their location. Food was good but nothing to write home about. Our poor waitress was also the bar tender and seemed to be the only server for our half of the restaurant. Food took a while, and they forgot one of our orders (not server's fault, I watched her write it down on the ticket) and then when they brought the missing meal it was wrong. Only plus was that the price is fair and you're visiting the supposedly oldest tavern in Boston. Not too much else going for it though.
(3)
Jim B.

My favorite bar to go to in my favorite city: The Bell In Hand ! The tavern has been in business since 1795. It's the second oldest tavern in the US (they proclaim to be the oldest but I Googled it and it's very possible some place down in New Orleans may be the oldest). The bar has has three separate "bar" sections, all connected. The front bar on Union is more cramped, and the two bars on the other side of the block have more space, to included space for live entertainment. Great atmosphere and service. The bar area has an old world feel to it with a modern day face lift. Don't get me wrong, I do like dive bars, but I'm more of a fan of a vintage appeal mixed with polish and cleanliness. This bar is a great example of the ladder. BEER: selections on tap are terrific also; lots of local stuff to include Sam Adams, of course. Oh, and Sam Adams makes a beer just for the Bell In Hand. It's pretty good, but it certainly isn't off the beaten path of a typical Sams. FOOD: Typical bar fare, but food is pretty good. They do these french fry styled eggplant with marinara sauce. I wasn't a fan, but my cheese burger was awesome. Go ahead, grab a pint. After all, Boston wouldn't be Boston if you couldn't raise a great glass of beer in an establishment that are drunken founding fathers would be proud of today.
(4)
Sarah G.

Another average bar for Boston, and especially in this area. This bar just doesn't really have special flair to it at all, but they have beer on draft, they make decently strong mixed drinks and they have a ton of space, including an entire upstairs too, which is hard to find in this area. They also rent out for group events pretty cheaply and really do try and cater to what you want whether you are having an alumni event to a bar crawl, etc. There is a front area with some tables and the back are is more open space which is more like the bar drinking hanging out area. Their food is so so, and I know they do groupon's every now and then too which is probably the only way I would eat here, but it is a decent spot to catch a quick drink since their bar tenders always seem to be ready, but then again that is the Boston way!
(3)
Erin H.

For being the "oldest bar" you'd think they'd take more pride in their food. Everything was just your average pub food - veggie burger was over done, baked beans were just ok, although I will say the clam chowder was pretty good. The staff was friendly enough and the music was good too. I'd recommend just taking grabbing a drink here and know u visited an old pub.
(3)
Sean C.

This is the bar that was named after that Sylvia Plath novel, right? Hold on... got my history mixed up. That was somewhere else. "Bell in Hand" has been around since 1795 and thus the oldest bar in America, and are open 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. daily. They love their Sam Adams here, and I love the Sam Adams Brick Red. One Sam Adams beer equals long half liter. About a haff' a yar-r-r-d. Arghh, mate! #wellread
(4)
Albert W.

Whoever says this is the "oldest bar in America" has been fooled by Bell In Hand's marketing. The oldest tavern is the White Horse in Rhode Island, and the oldest continually operating bar is LaFitte's Blacksmith Shop in New Orleans. Nur on your claims Bell in Hand! Despite their fallacious claims, Bell in Hand still manages to attract a lot of Massholes, fat chicks and clueless tourists. It's quite a mixed crowd of rowdy bar hoppers on the weekends. Paul Revere would be rolling in his grave if he saw the state of his favorite watering hole today and paid $7.50 for a Sam Adam beer. PROS: - Fairly large place with 4 different bars split between two levels. The top floor gets somewhat "clubby" after 10 PM. - Live bands on the ground floor and DJ's on the top floor. CONS: - Despite the charming exterior and historical background of this bar, the inside doesn't really do much justice to its age. The antiquity of the bar has really been spoiled by the modernized interior. - Cover charge of $10 after 9pm or so.
(2)
Brian B.

This place was amazing. The band had the entire first floor jumping. The DJ on the second floor hand it going crazy as well. A great place to just hang out or dance the night away. The beer selection was awesome. I had a great time here! Definitely recommend a stop in!
(5)
R J.

Quiet bar, close to everything, convenient on a cold Sunday night. Had a local brew, pale ale which was good, but the "blueberry" ale...no thanks. Waitress was a little over-active, maybe just trying to sell more booze, whereas we just wanted a brewsky and relax...would like to come back and try the chowder!
(3)
Jack B.

The oldest bar in America! Had drinks. o food. GREAT BAR!!! If you are in the city I would say you really should come for a drink here. HISTORY BABY HISTORY!,N
(5)
Dee D.

Oldest tavern in America!!! It's fun and easy to hang out at. There wasn't anything crazy special about it. Just fun to say you had a drink at the oldest tavern in AMUURRRRICAAA! The waitress was super sweet too.
(4)
Taylor D.

oldest bar in America!? so awesome! the bartenders and staff are SO nice which makes the atmosphere even better! love how great the service is! they go out of their way to make you feel comfortable! live music too! they have their own beer on tap that was delicious! defo recommend getting a drink here.
(5)
Gabe B.

I can't recommend this place enough! THE go to place in Boston night life. With live music on the first floor and a dance club up top this place has everything. A fun atmosphere and good prices on drinks make this place a must see if you're in the Boston area and looking for a good time.
(5)
Michelle ..

Like many others, my friends and I just had to see the "America's Oldest Tavern." I loved the appearance of this bar. Long, narrow windows opened up and let in fresh air. The bar definitely has maintained the "tavern" feel. Be forewarned though--- there was no air conditioning. We found the same to be true for some other bars in the area. We even jokingly said, "Boston does not believe in AC." Despite the ridiculously warm interior of the bar, we still had a good time. They only sell yards of beer--- no complaints for that--although maybe they make you buy a yard in order to compensate for how %^&*ing hot you will feel once in this bar for 10 minutes. We tried the Bell and Hand homebrewed ale. It was actually pretty good. Prices were reasonable. 8 bucks for each yard. After having one, we were feeling quite good:) We ordered our drinks at the bar, but sat down at a nearby table. Sometimes bars make you order food in order to sit at a table. The waitress was accommodating and had no problem with us just sitting at the table with our beers. There was music next door, in an adjoining room (?). I wasn't sure if it was part of Bell and Hand or if we somehow entered another bar. Either way, the band was entertaining. Am I glad I went here? Yes. Would I visit again and again? Probably not.
(3)
Kellie W.

It's true, I've experienced better. After walking all around Boston I saw this place after checking out haymarket. My legs were kinda tired, it was around 5 and a beer sounded goooood. A tavern since the late 1700s, the place claims (in writing atop the outside of the building) to be the oldest existing tavern in America. During the summer there are seats right by the windows, which are open and you can feel the breeze and watch all the people walking by. I liked that part of the atmosphere, although the restaurant did kinda have a sticky feel to it. The bathroom was completely disgusting. The bar seemed to be entirely staffed by college women in shorts. It's seat yourself. I waited a good 20 minutes before I got up and flagged a waitress. Said waitress continually forgot about my table and the service just kinda stunk. I asked for water a few times before I actually received some. Instead of saying things like Yes or No, or waitress would halfway nod as she was walking away. I saw other people receive similar service. The prices seemed high for food and drinks, but not too crazy. Beer is beer, and I really liked the Portland Belgian White I tried. I don't know. It's cool I was in such an old tavern with such rich local history, but I kinda felt like I accidentally stumbled into a tourist trap that appreciated the tourist mulah much more than the history in the walls. Later, I was reading about things to do along the Freedom Trail, and the NPS brochure noted one of the country's oldest restaurants, operating since the early 1700s, the Union Oyster House, is right across the street. Maybe try there?
(2)
Ann S.

I went into the Bell on a Wednesday day and the service was fantastic! Definitely a place to visit in Boston with great food and great local beers on tap
(5)
Bryan M.

Awesome, good place to hit after the Celts game. Great live music, the oldest bar in Boston for historical fact sake!
(4)
Damien S.

Big ups for a proper karaoke stage and setting, and for being tolerable in the great social wasteland that is Faneuil Hall. Semi-downs for the head scratching pricing structure at the bar - $8.50 well vodka soda, $8.50 premium vodka soda, $6 Moscow Mule. Make em say wha? WHA? Nuh-nah-nah-naaaaah. I've had friends unjustly booted from the bar and a week later, get showered with praise (and $30 in booze!) for placing in a sing-off. The mixed crowd makes for great pplwtchng - suits and conventioners spitting game at jerseyed Garden-goers while yahdoodz belt out A Whole New World. Don't you dare close your eyes. Avoid eating here unless you like scarfing the same Sysco stuff they serve everywhere around it, and show up early to avoid the cover. Neither are worth entry. As a New Englander, though, you owe it to yourself to patronize, at least once, the oldest operating bar in the United States. Even if the Warren Tavern would say otherwise (and for sake of playing favorites, I'll side with WT).
(3)
Jack N.

Yeah because I live in Texas I guess I'm officially a tourist now, but I grew up in Rhode island and have lived and worked in Boston, so there's that. I will say that I only know about this place because of some "real tourists", friends of mine from St. Louis. I had not gone to the Bell in Hand until one of my colleagues told me about it as part of her "discover Boston" trip last year. She and her husband did the Freedom Trail, etc, and found this "oldest tavern in America" or something like that for the Bell in Hand. A bunch of colleagues met there last year, and had a good time. I was staying a five minute walk away on this trip, so I figured I'd jump down there to have a beer by myself. I grabbed an empty bar stool readily enough on this Tuesday evening and ordered My Guinness was perfectly poured - I was dismayed that the kitchen was closed, but it was 10 o'clock so I can hardly claim surprise.. It was their karaoke competition night and let me tell you - there were some amazing singers. I was blown away. And I HATE karaoke. I like the Bell in Hand and I'll be back. Side Note: Not being able to eat at the pub, I left at 11 and walked down Hanover Street to try and find a slice of pizza. Nothing. Nada. All places except little convenience stores were closed. Something is very wrong in the world when I can walk down a street in Austin, TX at 11 on a Tuesday and find a slice of pizza, but I can't in the North End of Boston.
(5)
Boudu B.

The BIH will always be in my heart at the first place I say some poor women with a huge piece of glass in her foot bleeding everywhere cause she was wearing flip flops. We were in there and tried the Lobster Mac and Cheese and the cheese plate... Did I just eat a pound of cheese? Yes, I did. Both weren't that great. The beer selection is good. Heaps of Sam on tap and good pours of everything else. What was nice, we were in there on a Sunday and they really are a large neighborhood bar. It felt good to be back in the bean. The place is HUGE, dancing, music... Unless it's a quiet sunday I would not choose this place as a sit down and relax at dinner. Crowded, fun and if you are smart - No flip flops.
(3)
Lucy D.

Me and my family came here because we heard it was one of the oldest taverns in the US. We came for a late lunch on a Tuesday afternoon. The tavern wasn't crowded at all, which was good because the place wasn't very big. At first we were the only ones in the restaurant, but other diners came trickling in as we started eating. I ordered the lobster mac and cheese. It was average -nothing super exciting and a bit overpriced. My sister had the pizza and thought it wasn't very good. It was more like flat bread with cheese on it. It's safe to say the food in general is pretty average. However, they do have a good beer selection. My final comment would be that the food seemed to take a while even though we were some of the only diners in the restaurant. I think this place would be a better hangout in the evening when you could order some drinks with friends. They did have a bar and I think they have a live band on certain nights.
(4)
Beau S.

The oldest bar in America. that is pretty freaking cool. I think it's the bar itself, not the building Otherwise, just a bar. Good selection of local brews (Sam Adams, Harpoon...) and decent prices
(4)
Richard C.

"Went for the history. America's Oldest Continuously Operating Tavern." Walking on the Freedom Trail, I came across the Bell In Hand Tavern and had to have a beer after I read it was America's Oldest Continuously Operating Tavern. I believe the word "continuously" here means that it has switched locations before, but still unique. Bar staff wasn't very friendly, overall not that impressed. Beer selection was good.
(4)
Joanna F.

Bell in Hand is what it is - pretty sketchy, a drunken shitshow, but fun and good for dancing. That's why I wanted my friend's bachelorette party to end there. It was quite a disaster trying to get in touch with the manager to get line privileges. I called at least four times, was told he would get back to me days before he actually did, but in the end he came through. Not only were we added to the "list" for the night, but he waived all of our covers. My one complaint - my jacket came back from the coat check reeking of smoke. Strange. But the coat check is free, so I guess it's ok? It just adds to the shady appeal!
(3)
Jeannie M.

My husband and I stopped here for a bite to eat before Boston Calling. I had been there before in college for drinks but didn't really pay attention to my surroundings back then! The staff was accommodating. They sat us really quickly despite how busy it was on a Sunday afternoon. We both got a burger and a beer. The food came fast and was absolutely delicious. The owner, Adam, was absolutely wonderful. He made it a point to stop by and chat with us a few times and even brought me over some fresh blueberries to put in my Wachusett Blueberry Ale. While we enjoyed our beers, we watched Adam run around the restaurant, serving food, cleaning tables, chatting with customers and just overall enjoying the hustle and bustle of the bar. It was nice to see and made the Bell in Hand a favorite in our books! :)
(4)
Shea D.

My girlfriend and I stopped here to warm up on a frigid Saturday this past weekend as we were exploring the city she may be going to law school in. We sampled a couple of the beers on tap, and made our respective choices. Imagine my surprise when they came to our table (see picture attached). Because I was responsible for driving us back to New York that night, my girlfriend was responsible for drinking the last half of the big one, which was mine. I ordered a cup of the clam chowder, which is apparently something you're just supposed to do in Boston (it's also something you're supposed to do in Seattle, which I did). It was very tasty and incredibly filling like all good clam chowder is supposed to be. At $3.99 it was a steal. My girlfriend ordered the salad, and at $7.99 she was expecting a side salad...we're used to New York prices and portions. Well, it was not so. It was an entire plate. Needless to say, neither of us needed to buy any food on the three hour drive back home later that night. I can't say much for the ambiance. The clientÃ¨le annoyed me a bit, and I did not enjoy how whenever the door opened (literally every two seconds with people coming in and out, and also *holding* the damn thing open), I was hit with a blast of arctic air. So much for warming up. And P.S. why is this classified as a dive bar? It is SO not.
(4)
Bethany B.

After a day of duck boat riding with my dad we were hungry. We came across this place and decided to give it a try. The pretzel appetizer with fig dip was awesome. I ordered a margarita and it was so good. We got the fish and chips and haddock sandwich. At first I got the wrong kind of fried but the waitress, Rachel , fixed it immediately and the food was tasty. Great food, great drinks, and great service. I would definitely go back again.
(4)
Eva dean F.

Do NOT order the Kale Salad. It must have been a week old for it was wilted and black. How in the world does that even get served? It's the oldest tavern in America and so is its food. The waitress was nice though. Apologized a lot but not her fault. Hope she passed it onto the idiot in the kitchen.
(1)
Ellen H.

Ugh - I sure hope this place was better when my parents used to drink here, otherwise I will start to question my own upbringing... First things first - the line is ridiculous! Maybe this is a good sign or a bad sign -- they only take about 5 people at a time, then a 10 minute wait, then 5 more, etc., etc... look forward to a wait about 45 min to 1.5 hours!! We finally get in (after shelling over $10 cover) and we turn to go upstairs because we'd rather hear a DJ than the band downstairs (not to say anything bad about them, we're just a DJ kinda crowd).. alas the GUARD at the bottom of the stairs tells us there is a line.. I ask "where is the line?" so I can get in it, and he replies -- indignantly -- "pff, I dont know!" .. so much for my aspirations of higher altitude. I seek shelter at lower levels. I find my refuge in a 4-person bar-height table unoccupied near a different bar with waiter service (awesome). The waitress is an absolute doll and brings drinks quickly and often. The prices are average and there is absolutely zero pressure on us to leave our spot. TO ALL FUTURE BIH-GOERS - WALK IN, TURN LEFT ! DO NO GO UPSTAIRS, DO NOT PASS GO, DO NOT SPEND $200! Overall, this place was rules and regulations door in to door out. If you're out to have a good time and LET LOOSE, go elsewhere!
(2)
Brad V.

If you are looking for a great time and you like karaoke, you must visit the Bell In Hand on Tuesday nights! Paul is the KJ and he has the best sound system in Boston! Loads of people and lots of fun, I promise. Be aware the folks singing are pretty good and take it serious. But, if you pick a good song and give it a good try, the crowd is very forgiving and will reward you with lots of applause. It is all about having fun! On Tuesday nights, there's a weekly contest, with $50 dollars. Paul is very friendly and he keeps things popping. What I like is the sound, the atmosphere, the crowd and the KJ: Paul. If you find yourself in downtown Boston on a Tuesday night and you are looking for a great place to hang out, good food and drinks, and you want to listen to some really good karaoke--or if you want to sing some songs too--you must check out the "Bell" as we like to call it! Tell Paul that Brad sent you...he will take good care of you! BTW: Paul's favorite drink is a tall glass with ice and 10 ounces of pineapple juice and the rest filled with Red Bull--in case Paul needs a drink and you feel inclined to buy him one!
(5)
Ly Y.

Clearly a bar catering to the masses trading on the history of the location to their advantage. The crowd was mixed for sure. Come here if you want to say you had a drink at the old tavern in America, but nothing sets this place apart otherwise.
(2)
Gabby D.

Great selection of beers (especially Sam Adams). Grab a pint and enjoy the ambiance. There are also other bars around the area you can check our afterwards.
(3)
Pete J.

There is little to compare this place with the dross that is the rest of the Faniel Hall bar scene. It's got some history, but so does every other building in the neighbourhood. The food is inedible, the drinks overpriced and the staff surly. But the tourists love it.
(2)
Aaron L.

Had a scheduled private party of over 100 people starting at 9:30pm. We were very disappointed when around 11pm they let everyone upstairs despite the fact that we were promised the top floor exclusively. At midnight, the lights came on & we were told that they were no longer serving alcohol. At midnight? The bartenders & the manager were extremely rude when explaining their "policy". It really seemed as if the employees were just trying to get home early. When we asked why they cut us off before 2am (the usual closing time for almost every bar everywhere), they were pretty rude & said that this was "just their policy on Thursday nights". We stated that in the future we would take our business elsewhere & they responded that they didn't care at all. The 3-4 previous times I've been there I have had a great time, but this last experience ruined it for me. I will never go back again.
(1)
Katie C.

The Bell in Hand (BIH) is one of those places that you know you'll have to put up with a lot of crap in hopes to have a good time. It's a pain to get in, a pain to get drinks when the bars are two deep, and trying to get upstairs is ridiculous on most weekend nights. However, once you are inside, overall, it's a fun time. The bartenders are nice and friendly as long as you aren't a total ass to them. Everyone is drinking and most people are dancing. Drinks are priced on par with other nearby places, cold, and strong! Every local knows that trying to get upstairs in the BIH on a Friday or Saturday night is like trying to break into Fort Knox. The wannabe jail warden keeping watch at the stairs doesn't help at all, either. Your best bet is to get there around 8:30/9:00 with friends before the line forms outside, before there is a cover charge, and before there is a line to get upstairs. To be honest, I'm not sure what the "appeal" of the upstairs is ... maybe it's the restricted access or the altitude, but it always spells trouble. I can't think of a time I haven't been upstairs and able to remember it the next morning. Well, my credit card statement remembers it for that matter. I'm convinced you haven't truly lived in Boston until you've been carried down the stairs at BIH at the end of the night. Management has always been great working with organizations to hold fundraisers for non-profits. Plus, since most events are upstairs, it serves as an easy way to get upstairs if you plan on spending all night there. The people-watching aspect is great. It isn't really a "local" spot per se. It attracts a lot of people from out of town making an evening of bar hopping from one place to another in Faneuil Hall. If you're looking for a local spot, your best bet is to go towards the Beacon Hill, Back Bay, or South End areas. I wouldn't eat here if it was the last place on Earth... it is the oldest tavern in the US and from the looks of walking by, I think the kitchen is just as old. If you're looking for good food in the area, your best bet is to head towards the North End or down towards the waterfront.
(3)
Cleophus B.

Good place for drinks. I was bar hopping and didn't get a chance to try the food. They call themselves the oldest bar in America...which is strange, because I believe there's a bar in New Orleans with the same claim. Anyway, nothing fancy...but it serves its purpose.
(3)
Kris 1.

The only reason I brought all my friends here is because it is the oldest bar in the Nation. Its a very nice bar.However, the bartenders are very rude, as we sat at the bar, the bartender didnt even welcome us, she had no smile, and served us sloppy. It was the worst experience ever. After we all had a 70 dollar bill, she demanded a tip, and what we gave her wasnt enough! She stated outloud and took my friends beer away and gave him his cash back and said to get out of the bar! How rude!! I demanded to speak to the manager, he listened but wasn't polite at all and wouldn't even give us his last name. (Jeff with a mustache) I wouldnt recommend tourist not to spend their money at the Bell In Hand! They need better customer service.
(1)
Alan N.

History rocks! While I was walking the Freedom Trail I decided to stop here in the oldest bar in America. I decided to have something to eat as well so I got a house beer (Bell-In-Hand) and placed an order for the Black & Bleu Burger. The beer was a nice nutty ale that hit the spot and to be honest the burger was probably the best Bleu Cheese burger I've had in a long time if not ever. I'd give this place 5-stars but for the service. I was there in the early afternoon so it wasn't busy, there were two wait girls and one bartender. The bartender was busy and she was actually the one that took my order and served me. It was like she was the only one working. All-in-all I enjoyed my meal and beer in this historic tavern and hope to someday return and give it another try!
(4)
Kim D.

Welcome to every (miniature) sports bar in USA. Nothing connects me to the history of this bar. Beer glasses not frosted-minus. My husband liked the Shipwreck Pumpkin Ale. Bored.
(2)
Lisa W.

i came on thanksgiving early evening with my family prob 4 people in there someone across the way must have spilled someghing and my cousin jokingly said sumthing bot the amout of paper towelz used the security i guess gave my cousin the cut off actions as if the place was pack and he coda tiggered a fight which that part proper percaution i understand i manage and bartend an have also worked in night clubs so we polietly stoped wit the 1 paper towel coment and continued 2 by roundz folowin wit another patron dancin an while removin hiz coat hiz t- shirt cam up whic he waz not tryin 2 take off the same security person who was texting on his cell phone the entire night until the 2 following situations i m explaining came up and kicked the fella out now my biggest prob is the issue i m bot explain your managment came up after my brother an i tried 2 explain how the security treated she wodnt listen she juzt said they are doing der job 2 not ova serve well if she was listeining she woda herd she woda neva said that because it was nothin we were refering 2 we still tiped amd i gave the bartender an xtra $5 but check ur mangment an security
(2)
JimboSlice T.

If you've actually graduated school or even have any sort of perspective on travelling, F--- this place. Skip down to some other place right next door. The Point wasn't awesome but at least it was realistic: $2 Budlight and $5 everything else. And Blackstone has $5 Guinness, awesome food and a human bartender. Beware: after dinner, yankee BC frat boys trying to be southern gentleman(hilarious, in a bad way)
(1)
Mazher A.

Before I tell my story, let me say that it's disturbing and, in a weird way, comforting to see how many common complaints there are about the Bell in Hand (BiH). I say "comforting" because it assures me that I wasn't the one out of line with the experience that prompted this review. Rather, it was a progression of disrespect by the BiH staff -- manager and bouncers, to be specific -- that led to conflict. My girlfriend won a private party at the BiH in a raffle, which she used to host my surprise birthday party. She invited my family and friends from all over the country to come up to Boston to celebrate. And, the upstairs room was a great space to host a party. But BiH didn't make good on their commitments. They stopped buffet service early, and when my gal asked the manager if they were going to bring more food out, his verbatim response was "Not gonna happen." That was frustrating, but we let that slide, because many of our guests had already eaten by the time they arrived. As our allotted private event time approached, BiH staff came barreling through the space with furniture and dance platforms, with complete disregard for the people in the space. They nearly knocked over my gal's father, a senior, in the process. Now, I understand that these guys have a job to do, but should service establishments not strive to do their jobs with grace and tact? Next, a friend of ours arrived just after work to join the celebration. At this point in the evening, BiH was pulling their hype stunt, keeping a line at the stairs to create an air of exclusivity to be upstairs. The wait was nearly an hour long, but they refused to extend a professional courtesy to my friend, who also happens to be a concierge downtown who has directed a lot of business toward the tourist trap that is BiH. (I believe he and his employer intend to send a letter of concern to BiH ownership and management.) As I attempted to reason with the bouncer, another one of BiH's minions started poking his finger in my face and repeating, "You, get up stairs!" I responded by telling the brute to first, get his finger out of my face, and second, not to speak to me like a child. He didn't appreciate my defiance, and proceeded to gather more BiH bouncers to police our group. We decided it was time to move the party to a more amicable location than BiH. We gathered our belongings and my girlfriend told me all we needed was to get the birthday cake out of the freezer. I asked the bartender to retrieve the cake for me. She directed me to the manager who'd earlier been disrespectful to my girlfriend. He told me to see the guy at the bottom of the stairs. I asked him get our cake so we could leave. He told me to walk across the bar and ask the women at the coat check. With each dismissal, my frustration grew. As a friend and I waited for the coat checker to grab our cake, one of those schlubby fratboy types that hang out in Faneuil Hall on the weekends fell into me, spilling part of his drink on my coat. I angrily told him to watch where he was going, and he responded confrontationally. As we argued, a BiH bouncer wrongfully assuming I was in the wrong (perhaps a clue as to why below), bum-rushed me, grabbed me by the collar and began forcing me toward the door. Once outside, I yelled to my attacker to get my cake. The BiH doorman decided to join in the fun and said, "I'm gonna eat your cake right after work." We finally received our cake and got along our way. But not without having experienced the most outstandingly terrible service and treatment at a place of business in our lives. And, make of this what you will -- my group was of the very slim minority of non-white clientele in BiH that evening. It's amazing how a poorly trained and potentially racially discriminatory staff can turn one of the best nights of a guy's life into such a nightmare. We will likely never return to BiH. I recommend to anyone who has read this post to spare yourself the headache, avoid BiH and pay that advice forward to all of your family, friends and colleagues.
(1)
Andrea C.

this establishment gets 4 stars alone for being the oldest tavern in america. if that doesn't say freedom, i don't know what does. you best pay respect. or i'll go all founding fathers on you (i dont even know what that means). basically, the reviews sum it up. bell in hand is a dingy, hole in the wall tavern that is the perfect place to stop for a beer while exploring the freedom trail. it's quiet in the afternoons, serves your standard beers (tons of sam adams, shocker) and you should stop in.
(4)
Tania W.

Stumbled upon this little gem on the 1st night of a girls trip to Boston. From the outside of this bar, it has so much character. Thus we decided to grab a quick bit to eat before we surveyed all of the bars in Faneuil Hall. We ended up loving the place that we spent our whole night there. We even spent our last night out in the town at the Bell in Hand. We were quite shock that they had really good food for a bar, since we tend to travel a lot, we have experienced pretty bad food at bars. Maybe those two should not come together, HOWEVER the Bell in Hand has it covered! As for the entertainment, they also win! This place has it all covered. You can have your nice kick back bar on one side to a live band on the other side. And if neither of these float your boat, then you might as well head upstairs to the dance floor. Yes, there is a wait on the weekends to get in, but it is well worth it. Not only did we fall in love with this place, but also keep it as a must for each time we visit Boston.
(5)
Amir K.

Food was pretty good but the service was slow and the my messed up some. of the orders. Better for beers than food.
(3)
Kevin O.

Firstly, everyone should know that the "oldest pub in Boston" claim is something of a cheat since this is not the original building, nor even the original location. It appears this version of the Bell In Hand dates to around 1844. This would be fine if the Bell In Hand had an iota of historical character, but there is absolutely none. If it's character and history you seek, there is a great place across the Charles called the Warren Tavern. I would also recommend Jacob Wirth and perhaps Stoddards. Anyway, the crowd seems to be a mix of tourists and suburbanites going to a game at the TD. Maybe around 25 beers on tap which are mostly your more well known Sam Adams and Harpoon brews. Nothing too obscure that will make beer geeks excited, with the major exception that there is a beer that Sam Adams brews exclusively for this pub which is an amber ale. I have never tried the food here, so can't comment on that. Bartender took nearly five minutes to acknowledge me at the bar and never once smiled the whole time I was there. Overall, a very blah bar in a part of the city full of them.
(2)
Kim K.

The best bar of the whole bachelorette party bar crawl last Friday night. Plus, the bride and maid of honor (myself) didn't have to pay a cover! Woooo! Despite the fact that we had to wait for 30+ minutes to get upstairs, I really enjoyed the Bell In Hand. Upstairs is where it's at though. The dancing is fun, music is awesome, people were cool and friendly. I'm not a bar hopping dance at the club type of lady but I had a blast here. I'd go back for sure!
(4)
Joe K.

Came here Friday and Saturday. Friday was great, awesome band, good bar tender. Saturday was horrible. Bartender was a horrible, nasty, and mean. We will not be back because of her. Tara, as I was told was her name was, was vary anal about everything and pushy. Stay away from her. It's too bad she left such a bad taste about this tavern. We were there during the start of the final four and she didn't even want to allow the tv to be on the event, although she was beat out by others. We also heard her complaining with a four letter f word we all know about having to listen to the game. Beer was good!
(1)
Ali P.

In a nutshell, the Bell in Hand Tavern has been berry, berry good to me. Located in a section of Faneuil Hall that became known as "our alley," this multi faceted joint offers everything from great food, drinks and amazing service to the funnest dance party you'll ever have. The Bell in Hand experience first began when my friends and I (5 girls, mid-20s, lookin' for a good time, if you catch my drift...) came for a week and a half long visit to Boston and stumbled upon it en route from our mainstay in the North End. On the walk down to some places in the general Faneuil Hall area, we were obviously intrigued by the "oldest bar in America" slogan, and that the people inside looked like they were having fun. What followed next is that we ate, drank, danced our faces off, and met some amazing Bostonians who we can now call lifelong friends! Having partaken in the party activities on a multitude of nights at this joint, on different days of the week at that, I will say that like any bar different nights have a different vibe. There are two main areas here: an upstairs that is more of a typical dance area with a bar, and the downstairs that is a more chill area serving food and hosting karaoke on some nights, and on others is just as crazy of a show as the upstairs. I also had the pleasure of going here after the Bruins won the Cup and all I can say is WOW. Did I mention that the servers / bartenders / bouncers are all SUPER NICE? Having also been forewarned of MASSholes, lame college kids, etc. we were surprised to find pretty much none of the above. Just friendly people ready to get down on whatever night of the week it was. On a final note, I'll say that we had so much fun in Boston and at the Bell in Hand, that we flew back a month later for a second ride around the merry-go-round. I'm thinking this summer will be back for at least a few nights of the trip!
(5)
Josh M.

I was at this place recently, and I had a really bad experience. A guy was really drunk and hit me in the face. I took the high road and just went to the security guy who was right nearby to say that he ought to kick this guy out. He said, "We'll make sure nothing else happens, but we won't kick him out." I don't exactly feel safe knowing that some guy could slap me ten feet away from a Bell in Hand security guy and nothing would be done about it.
(1)
NoÃ© G.

In Boston to see our son in the Navy and had to go here, crab cakes were very good and the chowder was also very good. Service was great, once we got a table. Busy Saturday afternoon to be be expected but worth it.
(4)
Daniel U.

usually visit this place on st patricks, great atmosphere, great corn beef sandwiches and cold beer
(5)
James P.

Oldest Tavern in the country - had to visit for a drink!!
(4)
Noel L.

Good service and decent beer selection. We went during the day for a drink after our Freedom Trail tour and sat right down at the bar. Be warned, this is an open air tavern so there is no AC. "Oldest tavern in America" is posted all over the outside of the building, but once inside I felt like I was in any other decent pub in America. We walked by at night and it was so loud and there were people dancing so it's more of a night club at night? I'm glad we went but I left feeling kind of confused...
(2)
Jeff S.

BIH was a welcome stop after a loooong, cold walk from the hotel to the USS Constitution and back. That said, it was average. They weren't that terribly busy, and it took a while just to get a beer and a Diet Coke. The wife got a bowl of soup and a salad, and I got a grilled cheese. The food was good, not amazing, and their sweet potato fries I would not recommend. But it took a very, very long time to get the food, and it's not like we ordered anything you can't make in five minutes. I had to bug the waitress twice for an update. When the food finally came, it was barely lukewarm. The overall experience wasn't terrible, but when you consider how many, many places there are to choose from in the immediate area, this visit meant I probably won't return for a very long time.
(2)
David H.

Given it's location & history, I'm sure this place is hopping with tourists in the summer, but last night (mid-March), not so much. The Celtics at the Garden brought in a few pre-game imbibers, but we were there on a three-course Groupon that was, actually, pretty good! They gave us three ~4 oz flights of Sam Adams varieties, & my wife (a reluctant beer drinker) said that a least the first one was terrific. It was a reddish winter brew. The chowder was towards the thick & clammy end of the spectrum, but both of us were pretty happy with it. The fried seafood plate was true to it's New England roots - much like Woodman's or Kelly's, etc; but the breading was nicely spicy & both the cole slaw & shrimp sauce tasted homemade. The squid rings, which often can be as chewy as shoe leather, were sweet & tender, as was the little piece of octopus. Dessert was one of those hot chocolate cake/pudding things w/ vanilla ice cream. Hard to screw that up! Anyway, we paid all of 25 bucks for the Groupon that gave us this entire dinner. Pretty good deal. Note to readers: it looks like many of the other negative comments on Yelp reviews are based on the quality of their bar experience. Our server was professional & attentive. We had no complaints whatsoever about the staff.
(3)
Brittney G.

Oldest bar in America. Had to come and do the tourist "I've been to the oldest bar in America" thing. Nice ppl, cool atmosphere, good beer. Didn't try the food but it looked pretty good. Easy location
(4)
Kathy D.

Only came here for a drink. Was a little surprised it was renovated to look so modern considering it's the oldest bar in the country. We had a few drinks in between the Freedom Trail on a Sunday afternoon. Great stop with a good beer selection.
(4)
Jason Y.

Good burgers. Good fries. Good beer. Service was a little slow but not terrible. I like it.
(4)
Jozef N.

Filled with stupid yuppies. The food menu isn't bad. Prices on there are actually a lot lower than I expected for such a location. With live bands every night it's obviously hit or miss. Last time it was a Friday night and the live cover band rocked. Upstairs however the dj couldn't stop mixing in the most retarded songs in between otherwise decent dance music. They do have a good selection of beers on tap if that's any consolation.
(2)
Helen L.

I've been to Bell in Hand many a times and they have good food and nice atmosphere. Get their waffle fries or sweet potato fries! Those are amazing. They also have eggplant fries which are also off the hook! I got the sample platter so I had a bit of everything. The potato skins are so so and the chicken fingers are hard. Their magners cider was about $5.75. Friday nights are pretty happening. They will have live music sometimes and dancing upstairs. I think there is a cover after 9pm so if you get there early and get food, then you can stay and not pay. My complaint was that the sample platter was $12.99 and it did NOT feed 2 people. One person could probably eat it if they were really hungry. But it did not feed enough for 2 hungry people with alcohol. I was expecting a bigger platter for $12.99.
(4)
Katy H.

Ahh - the good old days! I lived in Boston the entire year that I was 21. Discovering beer on tap was one of the highlights of that year! The Bell in Hand was one of the bars than I frequented to get said beer on tap. Specifically Molson Canadian and Guinness. The service was always speedy and polite, the food was delicious, and depending on what time of day/night you were there - the crowd was cool too. Late afternoons were always the best but if you're a fan of the club or DJ scene, this place is great for the 21-25 crowd at night.
(4)
Ilya M.

What a stupid idea....Its like Applebees bar meets teen night Karaoke. Come on people!!! This is the oldest bar in America!! I guess this is what Boston does to history....SH1Ts on it
(1)
Jamie G.

Came to an event here for a friend of a friend's business launch. Great place to have an event/party, BTW. Pros and cons: Pro: Cute inside, nice brick walls, great windows with good views of Boston, lots of space, two bars upstairs. Con: No Hendricks. booo. Pro: Food was decent- I tried all kinds of appetizers- I think the bruschetta was the best Con: Expensive. But it is downtown Boston. Pro and Con: Location. Nice area down town by Faneuil Hall, unless of course, you dont live near Fanueil Hall and have to commute into the city to get here. I still had an okay time, but would probably only come back here if I was invited to another big event, or had a specific reason to come here.
(3)
Rose S.

Location is cool. Beer is cool. Bartender not cool. She seems more interested in chatting with her friend than serving her clients. Too bad...
(3)
Sara M.

I didn't know that Bell in Hand had an upstairs! It does, and it is very loud and looks like an eighth grade dance: girls shaking in the middle, boys standing around on the outskirts. We had a fun night, but it wasn't anything above and beyond I almost forgot $10 cover = boo!
(3)
Angelica N.

After my friend and I left the Green Dragon Tavern, we decided to do out own little Boston Pub Crawl. This was our second stop. I'd heard that it was a bit of a scenester bar, but it was close, so we decided to give it a try. When we walked in, we noticed that it was pretty packed. Finally we got to the bar, and were promptly greeted by the bartender. There were a good deal of choices, and I noticed that the handle on one of the tap beers said "Blueberry". I have a love affair with blueberries, and I opted for that one. It was served to me in a huge Pilsner...major bonus points there! It smelled wonderful, and tasted even better. A couple sitting by the window left, and we took over the table. I have to say, it was absolute heaven. The windows in the bar were extremely wide and open, allowing us to enjoy the breeze and do a little people-watching. I felt like I was on a patio, which was awesome, since a lot of these taverns are on streets so tiny that there is no room for a patio. If I ever make it back to Boston, I will return here. The ambiance was upbeat, fun, and the live music didn't kill the conversation. In the meantime, I am going to go bananas trying to find out if I can get Seadog Blueberry Ale here in Texas.
(4)
Andrew S.

Went to the Bell In Hand on 6/17 for the historic value - the idea of going to the oldest tavern in the US makes it worth a stop. They had 4-6 beers on tap, nothing dark so I went for the IPA. Good, not great is how I'd typify the whole place. Staff was courteous and didn't give us the rush, even on a weekend. I had the open-face Reuben, which was alright. The fries were oddly good - cut in the In-N-Out thin style. Tl;dr: there's definitely better food in Boston, but the historic factor makes this place worth a (quick) stop.
(3)
Mark S.

I've been here a couple times. Most recently I went here to dance and get drunk a ton. Before that, I went here and tried to kick it with some other friends and there wasn't too much happening on the first floor. The drinks are fine but the people at the door could be better with letting people in. I'm pretty sure that charging at the door before 10pm isn't really kosher and then turning people away is just ridiculous. Although I've never had a bad time, it's happened to people I knew.
(3)
Sara W.

I know. I was a tourist in Boston. And tourists don't know squat about local bars. However, it was raining, I was cold, and I needed bourbon. The hubby and I weren't visiting Boston for long, so we decided we were going to see the city, rain or shine. We didn't make it too far when we spotted this joint and I remembered reading something about how it claims to be the oldest tavern in America. I really didn't care how old it was, but it looked dry inside, so in we went. We sat right across from the bar in a nice, tall table next to the windows. Perfect for watching the other dedicated tourists slosh around in the rain. Drink prices weren't too bad and my bourbon and cokes could have walked to the table. The bartender was friendly and they played really great music. Stevie Ray Vaughan - check. Dave Matthews - check. Santana - check. What else do you need? We walked by this place later in the evening and it was PACKED. Not sure if that scene is tons of fun, but we had a great time visiting during the day. We will definitely be back.
(4)
Annmarie A.

Despite the terrible experiences I have had at Bell In Hand in the past (2 stars at best), I have to give it to the Bell In Hand for being a fabulous place to host a private party. We had our annual Halloween Fundraiser there during the Halloween Nor'Easter of 2011 (c'mon, you know that storm will go down in infamy). The staff could not have been better to work with, from giving us all the time we needed to pass along our guest list to providing free cover and a separate entrance so no one had to wait in line. They even put together a special themed drink list and let us come in early to decorate the back room! The bartenders and waitstaff were dressed up and in great moods throughout the evening, seemingly enjoying the party as much as we were. The only thing that would have given them the elusive 5th star for a private party venue would have been access to a private bathroom. I shudder to recall the sorry state of the restrooms even early on in the evening. All in all, a great night had for a great cause, and a somewhat redeeming evening for the Bell In Hand in general.
(4)
Lisa G.

Only came for a quick drink. Love the history of the place. It's a bit touristy (I was one myself), but my drink was perfect and the crowd was friendly.
(3)
Marcus D.

I still despise this place, but why did I come here? A buddy was back in town from California with his bride and knew the band. Also a big "F U" to the cab drivers outside who treat me like a tourist - I had to go through a couple of them before I got in one (try to tell me the Callahan Tunnel is closed!) As far as being the oldest bar, I thought that crown went to the Warren Tavern - McSorleys and the Ear Inn in Manhattan are way cooler than the Bell, and more likely much older.
(1)
Katie M.

If you like bouncers who throw out homophobic slurs right out side the bar then this might be the bar for you. In the fanueil hall area on Friday night heard the bouncers calling a patron the F word. you think in this day and age that would be unacceptable but apparently it is okay for uneducated bouncers on an ego trip. Gross!
(1)
Derrick C.

Default late-night spot in the North End. First level has multiple rooms, coat check, and sometimes live music. Second floor tends to be more for dancing.
(4)
Ben F.

I want to give this place props for its long history. And yet, the fact that the beers we ordered here were so expensive means this place isn't a necessary place to go to. Given that the beer selection is decent but not overwhelmingly great, Bell in Hand is a place that you might go to if you have the time, but it is miss-able.
(2)
Laura K.

DISCLAIMER: This review is for Tuesday nights only. All other nights, this place is a onepointfive-star, absolute-worst, faneuil hallesqe dive. Also, the food is edible at best. I'd rather go to the Green Dragon. See: tinyurl.com/2cgmypt I want a bar with a bell in hand I want a bar with an easy touch I want a place I can spend some time Not come and go in a heated rush I want a bar that will understand When it comes to love, I want a slow hand... with a bell in it. Tuesday night karaoke: worst; best; all of it; rolled into one within-stumbling-distance-from-home shitshow of a night. I never meet hilarious, fun or interesting people here - though that's not really critical because I usually plan to meet at least 10 of my friends who fit this criteria/ these criterion and fill my quota for the evening/ night/ wee hours of the AM when I'm uncharacteristically shouting expletives at the McDonald's walk-up window employees down the street. Yelpers, coworkers, college friends, high school friends - no one can deny the beauty of what this bar is holding. There's no doubt in my mind, this bell is tolling for me.
(4)
John J.

Stopped by the Bell in Hand to have a drink and an order of wing, we actually transitioned here from The Tap but you can read that review if you'd like. Simple order two beers and an order of wings. Beer showed up and were great, the wings well they still must be attached and flying around some where because they never made it to our table. Three other tables which were seated after us received their orders but us well we were still waiting on the wings. After 30 mins I flagged over the head waitress and told her we needed to leave and would pay for the beers but not the missing wings. She tried to explain that the kitchen was busy, hmmmmmmm I almost said well not for those three orders and by the way that is your issue and you shouldn't make it your clients, but instead we paid the bill and left. Go get a beer so you can say you've had one at the oldest tavern in the country eat there only if you have an afternoon to waste.
(2)
Michael C.

Another Faneuil Hall dive bar. Two floors, which you can't freely walk up and down the stairs on the weekends, they say it's the oldest bar in America, amybe it can't support the weight... They play live music and your mix of pop, top 40 and hip hop. Drinks are about $7 -$9. They'll also charge a cover on the weekends.
(3)
Markus Z.

Get the Bell in Hand Ale. It's tasty. Fast and friendly service. Clean and friendly.
(5)
Luke S.

I get the history behind this place, but it is overpriced crap. The food was extremely disappointing and the drinks were anything but cheap. The service was the only decent thing about Bell in Hand. There are so many great options in Bean Town, so do yourself a favor and stay far away from this place.
(2)
Daniel P.

A pretty standard joint with bar below and dance floor above. The drinks are what you'd ask for, nothing more nothing less. My scotch and soda could have been a bit more scotchy, but I wouldn't have expected it to be. The music was Top 40/mainstream 90s-00s, the clientele is sweater-over-button downs, tights and wedges, skinny jeans and cropped t-shirts wearing, and they're in a convenient location. I think I'll take a walk down further to see what other places occupy the surrounding buildings next time.
(3)
Meredith M.

Tuesday night karaoke = 5 Stars Friday/ Saturday night mayhem = 2 stars So there's the math. Now the details. Don't go on a Friday or Saturday night. People who should have stopped 5 beers ago are still drinking. The bathrooms are disgusting, littered with toilet paper and beer bottles and T-rashed girls who have trouble standing up. Tuesday nights, it's an entirely different crowd. There are a lot of regulars who LOVE to sing rock/ rap songs. There are a few business professionals, mixed with massholes in Red Sox shirts and hats who migrate into the city on week nights looking to cure their suburban boredom. But everyone bonds over the music. There is also live acoustic music around on the other side of the bar. The bartenders are wonderful. If you stay late enough, someone is bound to be a hot mess on the "dance floor." Some people are great performers. And other people just love to sing after a few drinks. But the crowd is supportive of anyone who has the guts to get up there. The DJ is wonderful and has a MASSIVE selection. Bottom line: Tuesday nights I wouldn't go anywhere else! P.s. the food here is actually pretty good for bar food!
(3)
Teri E.

Horrible coconut chicken tenders -horrible cheese platter for two -service below par (asked for more than 5 crackers for two people and we were given two hotdog buns?) one star for location only
(1)
Dawn E.

Three points for not having enough table space on a rainy day. Five points for our hot DILFy bartender dealing with frantic Yelpers ordering piece-meal with a smile. Five points for the best burger ever (Black and Blue burger... I added mushrooms). Three points for not having more stouts or porters on tap. Average = 4 points.
(4)
Aaron L.

I've been to dive bars, and this is no dive bar. It's a tourist bar/restaurant. What do you get? Familiar, nonintimidating menu, cold beer, and a convenient location (close to the downtown area, and surrounded by similar locations.) The beer selection was alright; I expected a lot more from most locations in Boston; evidently it's not the beer town I was led to believe. If you're hungry for a burger and a cold beer, this place works. But it's nothing it isn't.
(3)
Stephen L.

For being the oldest bar, it didn't really have anything old about it. People were nice, and not much of a dance floor. I would go back, because the service was good.
(3)
Lisa O.

That whole "oldest tavern in the country" thing is pretty cool. But otherwise? Expensive and mediocre.
(3)
Valerie L.

I came here with friends, who said it was an old bar that used to operate in Faneuil Hall. I guess it's near Paul Revere's house and a couple of other places of vague historic interest. In any case, we went inside meaning to have a drink and dinner, but it was a little weird. There are multiple entrances; we came in the entrance from a narrow street by where the farmer's market was (near the restrooms). We looked around and couldn't find anywhere in the "restaurant side" to sit, there wasn't someone to help seat you, nor was there space in the bar. Apparently there are two bars, so it was crowded downstairs. Upstairs was having a private party, so the place clearly had its hands full. We found the one isolated table in one bar area near the bandstage. In its favor, they had a wide variety of Sam Adams on tap, as well as a nice selection of other beers. We managed to flag down a waitress and order up, right when I was starting to get rabidly hungry and wanting to leave. I had their clam chowder, which was very good and hit the spot. The Boston exclusive Sam Adams Brick Red was a good beer, as was the Wacheusett Blueberry. From what I could gather, they do a coat check and have a cover charge after a certain time, so we were glad to have come at the right time. We were leaving right when it started getting to a standing room only, and full of college people. Granted, it was a Saturday night, but I would not have paid a cover to get in here. Food was good, but service was not that great. I'm pretty sure they make their money in marketing themselves as the oldest tavern in America and renting space for private parties. It's good for a drink and if you can find a table or a server, the food's not bad, but nothing special.
(3)
Patrick M.

Though I tend to go here often, I have never eaten here, so this review only concerns the nightlife. With live bands most nights of the week (though only in the back room's larger, open area several days), a DJ upstairs on the weekends, and karaoke mid-week, it has a variety of options for nights out with friends. The bands can be hit-and-miss (and would it kill them to have a schedule online?), making the $10 weekend cover an occasional gamble (having left several times due to horrible bands). It has your typical selection of beer, with options of a standard pint or 24 (?) oz. glasses for those they have on tap. The staff can be friendly, but most tend to be disgruntled most of the time. They seem to feel they can get away with it due to people wanting to go to the so-called "oldest tavern in America" and because of the often long lines for the DJs (definitely one of the more consistent, better aspects of the place) on the weekends. All in all, a typical, tourist- and college student-infested Boston bar. When it is good, it can be a great time; when not, it can be a nightmare. There does not seem to be much of a middle ground here.
(3)
Chan L.

I think this is the oldest tavern in the US. Old school, traditional vibe, friendly bartender and intimate seating area. Good location next to a bunch of other pubs/bars.
(4)
Jimmy S.

FAVORITE bar in town. I stop by everytime I am in the city. It is a for sure. So much so that when we are doing the tourist things for guests, my wife automatically adds it to our things to do. And it is old. That makes it even better right? I THINK SO.
(5)
Mike H.

So I don't really know what to think about this place. I originally chose this because there's no dress code, cover is relatively cheap for Boston, and then it' a unique setting. I didn't have to wait in line here outside very long, but I came at about 9:45-10. My friend who came later had to wait about half an hour to get inside and then an extra 15 mins to get upstairs though. I think that is my one gripe about the place. There was a second line. I was there early enough so I didn't have to wait and the guy watching the stairs to go upstairs was really, really cool, but I don't know why there is a separate line inside. Maybe the floor is too weak or whatever? The drinks were strong enough so I was okay with them and most of the bartenders were lively. (There was once that just looked like he wanted to jump out a window, but I'll assume he was having an off night.) The clientele is...very interesting. The downstairs is pretty much a Bro Show, while the upstairs is for the girls that just want to dance around their purses and guys who want to watch the girls dance around their purses. There was one guy who was just in his own zone and that pretty much made my life. He was interpretive dancing and swaying by himself. Made my birthday night complete. If you can go see him, (not like he has a schedule or anything,) you're in for a treat. Overall this place was cool, but not my cup of tea. I might be back with friends if they pick it, but I'm looking elsewhere before going here on my own again.
(3)
Ima Yelp r.

They say it's one of the oldest taverns in Boston so I'm giving it 1 star for that reason alone, but that's really the only highlight of this bar. The Fish and Chips we ordered looked like a very tiny basket of KFC chicken wings, the coleslaw runny and the fries (they should have been chips) were nothing to write home about. The beer we had with dinner seemed flat, the bathroom wasn't clean, the bar decor dingy and the whole place just overall-dull. I must say the servers were very nice, but very, very slow. I hope someone calls Bar Rescue and brings back the luster that I'm sure this place once had back in the day......even if it was way, way, way back in the day.
(1)
Rachel C.

I am here to dish out some Bell in Hand love. I do not go there on the weekends (generally), and I suggest you do not either. Because it is INSANE-ly busy on weekend nights. However, it's a tourist destination and thus the only bar in Boston in which you can be sure of finding some people on a weeknight. More than once, I have gone forlornly with a friend from bar to bar to bar on a random Monday or Tuesday, trying to find one that had more than 2 patrons inside...the Bell in Hand was always where we ended up. On a weeknight, the crowd is not so young. Lots of after-work people and business travelers. It's cool. Check it out! Good things about the Bell in Hand: 1) It's old. As in 1795. That is cool. 2) It did not have a cover on St. Patrick's Day like all the other obnoxious bars did. 3) I left my wallet there last night and they found it. 4) There are 4 bars in the place (2 downstairs and 2 upstairs) with quite different vibes. This is cool because if you don't like the scene in one area, you can just go somewhere else. 5) They have live music every night. And karaoke sometimes.
(4)
Christina B.

First time in Boston--first place I ate. Instantly drawn in by the history of the place. However, I spent my entire time looking across the street at the other places wishing I had chosen more wisely. I opened the door and instantly Beyonce was screaming in my ears...takes away from the historic charm. This was like 6:30pm not 10pm. I asked for the mac and cheese but instead of ham could they put bacon in it? The waitress stares back at me and says, "ham is the same thing as bacon". I stared back at her and said "ham? is the same as bacon?" She said she would ask the kitchen. Either she understood what she said was stupid or she walked away thinking I WAS stupid. The world may never know. The food was ok but again...the idiot waitress and out of place music was not what I had in mind for my first foray into Boston.
(2)
Jeff A.

Watched couple of games over drinks. Awesome venue and cold beer. The best seats are by the windows! Before the game ended, live music started ... a problem if you feel that this is a sports bar (which it isn't).
(4)
Erik M.

Were it not for the history of the tavern, I probably wouldn't have gone out of my way to visit during my first trip to Boston nearly a decade ago. These days, every time I find myself in the North End I try to pop into the Bell in Hand for a drink or two, not because it's a great pub so much as it's a little piece of history that makes the area such a cool little part of town. One of my fondest memories of a previous trip to Boston includes ducking into the Bell in Hand moments before the sky opened up and dumped a near record-breaking amount of rain for the rest of the afternoon. I snagged a table by an open window and burned a good chunk of the afternoon nursing Harpoon IPAs while reading my book and watching crowds scramble in from the rain. If you're visiting town, it's definitely worth a visit even if only to say you visited the oldest tavern in the country. But there's also something that keeps the locals coming back as well.
(3)
John L.

The Bell in Hand is actually quite good when it comes to events, both spontaneous and planned. They were quite cool with all of us Scavenging-types showing up at the end on Saturday, which was greatly appreciated. In fact, the bartender was really cool about the whole thing, making us great shots and helping us out in getting more points. The food is also decent in terms of bar/pub food. Fanueil Hall isn't my usual place, but Bell in Hand seems nice enough considering, and the service is very good.
(4)
Cate S.

Big thanks to Manager Matt and Event Coordinator Debbie! I held a fundraiser here in November 2012. These folks were a huge help and made it super easy to coordinate a fundraiser. Its a great bar but they are super when it comes to hooking it up - other local bars require huge deposits or required spending minimums. Thanks ya'll
(4)
Christopher M.

The Bell In Hand is an average restaurant with an average staff and average food in an above average location. Seriously, if the Bell In Hand was located in Newton, would anybody go out of their way to go there? Probably not - certainly not anymore than they would the local 99 Restaurant. I walked into the Bell In Hand on a rainy Saturday with a group of Yelpers. In the front room they had two bars and a good amount of floor space, but only 3-4 tables in one corner. The hostess glances up and says, "Well, we don't have any chairs for you, but you can stand over there." She gestures to an empty corner of the bar, underneath the stairs. Boy did I feel special! I'd think we'd be embraced, a group of eager young patrons in a half empty restaurant on a rainy day, but we were brushed off to the corner. I think our bartender was less than thrilled to be 'stuck with us' as well. I think the most he said the entire night was, "What do you want?" and "Here's your order." I know for sure he didn't crack a smile the entire time. My food (burger & fries) came out promptly, and it was as expected - bland but edible. Drinks were okay too, nothing special, nothing to complain about. All in all, I think the Bell In Hand falls into my 'utility restaurant' category: I'll never go back just to eat there, but I'll go if it conveniently serves other purposes (like hosting a group of 20 wet, tired and hungry Yelpers after a scavenger hunt).
(3)
Amelia M.

This place should be really awesome because it has the whole historical significance thing going on. Unfortunately, Bell In Hand doesn't choose to monopolize on its old-timey roots, and instead operates like every other bar in the Faneuil Hall area. This place is fine. Fine selection, fine service, fine prices. But it's not very special, and it could be.
(3)
Waybs L.

Came here earlier in the night for a friend's friend's bday... granted the crowd that was already there wasn't my type but when it became open to the public... that crowd SERIOUSLY wasn't my type! Everyone was just mad awkward looking and i felt out of my element! It's your typical dive bar with live music downstairs and dj upstairs. Apparently they have a line to get upstairs and i'm not too sure why. The music was decent but man was i ready to go home! Also, be careful if you are upstairs...going down...and wanting to come back up... the douche bouncer won't tell you that you have to wait in line. My friend went downstairs and he gave her no warning... but gave her a lot of shit when it came to her coming back up. As for food: Got the sampler and obvi it was good because how can you mess it up? Most of it's fried sooo you know... We also ordered a mushroom pizza and it was.. Eh not bad... just not amazing! the crust was too thin and crisp. would i come back? eh maybe to grab a beer in the day time... but wouldn't waste another night-life here.
(2)
Dante M.

A fun little pub! Came here for dinner after a day walking throughout Boston. Sat down and ordered a Sam Adams and some Scrod. It was all very good! Server was friendly, plenty of TV's around and an overall nice feel. I could definitely see this place getting too crowded though if I were to come during the later hours. Overall, fun vibe, cheap food and great service!
(4)
Renee M.

Let me preface this review with saying that the downtown scene is NOT and I repeat NOT my thing. But here goes... Bell in Hand is an alright place with a live band downstairs and a DJ upstairs. Setup is ok, the downstairs always seems crowded, but there is plenty of room to dance upstairs... when you can get upstairs... (there is a separate line to get up there). I have only been here at night, so I can't comment on the food, but there is an ok beer selection and they serve Sam Summer in HUGE glasses! Music is not bad and I like looking out the windows and creepin on people walking on the street down below. Overall, if I am forced to hang out downtown Bell in Hand is an ok option. I just wish there wasn't a $10 cover.
(3)
Noreen R.

Went here for a private party and the bartenders were very nice and accommodating. Then our party room became open to the public and the staff turned ugly... Rude and totally disrespectful in spite of our huge bar tab. There are dozens of bars in Boston where you don't get treated like crap; next time, I'll go to one of them.
(2)
Todd R.

I hate this place. I used to go here atleast once a week. I don't know why. I don't mind spending money in Boston, but this place doesn't deserve it. Way too expensive. It would be impossible to hire more bitchy waitresses/bartenders. Its unbelievably cramped, WICKED LOUD and the people that work there are rude.
(1)
Mickey M.

I think the Bell In Hand might be the best option in stretch of bars in this area. It's not bad for a birthday party group, as long as you're in before it gets too late on a weekend night. I haaaaaaaaate waiting in lines when there are known options that will get cold beer to my lips faster. Overall, it's a decent place. It can get crowded, but there are a few different areas that mix up the crowd. I don't bump into too many people when I dance like an idiot.
(3)
Erika K.

This place is awesome! Not only is it famous (well deserved) because of its history but it doesn't let you down! The food is served in hearty portions and the drinks are fast flowing and cheap. We had a bucket of beers for $16. In the Haymarket area that is amazing! At night there is a lively crowd with music in the back where you can dance and sing along or if you wanna chill head to the front and sit and watch the merry makers go by. If you are a boston familiar or a tourist this is definitely a place everyone needs to go at least once. The only downfall... in happy hour times its cramped and service is really bad.
(4)
J K.

The beers are tall and the dancing is okay.
(3)
Tyler C.

A couple friends wanted to go here one night and I had never been so I went along. First experience started with a cover charge of $10, but there was a good band playing so I thought it might be worth it. We get inside and the place is packed but the bar isn't too tight so we go up to get a drink. We proceeded to stand there 20 minutes while the bar tender ignored us. When she finally decided to get our drink order she still got other people drinks before she poured our beers. Another 10 minutes gone. My friend had ordered a Bud and when he finally put it up to his mouth to take a sip after 30 minutes of waiting he quickly pulled it from his face and made a sour look. He said that it smelled and tasted like rotten cheese... Time for some beer knowledge. This rotten cheese taste and smell means they are not cleaning their beer lines. It had nothing to do with the keg. If a keg tastes bad it usually means it has been oxidized, but oxidized beer smells muddy and tastes like wet cardboard. Because oxygen is typically never exposed to a beer line (it should just have carbon dioxide and beer running through it) that rotten cheese taste and smell would mean it has a bacteria build up in the beer line. Yum, a mouthful of bacteria ridden beer. At this point my friend gives the beer back to the bar tender, she dumps it and says she will get him a new one. 20 minutes later she remembers to get him a Bud Light. So after almost an hour of waiting my friend gets his beer. Long story short friends want to go upstairs and dance so we wait in line another half hour to go upstairs and watch skeevy looking guys grind up on drunk girls. Sorry this review was so long but I was so pissed this place had horrible service and doesn't take care to clean their lines. I can't believe people actually go to this place. I will never go here again.
(1)
Ashley G.

typical fanuiel hall bar - full of drunk 20-somethings and irishmen.
(2)
Laura S.

The service was great, but the drinks were a little overpriced (at least the wine was for the quality... I cant speak for the other libations.) Though, I did sort of love the whole cinnamon and sugar rim on pumpkin beer thing. The eggplant sticks were good and Im pumped that they actually had sweet potato fries. I would go back, but only if I could sit at the bar or a table... not much into the whole "it turns into a club" vibe. (But thats just me!)
(3)
Emily W.

The Bell in Hand was A-OK in my book. Great caesar salad - nice tap selection. But a bit pricey. But hey - they are the oldest pub in Boston, I guess you get to pay for the title. It was Fleet Week when I visited, so the atmosphere was CRAZY. I actually felt sorry for the regular Bostonian male population, because none of them got any attention with all those sailors around! There was a back section of the pub with a dj and a decent size dance floor. Lots of younger people, but a few seasoned ones too. Everyone looked like they were having a good time (except the guys who weren't in uniform) and I definitely had fun too. Tuesday nights are karaoke nights.
(3)
Carey O.

Great place!! Lots of history here... Great atmosphere and food was excellent! Had the Black & Bleu burger and Clam Chowder. Fish and Chips were great as well!!
(5)
Gina N.

Well the bf and I visited boston bc we wanted to check out Fenway Park and their green monster. I'm a die hard A's fan, and of course, they were playing them that weekend. Of course, we also wanted to go site seeing because we've never been to boston before. We were venturing around old boston, and came across this bar, which was supposedly the "oldest bar in America." We decided to take a break and have a beer here....and ran across another couple decked out in green & gold. (of course i was ecstatic, bc i love meeting fellow A's fans...especially ones way across the country!). They actually came from california as well (pleasanton to be exact), and came to check out the boston/oakland series as well. We had a few beers, and shared a clam chowder in a bread bowl. The chowder was pretty good, but not the best i've had. But the service was decent bc it was pretty slow at the time. It had a pool table and sports bar feel to it. It was nothing real special...but how can u visit boston and not have a beer at the oldest bar in the U.S?
(3)
Emily M.

Waited in line for 30 minutes outside. Paid $10 cover. Waited in line 20 minutes inside. Ugh. Luckily the bouncer to get to the upstairs was nice to look at. The first floor was a band. Not my thing, but would have been fun if it was. Upstairs, the DJ was mediocre until the very end of the night. He transitioned somewhat towards mainstream house/dance music, but it was all top 40s pop and hip hop before that. The crowd was an eclectic mix. The men upstairs were nerdy or creepy (or both). For the most part, the females were average, except about 20% that were straight trash practically having dance sex with guys. It was probably some of the best people watching I have done out at a bar though. They have fans placed near the DJ and stage that nasty girls liked to stand in front of, grinding with the blowing air, thinking they look hot. I probably won't be back. It might be fun if I were on the verge of blackout drunk, but having to wait 50 minutes in lines and pay $10 will certainly keep me away.
(2)
Jo-Anna L.

Decent, but nothing amazing. I stopped here for lunch the other day. Got the buffalo Chicken wrap. It was fine, nothing earth-shattering. Prices I thought were reasonable, considering they're the nation's oldest tavern. I didn't get any drinks, so I can't comment on that. It's not a bad stop for lunch if you're in Fanuil Hall. The waitress seemed to be doubling as a hostess and seemed a bit overworked, but maybe she was just new, I don't know.
(3)
LJ H.

Says its the oldest Tavern in America but who knows. I came here and got The Bell in Hand Ale which was pretty good. The atmosphere was a little club like to me which is a negative for me. I wish it was a little more pub/tavern like. Not a DJ and a dance floor.
(3)
Alison M.

Historical and serves alcohol?!? Sign me up! Bell in Hand is apparently the "Oldest Tavern in America" and is a great little stop along the Freedom Trail. There's plaques and stuff about the history of the place on the walls, so if you're traveling with someone who wants to constantly be learning, they can do that. Meanwhile, you can drink. Perfect.
(4)
Jeffrey H.

Now I'm sure most people are wondering why in the hell I'd ever step foot into the Bell in Hand Tavern...but it wasn't a typical "Yahdude it's Friday let's get some bitchez drizzunk and take 'em home bro" visit that you'd expect. It was actually just a late afternoon lunch with 3 gays, my mother, and a bi-curious lady. Standard. So with that being said, this place wasn't so bad for a weekday afternoon. After a serious day of shit-to-accomplish stuff in Boston, the group of us were starvation rhythm nation and chose the closest place with food around. Well allo Bell in Hand. We walked right inside and were seated immediately - the waitress happily handed out the menus as we handed out the beer orders. Oh, wine for mom. Natch. The beer selection was perfect - everyone found their draft beer of choice while mom was pleasantly sipping away on some pinot. It was burgers and sandwiches all around - I chose the Black and Bleu burger which is dipped in Cajun seasoning and topped with crumbled bleu cheese. I effing love bleu cheese. I'd use it as mouth wash if I could ;( The burger was cooked to order and tasted delicious. I believe I even swapped out the regular fries for sweet potato fries. Yum. In the end not a bad place for someone to stop in for a casual meal with friends over some beers. Prices were decent, food was standard, our waitress was great, and the beer was cold. As for weekend nights - well - I don't know and I don't care to know, bro.
(3)
Francesca Anne M.

Came here a few weeks ago for baked scrod. I live in NYC and can never seem to find a good baked fish, so all in all I was excited to visit a boston tavern and have some! I usually go to legal seafood when i'm up in boston but i didn't want to spend $25 for a plate and I was dressed casually. We sat down at about 9:30/10PM on a thursday night, it took the wait staff about 10 min to come over and ask for our drink order. The place was empty! After waiting to order dinner it took forever for the food to come out. My fish was over cooked and seemed cold like it had been sitting out forever! I would not recommend here for food. The bar was not packed, there was a small room in the back with some live music, but every bar on the street had that.
(2)

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Which Taco Bell sauce is best?

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Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.

About Taco Bell

Taco Bell is a haven for Mexican delicacies such as tacos, quesadillas, burritos, nachos, and other specialty items. Owned by Yum! Brands, Inc. Taco Bell is one of the fastest growing American chains of fast food restaurants. The restaurant operates from 7,072 different locations which are mostly run by independent franchisees and licensees.

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Tips for Dining at Taco Bell

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Q&A on Taco Bell

Who owns Taco Bell?

Taco Bell is a restaurant chain subsidiary owned by Yum! Brands, Inc. which controls the restaurant division of PepsiCo.

When does Taco Bell stop serving breakfast?

When is Taco Bell happy hour?

Happy hour at Taco Bell starts from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Are Taco Bell beans healthy?

Which Taco Bell is closest to me?

Use our Restaurant Listings directory to find Taco Bell nearby.

Which Taco Bell sauce is hottest?

Diablo is the hottest Taco Bell sauce.

Which Taco Bell sauce is best?

In terms of popularity, the Mild sauce is undoubtedly the best Taco Bell sauce favored by Americans.

Which Taco Bell sauces are vegan?

Hot and Mild sauces are certified vegan.

Which Taco Bell has nacho fries?

Taco Bell has a habit of discontinuing and relaunching Nacho Fries. You can find the Taco Bell locations nearby to see if the Taco Bell store has Nacho Fries.

Which Taco Bell is open right now?

Taco Bell opens at 6 a.m. in the morning and stays open until 3 a.m. the next day at major locations. In New York city, the Taco Bell stores stay open till 11 p.m. or 12 midnight.

Address : 45 Union St
Boston, MA, 02108
Phone (617) 227-2098
Website https://www.bellinhand.com/
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:00 am - 2:00pm

Specialities

Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Loud
Music : DJ, Live
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : No
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : Yes
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Has TV : Yes

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Bell In Hand Tavern

45 Union St, Boston, MA, 02108

Bell In Hand Tavern Menu

Appetizers

Soups & Salad

Burgers & Sandwiches

Tavern Favorites

Dessert

Diabetics at Taco Bell

Food Suggestions for Diabetics at Taco Bell:

Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for Diabetics:

Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Taco Bell:

Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Cholesterol:

Healthy Meal suggestions for Bell In Hand Tavern

Appetizers

Soups & Salad

Burgers & Sandwiches

Tavern Favorites

Dessert

Food Suggestions to Control Blood Pressure at Taco Bell:

Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Blood Pressure:

Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Taco Bell:

Foods to Avoid at Taco Bell for High Cholesterol:

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