Shams A.

This place seems a bit dodgy, but honestly has some of the BEST food i've tasted in this neighborhood. #SouthEnd -Torta -Cheeseburger Not too many food choices, but they know what they're doing, so you don't have to worry about anything being subpar.

Dimple B.

The quesadilla was decent, nothing to rave about. The salsa was really good though! My friend liked his burger. Good neighborhood-y spot but I'm sure there's better things in the area to eat. Also, no signs that it's cash only until we got to the bill! So CASH ONLY! :)

Mark S.

Cant believe how awesome this place is! I say that because for being on the edge of the south end it is reasonably prices and not super modern/fancy. The food was AWESOME! My catfish Po'boy was everything I wanted. Four of us ate and drank all evening for a very reasonable price, couldn't have been happier.

Mike B.

Great, landmark spot in the South End. One of the few true bars that are fit for walking in and ordering a beer in the neighborhood for a straight male. that isn't anything against other bars but more a complaint that on this side of the South End you have to choose between Clery's (sticky floor, dark weekend night spot for the younger set) or the Trophy Room (traditionally gay despite the rebranding) if you want to get a beer and watch a game. Pro's: cool, authentic weird neighborhood feel. random, old vinyl records etc on wall, TV playing random stuff like cartoons (never sports or news etc so don't ask), and generally dive-ish decor. Good food, sometimes great food if it what you are in the mood for. Con's: music can be loud if you aren't in the mood for that, many nights there isn't a table available (that is also a PRO and a good sign), service can be sloooow as there is one waitress/server/owner and the kitchen is tiny. Food can be on the heavy side, only have house wine (the red or the white). people in the neighborhood are deadly loyal to Delux because it a) is a great bar b) has good food and c) has been true to itself. new owners worked there for years and are great people.

Tim S.

This is a great, hidden gem in the South End. It's small and has a hip feel to it. The music was great and the wood paneled walls covered with old record covers and photos (including a wall dedicated to Elvis) makes for a lot of interesting decor to look at. There's good beer selection and good service. Quick note: this place is CA$H ONLY (though there is an ATM in the back if you forget). I haven't tried the food yet, though the menu looked delicious, so I'll probably be back for it. On busy nights, they won't let you sit at tables if you're not eating (or will make you give up your seat if people come in that do want to eat), but they're up front about it ahead of time -- so that didn't bother me a bit!

Dennis W.

We love everything about Delux. This is our favorite neighborhood bar, we send everyone we know here, and pretty consistently can order the special entree and special drink and leave pleased. Big fan of everything they have to offer here, and have no issues coming here weekly.

Vinnie J.

Some decent beers on tap but not too many choices. The location and price are top notch. I got the enchiladas .. I was down with them. Also , I was digging the music. I would def go back.. Hope it stays there.

Tom O.

Nothing fancy. Just a small place with good beer and what I thought was fast service. Had the cheeseburger which I thought was pretty decent.

Alexandra O.

Hipster trendy bar. The food was fantabulous. We had the brisket sandwich with black beans and fish tacos. Not just a cool bar but awesome food and menu.

Ryan R.

Went here with a friend to grab a bite to eat for dinner. This place is very cozy and quite a different feel from many other places around the South End. The place was decently crowded but we were seated right away. To start, we went with an order of the tacos and a quesadilla. These were decent, nothing amazing (this is coming from a jaded Californian though) but I actually really enjoyed the salsa that came with them. For our meals, we both decided to go with the chicken dish. It was a decent portion and was very "home-style" and hearty. The flavors were good but they were very one node. The service here was friendly and the pricing was reasonable, especially for the South End. Not a bad spot to check out if you are looking for something a little cheaper/low key in the South End.

John G.

THEY'RE BACK!! Decor intact, and as good as ever. Still tasty and reasonably priced, with some menu changes. The cauliflower tacos are delicious (and messy).

Chris C.

DeLux is the prefect dive bar on so many levels: Just the right size Just the right dive / hipster / trendy environment Just the right foods for a place like this (the food is surprisingly good and simple) Just the right bartender that is nice but not to nice And BEST of all ..........almost no one knows this places exists!!!! PLEASE DONT GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nicky E.

Can't comment on the food - just the cocktails and ambience. I got their one cocktail on the menu (I asked for a mojito and the waitress looked at me with disdain - I'm a snob, I admit it, okay?), and it was STRONG. I mean, I had two cocktails and I started jibber jabbering and speaking in tangents. I liked the vibe - it was sort of a hipsterish tuckaway that I would expect to find in Allston, but conveniently in the South End. The people next to us were on a first date from an online instance (it seems like a good meeting spot for that sort of thing), and I found myself thinking that she was much more of a catch than her date. All in all, a nice place to get cozy and stop for a bite, as well as people watch/eavesdrop on fellow diners (I guess I'm a voyeuristic snob?). ProTip: They only take cash.

Rather Not Say Name On The Web N.

This is really the perfect hangout spot. Chips and salsa + a christmas tree year round + cartoon network= PERFECT!!! Food is delish. Definitely go here. (Don't go on thursday though. One of the snobby waitresses is there. The bartenders however, are the best there, all the time.) Food is great, but the arrangement on the plate isn't good. No biggie, because the food is. Lastly, lots of you are complaining about space. If there is no space in a restaurant, that usually means it is good!!! GO HERE!!! YOU WON'T REGRET IT!!

Laura P.

Strange in 2015 there is no up to date online menu. A weird, undeserved arrogant vibe (is it the 90's still?), the staff member was downright cheerful that ordering food via the telephone with no menu was impossible. Are they doing that well?!

Jennine S.

I've had several menu items and they are all amazing. They rotate the menu to keep it interesting. Great burgers!!! Bring cash since they don't take cards. I eat here at least once a month and can't get enough!

Kristen J.

This is my favorite go-to place for a low-key dinner out. Living nearby, I've been too many times to count. I would be seriously devastated if this place closed. Bottom line is, for the price, you cannot get a better meal (not comparing to specialty food like pizza, sushi, thai etc). With a set menu plus a few daily specials, they serve a good variety from salads/apps to square meals such as pastas, roasted chicken, fish, etc. and also a few mexican options (tacos, quesadillas) - I have never had a bad meal here in 4+ years, in fact, it's quite the opposite - I am always delighted. The ambiance is cozy, dark, hipster quirky; beer on tap; small kitchen so sometimes a wait for the food, but never feel unattended by the staff. Bring cash, and a friend or 2. :)

Daniel B.

Best hipster dive dive bar around. Love the food and beer menus. Music selection is awesome. Ambience is fun. Go, drink, eat, be merry.

N A.

Cool ambiance. Categorized as a dive bar but I'm not sure the shoe fits. Regardless it draws an interesting crowd especially for the neighborhood. They take pride in the food and drink menu has depth. For those that know, reminds me of Natt Spil. The Wiz was playing on the tube which was a pleasant surprise. Trout w/crawfish risotto, black IPA, and Diana & Michael going to see the wizard. Thursdays are not bad in Boston.

Lisa S.

I have only been to Delux a handful of times but it already is a spot that I would not hesitate to visit. The dinner entrees are not only delicious but also quite unique; for example, the grilled cheese is made with feta cheese and Kalamata olives -- hardly what you would expect when ordering "grilled cheese"! I also very much love the catfish po'boy, it is cooked perfectly and so very rich and satisfying. The service is very friendly and attentive- we never wait long to have our glasses refilled with water. The decor is just delightful, while the seating is very comfortable. Wait time for the meals is a little on the long side, but that just goes to show how much effort is put into each dish (in other words, it's worth the wait!). All in all I definitely recommend checking out Delux- don't let its small appearance from the outside deceive you, as it's the inside that counts! ;)

Matt S.

Anyone been back since it reopened? I first went in 2001 and last went in December 2013. Precious little had changed. I hope precious little has changed since the new owner took over. Also, anyone know if they'll ever have the grilled catfish again? It's been well over a decade since I had it there, and I've never had catfish that good anywhere else (that wasn't a Vietnamese restaurant that caramelized it). Goddammit, Boston, stop changing!

Maggie G.

If I could give this place no stars it would be too many. The service was terrible. Took at least 10 minutes for us to get a drink Our waitress got my drink wrong twice, and flagging her down was like pulling teeth. She would breeze past us every time. At the end of the night we were charged for the two drinks that she got wrong. I never got a drink. The food took about an hour to come out. An hour for chips? Kind of excessive. I still grimace at the thought of this place.

Anthony L.

Delux Cafe re-opened after several months last night, at 5:33 PM. I got there 15 minutes later to see that a South End neighbor of the place had been the first in the door, thus winning himself a singing fish wall trophy. With the pressure thus off, I was able to just enjoy my visit and can offer a review untarnished by the influence that must burden any recipient of a piping piscine payola plaque. I had not been to Delux recently, as it is not on my usual path. I'd been concerned at its closing, and cautiously comforted by news that it had been sold to a longtime employee to "keep it in the family". My very occasional visits there probably mean that I cannot reliably compare the new incarnation to the old one at a fine detail level. But I can offer a very favorable review without worrying about new versus old. I ordered a margarita and the Cod with lentils special, as I'd seen a plated order go by earlier and it looked good. The menu's special bore the day's date, suggesting they will rotate often. Food came pretty quickly after ordering, which was actually very quickly given the place was hitting capacity by 7 PM as I was finishing up. The fish was delicious, and swimming in a sea of lentils. The upside was that I was well fed on one dish, but the downside is that I did not follow through on ordering some of the smaller plates to round out the meal. My girlfriend had a chicken-and-cheese quesadilla. It looked good, but I only poached some of the salsa, which had a nice tang with just enough edge to keep it from being too sweet. A seat near the kitchen showed a very modern and new -- and very small -- work area. The restroom with its common sink area outside is still richly covered in graffiti, but the plumbing is spanking new and one of the welcome updates over the old Delux that I feel few purists would complain about. I'm certain to stop in when next I'm in the South End at a suitable hour.

Ryan L.

this is a great low-key joint hidden in the middle of the south-end. i love it! haven't gotten a chance to eat here yet because we went in on a whim. has a very nice, cozy atmosphere, and not too crowded. the service is nice and down-to-earth. all i could ask for in a bar in a really uppity neighborhood. check out the bathrooms, i don't want to give it away!

K G.

Such a great neighborhood spot. Fun, relaxed atmosphere. Fresh, flavorful food and awesome service! The drinks are great too.

Paulina B.

A friend of mine raved about this place a few months ago, so when we stumbled upon it on a random Friday night we decided to check it out. We were hoping to establish another neighborhood go-to, but it did not live up to the hype. The service was probably the slowest I've ever experienced. Our appetizer took 30 minutes, with food following another half hour wait. We waited over 20 minutes after asking for the check only to find out the place is cash only. No sign, no warning. And off to the ATM we went. The food was okay, but definitely not worth the drastically long wait. I had a pork belly sandwich, which was greasy and unevenly cooked. I wouldn't be opposed to grabbing a beer at the bar, but I definitely won't be back for food. Unfortunate, given the place's long standing in our neighborhood.

Holly M.

There's just something about this place I really like. Food was surprisingly good, drinks were tasty, bartender was friendly, you know, the usual stuff you expect. But beyond that there was something I can't put my finger on that made me feel really comfortable and relaxed here. Just a great little place.

Eric I.

I love this place!! Please remember you are entering a corner bar that has been there FOREVER! Drinks, good food and comfortable atmosphere. This isn't upscale, fine dining we're talking about.. But the food is great and I love some of the new menu items. Also, remember this place is small... there's one server and 1-2 bartenders. So things take time. Sit back , relax, and enjoy. It's nice to still have a place in the south end feel free from gentrification. Come as you are and hang out with people from every walk of life. * I have been back since the re-opening and they essential gave it a good cleaning and slight updating in the dining room. Sorry the records covers on the wall have been changed, but the theme is the same. Apparently the the real major updates were behind the scenes... kitchen, bar, etc.,.

Laura B.

If I never came here again I would be happy. WORST service ever. I've never been treated like a piece of trash before. Here's the story: I work nearby and we come here a lot for after work drinks, going away parties, etc. We came her around 5 one weekday and there was no one there (which was great). We took up the area near the bar. The waitress rudly told us that we couldn't put our jackets or bags on any of the chairs and that "We need to make room for our regulars, they will be coming in for dinner". This isn't a rude sentence but the way she said it made us feel like we were less valued and not good enough to be considered "Regulars" even though we come here all the time. She had a terrible attitude. We were just getting drinks at the bar, and I think she was pissed because she had to keep walking through us. instead of treating us like shit so we don't come back, why not nicely ask us to make room? How do you deal with a group of people ever? The place wasn't even busy (4 tables) other than us so that's why it was ridiculous. That terrible service made a bed enough impression we will not be returning for our happy hours.

Steve L.

Actually a better restaurant than a bar. Delux is an oddity. Not counting the Elvis shrine or the interesting combination of local professionals and hipsters who haunt the place, this neighborhood bar has a rather limited (and unchanging) set of beers on tap, all hiding a top-notch but low frills kitchen. The menu changes frequently, but several dishes have been notable winners. If it's available, get the seafood paella. Not only warm and flavorful without being oversalted as fancypants restaurants are wont to do, this paella also featured an exquisite mouthfeel that encouraged me to turn each bite over in my mouth multiple times before letting it slide down my throat. Coq au vin was also terrific, as is any steak. Fortunately, the chefs at Delux will take an "extra rare" order seriously, allowing my slab of meat to come out cold in the middle, as requested. No comments on mixed drinks, but these guys could do better than four or so middling craft beers on tap. Fortunately, Harpoon IPA is usually one of the four, making a decision easy. Overall, perhaps a good place to take a hipster girlfriend. Or just dine alone.

Ian W.

Cool vibe, good service. The quesadilla was great but the coleslaw sucks beyond belief.

Keith B.

Lived down the street from delux for two years and it's probably one of the most unique bars in the back bay - pretty much every other bar in the area falls into three categories: fist pumping clubs, sports bars or yuppie havens. Delux is none of these things - it's hipster without being pretentious and although there's a TV (CRT mind you) it'll be playing cartoons and nothing else. I remember when the celtics were in the playoffs a wild bro appeared and asked the bartender to turn the game on and she simply said no - amazing. There's a limited drink selection and it's cash only. The bartenders can take some friendly harassment but they can also dish it out. Awesome place and really great food.

Meghan H.

A dying breed of original south end restaurants. Small, intimate, cozy and perfect. My go-to neighborhood spot.

Jason B.

Well *I* can't get enough of this place. Hole-in-the-wall, hidden gem, diamond in the rough, the euphemisms just don't do this place justice. Delux is one of those places you'd own and operate if you could own and operate an eating and drinking establishment. Located in a quiet brownstone area of the South End, the storefront is completely unassuming. Inside, the decor immediately shouts HIPSTER, and the music selection of big band, classic R&B and 50s pop just levels it up. But that's really where the appearance of pretentious ends, and where Delux backs up its vibe with hardcore doing-it-right. The bar is amply stocked, not with run-of-the-mill well liquor, but with fixin's for REAL cocktails, and the bartender knows how to make 'em. The draft beers are sparse, but well-chosen. The food - this is where Delux earns its five stars. At a price point rivaling that of casual dining chains, they turn out incredibly prepared, top-quality dishes that celebrity chefs would envy. The Hoisin pork tacos are a marvel of flavor, texture and freshness - spicy, tender pork, crisp cut vegetables, fresh mint and just crispy flour tortillas are an OCCUPY MOUTH experience. The burger is unreal - on a short list of "best burgers in Boston" as far as I'm concerned. Hormone-free organic beef is simply exploding with huge flavor, and complimented with sauteed mushrooms and melted Swiss, I can't remember the last time a burger made me as happy as this one did. You absolutely cannot do better than Delux for great food at amazing prices, in a funky, cool, laid-back atmosphere. CASH ONLY, my beauties.

christina m.

The one and only deluxe. One of my favorite spots in Boston . Want home cooked food that is delicious , fresh, affordable and delivered with a smile . Go to Deluxe. It is a small cozy spot that has held its ground in the south end for the last 15 years. May have to be a bit patient as the kitchen is tiny and the food is cooked to order. By far the best deal in the whole city. Thank you to deluxe for being you:)

Joanie L.

Good time at the Deluxe last nite which I hadn't been to in a couple years. It's not quite the hot spot it once was but it should be. Esp. when you can get pork chop and scallop dinners for $13.95. The food is probably more 3-3.5 stars but it's a good time overall. And they confirmed for us that it's being sold, although we were told that it probably won't change much. I can't imagine the food prices won't go up but supposedly the owner is an independent person who needs to close it for a bit to fix some things but will keep the same idea. Fingers crossed, there aren't enough Deluxe type places in this city. (Which begs the whole other question of why Boston is so bereft of funky, 50's looking fun hangouts but you need to hit Seattle or Portland for that.)

Meg C.

Back in the day, I frequented the "old" Delux and was sad to see it close. It's re-open now, with a lot of the same quirks. It looks like the place got a good scrubbing, but the Christmas lights and Elvis shrine are still there. We arrived at 6pm on a Thursday and had no problem getting a table for 4. We promptly got our drink order taken. That's where the promptness of our experience ended. There was only one waitress and as it started to fill up, she got swamped. We had to flag her down to order our dinner. We were on our way to see a show at the Lyric Stage Company a couple blocks away at 7:30, so we had 90 minutes. We thought that would be plenty of time....More on that later. The menu is sparse, perhaps 15 items in total. The "specials" written on the chalkboard were actually just regular menu items, so that didn't expand the options any. I'm kind of a picky eater and each of the menu options was a little funky, but I was able to get by. I ordered the flounder "special" (which is on the regular menu) which came with spinach and polenta. We ordered around 6:20 and did not receive our meals until 7:00. That's a long time for 2 grilled cheese, paella and some flounder. The kitchen is tiny, so I can sort of understand, but it seemed like the tables around us also ordered between 6:00 and 6:20 and didn't eat until 7:00. What was going on in the kitchen in the meantime? I sampled a grilled cheese and it was delicious, but really how can you mess up grilled cheese? The Paella looked good and was served piping hot. I wish I could say the same for my flounder and polenta, which were lukewarm. Just an FYI, lukewarm polenta becomes a solid congealed mass that looks like scrambled eggs and is not at all appetizing. The spinach had barely hit a frying pan and was mostly raw and extremely bland- no seasonings that I could detect. The flounder was fine, but again, lukewarm fish is not so appetizing. For $15, it would have been nice to at least have had my meal be hot as I was rushing to scarf it down in order to get to the show on time. In short, Delux is great for a drink or two, or if you're not at all in a rush and don't mind your food lukewarm. They could work on the service.

Scott W.

Sad to report: the Delux is 86. Update: Delux Part II will open in Feb; it was sold to "a long-time employee"

M F C.

Haven't been here in years, so my review is a bit dated, but I think still applicable. Used to go here semi-regularly for after work snack/dinner and a few drinks. It's a funky joint, about 10 bar seats and maybe 10 tables, so small. They keep the only tv on the cartoon network, which is funny if nothing else. Christmas lights abound year round. This isn't your typical bar. If I had to classify it, it's more divey then trendy for sure, but in a good way. You won't see anyone in a suit here, more likely a chain wallet or a mohawk. It's great. Grilled cheese is great, and PBR in tallboy cans is also great. This is a divey-esce joint, fun place to go with friends, but not the place to meet new ones. Just too small.

Vanessa V.

Pros: Good, affordable food, decent beer selection, kitschy atmosphere that makes me feel for a night like I live in a cooler city than Boston Cons: Waitresses often seem personally offended that you came in, slow service, cash only, closes at 1am It's a good place to come for a low-key night and have a couple beers, and it's the only place in the South End/Back Bay area that's affordable and not super fancy/expensive, so I'm glad it exists.

Hector D.

I wish I can give this place four stars for the food and the place. My friends and I got a quick dinner and a drink here. I got the hoisin pork tacos, and they were pretty tasty. This place definitely gives off a divey, hole-in-the-wall vibe because it's kind of unassuming from the outside and it's pretty small and dark inside, but it's actually pretty cool...borderline hipster (per the other reviews lol). My only qualm about this place (that knocks it down to three stars) is the choice of beers. The draft and bottle selection was very limited and what they had was pretty crummy. For a bar to have subpar beer selection is a clincher for me. I don't mind too much about the cash only policy, but it could be better if they didn't have it.

Alexandria V.

I haven't tried the food. I'll be upfront about that. However, after being introduced to Delux from a friend who raved that I would "love this place," I haven't found a spot to match. I live in Somerville, and travel into Boston just to bring people here. So it's no stretch to say this is hands down one of my favorite spots in the area. Decent music (the walls are lined with records, might I mention), the people who frequent are solid, and the bartenders/ servers are genuine. No awkwardbarfeel here. Cash only. Don't forget your monies.

Monique S.

When we arrived, the bartender was too busy writing to help us. When she finally did, she came back with some pretty good drinks. My best friend ordered a long island, which was delicious. It was her birthday, so she was in a good mood. We took pictures, laughed, talked. After taking a couple of pictures with the Santa figure, we get back, and the bartender tells my friend that she is welcome to stay but cannot finish her drink. She did nothing to make herself appear intoxicated or a harm to herself or others. So, I told the bartender that I'd finish her drink for her. The bartender had no problem with that. I honestly think that the bartender was perturbed that my best friend was enjoying her birthday and wanted to throw a wrench in the works for her own sadist pleasure. In any event, while I was ready to make this a go-to place, I will not be back again.

X X.

Lovely.

Steve T.

What a find! This place is hidden away on a corner just a few blocks from my hostel. Their food is absolutely amazing (I recommend the gnocchi) and the service was as friendly as any place I've ever been. I plan on going back, because I hear I can't leave this city without trying their burger. My only complaint is that they're cash only. I really can't fault them for that, but as someone who doesn't usually carry cash it was a bit inconvenient.

Samantha B.

i loved the place. the tv had cartoon network channel on all the way. won't change. christmas lights are there all year around. awesome decorations. this is a cash only bar. small bar. funky and down to earth. i loved this place but it was a bit too dark for me (i'm deaf) so it was difficult kind of to focus on conversation if it was too dark for deaf people. i'd definitely come back if i'm ever around in the area though. check it out.

William M.

CASH ONLY. Seriously? Food was ok, but everything about this just felt like it was poorly run. For example, they have ONE red wine. Their menu the night I went had zero variety to it. Everything was a stewed protein over pasta. Even the place itself is dirty and grimy. I will say the staff is great. Our waitress did a great job, and even told us where the ATM was. But seriously? Cash only? Um... credit cards, debit cards, paypal, levelup, google wallet.... This is just stupid. I'm never going back. There are far too many places with better drinks, better food, better atmosphere, and they don't make you jump through hoops.

jun k.

Awful. Came here because of the great reviews since my friend A was visiting from CA and wanted to eat at the South End AND this place was semi-near the T. Obviously I'm a New England noob too because I brought her (and 3 other friends here). We got here, "cool vibe" or weird, dark vibe - depending on your temperament. We got the grilled cheese, some sort of salad, the gnocchi special (me), the cubano, and the pork thing. The grilled cheese was greasy. and small. ($8) The cubano was yummy but small (what's all this business of LOTS of food - you guys must be elves.) ($12) the apple salad was.. whatevers. She asked for it with dressing on the side. She got it with the dressing mixed in. ($9) J's pork looked and tasted decent. ($14) My ricotta gnocchi special was abominable. ($14) It sucked b/c i was deciding b't this and the grilled cheese and the waitress said the gnocchi was amazing. I got it per HER recommendation. I don't think she even tasted it. It was rubbery AND raw-textured in the middle. The sauce was okay .. but seriously. oh yeah, i got about 14 pieces, which means, each piece of gnocchi was a dollar. the service was SLOWWWW. They took forever refilling waters. Never. coming. back. ever.

Sharon C.

I can see myself coming back here to hang out again. I'm new to South End and this is the second bar I've been to since arriving. My friends and I came on a Monday night so the crowd was sparse, but I liked how laid back and unpretentious the place was. It's cluttered with decorations and it feels like it has some history to it. Graffiti in the bathroom is always a good indicator of the quality of a place.

Andrew T.

Awesome bar in the South End for food and/or drink. Interesting menu that changes frequently, cheap beers available, awesome atmosphere. It's a real unique place.

Kyle S.

Couldn't find a place to grab something good to eat last night with a group of friend -- so we gave Delux a chance to feed us. We've stopped in for drinks a bunch of times and absolutely love the atmosphere. The food was incredible. We ordered the steak tacos, grilled cheese, ribs, and Cubano. Everyone was raving about how great their food was. I'd really like to give them a 1 star yelp review, just to keep my favorite bar a Boston secret for years to come.

Christina G.

Delux is great! The epitome of dive! It's nothing much to look at, but It's funky, and I like it. I love all the old music memorabilia and the Elvis wall. The drinks are dirt cheap, the atmosphere is chill and the food is pretty decent for the price. Definitely a cool late night spot.

Tony S.

"A building that looks like a public bathroom on the outside" ..... that's what my British friend texted me as I headed over there on a Tuesday evening..... which didn't really help me at all because, frankly, I have no idea what a public bathroom looks like on the outside. I even told the cab driver that, who then proceed to resemble a deer staring into headlights. Thankfully, because of my innate sleuth skills, and partially because it says "DELUX" in gigantor bold letters on the outside, I found the place. The very first impression I got as I entered was that it looked like the backdrop of an album cover by 'The Clash'. I swear I thought I was in a punk pub in mid-80s London. Record album covers adorn the wall, and there is even an Elvis wall, which, in my book, automatically makes it blue-suede-shoe-cool. The place is surprisingly small on the inside, but perhaps that's part of what gives it a kind of cozy feel. While they have no cocktail menu, they have a fully stocked bar that can make you practically anything. But it is the eclectic food menu that raises the bar of this place over other, um, punkpub-looking places. No seriously, the menu red like a sci-fi novel, and my British friend insisted that everything was a must-try. Unfortunately, I'd already eaten dinner, but I did opt to try what I thought was typical plate of nachos. What I got was something totally unexpected. It was a plate of baked (I think) tortillas accompanied by the most amazing mango salso I've ever had. I swear if I hadn't already eaten dinner, I'd have ordered 3 more portions. I was told that the quesadillas are to die for as well, and I've marked it down as a must-have on my next visit. Delux does not have any deep-fried foods on the menu (no friolater chips or typical pub grub grease-on-a-bone items), which I thought was rather original. Apparently, there is a specials menu that accompanies the regular list, which I think they said changes either weely or monthly. It added an artist-feel to the whole concept of Delux, and I find it hard not to want to come back just to sample everything on the menu. I was told to avoid the place on weekends unless you love being shoulder-to-shoulder with young kids (which I loved back in the day), so if you're in the mood to experience "cool", come on weekdays.

Ryan M.

I would have to agree with other commenters that this place isn't really a dive bar, its just a normal bar that plays good music and has a terribly kept bathroom. Other than being cash only and serving Narragansetts I think this place was simply established to allow South End and Back Bay residents to feel like they are going to a dive bar without leaving the comfort of their posh neighborhoods (no offense, I try to evacuate Allston as quickly as possible too). Not a bad spot, went here for a few late night drinks. I will say that the nachos leave a LOT to be desired.

Jonny H.

I'm torn. Want to rate this place high, but am totally put off by the CASH ONLY policy. Actually, not necessarily opposed to the idea (who carries cash??), but how about a little note in the window that states the policy?! Maybe a mention as you're seated? OK, you've been here for 20 years, and that's been the way you've done business for lo those many years... but what about a business tourist in town for two days, just looking for a late night meal & a tasty brew? Delux seemed, and DID answer all those questions... then came the CASH only BS. Had to hike to the train station 2 blocks away, wade through the "nighlife" there, and find an ATM, only to hike back to Delux to pay the poor girl who had to listen to my tirade because management is stuck in some sort of "ain't gonna share my money with the man" curmudgeonly rut from a time long since gone by. The steak frites was off the hook delicious, accompanied by an off-menu mixed green salad. Cool crowd, images of Elvis everywhere, great tunes. All the trappings of a great meal in a city I wish I could visit more often. Don't want to deal with the big credit card companies?!? No problemo, jerk-o... HOW ABOUT AN ATM IN THE RESTAURANT?!?!? How hard is that? Make cash easy to get, and your patrons won't be compelled to get back to their hotels and write nasty reviews on YELP! about your establishment. Dinner: excellent. Service: friendly & prompt. Beer selection: not bad. Cash only policy, with no indication of same: super El-dumbo. Get with the times, old man. Spell it with me: A - T - M.

Sarah G.

Ya gotta love bars that when you walk past them you would never know it was a bar from the outside. There is something about walking into what you feel like is an invite only party, when really all it is, is a small bar, but a small bar with lots of character!! The drinks here could be made a bit stronger in my book, but once you have a couple there are all kinds of things on the walls and especially in the tiny tiny bathrooms for you to entertain yourself with! All kinds of posters and art.... BUT the food is where Matt J. and I were a little disappointed. It was pretty pricey for a dive bar. We took our waitress's advice and got their special carne asada steak tacos since she said they were amazing and we had been craving steak earlier that day, but when she brought them (about an hour later it felt) those tacos were really the size of my pinky!! And there was nothing on the side either!! Just two tiny tiny tacos....and it was a $13 meal too!! I mean come on...I lived in LA for two years and had my fair share of overpriced mexican food, but Delux...there is NO WAY you should have charged that much for those tiny little tacos unless you actually had them flown in from mexico and had to pay their non-stop airfare! So Delux, you are lucky that Matt and I thought the vibe and ambiance and the fact that you look so darn secretive pushed you back up to three stars, because disappointing tacos just hurt my heart and my wallet in this case!!

Michael T.

This is my kind of place. I don't drink and like a quiet atmosphere. I came in on an early Friday evening before work. Delux Cafe is cozy and welcoming. The bartender was friendly and attentive but not pushy. The chef in the kitchen created a masterful Pork Enchilada that was delicious and that kept me satisfied until the end of work that night. This place is a gem and I will surely be coming back.

Julie N.

Lately it seems like the only good bar I can come up with going to is Delux. I really don't have a problem with that either. Delux is an awesome bar. It's dark, quiet enough, the waitresses make sure you're always got a drink in front of you, the food is great, and it's not that expensive. Sounds like a bunch of good reasons to go, right? I don't love that the only white wine in house is chardonnay and it tastes like apple juice. I don't love that three of us walked in at 6:00pm to an empty bar and by the time the rush hit at 8:00pm (after ordering four rounds) the waitress said we couldn't take up the table anymore because it was for dining customers only. Then she said she'll let it slide. Hmm.. so yeah. I guess there are just two things I don't love about this place. We'll be moving a block away from Delux soon and I have a feeling it will be our regular bar and I'm definitely okay with that. Oh, and get the empanadas. Realllly good.

Tara H.

F**k yes. For the past three weeks, my cast mates and I have been spending plenty of nights here. Frequently, as we emerge from our shows beat but looking for a place to relax with a delicious AND cheap beverage...no other place but Delux came to mind. This place has personality. It's not some super chic, traditionally expensive South End establishment. No, no...this place has SPUNK. There are posters, pictures, and memorabilia from old movies and performers. It's lit dark, creating a borderline hole in the wall vibe. It's small, quaint, cozy and the least pretentious place you will find in South End. After each show, around 9:30-10pm we were able to easily and quickly get seats to accommodate our group of 6 or more. Even the other night, when we were sure the group of 15 of us would not work, we managed to all squeeze in and eventually sit. Not only are the waitresses we had totally on top of their game, they have always been super friendly and eager to help no matter what. Plus you can't beat the drinks. They have everything from $4 Narraganset's to $6 mixed drinks, which never feel shy on the liquor. THEY ALSO SERVE FOOD! I've only had the Chips & Salsa, which the chips are baked tortilla slices. It threw me for a loop, but was a delicious treat to have. I found the perfect bar.

Graceypoo M.

Great dive bar with admirable entrees. Cash only. Lots of chotzkis all around... my favorite are the Playboy issue of Marge Simpson, the huge painting of the nude woman on the other wall, the Elvis bust, and the plastic Santa Claus lantern. The entrees are not bad. Beer selection is not that extensive, but prices are pretty good. Very cramped seating areas for groups. Remember that you are accepting all the charms that this place has to offer including the personalities of folks who work here.

Logan J.

this is a pretty fun place to grab a drink and bar food with friends. its definitely one of the least pretentious places in the area and is a great place to relax--it has a townie bar kind of feel. they have a pretty good beer selection but not too much food. i will say that the service here is pretty bad. there is/was a waitress here who treated my group pretty poorly and seemingly, purposely made us wait for drinks. it happened to me once out of the many times that ive been here, so im not going to let it affect my review too much. other than this event, its a great little bar.

Jonny C.

Delux, by no fault of it's own, usually happens to be my last stop of the night, when I am in a state of complete and utter weirdness. Like, I play tricks on people weirdness (most recently, i pretended to be a Russian doctoral exchange student studying industrial cleaning and janitorial practices and my friend/boss was my interpreter. I would essentially just blurt out names of hockey players, vodkas and say "dasvidaniya" over and over again, and it was gobbled up hook, line and sinker) Digression, your name is Jonny. However, the staff at Delux always appears amused by my antics, fills my cup quickly, and balances being relaxed and uber hipster quite well. The mix of red christmas lights, pitch black interior and acceptance of less than mature antics will continue to put Delux on my menu. Speaking of menus, I cannot picture food being served here.

Jennifer D.

Huge fan of the Delux Cafe. Cozy and quirky inside- I don't want to spoil it for you, but I'm guessing the other reviewers have anyway-- with Christmas decorations year-round, a wall dedicated to Elvis, a Jackalope mounted to the wall, and very interesting decor in the bathroom. I wouldn't go here on a sunny summer evening as it's dimly lit inside, but it's perfect any other time: late night, cold nights, rainy or wintery nights, or just your average night after sunset. Meanwhile, the drinks are cheap and the food always satisfies (grilled cheese and tomato soup? Bring it on!). What more could you ask for?

Mel L.

We came to this bar because we're from out of state, and we wanted to check out the local bars around our place. The place seemed interesting, especially since the last reviewer called it a "hipster paradise." I wasn't sure if I wanted to drink or not, but I decided to order something anyways. When the waitress asked me for my ID, she asked me for my passport. I am 25 and I am from Ontario (Canada). I never had a problem using my driver's license when i traveled anywhere in the states before (Michigan, New York, New Jersey, and Florida to be exact). I didn't bring my passport, because 1. I usually don't need to because I have a valid driver's license, and 2. I really only brought the minimal with me to this bar -- my phone, my ID, and a 20. When I complained that I never had a problem with this before (I used my license last Saturday at another bar in Boston), she had me talk to the manager. The manager was rude and just explained to me exactly what the waitress said. Now, honestly, I get it if your boss told you random things you have to do that make no sense.. but at least lie to me and give me a reason that makes sense to why you won't accept my ID. Tell me that you had problems in the past with fakes or something.. I don't know. Don't be rude and just regurgitate some lame bull. Needless to say I won't be visiting again.

Turner H.

GREAT date spot. Occasionally the service is a little less than friendly, but nothing that would deter me from coming back. It is also the ultimate 'randomly not crowded on a Th-Sat night' bar. It's small, but I've almost always been able to find a table. REALLY good chips and salsa plate, simple but delicious

Julie C.

Delux Cafe reminds me of that one creepy loner guy in your neghborhood as a kid. You hear stories and if you grew up in the neighborhood, you knew who he was. You drive by on your bike and wonder what sort of things happens inside, does he hurt animals, does he have any friends, what does he do all day? You imagine his place is the kind of place that is full of randomness. Pictures of naked or half naked women that is considered "art", collages of random cut ours from newspapers & magazines. Prom pictures of old friends. Old record covers that he got from his father whose past away and every kind of knick knack, sculptures, statues you only find from yard sales or flea markets. Then one day you see him. You stop dead in your tracks as he says hi to you. he's sitting on his front lawn drinking a Miller Hi-Life. He invites you to come in and have some dinner. You feel bad saying no despite the stories you heard , so you nod yes. His Bourbon corn chowder is sweet and the toast that comes with it has the perfect crunch and complements the chowder wonderfully. The grill cheese- wow, its like art. perfectly brown and oozing of cheese. It looks like something you can devour in a second. The baked penne cooked al dente and comes out hot. The mezzaluna is delicious. To wash this all down, he pours a tall Tremont Ale. It goes down smooth. After the meal, you thank him and leave thinking, this guy isnt so creepy anymore. he is actaully awesome! Next time you come around, you're going to bring a few friends and some cash.

Josh C.

Josh: "good prices and mellow atmosphere don't overcome lack of draft selection" Rebecca: "grungy but cool cozy atmosphere"

Travis L.

Amazing cod and mashed potatoes. The place is warm and divey in a good way. Our server was friendly and kept that water coming.

Kristin A.

Casey Keenan took me to this bar because he knew they served Schlitz. I loved the improv cocktails and the music was great. A refreshingly comfortable and almost fringe corner bar in an otherwise undeservedly upscale neighborhood. This place almost reminds me of Central Square in the nineties. Highly recommended!!

Emily C.

I'm going to second everything Jason B. said. I love everything about this place and it's totally the type of place I'd run if I ever had a bar. Don't be afraid of the shithole-esque exterior! Laid back, delicious food, and prices you can't beat. I work in Back Bay and this has now become a staple in my post work dinner and drinks rotation. I can't believe I waited this long to pop in!

Kevin B.

Great spot in the south end - a bit cheaper than a lot of other places and the food is awesome. Small in size but a favorite for a post-work drink or meal. Super friendly staff.

R C.

True dive. Amazing service, love the food, no nonsense service w/ a charm. Keeps me coming back. Only fault is they don't have a cocktail menu, other than that I love pretty much everything about it!!!! Never crowded overly crowded. Definitely recommend for any and all!

Keli R.

We're always one for trying out the hole in the wall place amidst a sea of high end choices. Delux Cafe seemed to hit the bill. We were staying at a hotel a few blocks away and decided to make our move. We literally almost walked by the place. Placed on the corner of two streets, it is hard to spot. It's dingy, it's dirty and it's small but that's why I like it. I had read a lot of reviews on here that had said the food was good and the drinks were cheap. We ordered a few Champagne of beers and an appetizer that was chicken and cheese empanadas with spicy ketchup and a mixed baby green salad. YUM! Let me give it to the chef/chefs here. That kitchen is small and cramped. The waitress or bartender sends a ticket through the window at the side of the bar and they get to work. I was lucky enough to be able to peer into the kitchen and spotted the female chef making everything from scratch. No pre frozen empanadas here! I was impressed. If I lived in Boston, this is a place I would go a lot. It's quirky and completely off key. You can go there in your sweats. The menu is small but ever changing and always eclecticly delicious. I do have a few gripes though (which is why I could not give it 5 stars). The bartender and waitress, although not rude, were not overly friendly and spent most of their time reading gossip mags in the corner. Also, a table came in (older people who looked like deer in headlights upon stumbling on this place...but were too proud to leave)...were given a horrible attitude from the waitres when, being slightly confused, tried to order their meal while she was taking drink orders. I guess she thought this was a no-no.. and instead of just remembering the order...said..DRINK ORDERS ONLY!! Phew...she was tough... But sit me on a bar stool at this place with some beer and food and I'm forever good to go...

A R.

I live about 5 minutes from Delux and never really wanted to venture in because from the outside it looks like a dump. On the inside it is divey but not in a bad way. It's a small space with a big bar. The decorations on the wall cry hipster but are actually pretty interesting to look at. Also, the crowd of people were a good mix of young and old. Now for the food. I ordered the Hoison Pork Tacos and they were delicious. It seems everybody else on Yelp agrees. I also had the Chips and Salsa to start which actually had a fried quesadilla cut up in replace of the chips...pretty delicious. The menu as a whole is short...which is actually nice because it isn't overwhelming. Prices are good and you get a homecooked type feel from the small kitchen off to the side of the bar. I will definitely go back and try this place again. Great place for a quick couple beers (did I mention Schlitz and Narragansett pounders?), good prices, good atmosphere, and good food. P.S. For some reason they constantly play Cartoon Network on the small tv in the corner.

William T.

The Delux is everything that has been described in other reviews. It's a hole in the wall, but a nice one. The food is very good. The service is good too - it's a little slow, but not unpleasantly slow. The beer selection is limited. But it's a place you want to return on a regular basis, because it's a fun kind of dive. I like it very much for a burger and a drink, but you will enjoy more than a burger here.

Caro M.

Ever had a stale beer poured fresh for ya on tap? yea............ come and get it. I love the idea of a sketchy place like Delux being smack dab in the bougie rougie South End. Cheap entertainment, mindless eye arousal by the gazillion posters of dead celebrities from yester-year. Gay icons (Liz Taylor, Judy Garland) and of course, a wall dedicated to the King himself, Elvis. Year round xmas lighting. A tv from 1989 displaying warped colors from a Aqua Teen Hunger Force rerun. Le-git. I've only been here a handful of times and each experience was-- for lack of a better phonetic, "meh." Service is whatever. Music is chill as is the over all vibe. Nothing really to rant and rave about, though. Come here for cheap pre-drinkage, or if it's that time of the month where you've gotta penny pinch it but need a beverage to keep sane- then this is as best a place as any.

Stephen G.

we had hoped that with the new renovation would come better food. well the nostalgic old feel with the xmas lights, old album covered walls and elvis lamp are still there....and the place certainly looks cleaner. but the dishes we ordered were god awful bad. the hangar steak chimichurri was tough and fatty...and the accompanying yucca and platanos poorly prepared. the ribs were the worst we had ever had anywhere! mushroom taco edible, but overly spiced with some kind of creamy sauce that was overpowering. what a missed opportunity. with the new renovation a new cook would hav been a welocme addition. we are so disappointed that our neighborhood dive bar does not measure up in the food department. cheap food does not add up to a good or even decent meal. go for a drink, maybe an app if realy hungry...dont bother is you are looking for a good and satisfying meal.

Bryan R.

Not bad not great 2 drinks were $14 after tip Not really a dive bar Not really a lounge +1 star for the cool shit on the walls I would probably become attached to this place if I lived in the back end (south end / back bay gray area)

Rob C.

It's hard to put a finger on, but you can tell the difference between somewhere that's trying to be ostentatiously quirky and a place that really is whatever the proprietor wants it to be. Delux Cafe falls into the latter category, with every inch of wall covered with something. Be it newspaper clippings, Elvis stuff, old record sleeves, it's certainly far from dull. The Cartoon Network is a genius touch, probably better still when you're there late at night and there's better stuff on. As for what to eat and drink, it's dirt cheap, for one; the quesadillas are a great value at $6 or so; tasty and nourishing. They pour a mediocre Guinness with a perfunctory pause in the middle, but it's good enough to be be better than none. Draft options aren't much, but this is a bar bar, not a beer bar. It's like visiting an imaginary weird (but harmless) uncle who gives you beer and food!

Max R.

Great low key spot near Back Bay station. Reasonably priced, very good food, decent beer selection. Hoison Pork Tacos were especially good, and the steak was above average with a very nice risotto. Just don't expect any frills-- dive bar interior, cash only, average service, small menu.

Joy Y.

There are lots of reasons why I'm a fan of the Delux. Cool decor, divey vibe, not to mention some pretty tasty food. i got the short ribs with garlic mashed potatoes and crispy green beans last night, which was good, although the short ribs were a little bit on the tough side. I mean they're short ribs, should you not be able to use a fork to cut them? The service was helpful without being annoying and at 6:30 on a Thursday, it was both quiet and cozy. The Delux is the epitome of a "hidden gem" and despite the fact that it's cash only, I'll give 'em a pass and keep that extra star on. It's just that awesome.

Scott B.

Elvis fans... this is your place. A corner devoted to the King himself. There is always something to talk about on the walls... from the incredibly awkward naked woman painting to the year-round-christmas tree. The food... well it's pretty darn good, if you like quesidillas. Other than those, the food is just mediocre. The service is just okay. Our bartender had a little attitude and didn't quite know how to roll with the customer's dispositions. BUT... based on the super awesome decorating, the great customers, and the sweet, sweet quesidillas, we're ending on 4 stars.

Zach G.

Hipster paradise at its best. I felt out of place in my sport coat for sure. But this CASH ONLY bar and restaurant has fantastic food. I had the steak with some balsamic reduction and veggies and potatoes that was fantastic, especially for the reasonable pricing. Drink options are full bar and hipster beers. I had a New Castle. Was my favorite stop on this Boston trip. Would go back weekly if I lived closer.

Greg M.

Sticking with five stars despite the lackluster beer and cocktail selection. The food is just fantastic. And juxtaposed with the gritty, hip vibe, it just pushes the place over the top.

Jess N.

I've had a sexy love affair with Delux for quite some time now. Somehow it's quirky honesty has won me over. The tacos are pretty great but that doesn't really matter. The reason to go is to get Schlitzed! Yes, it's kinda cheap and there isn't anything special about Schlitz and this point it feels like tradition. (read the next part in a grandparent's voice) These days there aren't many things kids hold onto. They don't care about tradition! Anyway, go to my secret spot. It can be your secret too.

Derek B.

I actually wish I could give less than a star to Delux. Some friends and I had dinner and drinks there last night. The food, which seemed to take forever to come out, was fine, maybe 2.5 star worthy. My pork shoulder was extremely fatty and my asparagus overdone, but I've had worse. No complaints for low-key bar food. The drinks were decent, although there was a limited selection of alcohol. Again, fine, given the context. The final category, however, the one that truly earned the one-star rating was in service. Our waitress was simply rude. We had to flag her down (she purposefully averted her gaze from our table) in order to order drinks and then essentially beg her to serve us. After each round, rather than asking if there was anything else she could get us, she would clear the table and tell us what our bill was. On three separate occasions we said we'd like another round and she would exhale a stage-quality sigh and groan "ok, i guess" really, delux? this was as bad a customer-experience as it gets and i can guarantee you that i will not return here and i won't recommend it to any of my friends.

christine c.

Cheap, good, strong and stiff drinks. Fun little dive-y atmosphere. Can't speak of the food, but the cosmos (yeah, I got a cosmo at this dive-y place, sue me) were only $5 or $6. The beers and other vodka drinks were even cheaper. Last call on a Thursday was at 1 A.M. which was kind of disappointing. We had the ligths turned on and were basically escorted out within 10 minutes of being served our last drinks and the check was dropped. I guess I just expected to be open a little later.

Deanna D.

Really cool little hang out bar in the South End. Super cheap drinks especially for the South End!! Very friendly and efficient service. Delux has a really fun & cool decor-- like a decorated dive bar! The Delux Grilled Cheese is very tasty!! Everyone like their food. No complaints! Will be back for sure!

Dawn E.

My friend Dan used to think this was a vacuum cleaner repair shop. I suppose that's what it looks like from the outside. Delux is the dive that's not a dive. The food is inspired (try the salsa) and the beer selection is great. The service has always been friendly and upbeat. When I worked in Boston, this was always one of my favorite places to go... and so close to Back Bay station, you can grab a beer before hopping on the orange line OR the commuter train home!

Jared S.

Nice little laid back divey kind of place in the midst of all the posh happenings of the S End. Yes, it is small and can be very crowded. But I find it to be hit and miss - my friends and I have been practically the only ones in there on certain Saturday nights. They mix a strong ass drink and it seems like they charge you whatever they feel like (which is usually in your benefit). Works for me!

Jef S.

Not a bad little bar, but sometimes service can be spotty. They mix a nice drink here...I hate it when the alcohol overpowers a drink, but they get a nice balance in here. There's quirky stuff all up on the walls and the music is pretty good. I've only had some sort of fancy schmancy grilled cheese here, but it was pretty tasty. Friend had some chocolate cake thingy for dessert and pronounced it "delectable". Not a place for wild, boisterous times, but more of a cute place to take an old friend you haven't seen for a while for a drink or two.

Tarun D.

To sum it up, I love this place! It's small, dark, cozy and always packed! I have no problem with just standing up and eating one their delicious meals and washing them down with water. Who am I kidding with water? Guinness for man! I've always gone here during the winter time and I don't know why but that's always been the case. And when I'm inside, I feel like the bar is somewhere in the mountains and everywhere in there is a hiker. At times, some loud and obnoxious parties will come in and ruin it but I don't let it destroy my good time with my company. I've had the quesadillas and they are finger licking good! Most of their food is a Tex-Mex mix so I play it safe because I only appreciate real Mexican food (being from CA). Drinks are solid and beer is always served cooold! I'll be going back here soon since it's the winter time.

I was meeting a friend in the city for dinner, and she suggested the delux cade, which she had seen on tv. Located just next to back bay in a tiny store, Delux is a trendy-hip restaurant that is well known for having a small menu, but doing things right. My girl friend had a fantastic salmon steak with fingerling potatoes, my friend had sausage stuffed pobelano peppers with were excellent and were only $8. However, i ordered the lamb raviloi and was very underwhelemed. the flavour was good, but i only got 8 pieces with no bread. I was left with pool of thin sauce that i couldnt really do anything with. Anyway, there is a full bar, and everything was extremely well priced. The decor is funky with old comics on the walls and the service good if a bit slow

Kelly O.

It looks like some sort of condemned business outside, but inside Delux is dark, small, lively, and diveish, the way a great dive should be. Only three choices for draft beer, but Guinness is one of them so I was perfectly happy (and cheap too, $4.50 for a pint). The chicken and bean quesadilla was tasty and also cheap at $7.50, and service was prompt. The place fills up, so get there right after work when it's still slow. A lovely choice for a casual evening with friends.

Tom C.

All the things I love in a dive bar. Stiff drinks, eclectic decor, and stiff drinks. We didn't eat, but stood next to the tiny kitchen for a bit (read the place was packed) and drooled over the food despite having just eaten. A quick tip: When you leave the restroom turn your head to the right, that's where the sink is so wash your hands! Lastly, check out the picture above the kitchen service window. There is a prom picture of a regular of the bar and his hooker date. He actually took a hooker to prom, I thought that only happened in movies.

Min T.

I knew I couldn't leave Boston without going to a dive bar. So, I'm not a dive bar sort of girl but neither am I the type to wait in lines. We walked past the Beehive and surveyed the line of freezing girls in skimpy outfits and kept walking. I passed Delux and could hear music coming from the shaded windows. Approaching the front door, I saw a small menu posted outside. I was disappointed because I thought I stumbled upon a bar. Well, Liz L said she heard good things and it was actually a bar as well so we went in. There weren't any seats at first so we ordered at the bar. Our drinks were $6 a piece. Later we found a table and ordered from the waitress. I ended up getting three Jamesons and gingers. Total from the waitress? $10. Yeah, super dive bar! It is cash only. The restrooms are one stall a piece with a shared sink outside of 'em. Is this anti-dive bar girl into this bar? Hell yes! You find me a bar with cheap Jameson and I'm all about it.

J K.

This place is a DUMP! Food service and especially "the sauces"... Went for a burger and had to plead for ketchup! Burger was burnt and thrown down on table, waitress sucked!!! No wonder why there was no one in there, but every other resaurant is packed in the south end....? Hmmmm Skip this this awful place, it's full of attitude and bugs!!!

GJ N.

What happened here? What went wrong? The omnipotent hand that bestowed the inescapable "good taste" of the south end went awry and knuckle-farted this one-of-a-kind gem. An oasis of sloth and riff-Raff in a desert of fine dining. Walls adorned with black velvet Elvis paintings, Christmas tree lights, Frank Sinatra album covers and gum offer a friendly respite from typical life in this high rent area of Boston. The regulars are bicycle messengers and art school Baristas, and they vie for seats like flaunting flox across the shot gun space with a tiny kitchen at the end. The kitchen turns out comfort food like grilled cheese wraps and mango salsa with pita chips, and the tatoo-heavy bar keep always offers a smile, even to the unfortunate accidental customer who didn't know they're not supposed to be there. I've been going here since the early 90s and it hasn't changed a bit. Unlike the surrounding restaurants, Delux is not deluxe. Shank goodnesh.

D T.

I'm from out of town and my sister is a local. After dinner we decided to grab a drink at delux cafe. Drinks were fine. However, there were NO signs saying cash only and the server didn't even tell us as she was taking our order. Neither one of us had been there before. I go to pay, I find out it is cash only. She makes me leave my ID there with her to ensure I come back from an ATM a few blocks away. She doesn't apologize until we let her know that this was the worst experience. I will never return. Apparently being a regular guest there is the only way to be treated with respect.

Jade R.

hole in the wall, dive-esque bar/restaurant. Only came here for drinks, but it was a fun, cozy time! In a place this small, you have to have a cool, good bartender... and she was indeed!

Claire N.

Deluxe has delicious food and a great rotating menu. Definitely try to eat there if you can. The place is rather small and if there aren't seats at tables or the bar you can find yourself standing awkwardly holding your coat... Staff is very friendly. Beer selection could be improved. Its cash only with no ATM nearby- I would give them five stars if they took credit cards.

Scott P.

For the $ it can't be beat. Also, for the first time since I've been hiding out there they have a burger! Hurry though, they change the menu every few weeks.

J B.

Very small place, was uncomfortable for a group of four guys at one table. After ordering, it took 30-35 minutes for the food. One cook, four burners, can't really expect much better I guess. The chips and salsa were excellent, but also took 15 minutes. Overall, the food was great, but the lack of space and overall time it took was a deal breaker. I would go back (last resort), only for the chips and salsa and solo, or with one other person, no more.

Jen H.

$5 for the same cocktail I just paid $10.50 for down the street - heck yea! Be careful trying to find Delux if you're coming from Tremont street, you might miss it! Poor signage on the side - you'll have to use your ears and not your eyes... but coming from the Back Bay T and walking down Clarendon Street, you'll see it in front of you on the left side of the street. Came here after hanging out at another venue in the South End because we wanted a place a little quieter and a little less expensive. We got it with Delux. Still had a lot of people (for their size) in there, but we were able to get some spots at the bar, and not too long after a table opened up and our entire group could sit down. One person ordered food, the rest of us just imbibed. Their menu looked mostly tex-mex? Couldn't really tell. They had things like mediterranean salad, but also chili con carne, quesadillas, etc. Walls were covered with paper, pictures, art, etc. If I lived in the South End and wanted a spot to hang, this would be where I would head since my wallet is lacking dolla dolla bills these days... I'd get the most bang for my buck, and a chill atmosphere to suckle my good tasting cocktails.

Alexandra C.

Love it, love it! I came here on Valentine's Day (a Saturday night) with a group of like 6 indecisive newbies. I swear it was the only place in the area where a poor college kid could chill without being surrounded by couples. I had such a great time, it's warm, cool hang out, with a ton of personality, and great people. I really liked our waitress who was really funny, and the food was great too. Plus pretty cheap beer for Boston. I'll be back, I mean how can you resist a wall of Elvis memorabilia?

Grace N.

This place is one jukebox away from five stars. They play Jesus and Mary Chain, serve $6 mixed drinks, and have tons of kitsch to look at while your friend's in the bathroom WHICH by the way is papered with pages from Eloise (I hear the guys' room is comic books?). In an area that's packed with upscale restaurants, Delux is a refreshingly gritty watering hole

Liana K.

if a bar has a bunny with antlers hanging for decor and sell Schiltz you gotta love it. People call it a dive, which i guess in contrast to everything else in the south end it is. Old record covers and a glowing santa only add brownie points.

John V.

What Bar/Pub doesn't have a burger on their menu...umm Delux. Wouldn't the "Delux Burger" just make logical bar sense? I was totally craving a burger, and was shocked they didn't have one on their menu. I went with this roast beef sandwich with blue cheese and a salad instead. I figured the red meat craving could be satisfied by some form of beef right? To my dismay, the sandwich was literal 2 pieces of toasted rye bread, 1 thin slice of roast beast, and blue cheese. It was hardly filling, nor satisfied my burger craving. Though it was good, it wasn't at all what I needed. I decide to try the Tremont Ale, and confirmed that New England has onlyy a few good local breweries. I've tried the Cambridge Brewing Co. Porter, and Berkshire Brewing Co. Coffee House Porter, and loved both. I don't understand why the good beers are hard to find in local stores and pubs, where is the good New England beer! Don't say Sam Adam's they lost their direction and have 50 varieties now. - DOOONNN"T...../end beer rant Anyway, Delux is ok for a beer, it's quaint, dive-esque has the local attitude feel, and is cool for a quick drink and a conversation. One big downside, no credit cards, cash only baby.

Ali E.

I love Delux. Amazing food - grilled cheeses, pork chops, homemade chips and salsa. I had the Roast Game Hen, because, come on, it's Game Hen. It was good, but the leek risotto it came with was rib-stickingly awesome. The Tomato Basil Soup was a little heavy on the basil and oregano, so it tasted more like pizza sauce, but good for dipping. The menu was well priced, though, and v. ecclectic. We went on a monday night and the place was PACKED, so the fact that there was one waitress, one bartender and one cook on staff made for SUPER slow service. Everything took forever, but if you go on a more mellow night it might be better. Oh, and Eloise is my favorite children's book ever. I would have stayed in the bathroom the whole night.

Grace S.

Pros: Great, funky little bar with an eclectic crowd and a good vibe. Cons: When I say little bar, I mean that quite literally. It's also on kind of a dead residential corner of the South End. Balance: PROS BOTTOM LINE: This a glass-half-full 3 star review. It's not a place I'd go out of my way to get to, but if you're in the neighborhood, it's a great refuge from the stuffier bar options in the mile-radius around you.

Lily F.

It's easy to feel alienated in the South End if you're still in school, don't have a pure bred dog and lack the cash to frequent the many delightful restaurants on Tremont St. However, if you're in the area and are yearning for some cheap bar food and a $3 beer, Delux is for you. I usually order a quesadilla and a Miller High Life because it's a kickin' combo for around $10, though their mixed drinks are delicious too. Their Cosmo is notably delish and packs a punch for under $10 (unheard of at any other bar within five blocks). Their menu food is a bit suspect though, the few times I've been with someone who has ordered it they were a tad underwhelmed. They change their menu almost weekly so check it out, maybe you'll get lucky! Decor is funky and collage to the max, and my favorite is in the Ladies bathroom. Eloise and the Plaza as wallpaper? Oh hellz yeah!!! So, check out Delux for a fabulous quesadilla with some fruit salsa and even if you can't get a table sit at the bar. Both dish up pretty good service and you won't regret dropping a lil' cash here. And yes, I do mean a little.

Angie G.

If you're looking for a place to drink that has some character, this is the place for you! Hidden in the South End is the glorious Delux Cafe. With a menu that changes every 8 weeks and a Blueberry Cobbler that'll make you wonder why you ever stopped eating such a heavenly pastry, this place draws in the best of the Boston Crowd. From the college students waiting for the new semester (Oh my god. Can you believe class starts on Tuesday?) to the regulars who walk in and order their beer on the way to the bathroom (Schlitz, please. I'll be right back. Thanks) this place is the secret place to be. Reader be warned, this is a cash only bar and as great as the staff is, there is the occasional waitress who looks like she could use a good knock in the boots or something. (I know that was really mean but damn, the girl was pretty rude to my friend, okay?) All in all, a great place to frequent.

Steven E.

This is exactly what comes to mind when I think of a dive bar/pub. This place has an Xmass tree up all year 'round and has $5 glasses of wine. If that sounds like the kind of thing you are hungry for then this will be one of the few places in the South End to satiate you. I recommend ordering something that sounds like a dive bar would do well. For example, I ordered the pumpkin ravioli which was $13 and was perhaps 6 tiny ravioli in a thin broth (not that yummy and not that impressed). But my friend ordered an $8 grilled cheese that was SO good and cheesy and greasy. So perhaps the food here is hit or miss but for $5 glasses of wine, what could go wrong with the drinks? Not my first choice but also not really my scene.

Kyle L.

Unpretentious atmosphere, fairly priced drinks, and great food? Yes, please! Delux is the place I go when I just want to relax and have good conversation with good friends. Of all the dives I've been to in my 2 years in Boston, none come close to the overall experience that Delux consistently delivers. And coming from Austin, I'd like to think I know a good dive bar when I see it. 5 stars for you!

Devon S.

Tuesday evening was a hard time to be a Californian/Lakers fan in Boston. I had traveled all day, and at 10 pm, I knew my options were limited to chicken wings at an overrun Celtics hangout or picking and choosing a frozen dinner from the local 7-11. Delux Cafe - what a godsend! Serving food until 11, and without having the game on? Awesome. Instead they had the TV set to the Cartoon Network, with a sweet soundtrack alternating between the likes of Frank Sinatra and the Pet Shop Boys. Obviously, the place was pretty empty, but it allowed me to really soak in the ambiance. Record albums and other paraphernalia tacked to the wall, with Christmas lights livening up the dark space. As I often do, I compared it to places I know back home. Those of you familiar with Oakland, I'd say this place is like a hipper Alley without the karaoke. A good selection of beers on tap, including Tremont Ale (HEY! Let's get this over to CA!), and a pretty decent menu of upscale pub food. I had the $13.95 steak with potatoes and asparagus. Nothing overly spectacular, but delicious for the price. Also, I came to Boston very apprehensive about the "Masshole" warnings I had been given. Setting the tone for the rest of my stay here, the bartender was really nice and recommended a few other places to check out and even was patient while I ran out to find an ATM (they only take cash here). All in all, an excellent introduction into the city of red brick and "BEAT LA" green t-shirts.

Mallory R.

No better place in the city to get Schlitzed with friends all while surrounded by Christmas decorations and Elvis memorabilia. Something about it makes me feel like my Grandfather would have loved the place with it's Elvis decor, Schlitz beer and Roger Miller's "King of the Road" playing in the background. It's got an old feel but it's not a tired bar and definitely worth a visit. There is no other place like it.

Heather L M.

The classic, corner dive bar. The album covers and artwork lining the walls is awesome, as are the year round Christmas decorations. The service is friendly and attentive. I've never eaten here but I hear the food is excellent. Don't be alarmed by the sink-less bathrooms. The sink is in the hall. This way, you don't need to figure out how to open the door without actually touching the door handle after you wash your hands. Nice touch.

Emily S.

One of my favorite bars in Boston! Anything they make that contains cheese is amazing. Their menu is constantly changing too, which is exciting. I took a friend from NYC here and he got a martini for five bucks. He lit up like he had won the lottery or something. The framed art they have of that busty lady totally freaks me out though. In conclusion: a cool bar for cool people.

Ben B.

It has that NYC bar vibe, with the records of jazz and blues and classic rock all over the walls. The half glasses of beer are perfect for pacing yourself, but as far as this place is concerned there are just four words: Best. Grill Cheese. Ever! It's kinda unfair to other grill cheese, really, because I am not sure what they give you is technically grill cheese anymore... it's.... beyond grill cheese. I think it's like $7. Spend the money. The animie always playing on TV is a little off-putting, tho, but I understand it's to keep the riff-raff out who would be staring at the TV watching the Sox. I'm cool with that. Besides, the TV is not why you go.

Leah D.

This place is a giant dive. Everyone else has accurately described it so I won't get into that. The food: The menu changes a lot and when I was there, we got the cod cake and the chips and salsa for an app. The cod cake was delicious and had a really wonderfully spicy aioli and some slaw. It was huge too, a little bigger than a hockey puck. The chips are fried tortillas which was okay with me, so flaky. The salsa has apples in it and some other junk, it was spicy, sweet and tangy so on the tortilla, it covered all the bases. Three of us got steak with blue cheese - which also came with garlicy sauted spinach and roasted potatoes. Very good. The 4th in our party got a bone in pork chop. It was perfectly moist and the carmalized onions really complimented the pork. He got mashed sweet potatoes as a side and they were so good, mashed with....ginger? very very tasty. We also all got beer and the bill was only $100. Yeah it's cash only but there is a BoA down the street. Added bonus - they play adult swim on the tv a lot.

Giovannah C.

Located in a South End nook Delux Cafe offers an impressively gourmet menu (seasonal) at bar food prices. The decor is nothing less than quirk clutter with a Elvis Presley Shrine and a French Comic book wallpapered bathroom. The space is small and during prime time be prepared to wait or be snuffed for a table. With an average beer selection and $2 PBRs, your beer fix will surely be appeased. Delux also offers a full bar should you cull for a nice aperitif before a delicious grilled three cheese and select tomatoes sandwich served with a mesclun salad. The atmosphere is impersonal yet endearing with a friendly stranger no fuss vibe. The staff can be a bit hasty, however they spend their evening evading epic food-drink-patron collisions....so thats OK in my book. Please Note: They dont accept credit cards so make sure to bring the dough.

Joe R.

An upscale dive bar perfect for Mainers in the south end. This place serves food not from the George Forman Grill but from a kitchen. Not your typical dive bar. We only went for drinks and felt quite at home.

Kristina D.

I love this place. I love the kitschiness and even though I hate waiting when hungry, I will gladly do so for things like the grilled cheese sandwich and pumpkin ravioli. I am amazed that a kitchen the size of a studio apartment's bathroom can churn out such good grilled cheese and pumpkin ravioli. I love that if you run into the chef while walking around the restaurant before it opens and talk to him, he'll reserve a table for 4 for you at 7pm. If you still get there well before 7, the waiting is still made interesting by the atmosphere--the kitsch is a conversation starter all on its own. I like that the ladies' room has pages from Eloise at the Plaza on the walls. A cute restroom is hard to find these days.

Mick T.

Small bar, cheap beers, good inexpensive food, cash only. Opens at 5.30pm, CASH only, closed Sundays. This is a bit of a stylish dive bar. The drinks are cheap, and the food is really good for the price. I really like this spot, and considering they have one waitress cover the whole bar the service is usually good. It is a small place, so be prepared to wait for a seat. If you show up and it's busy tell the waitress your waiting for a table, and she'll sit you when she can. The beer selection is rather small and different. So no Bud Lite for you my friend, but try the Brazilian beer, Brahma, it's like a nice Corona, or have a Hoegarden. Now I'm just worried after writting this review that I'll have to wait even longer to sit and eat!

Hanh R.

I live a block away and I always forget that I love going to Delux because it is so well hidden that it blends into the neighborhood. The decor is little offbeat with the mini-Christmas tree and Santa along side a wall devoted to Elvis. That is what I like about it. Sure there are tons of chain restaurants with their own walls filled with junk which are truly annoying, but this place has it's own unique vibe. The food is great!!!!!! The menu is small which is a relief. I am tired of having too many choices and not knowing if you are picking something good. The menu changes around and it is always so yummy. I went last weekend and had amazing chicken lettuce wraps for an appetizer. It came out piping hot and was so flavorful. Then I had the chicken tacos for my meal. I could have had double of everything! The best part are the prices there. The drinks are cheap! Beer was $4.50 while my mixed drink was $5. The food is also equally reasonably priced. That is amazing since the neighborhood can be a bit pricey! Overall good times at Delux! The only downside is that it is a small establishment and it can be quite crowded as you wait for a table to clear. You will just have to get a drink at the bar!

Toni D.

I read the reviews prior to my first visit and all the reviews were pretty much on point. This small, funky place in the south end is a great place. The quesadillas with the cheese, chicken and black beans are awesome. Not to mention the freshly made salsa that comes on the side. The drinks are cheap and all of the food reasonably priced for this area. The downside is size of restaurant and service. They only had one waitress on a Saturday night. She was nice but this place gets busy and she writes your name down on her hand. She swears that she's able to keep track of everyone name that way. But I think she may have let a few people ahead of us. I'd advise you to get there early like around 7 or 8pm. If you have to wait, it's worth it. Grab a drink at the bar and stand around. Maybe keep track of who is waiting for a table.

Molly W.

I love the vibe in Delux. It's a cozy little joint right around the corner from Back Bay Station, and it's kind if off the beaten path, so it's thankfully not inundated with people/Back Bay tourists. They have a full bar and the Best grilled cheese I think I've ever had. Gooey gruyere, pumpernickel bread... Ooh! This is is the perfect after work dinner spot. They always have great specials, the prices are reasonable, are the atmosphere is totally laid back. I actually haven't been here in a while, but writing this review makes me want to go back, stat!

Maggie D.

I can't express in words just how much I love Delux. Delux is a rarity in Boston-- I wish I lived in the South End so I could call it my neighborhood hangout. The drinks are cheap ($4.75 for a gin & tonic? YES PLEASE), and the decor is really cool. The menu rotates every couple of weeks, but there is always the standard HUGE quesadillas with homemade pico-style salsa--delish. If you go on the weekend there may be a slight wait for a table, but there are usually a couple of bar stools available to wait it out and have a perfectly pulled pint of Guinness.

Tarryn G.

Consider this 2.5 stars. Yelp, when are you gonna let me give half-stars? Anyway -- I feel like Delux is the South End's attempt at a "dive bar".. A dark little nieghborhood hole-in-the-wall filled with christmas lights . . . all the makings of a good time. The menu is not super extensive, but its got a nice selection of hearty, appropriately delicious-sounding pub fare -- sammies, quesadillas, pasta, meat. A few salads for those of us who like to consume most of our daily calories in alcohol form. I must knock off a star, however, for the food quality. The 2 times I've been here, I've had dishes with onions in them. Both times, the onions have had this weird, musty aftertaste . . .like they'd been hanging out in a cellar for a couple years. I will give them kudos for the homemade tortilla chips, which are carb-tacular! Be warned -- the place is also cash only, and there is no ATM inside. I get that a lot of small establishments don't wanna bother with the hassle of getting a credit card machine . . . but when you offer a full dinner menu in addition to booze, it would be nice to warn people up front that they need be packin' cash.

Chris F.

I have a soft spot for Delux as it's like a 50's-diner-on-crack in a hole-in-the-wall atmosphere. Drinks are cheap, the food is dang good, the music is solid, and the nude painting on the wall is ace. Last time around, we got a G&T, martini, merlot, veggie linguine, and the turkey sandwich, which I completely wiped out. The chips are more like quesadilla crusts, which is cool, and the salsa is runny but mind-bustingly good. I highly recommend taking a pad of Mad Libs to do while you're waiting on food.

Zach S.

A classic dive bar where the bill was probably more expensive than it should be for a dive bar. There are very few options in terms of food or drink. The menu is one page long and they had all of three beers on tap. A little frustrating that it was cash only but as long as you know that going in it's not that big a deal. But the feel of the place was nice and the food was pretty good. It was mostly what I was expecting it to be, no more no less. But this being my first time there I can't imagine myself going there again.

Stephanie H.

I'm writing this review in the morning, still drunk from DeLux the night before. That's a pretty great start. I can't really say anything about DeLux that people haven't already said. I liked it a lot because it was a bit of a divey-neighborhood bar and yes, they have pretty good food there. Not amazing, not great, but pretty good is good enough in my book. DeLux reminds me of the dive bars I used to go to when I lived in Pittsburgh (which probably doesn't give you much reference unless, of course, you've lived in Pittsburgh and now how fabulously bad the bars are there. I very much enjoyed the $2 tallboy of Schlitz. A+++. The place just makes you want to drink cheap thanks to the poor-man's wallpaper (tear-outs from magazines), cheap-ass lighting (colored Christmas lights), and the bartender who wasn't particularly engaging, though not a complete bitch. As soon as they broke out the Bow Wow Wow CD and I moved on to my thiird Schlitz of the night, I knew this place was OK.

Tom E.

ahh.. my oldest Yelp Bookmark. This place was a hot pick when I joined yelp back in Jan 07. I'd eaten here a few months before that and not been too impressed and the same again happened this week all these months later. So stop being so effing lazy Tom E - write the review already! So I don't get it. People love this 'dive bar' - but come on, it's not a real dive bar is it? It's a cool south end bar in the style of a dive bar. It's a faux dive bar. It's not too expensive to eat and drink here, but it's not cheap and dirty either. In fact the menu positively reeks of chef working his way onto something good. Great picks, but usually a little disappointing and in the case of my grilled cheese sandwich... just damn little. Or maybe Delux doesn't get it. Yeah Delux - what do you want to be? If you want to be a dive, stop serving good and slightly pretentious food and bring in the Big Buck Hunter. If you want to be a good place to eat - throw out the small tables and uncomfortable seating. Having complained so much I have to still give this place 3 stars as I love the interior - the Elvis wall, the year-round Xmas decorations, the album covers - and everywhere else around here is just SO south end, that this fake place at least makes a great change. PS. I hate the lack of the E at the end of the name. Ich bin ein pedant!

Fern H.

Low key watering hole...stopped by for a night cap and sat at the bar. Loved the cozy atmosphere. Didn't have any food but did have a couple pints of Tremont Ale.

T W.

I went to Delux Cafe on a Friday Night around 10:30pm and it was practically empty. I expected a crowded bar at prime-time on Friday, but was sorely mistaken. Despite the lack of crowd, the decor was kitschy and cute. The crowd was eclectic, but not really that hipster. The drinks were reasonably priced, 6 dollars for a Well Drink (and strong). Overall I was left feeling that my experience could have been better, but I would come back here for a drink sometime.

Steph D.

proscuitto, fig and mozzerella sandwich on toasted buttered bread... i have literally never orgasmed that hard in my life. ok, this one time in costa rica with this amazingly hot australian, but i was really high.

Andrea H.

I have to be among the dissenters here. Last night was my second experience at Delux. I don't really remember my first one, as I think we only went there for drinks and that was about 5/6 years ago. Our waitress was lost somewhere in outer space. She wasn't surly or unfriendly; she just didn't seem to care. She may have been doing bong hits in between tables. She would come to our table with drinks, look at us, blink a couple of times, and either go to another table or give the drinks to the wrong people at our table. Our chips and salsa took a long time to get to us, and was, IMO, a very skimpy portion. Yes, they were good, but the portion was so small for a group. Our table ordered 3 spring vegetable risottos, 1 goat cheese and spinach ravioli, 1 grilled cheese, 1 meatloaf and 1 caprese salad (which I didn't partake in but it looked good). We got a catfish dinner instead of the ravioli (this was an order for my vegetarian husband). She did let us have the catfish gratis, which the three of us who weren't veggie or kosher (the hash browns have sausage in them) split. When the ravioli did come, my husband was disappointed to find there was only 7 of them on there. At $12.95, that's $1.85 per little piece of ravioli. Yes, they were good, but not that good. I had the spring vegetable risotto, which was edible but not wonderful. I found it to be a little oversalted and my shoes don't fit today because of it. It didn't appar to be a large portion, but it did fill me (which may have been the salt talking). I was told that the grilled cheese w/bacon and the meatloaf were both excellent. Both dishes seem to be the ones to beat, quantity-wise. The bit of catfish and hash browned potatoes that I tried was incredibly good, and I wish I had gotten that instead. We only ordered one dessert (for six people) and we didn't all sample it. I did. It was a carmelized peach with vanilla ice cream and candied pistacheos, and was quite tasty. I think this would be a good place to hang out for a drink and listen to the excellent music they play. If I lived in the neighborhood, I may even stop in for a small nosh if the mood hit me. Since I don't live in the neighborhood, I probably won't be back. Life is too short and there are much better places to eat in Boston. ETA: I received a message from our waitress, informing me that she wasn't stoned, just Asian, which is why her eyes looked like that. WTF? My comment about "bong hits" made no reference to how her eyes looked, but to her performance. Whatever.

Anastasia R.

Yay for fantastic hole in the wall places like the Delux Cafe! It doesn't have windows, it has about 10 tables, and the last few times I've stopped by it's been totally packed. The food is cheap for the quality and will fill you up on a cold night. The walls are covered with fun crap and wierd kitchy art, plus the tiny TV at the end of the bar is usually on the Cartoon Network. It's my reliable stand by when I'm in the south end and feeling a little beaten down by life. I heart you Delux Cafe.

Kelly G.

Delux is a ton of fun. The menu always changes, and for a hole-in-the-wall place, they have some great finds-- the pumpkin ravioli this fall was amazing, and the quesadillas are always a fallback. It's crowded (even on a Tuesday night) and there can be some issues getting a table if you're not aggressive. The one waitperson on was overwhelmed and as attentive as she could have been but not terribly friendly. All in all, my partner and I had dinner and drinks for under $30-- which is pretty good for the south end.

Ligaya T.

This place is really low-key in an endearing sort of way. Like that friend you have that gets along with everyone, the one you visit for a pick-me-up when you're bummed, is the first to toast with you when things are going well and can hang on a Friday night and Sunday morning. Totally unique for the South End, this place attracts the cool segment of the Boston population, though it'd really be nothing special in say, Cambridge, where dives are to be had at every square. Still it's a nice place to slip away to when you're in the mood for mellow. Just plan on drinking mixeders cuz the three nondescript beers on tap ain't gonna cut it for most.

Laura A.

i never yelped about this place even though i have been coming here for four years because it's one of those kinds of places that a) everyone else likes, so why be the 69th review of an awesome joint, b) it's so obvious that i like it i don't even think about writing about it, and c) it's also so obviously awesome i don't want to point that much attention at it cause it's crowded enough as it is. but i guess now that it has almost 70 reviews, why keep my mouth shut? my liver hurts.

Jim B.

What a great place. Always a fun time.

Deepa C.

We came here after standing in a stagnant Beehive line for a few minutes. We were expecting a hopping place but found the bar in dive mode, which was perfectly fine with us (had already bar hopped our buzz into full on drunkeness). The waitress was extremely sweet and helpful and took good care of us (rightfully so, it was us three and two people at the bar). I loved the decor, art and Elvis paraphernalia everywhere, Space Ghost on the TVs and graffiti all over the men's bathroom (don't ask). I kind of felt like I was at a private frat party. If I never need to escape South End noise, lines and attitude, I will run away to Delux. Not a bad way to end the night.

J. C.

So disappointed. I am a huge grilled cheese fan - and I'd been hearing a lot of hype about the one at Delux cafe. Then - I got a yelp email featuring the best grilled cheeses in Boston, there Delux was again. So...shortly thereafter, I went - to find grilled cheese was not on the menu! From the reviews, I know there menu changes often but I thought that was a standard. The waitress sold me on their other panini - brie and fig; it was terrible and ridiculously sweet. so disappointed.

Stephanie H.

I love this place and the only thing that sucks is that I don't work so close to it anymore! I used to work in the Hancock Tower so was a hop skip and a jump away from it. I don't think it fits right in with the neighborhood it is in- it is a different type of trendy then the people that live in the area. They change the menu alot but look out for the Mac & Cheese! LOVE IT! And the drinks are TO DIE FOR! LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT! A definate place to eat and drink in Boston!

John W.

Everybody has a token dive bar where they WANT to give a 4 star review, but cant. Well Delux is my pick. And i really do want to love this hipster joint. I've had no problems writing 4 star reviews of other dive bars. They have old lp covers as wallpaper from floor to ceiling, they have adult swim anime muted over the bar, they play pretty good tunes, and the bartenders tend to be cute. But they only have two or three beers on tap, the food's mediocre (but cheap), and t lacks atmosphere. Having said that, i've had some good times here, and if you go, i bet you will too.

Clifford T.

Reminds me of my favorite college bar with a retro / Elvis twist. Has really great food specials. It is a good place to grab a beer and have a conversation.

Cory M.

The first time I walked into Delux, I was nervous. It was dark, there were all these strange decorations on the wall, and there were almost no people in there. But now I have come to love it for that reason. I love how quiet it is in there Abe their food is so delicious. They have a seasonal menu and the prices are really reasonable. It is a little kitchy but i love it's charm!

Chris C.

Looking for a complete departure from everything near Columbus Ave in Back Bay and the South End? Then welcome Delux into your life. The world inside is an entirely different than the atmosphere wrapped around its outer barrier. First, the mood: The sun could literally be standing out front smoking cigarettes and Delux would still be incredibly dark. Little natural light from outside makes it in, the appliances inside aren't radiating megawatts of light. Just about everything imaginable is on the walls -- random pictures, toys, GI Joes, and etc. You could spend a full day examining every square inch of space and not make further than one wall. That said, everything seems deliberate and makes Delux feel incredibly cozy. This is also a bar where regulars pay their dues and are treated extremely well. With the exception of Coda, nothing else feels quite like home than Delux. The draft beer selection is minimal at best and doesn't tickle the bones of a hops-loving connoisseur. For those of you oriented in that manner, try something else. However, two different motivations will be pleased by a visit to Delux: 1) those who like paying next to nothing for their drinks, and 2) those that prefer what is fast becoming the trendy competitor to a PBR Tall Boy -- Narragansett. You'll receive faster service if you don't look like you just finished analyzing business processes. Wear flannel instead. And don't forget that Delux is completely cash only and doesn't have an ATM.

Ted B.

Best food, best service, best cast of characters out of any bar in its class in Boston. The food is the same stuff you would pay twice as much for in the neighborhood. The service is service with attitude. The people who go here are from all around the area and economic scales. Highlights include: Tremont ale on tap. Hot Chips and fresh salsa Christmas tree 24\7 along with cartoon network.

Joshua D.

This tiny, cash-only bar decorated in Spaceghost and Elvis regalia boasts a fantastic, inexpensive menu of comfort foods and an unprecedented allegience ot the Cartoon Network. This place is often packed but always worth a visit, and is often where I start my Saturday nights. Don't miss out on the grilled cheese sandwich (even if it's not on the menu; they'll make it) or the quesadilla.

Kerstin S.

Great low key bar that does not smell like a dive bar. Located in a beautiful neighborhood of brownstones, it felt like classic Boston. I didn't eat a thing, just drank but would be delighted to venture out to this cozy place again.

Sarah Q.

I can't believe I've never noticed this place - I love a good hole-in-the-wall, especially in downtown. Small beer selection, but excellent food and fun atmosphere. My fellow patrons were particularly impressed by the cartoons while I focused mostly on the food. and it was delicious. highly recommend the pork tacos. yum.

Scott L.

So neighborhoody that it probably has only local appeal (or at least did to us) "I agree with Jeffriana's review that Delux is overcrowded, loud, and dive-ish. But on top of that, our meal was fairly bad. And isn't that the main reason to go to a restaurant?? We started with a chicken and cheese quesadilla which was lukewarm, tasted pre-made and had an odd peppery flavor to it. Strike 1. My wife wanted a glass of white wine but all they had was chardonnay so she went with a red. The shiraz, which was her only other option. She took a sip of it and by the look on her face we knew it was horrible. All three of us tasted it and came to the consensus that this wine was so vinegary that it had to have gone bad. We told the waitress and she said "No, that's just what it tastes like." Strike 2. On a positive note, the waitress gladly took it back and brought my wife a beer. Then came the dinner. We were advised by a friend to order off the specials. However, when we got there at 6:30 pm, already the special we all wanted (meatloaf) was sold out. Hmmm. . .our theory that a florida senior citizen contingent must have raided the place at 4:30 was shot down by the waitress who empathetically told us "the chef just didn't make very many of them" Strike 3. Of the 6 dinner entrees left to choose from, we went with the roast pork, which sounded very good in the description. But oh how naive we were thinking a pork dinner for $12.95 would actually be delicious. The pork was dry and had no taste. Now I know why people forget about the other white meat...It was slathered in a very sweet glaze / bbq sauce with oregano, which was odd and reminiscent of the quesadilla. One person at our table could not even eat it. The side vegetable was miniature corns that were straight from a can with some herbs added, again with no taste. Yerrr out! People may like this place because its dive atmosphere is comfortable. Our table was made from pressed wood flakes, for instance. Maybe people feel like they are getting a bargain. But we didn't like our meals; the entree list very limited, and the place was overcrowded. The only positive about our experience at Delux was our waitress. She was friendly, honest and fast."

ryan c.

Delux is a complete anomaly in the South End, and Boston in general. It is a dive bar with character, a great menu, and an eclectic group eating and drinking. If you are in the backbay or southend and you want to get out, go here. Order the Chicken Quesadillas. Great Spot!!

Irene R.

I really enjoyed this relaxed, dark, cool south end bar. The funky comics on the bathroom walls, the artwork/records etc on the walls and the food, super good (but small portioned), the music was great (indy/sub-culture music, and not played too loud). Small selection of beers on tap and not a huge selection of bottled/imports. They are a full bar with house special martinis and drinks. The bartender also doubled as a server and was nicely distant, not unhappy to be a bartender there, but not overly chatty or smiley. I can't really call it a dive bar as many others do in these reviews. Dive bars, to me, are not just cool and funky places to relax and enjoy being at a bar that doesn't reek of some bloated sense of purpose. Delux has too much funk and offbeatishness to be a very divey dive bar. I find it far cooler than your average dive bar, a bright piece of understated punk, like finding a foreign coin in pocket change. I enjoyed going here and will try to go back again when the night calls for a dark chatty corner of drinks in the south end, perhaps on another SOWA first fridays!

Julie A.

I love this place! It's a pain in the ass to park near it so I don't go as often as I like, but I make it a destination because it's THAT GOOD. I feel at home with the walls plastered with rock and roll memorabilia. The drinks are cheap and the staff are nice. It can get crowded, but there is usually a really good crowd (not the typical South End crowd, or the typical Boston Bar crowd) and you just end up talking to some cool new people. If you can score a table the quesadilla's are really good. Overall, It's a fun cozy place!

David D.

you're fun, but maybe you should go to the free fenway commuity health clinic? Delux, i love you. BUT, you're kinda dirty. it's been almost five years. your menu rocks....it's okay to douche now and then, though.

Colin N.

Pretty awesome. The second stop on our dive-bar mini-crawl. The tortillas they use for quesadillas and chips and salsa are great. It's a great, but crowded bar to meet friends. Definitely a dive bar. The bartender chick is amazing at tending bar. Love it.

Mia T.

Favorite dive bar in Boston. Super quirky decor. Awesome atmosphere. Not great for large groups. Favorite part: year-round Christmas tree!

James S.

Top value in South End dining! The atmosphere is more typical for Allston/Brighton or Somerville, but the service, food, and drinks were all truly good. Salmon for $13.95...and it was good! Dining partner had the Lamb burger and loved it. Selections were limited but can't expect much more at such a small, neighborhood joint.

Mindy A.

Delux is one of my favorite low-key places in the South End, and one of the few places you can get cans of beer. And wear jeans and a sweatshirt. Nice. The food is good, too, and not too expensive. Bring cash, though.

mickey l.

This Gosh damn bar is across from my buddy's place. They have good beer and almost friendly to strangers vibes I liked their crap ass weirdo art and crafts on the wall almost dive but in too uppity of a neighborhood auora. yeah. i'd get a pint wich yah.

Nicole M.

Back in the day when I lived in Bay Village and smoking was still allowed in Boston, I visited Delux a few times. What a fantastic hole in the wall! Well, not even really a hole in the wall. The decor/atmosphere is cool and comfy, the place was always packed and the food was well worth the wait. I must make my way back there soon...

Jaclyn N.

I meant to write up Delux months ago - mostly because of the pumpkin ravioli that my friend ordered! It was maybe six average-sized raviolis sitting in something that was more like a soup than a sauce. Apparently it tasted good, but there wasn't enough for us to taste test. I opted for the grilled cheese instead, which I believe came with mushrooms or something that at first sounded bizarre, but it was awesome! As for the beer, I think I was told beforehand that there were $2 tallboy PBRs, which I got really excited about, but then they had Schlitz instead. No problem, though... cheap beer is cheap beer (as long as it's not High Life)! I liked the atmosphere and I liked that it was small and divey. I would definitely go back and just recommend against the pumpkin ravioli!

Yak D.

I like this place. I like this place a lot. It's kitschy, but misunderstood: the wild boar ragu over pappardelle pasta was delish. It was also served on crappy dinnerware that would not bode well with 95% of the restaurants in the South End. The menu is short, which helps because I'm indecisive and I change my mind at least four times before ordering. I recommend you go in order to know. PS, cash only. Tricked out ATM though.

David B.

This review is of Delux in general, not a recent experience. I have been to Delux many many times and I absolutely love the place o Christmas lights--you can't help but love the nostalgic feeling of the lights o Very small but with good variety and I usually find one thing I like o Chicken/cheese/or bean quesidillas with fresh salsa is always good o Pork chops, soups, grilled cheese have always been good too. o Cool record album decorations Just a very chill, fun atmosphere. I try to bring all of my out of town guests here to experience the Delux.

Cherie C.

The food was pretty good, a cut above pub grub. Clientele seemed to be young and hip. Drinks were good, prices were average. Don't have much to add beyond what's already been said here, but it's definitely a preferred place to frequent.

M A.

This place is way cool! Great hipster waitresses just paroled from the biker tattoo parlor next door. Yummy food, great decor, very welcoming.

Stephanie M.

Complete downside : I went around 9:00 after I got out of an event at the Boston Center of the Arts Cyclorama, and there was no seating anywhere. People seem to linger, so unless you get there at 7, it's not worth the aggravation. We ended up leaving and going to Anchovies because no one looked like they were getting up any time soon.

Rebecca H.

I really wish I could keep my mouth shut about this one... but the Good Samaratin in me just won't let the selfish-me do that. So I say, begrudgingly mind you: you definitely have to go here. There, happy now? Delux Cafe is one of the last fabulous, divey-yet-charming bars left in Boston. It is not over-processed and over-watered as so many places have become. This is a true South End gem, complete with $3 amaretto sours and Eloise wallpapering in the bathroom (because- inevitably and eventually- the two go hand-in-hand). It's perfect for after-work drinks and nibbles, and boasts an impressive menu of "gourmet" comfort food at relatively low prices. So, even though I'd rather lie and hopefully keep most of you from cramming up this already itty-bitty bar... I just can't. See you there. I'll be the one hanging on the Elvis bust, drowning my sorrows in Manhattans, and rueing the day that I decided NOT to keep my little mouth shut.

Briana C.

I moved from Boston six years ago and I still dream about Delux. From the bathrooms to the rest of the decor to the staff to the food - it's so much more than a "dive" bar and anyone who classifies it as only that is missing out. Five stars for Delux.

Omar E.

Food is excellent and markedly improved since the last time I went there years back. Cool atmosphere. I'm a big fan of Schlitz, so cheap tall-boys of the stuff are always welcome. Only complaint is that lately it's been quiet on weekend nights.

Captain H.

This is one of my favorite neighborhood places to drink. Pluses: The drinks are cheap, the waitstaff is nice, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is awesome. The location is conveniently close to Back Bay. I especially love the Eloise in the lady's bathroom. Minuses: The food can be pricey and the the place gets really crowded sometimes. Also, if you get the table by the front door in the winter, it can get really cold.

danny v.

The last time I was here it was full of smoke. Yes, it's been since the smoking ban that I've dined at Delux and I'm glad I finally made it back. I got the last seat at the bar at 8pm on a Monday night and had the chips & fruit salsa, a short rib special and a Campari & soda. The vibe was low-key and comfortable and I enjoyed a leisurely and tasty meal. I was told that the menu was changing the next day, so I'll have to go back soon (I actually thought about going back on Tuesday...)

Victoria D.

This bar is soo nice... it's a small space- (which I think is great and feels more intimate).. cheap drinks, good music, yum food and kitchy/funky decorating scheme all make for an awesome place to come with friends to hang out... especially on a random monday night when its not full at all to get the week started... only thing that sucks a little bit is that its cash only, otherwise it rocks!

Arestia R.

Every local needs their local bar...and I found mine. I just moved to the south end and I'm charmed every time I visit. You'll find a mix of patrons from 20something hipsters guzzling pints to 30somethings grabbing some food and fun after work. Come what may, the couple times I've visited, the crowd is always friendly (except for the fact that I never look like I belong by the stares I get from men wearing women's jeans, which is why I'm giving it a 4 star). Still, it's got a warm atmosphere, but perhaps that's the christmas tree that's up all year long talking. I love the Tremont ale you can get here and the GRILLED CHEESE. Man, I don't know what they do, but it's delightful. It's relaxed and unpretentious; hip, but welcoming.

Julian H.

I dunno. People love this place, but it just seems kind of ho-hum to me. The food is edible, but uninteresting. The decorations/cartoon network with no sound/etc. were really cool when the place first opened twelve years ago, but isn't it...maybe...possibly time for a change? And they should really fix the lighting--it makes everyone look like crap. Are we so hard up for neighborhood holes in the wall, that this is what we have to write home about? I still prefer Anchovies.

dawn a.

i miss you delux we had a love hate relationship, i loved to give you my money, i loved to introduce you to my friends, i loved to eat your food and drinks your pints of booze and yet you hated me you gave me headaches, you made me vomit, you threw me out again and again and again and somehow i still love you. one day i will return to you my dirty crowded tacky little love. sigh

Pete S.

An oasis of good, common-sense drinking in a sea of pretense. With the fall of most of the last few holes-in-the-wall in the South End, the Delux rises above the fray as a beacon crying "enough already!" to the posh and pristine plague that has overtaken the South End and Back Bay. With just enough grime and chaos to prove it's not out to prove anything, Delux provides a friendly, chatty, good-time atmosphere where you can still sit down and enjoy a cheap beer, rock-n-roll decor, and a random stranger asking "How 'bout this friggin' weather?" It was so refreshing the last time I was there, having come from some over-polished place literally "across the tracks," and ordering a vodka tonic without being grilled on which of a list of twenty imported brands I'd like. Lest I sell it short, Delux would be a fine neighborhood regular anyplace in Greater Boston, but situated where it is, it stands out all the more. And word to the wise, last I checked it was closed Sundays, because any Delux customer with any self-respect at all should be hungover from the weekend.

Jason M.

Very unpretentious, very tiny, and always fun. I always seem to leave smelling like something fried or grilled cheese. Beer is cheap (under $4), and the food is decent. Portions are just the right size to fill you up, and their specials rotate.

Ryan W.

Pete S. says it all--"An oasis of good, common-sense drinking in a sea of pretense." I also like the idea of it being a "monarch" among dive bars (the kind wearing a Burger King cardboard crown). Delux is just a down-homey joint that always has a fun and inventive menu for a decent price, and it's a good place to bring out of towners or rescue random tourists who are headed into the nearby Hard Rock Cafe. It's great because it's so unassuming; the big sign on the windowless box reading DELUX could be for a Chelsea gay club, a bowling alley or a dive bar...and somehow seems to combine the vibes of all three. Delux is a sure thing because you can satisfy any craving here, whether it be for a steak, a margarita, or a late-night combo of cartoons and quesadillas. The salsa does concern me, though, because I think there's some sort of narcotic drug in it--I always start out savoring it but end up using my fingers to shovel it into my mouth, and I don't think it's just because I have really terrible table manners (and Delux loves me anyway). Both carnivores and vegetarians, grown-ups and students, hipsters and refugees from hipness would enjoy this place, but beware coming with big groups; the tables don't turn too quickly because there's only 1 waitress. Which just makes me and a few other Yelpers I've read upset, because it results in everyone being a little harried--both the customers dying of thirst in the corner and the waitress who's getting bumped on all sides in the tiny bar trying to serve them. I hope they change that sometime--it's the only chink in Delux's shiny, Elvis-emblazoned aluminum armor.

Jamie K.

I almost don't want to yelp about this place, because I wouldn't want this place to blow up any more then it already has... but as far as dive-bars, cheap eats, and cozy local neighborhood establishments are concerned, this place is the BEST! A real south end gem! I love it!

ack c.

Divey, campy, and not a south end trend spot unless you can appreciate the finers things of living on the poor end of the spectrum. it's cash only so that should be a clue to those of you who never use cash... it's that kind of place. but if you have some cash, you remember corian dishware, and like good food cheap this is a great spot to hit. but like i said, if you note the lack of a cloth napkin, skip delux and leave space for those of us who really, really want a table.

Alexander W.

I've been in Delux a couple times with other people and its charm is completely lost on me, as much as other people seem to think it's cute. The bathroom situation is downright ghastly -- it makes the common Starbucks restroom feel like a sterile oasis. The sink isn't even inside the restroom 'proper' . . . sick. The decor is also hot trash, although it's so bad that it almost approaches a favorable brand of kitsch (if you are into that). If the sound of dining on macaroni and cheese sounds appealing to you, then go right ahead!

Beth M.

Came here most recently for dinner with friends. There is usually a super long wait, and that night was no different, although it was made very pleasant with good conversation and tasty cocktails. Once seated we waited a while for our waitress's attention, and the roasted chicken entree i tried to order wasn't available. No sweat. I switched gears (once the waitress finally came back after giving me a 'sec' to take another look at the menu) and ordered the grilled cheese with apples and tomato, with a side of the tomato basil soup that was being offered with one of the sandwich specials. My sandwich was definitely tasty-- the soup was good too, creamy and appropriately basily, but bore a suspicious resemblance to the tomato basil sauce on my friend's raviolis...hmmm...i'm pretty sure they were the same thing. Everyone was satisfied by their meals-- the service continued to be slow buy hey, it was super busy. Over all, this is charming bar food with a splash of class and cheap-ish drinks. Good place to go grab a drink or dinner if you're already in the area...not really a destination...though I do love the kitschy atmosphere with all the elvis paraphernalia and such...especially in the winter, because this place oozes coziness.

Jeff S.

GREAT FIRST DATE PLACE! The drinks are wicked cheap and the decor kitschy retro and funky. It is the one of the few places in the South End that leaves the attitude to Hammersly's and a slew of other snobby places in the vicinity. The food is incredibly good more than any other type of bar that serves food. Once I had pumpkin ravioli in a spicy basil sauce that was busting with flavor. The crowd is usually a mix of gays and yuppies. It gets packed quick with the after work crowd and stays busy most of the night. Friday nights are probably the busiest but the most fun in my experience. I believe they still sell Hoegarden if I am correct which automatically is a plus in my book.

George H.

Ummm ... Delux rocks. Why would anyone not give it five stars?!? Wonderful atmosphere, incredible character, great food ... all delivered in a value sensitive package. It's one of the few bars in Boston that remind me of when I lived in NYC.

Joe C.

This place sucks, don't go here. I'm kidding! The only reason it's not 5 stars is that from about 8pm-10pm on Fridays and Saturdays it gets seriously over-crowded. And not in the good way--a crowded bar is great, but there are few things worse than an OVER-crowded bar--you constantly are getting "excuse me'd" so you can't even talk to a friend, you stand there trying to awkwardly hold your coat and drink while attempting not to spill as you stand, part of a throbbing amoebic mass, smack dab in the middle of the corridor the poor waitress is trying to squeeze through. That said, I find it utterly worth the crowd to hang out at one of the funnest bars in Boston, and come 10pm or so the throngs boil down to a much more reasonable size. I agree with Lacey P that the food is kind of weird (who wants roasted pork loin with their $2 can of schlitz?), but my friends thought the quesadillas and grilled cheese were OK, just nothing special. The great people, decor, and excellent, inexpensive drinks define Delux. I love it!

Christian H.

This place is so random and quirky. It doesn't fit the neighborhood at all and that's why I like it. I feel like it would be more at home in say, Allston. very hipster chic. Anyway, it's a decent place with reasonably tasty, greasy food. I really dug my quesadilla (the pico was delish). Other than that the selection of beers is sort of mediocre, but I admire what they're going for. Not a bad little dive to hang out at every now and then. A welcome change of pace from everything else in the area.

Dirt G.

I loves the DeLux. Having just moved from Portland, Oregon, home of the Microbrew, it was refreshing to find a bar that wasn't trying very hard to play 80s rock, get me to drink a vodka tonic with a splash of cranberry, and generally couldn't give a damn if I was smashed of not. That's my prerogative. What they do care about is the Cuban spice-rubbed Tilapia and the coconut risotto. They care about clean taps and yummy Tremont brew (can anyone think of anything more local than a beer named after a street?). It's nice to see a pub, albeit crowded, noisy and smotheringly small, serve up something other than snotty nosed stoli O and sodas in the South End. My advice? go here. go here alone, go here with friends. ahng out, read the paper. talk to someone you've never met. Anyway you slice it, it's your pie. Thank you Jesus poster on the wall. thank you.

Sierra K.

Possibly it was just the luck of the draw, but man was Delux so below life last Friday night. We came early to avoid the rush. They quoted us as a 20 minute wait so I run off to park the car and run an errand. 50 minutes later they call me and tell me the table is ready. Well, I come in, find what I want to order... wait 30 minutes. Then the waitress takes our drink orders telling us 7 tables came in and she had to seat them. Anyone who has ever worked in food services knows that it's first come, first serve unless there's an A-List guest. It rotates evenly for the most part and keeps customers happy, plus you're not running back with 50 drinks at a time to appease all 8 tables. The waitress was a trainwreck and didn't remember the order, didn't remember the right drinks, and let us sit there to amuse ourselves without drinks or food. Of course, after we paid she shoved passed me to clean off the table for the next guests, even though my purse was clearly sitting on the table. Thanks, dear. As for the food... stick to what you know. It's a kitschy dive, so serve easy food. Don't try to glamourize the menu when you don't have the basics down. The clam chowder was watery and burnt, and the quesadilla had close to no cheese or spinach. Really? Simple foods yet somehow they were ruined. I hate giving places bad reviews, especially when I have had good experiences in the past but that waitress was severely misoccupied.

TJ M.

Everyone needs to stop reviewing this place, so it continues to be an undiscovered gem of Boston. My public rating is a "1", but if you are reading this the real rating is a "6". Your waitress will be covered in tats, the bathrooms are unacceptable and the lighting is dim and dark.. however, you can not find a better meal at a better price in town. In addition the place has a vibe that makes you feel there is not another resturant you would rather be. I only wish they would open early enough for lunch.

Heather H.

Delux Cafe is one of my favorite date-night spots. Be sure to arrive early to avoid waiting for a table. Their menu regularly changes, with their chef always working on something new. I have always ordered from their specials and not once been disappointed. The atmosphere is great with records adorning the wall (reminding me of places back in Portland, OR) and the Cartoon Network always on the tube. Service has always been good if not excellent. Remember to hit the ATM first, because it's cash only.

Aislinn H.

This place was great, good food, cool vibe, and a champagne of beers for yours truly. My one complaint is that the bartender was a bit standoffish at first but did warm up after a bit. This wasn't the greatest dining experience I've ever had but it was a cool place to spend a rainy night. I'll have to go back sometime and see if it intrigues me anymore.

Anh D.

delux was recommended to evan m. and me, by the the abiguous gentleman, wearing the very fit black and white stripe top, who works at the beehive. we started off with dinner and jazz at beehive for evan m.'s birthday. it was fab! then came to delux after for drinks. it was a tuesday night so it was not quite happening(which is fine), but the bartender was friendly, the crowd was low-key, the music selection was cool, and the decor was very kitsch. there were midcentury scandinavian looking chairs, musical memoribilia and records posted all over the wall. the prices were not bad. a guiness and a screwdriver for $9.50.

Michelle P.

Sorry, gotta say it, the portions are small. I know, I know, it's a cute dive-ish bar in the unlikely South End, the decor is fun and kitschy and I want to love this place...but I just don't. It's pretty cool. But I don't get all the hype. In my world, a dive bar has cheap beer, big $6 hamburgers, and a jukebox. All Delux has is sink-less bathrooms and tiny plates of pumpkin ravioli.

Shan C.

I love the laid-back, hole-in-the wall feel this place has and will most certainly come back to try the grilled cheese. I had the catfish, but was not impressed, I was actually thinking it might be more breaded and deep fried, something I must admit would seem fitting for the look of the place. The fruit salsa is divine, I would say a fun first stop for a night out with friends.

Eleanor C.

Best place for late night drinks and great bar food. Love looking at the stuff they have on the walls and the great conversations with the locals. Two thumbs up!!

Rhiannon L.

i love delux, especially on chilly nights. you can really appreciate the cozy interior and inexpensive comfort foods. i love the home made ravioli and my boyfriend always digs into the macaroni and cheese or meatloaf. i went recently with a friend who is allergic to garlic and they had a tough time finding something she could eat but really made the effort eventually found a solution. in the ladies room you'll find olivia the pig on the walls, which is the cutest detail.

tom V.

Not too divey, and not too chic. I love this place, especially since it's sitting on a quiet corner in the South End. Food here is wonderful for the price and the drinks are very reasonably priced for it's location. Upon entering you'd think you just walked into a rock bar for the middle class. It's clean inside and not too loud. The wood interior is definitely a nice touch to the feel. The service is a little slow when sitting down, you'll notice that it's better when you're at the bar. This place can get crowded though by 7pm since the space is particularly small, and sometimes you have to squeeze between chairs to get to the bathroom. This is a great place to stop by after a long day at work.

Kate S.

FINALLY a new place I love in Boston. This bar is cool and tucked away on Claredon but only a block or so from the T (Backbay). It has kinda a diner style feel but also dive bar, but not in a nasty way. It's very welcoming. Fun retro music from (I guess) the 60s was playing and it wasn't too crowded for a friday night. Chicks were running the place that night too which I dug. Everyone was chill and friendly. Not sure if I would eat here but definitely it's a great drinking establishment. Prices weren't bad either!

Laurel D.

This place is a slam dunk. My boyfriend and I have heard great things about Delux for a while now and we finally made it over there tonight. Fresh, flavorful, and honest food. Down to earth, laid back atmosphere. Food is very reasonably priced and varied. Everything from pork to fish to vegetarian. If you're looking for an inexpensive, casual and delicious place to go in the South End, this is it. Definitely a hipster vibe -- you won't be doted on by your server and they don't have all the bells and whistles, but if you just want well-priced, thoughtful and delicious dishes at an amazing price, go to Delux!!! We will be back.

Alyssa N.

A dive bar that makes a decent mixed drink is a good thing.

Sarah R.

Delux is a good, solid, unpretentious little bar nestled in Back Bay. I especially enjoy the Elvis shrine, the mini Christmas tree that's up year-round, the wood paneling, and the Christmas lights everywhere. My date and I concluded that it was reminiscent of a grandma's cabin in the woods, if grandma was slightly eccentric and an Elvis fan. It's very cozy and warm, the drinks are reasonable, and the food is a little fancier than your typical burgers and pub fare. I got the buffalo mozzarella grilled cheese, which came with an herby tomato soup. Service was a little slow, but there was only one waitress. Go here if you're in Back Bay and want a nice little un-trendy joint to hole up in for a few hours.

Matthew S.

This is one of my favorite hangouts in Boston. The food is great, especially considering the price. The funky decor me feel like a cool, South End hipster when I take friends there. I dislike televisions in bars, but their only one is always tuned to the Cartoon Network. On the downside, the place is not very well ventilated and smells strongly of the kitchen, and the bartenders could be nicer, but these are mostly minor issues.

Marissa M.

So, I like Delux, I really, genuinely do. I take my friends there. The food is always good, as is the drink. However, I think they are shitty and heavy handed with the weapon known as gratuity. And I am a WAITRESS! The first time, I was with four friends for a total of five girls for a lovely dinner. Twenty percent of the !after tax! total was added as a gratuity. Forgiven, but not forgotten. Tonight, eight girls, four apps, again, 20 percent AFTER TAX! And we were rushed because the kitchen wanted to go home... entrees were discouraged, and our server made it quite clear that we weren't getting anyone's best work. I guess it is what it is, but check that hand scribbled bill and make sure your total doesn't already include a generous, by any standard, tip for your server.

Dana B.

I guess I don't get it. I really loved the atmosphere of this place, but otherwise I feel everything was m'eh. For a "bar" they only had three beers on tap. None of which really interested me, which is strange because I LOVE BEER. The food was ok. Their menu is super small and nothing on the menu jumped out at me. It took forever for our food to come out and when it did my grilled cheese sandwich was a little gross. The cheese wasn't melted and the tomato and apple that were promised inside were a little MIA. Seriously, how long does it take to make a grilled cheese and actually serve it when it is hot!? It wasn't difficult to get a table or a seat at the bar, but it so wasn't worth it.

Leave W.

Good cocktails, good location, nothing vegan to eat.

Nico F.

This place was made for me. Great prices, great food, funky ambiance. You walk in there and you feel like you are in another dimension--a dimension of kitsch tastiness.

Alinna C.

Delux is easily one of my favorite spots in Boston. How can you NOT love a place where tacky Christmas decorations never get put away and plays the Cartoon Network all the time? Not to mention reasonably cheap drinks and fantastic food (most of the time). It's off the menu now, but the stuffed pork chop was amazing (I ordered it twice in two weeks) and big enough to fill most guys. Incidentally, also plenty for a 5 ft tall Asian girl. Both the chef and the waitress came by to applaud my fine showing after I finished the last bit of pork off the bone (I am not one to let good food go to waste. Shame on me!). Always good to have a place where they encourage you to pig out.

Emily P.

i had the best second date ever at this place. during a blizzard. mussels and high life. coziness factor unmatched. price tag easier to swallow than the mussels and beer. i've been back...

James W.

Cheap home style food (~$15 per entree). This is one of the few restaurants I go to with regularity regularity in Boston. If you want a solid pork chop, grilled fish, or roasted chicken (menu rotates and varies weekly) for a reasonable price, this is the place.

A. D.

I absolutely love this place. I love it so much, in fact, that I almost wish I could just annex it to my apartment so I wouldn't have to leave it to get there. The best part about it (other than the decor, the atmosphere, and the fact that the Cartoon Network always seems to be on the TV above the bar) is the menu. It's always short, focused, fresh, and delicious. I'd much rather go to a place that does a few things well than a restaurant with a novel-sized volume full of junk (cough, Cheesecake Crackhouse). Delux gets it.

Gigi B.

My boyfriend has been claiming Delux is his favorite bar in Boston all summer, so last night we finally went. It blends in so well to the neighborhood (corner of Chandler and Clarendon) that I practically missed the doorway. It was a fairly quiet Wednesday evening, so we sat right down at a table. My Cape Cod was fairly priced at $5 and was mixed practically perfectly. My boyfriend informed me they are famous for their grilled cheese sandwiches, so I had to try it. Definitely a quality grilled cheese sandwich, but perhaps slightly too much butter on the bread and browned just a bit too much for my taste -- still, it was fabulous. It came with a side salad not mentioned on the menu, and I immediately wished there were French fries as well. My boyfriend's catfish was divine, and the side sweet potato hash was amazing. I was disappointed cartoons were not on the television (as claimed they always have), but the music was terrific. I loved the decor as well -- lots of old record albums, prints of Elizabeth Taylor and other classic film stars, and even a year-round Christmas tree on the bar. Overall I was very happy with our experience at Delux. Cash only is a bit frustrating, but come prepared and you'll be fine. Conveniently located just steps from the Back Bay T station as well. I am sure I will be back again!

Robby T.

Can't say anything new, but I must recommend this hidden gem to Left Coasters. A bit of hipster SF muddled with a Seattle dive. Cheap drinks, friendly folks, but mediocre food prevents me from five-starring it.

Katie W.

This is the only bar in Boston that I really like. When I moved here I was like - oh no -the bars in this place are cheesefest 2000. Then my friend brought me to Delux and it was perfect! It's just the right size, the right loudness, fun decor, good music, good food, great people, and cheapish drinks.

Isabella R.

Delux Cafe, you are one of the only things I miss about Boston. I've spent so many lovely hours perched on your stools with a pint glass of margarita (pint glasses for cool kids? maybe), At the corner table with friends having a grilled cheese, quesadilla with fresh fruit salsa some gorgeous southeast Asian inspired stew. You call this a dive bar? Maybe, but in the most loving way. At what dive bar can you have something with balsamic reduction?The music is always good and has inspired my CD making for friends. And don't forget Eloise on the bathroom walls...it's still there, right? Yay Eloise, yay Delux. xox

Erin W.

I absolutely love this place! Old album covers and other miscellaneous posters decorate the walls, and always good music (if you are into oldies, that is). Cheap drinks and pretty good food too. It gets a little crowded as the night goes on... but is perfect for a low key, after work drink or three. The bathrooms are decent, except there is one sink in the hall for both girls and boys... which I missed the first time I went there (gross...thank god for hand sanitizer!) It draws a nice mix of people too, which I always love (anyone from hipsters, to gramps). One of my favorite places!

sheila s.

Delux could have gotten a 5, but what kind of dive bar does NOT have french fries! the drinks are cheap, but the food is gourmet, be forewarned!

Rachel G.

one of my favorite bars in boston. the comfort food is eclectic and yummy. the bar has a chill vibe with an array of characters...lots of good looking boys too! a perfect little hangout...especially when the weather's cold!

Dean C.

I've made my way to Delux twice now for dinner. Both times I really enjoyed the food and the authentic decor. Did I say I really enjoyed the food? Really good. Do it.

S G.

Nice little place to have a cheap beer and a bite to eat. Usually nothing on the menu is over $13 and most items are actually really good. Be aware that the decor can be too interesting for some people, but anyone who loves the 80s/cartoons/organized chaos/good food/great beer will love this place.

Katia M.

My big question is, why didn't I know about this place sooner? With an inventive menu and a dive bar attitude, this place has, like, everything I could ask for in a local spot. I'll go back there for drinks again soon, and I'm excited to see what the next rotation of the menu will bring.

Matt R.

An eclectic little dive that stands out from its neighboring establishments. Expect to see just as many inked bike couriers inside as the gay & young professional clientele that normally dominate the South End's eateries. Great food for cheap, $3.00 drinks, a fantastic decor, and superb waitstaff make this place a favorite. If the album covers and funky art on the walls don't catch your fancy, maybe the Cartoon Network on the TV will? They wouldn't even change it to the Red Sox game during last year's series. Cartoon Network at all times, owner's rules! The employees snuck down to the basement to watch it on a little black & white unit when they had time. ;) Also, the men's bathroom is completely plastered with comic book pages and then graffiti'd over. It's almost as if they encourage the graffiti. I wonder what the women's room is like.

Geoff T.

Despite getting a bit trendy over the past few years, the place hasen't changed. It's small, slightly dingy and decorated with old album covers all over the walls. When it's crowder, it's standing room only, which doesn't really work for me, but if you are fine with that, make sure you go. They have cheap beer, good cheap food and the people who work there are pretty attitude free. Another place that I like when it's empty-- a great place to meet with a couple of friends, listen to some good music (not live), see some cartoons on the tube and have a few rounds. The ambience can't be beat.

Seph S.

Awesome Pork Chop. Have some patience and a beer when trying to get a table though.

Kristin B.

this was great

Maggie P.

Super cozy atmosphere. Super yummy food. Super helpful staff. Now, if only there was a way to drive the masses elsewhere...

Eve G.

The wait was a little long, but once my friend and I decided to eat at the bar, we were on a roll toward success. We both had two glasses of an average Shiraz, a special green salad, and a buttery halibut. Yum! The bartenders were really helpful and easy going...and super patient considering the mass of people ordering drinks over our heads. My favorite part about the night was listening in on the conversations between people hovering over us. Hi-Larious.

Susan D.

This is one of those 'who-cares-how-it-looks-I'm-here-for-a-good-time' sort of places. Low-key, clutter look of magazine cut-outs, christmas decor, and vintage 50's record cases. Definitely stands out in the slick and prosperous south-end. I would say this place rocks for its cheap gourmet meals (fancy grilled cheese $7, fried chicken with mashed potatoes $12) in comparison to its neighborhood competition, but we have these sort of places all over Cambridge and Somerville. Honestly, it's decent. I go about once a year only if I am in the area.

Jessica G.

Delux is an absolute go-to. You can't do better for the price, and while the menu is pretty limited, the food is always delicious. I love the vibe, totally informal, and somehow the limited beers-on-tap selection makes it even more appealing (definitely go for the Tremont ale, it's a perfect match for any menu item). I do wish they would switch up the offerings more frequently and offer more vegetarian specials, but really, you won't be disappointed no matter what.

Razzle Y.

The only reason I miss my teeny tiny studio apartment is Delux being a 2 min walk out the front door. Small, crowded, and totally chill atmosphere with great food. I've never had bad food or drink here and the bill is never high.

Carolyn B.

i went to delux on a friend's recommendation, on my birthday night after dinner in the south end. he said it was "divey but cool" which knowing this friend, made me worried about what i would encounter. now i love a good dive bar, but divey from this guy could have been too much for me (and i mean that in the nicest way possible). but i loved it! i was pleasantly surprised at how cute and fun this place was - great music, fun decor, and a nice strong drink. our service was great - the bartender seated us at a prime table that fit our somewhat large group and was right on top of getting us each round of drinks. love this bar!

brooke t.

Ok...I LOVE this place. I mean, maybe I'm bias because it's a few blocks from my house, but I really feel this is one of the best places to grab food, drinks or both in the South End (especially if you are looking for a change of pace from many of the upscale or trendier restaurants that tend to be around). The atmosphere is chill and the combination of the music and the cartoon network on the television above the bar make this an extremely fun and laid back joint. As far as food goes, I've had a couple of different items off the menu including the pumpkin ravioli, the grilled cheese, the tomato basil soup and of course, the quesadilla and have been happy with them all. Add in the well poured drinks and decent variety of beer all for around three bucks, and I'm a happy girl.

Sarah S.

Wow, talk about love/hate...My man and I had our first real date here and I think its what sealed the deal. Unfortunately despite multiple attempts we have NEVER been able to go again! Its always randomly closed, we cant get a table for some inexplicable reason, or something goes awry. That said, the first time we went was great - its so low key looking from the outside, and inside its cozy and has great atmosphere. One step up from regular bar food, its the perfect date place if you like relaxed boozy times....assuming you can get a table.

Jessica F.

I've been a fan of the Delux since I moved to the South End in 1997. (It helps that it's only a few steps away from my door!) Kitschy decor, cool bar and wait staff and a nice dark room make it the perfect neighborhood spot. I've read other reviews that call the Delux a dive bar, but I would disagree - it's just a casual spot, with good prices on drinks (they still have Schlitz beer!) and tasty food. Don't miss the quesadillas and the grilled cheese. And they have takeout, so you can slip in the side door, grab your dinner for home if you like. Be sure to spend some time surveying the eclectic collection of old albums they covering the walls - you'll definitely be thrown down memory lane no matter what your musical taste! With all of the trendy new spots cropping up in the South End, the Delux keep its true neighborhood feel as a great spot to meet friends to catch up.

Kala H.

If dive bars had a monarchy, this would be the king. I was there in early April and there was still garland, strings of colored lights, and a fake Christmas tree to boot. Love the irony of the name because inside you feel like you're in a mobile home that has been converted into a bar just by covering its plastic "wood" panel walls with old movie and album pics and stocking a bunch of booze in the corner. The temp was too warm for comfort inside and rumor has it that the TV is ALWAYS on the Cartoon Network. Met a guy who said he was in there when the Red Sox were in the World Series and the bartenders refused to change the channel to watch the game....CN it was. Despite the wackiness I dug this place and would go back on one of those random nights that calls for sneaks and sweatshirts and beers with a friend. (I don't even like beer, but that is all I would really dare order here).

Mary P.

This is one of my favorite places in Boston. It's definetley a great winter spot - it's cozy and has a ton of character. The food is fantastic. The service is slow sometimes - they tend to only have a 1-2 servers - which is fine, but it tends to get crowded. It's worth it though, good local place to meet up with friends.

Cody H.

As a bar, it has an eclectic hipster vibe, if the interior decor is a little forced. Schlitz beer...how ironic. A fine place to drink and meet up with friends from the neighborhood, but the food and service were mixed and slow, slow, slow. My mussels were fine, and a bargain. The other dish at the table, pork, was over salted and left something to be desired. I might come back for drinks, but I'll go elsewhere for food.

Michael G.

Good food doesn't have to be expensive at this place that's so untrendy that it has got to be trendy. My plate of mussels was fairly good (though not excellent) and the salsa is quite good. If you get the quesadillas, though, skip the chips and salsa, as it's nearly exactly the same thing. My only complaint is the lack of beers on tap--only Tremont and Guinness. However, don't let that detract from going here. One thing to keep in mind is to take cash with you; they don't accept credit cards.

Jennifer B.

Dive with character!! Just wish it were bigger.

Brandon G.

Good prices. Food ok. Service could be better. Waitresses can be a bit rude.

Anthro Food E.

this was a nice cozy sort of dive bar for people in groups...with its random paraphernalia covering the walls, it wasnt bad at all...there was not a frat guy in sight, which was nice...it seems as though, most bars in boston were filled with frat guys...ugh...so this was a sight for sore eyes...

Jeffriana S.

Eh, I am going to have to be the fly in the ointment on this review. I don't really care for Delux. I've lived in the South End for over three years and have been to Delux many, many times. It just doesn't do it for me. I also have to add that I really have tried to like this place. I mean, it is a bar in my neighborhood that isn't overwhelmingly gay (not that there is anything wrong with that), is fairly priced, and has Newcastle. However, for me, the negatives out weigh the positives: the place gets oppressively crowded, the staff is somewhat reminiscent of a coffee shop (if you know what I mean), it is stuffy inside (especially in the summer), and the lighting and atmosphere make me want to fall asleep. Given how many people like Delux, I would recommend you try it; but, if you are like me, the cheap prices don't outweigh the lame service and overcrowded environment.

Kelly L.

Good drink prices, and the food is not what you'd expect for a bar. Lamb chops anyone? So it surprises in a good way, plus the atmosphere is pretty chill. You will likely have to wait for a table, but just relax and enjoy the place.

jiat j.

Great place to meet before 6pm. After 6pm (Friday-SUnday) stay away--all the yuppies come out and take over. Reasonable drink prices, good bar food (which changes seasonally). Cash only.

Jason S.

Delux is a great place to get beer and food. The menu is small and changing. The service can be off and on. Cash only. It is laid back and relaxing after hanging around Back Bay. It doesn't have the same annoying clientele as many of the other South End places. It feels more JP than South End. I try to go early if I want to get a table. It can be very crowded.

Lacey P.

I love this place. I love it. They have pink toilet paper in the ladies' room and I hear blue in the boys'. They always have good artwork on the walls, amazing music and good drinks. There are Elvis tributes everywhere, the walls are covered with album covers, and there is usually cartoons playing on the tv. The people there are always very nice, and it draws a very tolerable crowd. The only thing is the food... it's always kind of weird. Sorry. Oh and it's not open on Sunday. But I would say the best bar in Boston.

Jessica B.

One of the best cheap spots in the city. The grilled cheese is fantastic (& ever-changing, like the menu, every six weeks or so). Most dishes are under $10 & drinks are around $5. Delux gets crowded, but that's part of the fun. With a giant painting of a woman whose breasts defy gravity.

Brian D.

this aint no dive bar, way to scenester-y and no local old men holdign up the end of the bar. but, you gotta love the graffed up bathroom and the pretty cheap meals.

daria m.

delicious. perfect ambiance for a neighborhood hangout, good prices on drinks. i love this place. its my favorite place in boston

Julie F.

The Delux Cafe has a very bohemian style to it, so if you're in your 20s/30s and aren't wearing a suit, you'll probably fit right in here. The food is wonderful, in my opinion, though always 'different' from what you'd expect in a cafe. The menu is always changing and is usually small, but it's a tiny place. Try the quesadillas and load on the fruit salsa- it is amazing stuff you'll want to eat with a spoon. I wasn't impressed at all with the waitress we had, but it might have been an 'off' night for her. Either way, we felt like we were putting her out by asking her to wait on us. Barstaff was cool, though.

J B.

This hip, urban bar/restaurant serves up great, inexpensive comfort food in a funky setting. Order the nachos which are basically grilled quesidillas served with a unique fruit salsa and sour cream. There are some standards on the menu -- grilled cheese, quesedillas, and a rotating list of specials each night. It's the perfect place to go when your wallet's light but you're looking for some substance for your dinner.

Bonnie G.

Even though one has to wait a bit too long for a table some times, I have to give it 5 stars. The food is simply outstanding. Gourmet contemporary American cuisine at its savoury best. A rotating style of grilled cheese (brie one season, rustic cheddar the next, etc); satisfying quesidillas, buttery fish dishes (usually at the low price of 11.95!), friends have told me the meat loaf is one of the best comfort meals they have ever had, the ravioli is usually a safe bet, their bread and mashed potatoes will have you fighting your table mates for each bite, and to tell the truth have never had the sweets since usually too full from dinner to eat it! The wine selection is bare (red and white-thats it folks), some decent selection of beer and some on tap, but fully stocked bar (and STRONG drinks), the ambiance is cozy and dark good for groups of about four people at most (otherwise have to wait for the rare large table in the back). Located close to the back bay orange line, 39 bus and Copley Sq. green line station, I don't know what I would do without Delux. I CRAVE their delicious unpretentious food-such a bargain for such high quality fare! Even chose it for my birthday I couldn't think of ONE place I would rather relax and be guarenteed to have a great delicious meal. Really! I may be gushing, but it is the damn tasty truth. Be forewarned, cash only, so hanker down some cash before you jet over. Can take a while to get the tab settled as well. The walk around back bay is reward enough after dinner and drinks are finally drained. A hidden gem I regularly polish off to a satisfied finish.

Sean E.

The first time I walked into Delux it was 12/31/02 (or was it '03?). Through some hilariously depressing confusion I was separated from my friends and made to walk the South End alone. But no worries, I stumbled upon Delux, was able to find a seat at the bar and a well poured cold beer. Cartoon Network was on the TV and a good mix CD was playing on the stereo. The album cover wallpaper was especially lively that night and made me think things wouldn't be so bad here. I took a look at the menu and saw striped bass was one of the specials and figured, why not. It doesn't seem like the place you'd go to get striped bass, but the price is right. On that evening it was one of the best dishes I'd ever had in Boston, perfectly prepared and even a lad de da plate presentation. And I wouldn't of had it if I'd met up with my friends, so I decided that I was the lucky one that night. And I've been going back ever since -- a couple of Tremont Ales from the tap and whatever the special of the say is, because it's bound to be great.

gado.gado D.

good food - cozy setting ...

Josh F.

The Delux is a fun and funky place to get dinner and a drink downtown. The decor is great, you could spend all night looking at the album covers that plaster the walls. The bathroom (at least the men's room) has old comic book pages as wall paper to keep you entertained. The place is very small and there really isn't any room to stand when it's crowded. The menu is always changing and varied. I once had a great ox-tail soup there. They also poor one of the best pints of Guinness in the city that will rival any Irish pub around. Great prices for the quality.

A R.

I live about 5 minutes from Delux and never really wanted to venture in because from the outside it looks like a dump. On the inside it is divey but not in a bad way. It's a small space with a big bar. The decorations on the wall cry hipster but are actually pretty interesting to look at. Also, the crowd of people were a good mix of young and old. Now for the food. I ordered the Hoison Pork Tacos and they were delicious. It seems everybody else on Yelp agrees. I also had the Chips and Salsa to start which actually had a fried quesadilla cut up in replace of the chips...pretty delicious. The menu as a whole is short...which is actually nice because it isn't overwhelming. Prices are good and you get a homecooked type feel from the small kitchen off to the side of the bar. I will definitely go back and try this place again. Great place for a quick couple beers (did I mention Schlitz and Narragansett pounders?), good prices, good atmosphere, and good food. P.S. For some reason they constantly play Cartoon Network on the small tv in the corner.

William T.

The Delux is everything that has been described in other reviews. It's a hole in the wall, but a nice one. The food is very good. The service is good too - it's a little slow, but not unpleasantly slow. The beer selection is limited. But it's a place you want to return on a regular basis, because it's a fun kind of dive. I like it very much for a burger and a drink, but you will enjoy more than a burger here.

Caro M.

Ever had a stale beer poured fresh for ya on tap? yea............ come and get it. I love the idea of a sketchy place like Delux being smack dab in the bougie rougie South End. Cheap entertainment, mindless eye arousal by the gazillion posters of dead celebrities from yester-year. Gay icons (Liz Taylor, Judy Garland) and of course, a wall dedicated to the King himself, Elvis. Year round xmas lighting. A tv from 1989 displaying warped colors from a Aqua Teen Hunger Force rerun. Le-git. I've only been here a handful of times and each experience was-- for lack of a better phonetic, "meh." Service is whatever. Music is chill as is the over all vibe. Nothing really to rant and rave about, though. Come here for cheap pre-drinkage, or if it's that time of the month where you've gotta penny pinch it but need a beverage to keep sane- then this is as best a place as any.

Stephen G.

we had hoped that with the new renovation would come better food. well the nostalgic old feel with the xmas lights, old album covered walls and elvis lamp are still there....and the place certainly looks cleaner. but the dishes we ordered were god awful bad. the hangar steak chimichurri was tough and fatty...and the accompanying yucca and platanos poorly prepared. the ribs were the worst we had ever had anywhere! mushroom taco edible, but overly spiced with some kind of creamy sauce that was overpowering. what a missed opportunity. with the new renovation a new cook would hav been a welocme addition. we are so disappointed that our neighborhood dive bar does not measure up in the food department. cheap food does not add up to a good or even decent meal. go for a drink, maybe an app if realy hungry...dont bother is you are looking for a good and satisfying meal.

Bryan R.

Not bad not great 2 drinks were $14 after tip Not really a dive bar Not really a lounge +1 star for the cool shit on the walls I would probably become attached to this place if I lived in the back end (south end / back bay gray area)

Rob C.

It's hard to put a finger on, but you can tell the difference between somewhere that's trying to be ostentatiously quirky and a place that really is whatever the proprietor wants it to be. Delux Cafe falls into the latter category, with every inch of wall covered with something. Be it newspaper clippings, Elvis stuff, old record sleeves, it's certainly far from dull. The Cartoon Network is a genius touch, probably better still when you're there late at night and there's better stuff on. As for what to eat and drink, it's dirt cheap, for one; the quesadillas are a great value at $6 or so; tasty and nourishing. They pour a mediocre Guinness with a perfunctory pause in the middle, but it's good enough to be be better than none. Draft options aren't much, but this is a bar bar, not a beer bar. It's like visiting an imaginary weird (but harmless) uncle who gives you beer and food!

Max R.

Great low key spot near Back Bay station. Reasonably priced, very good food, decent beer selection. Hoison Pork Tacos were especially good, and the steak was above average with a very nice risotto. Just don't expect any frills-- dive bar interior, cash only, average service, small menu.

Joy Y.

There are lots of reasons why I'm a fan of the Delux. Cool decor, divey vibe, not to mention some pretty tasty food. i got the short ribs with garlic mashed potatoes and crispy green beans last night, which was good, although the short ribs were a little bit on the tough side. I mean they're short ribs, should you not be able to use a fork to cut them? The service was helpful without being annoying and at 6:30 on a Thursday, it was both quiet and cozy. The Delux is the epitome of a "hidden gem" and despite the fact that it's cash only, I'll give 'em a pass and keep that extra star on. It's just that awesome.

Scott B.

Elvis fans... this is your place. A corner devoted to the King himself. There is always something to talk about on the walls... from the incredibly awkward naked woman painting to the year-round-christmas tree. The food... well it's pretty darn good, if you like quesidillas. Other than those, the food is just mediocre. The service is just okay. Our bartender had a little attitude and didn't quite know how to roll with the customer's dispositions. BUT... based on the super awesome decorating, the great customers, and the sweet, sweet quesidillas, we're ending on 4 stars.

Zach G.

Hipster paradise at its best. I felt out of place in my sport coat for sure. But this CASH ONLY bar and restaurant has fantastic food. I had the steak with some balsamic reduction and veggies and potatoes that was fantastic, especially for the reasonable pricing. Drink options are full bar and hipster beers. I had a New Castle. Was my favorite stop on this Boston trip. Would go back weekly if I lived closer.

Greg M.

Sticking with five stars despite the lackluster beer and cocktail selection. The food is just fantastic. And juxtaposed with the gritty, hip vibe, it just pushes the place over the top.

Jess N.

I've had a sexy love affair with Delux for quite some time now. Somehow it's quirky honesty has won me over. The tacos are pretty great but that doesn't really matter. The reason to go is to get Schlitzed! Yes, it's kinda cheap and there isn't anything special about Schlitz and this point it feels like tradition. (read the next part in a grandparent's voice) These days there aren't many things kids hold onto. They don't care about tradition! Anyway, go to my secret spot. It can be your secret too.

Derek B.

I actually wish I could give less than a star to Delux. Some friends and I had dinner and drinks there last night. The food, which seemed to take forever to come out, was fine, maybe 2.5 star worthy. My pork shoulder was extremely fatty and my asparagus overdone, but I've had worse. No complaints for low-key bar food. The drinks were decent, although there was a limited selection of alcohol. Again, fine, given the context. The final category, however, the one that truly earned the one-star rating was in service. Our waitress was simply rude. We had to flag her down (she purposefully averted her gaze from our table) in order to order drinks and then essentially beg her to serve us. After each round, rather than asking if there was anything else she could get us, she would clear the table and tell us what our bill was. On three separate occasions we said we'd like another round and she would exhale a stage-quality sigh and groan "ok, i guess" really, delux? this was as bad a customer-experience as it gets and i can guarantee you that i will not return here and i won't recommend it to any of my friends.

christine c.

Cheap, good, strong and stiff drinks. Fun little dive-y atmosphere. Can't speak of the food, but the cosmos (yeah, I got a cosmo at this dive-y place, sue me) were only $5 or $6. The beers and other vodka drinks were even cheaper. Last call on a Thursday was at 1 A.M. which was kind of disappointing. We had the ligths turned on and were basically escorted out within 10 minutes of being served our last drinks and the check was dropped. I guess I just expected to be open a little later.

Deanna D.

Really cool little hang out bar in the South End. Super cheap drinks especially for the South End!! Very friendly and efficient service. Delux has a really fun & cool decor-- like a decorated dive bar! The Delux Grilled Cheese is very tasty!! Everyone like their food. No complaints! Will be back for sure!

Dawn E.

My friend Dan used to think this was a vacuum cleaner repair shop. I suppose that's what it looks like from the outside. Delux is the dive that's not a dive. The food is inspired (try the salsa) and the beer selection is great. The service has always been friendly and upbeat. When I worked in Boston, this was always one of my favorite places to go... and so close to Back Bay station, you can grab a beer before hopping on the orange line OR the commuter train home!

Jared S.

Nice little laid back divey kind of place in the midst of all the posh happenings of the S End. Yes, it is small and can be very crowded. But I find it to be hit and miss - my friends and I have been practically the only ones in there on certain Saturday nights. They mix a strong ass drink and it seems like they charge you whatever they feel like (which is usually in your benefit). Works for me!

Jef S.

Not a bad little bar, but sometimes service can be spotty. They mix a nice drink here...I hate it when the alcohol overpowers a drink, but they get a nice balance in here. There's quirky stuff all up on the walls and the music is pretty good. I've only had some sort of fancy schmancy grilled cheese here, but it was pretty tasty. Friend had some chocolate cake thingy for dessert and pronounced it "delectable". Not a place for wild, boisterous times, but more of a cute place to take an old friend you haven't seen for a while for a drink or two.

Tarun D.

To sum it up, I love this place! It's small, dark, cozy and always packed! I have no problem with just standing up and eating one their delicious meals and washing them down with water. Who am I kidding with water? Guinness for man! I've always gone here during the winter time and I don't know why but that's always been the case. And when I'm inside, I feel like the bar is somewhere in the mountains and everywhere in there is a hiker. At times, some loud and obnoxious parties will come in and ruin it but I don't let it destroy my good time with my company. I've had the quesadillas and they are finger licking good! Most of their food is a Tex-Mex mix so I play it safe because I only appreciate real Mexican food (being from CA). Drinks are solid and beer is always served cooold! I'll be going back here soon since it's the winter time.

I was meeting a friend in the city for dinner, and she suggested the delux cade, which she had seen on tv. Located just next to back bay in a tiny store, Delux is a trendy-hip restaurant that is well known for having a small menu, but doing things right. My girl friend had a fantastic salmon steak with fingerling potatoes, my friend had sausage stuffed pobelano peppers with were excellent and were only $8. However, i ordered the lamb raviloi and was very underwhelemed. the flavour was good, but i only got 8 pieces with no bread. I was left with pool of thin sauce that i couldnt really do anything with. Anyway, there is a full bar, and everything was extremely well priced. The decor is funky with old comics on the walls and the service good if a bit slow

Kelly O.

It looks like some sort of condemned business outside, but inside Delux is dark, small, lively, and diveish, the way a great dive should be. Only three choices for draft beer, but Guinness is one of them so I was perfectly happy (and cheap too, $4.50 for a pint). The chicken and bean quesadilla was tasty and also cheap at $7.50, and service was prompt. The place fills up, so get there right after work when it's still slow. A lovely choice for a casual evening with friends.

Tom C.

All the things I love in a dive bar. Stiff drinks, eclectic decor, and stiff drinks. We didn't eat, but stood next to the tiny kitchen for a bit (read the place was packed) and drooled over the food despite having just eaten. A quick tip: When you leave the restroom turn your head to the right, that's where the sink is so wash your hands! Lastly, check out the picture above the kitchen service window. There is a prom picture of a regular of the bar and his hooker date. He actually took a hooker to prom, I thought that only happened in movies.

Min T.

I knew I couldn't leave Boston without going to a dive bar. So, I'm not a dive bar sort of girl but neither am I the type to wait in lines. We walked past the Beehive and surveyed the line of freezing girls in skimpy outfits and kept walking. I passed Delux and could hear music coming from the shaded windows. Approaching the front door, I saw a small menu posted outside. I was disappointed because I thought I stumbled upon a bar. Well, Liz L said she heard good things and it was actually a bar as well so we went in. There weren't any seats at first so we ordered at the bar. Our drinks were $6 a piece. Later we found a table and ordered from the waitress. I ended up getting three Jamesons and gingers. Total from the waitress? $10. Yeah, super dive bar! It is cash only. The restrooms are one stall a piece with a shared sink outside of 'em. Is this anti-dive bar girl into this bar? Hell yes! You find me a bar with cheap Jameson and I'm all about it.

J K.

This place is a DUMP! Food service and especially "the sauces"... Went for a burger and had to plead for ketchup! Burger was burnt and thrown down on table, waitress sucked!!! No wonder why there was no one in there, but every other resaurant is packed in the south end....? Hmmmm Skip this this awful place, it's full of attitude and bugs!!!

GJ N.

What happened here? What went wrong? The omnipotent hand that bestowed the inescapable "good taste" of the south end went awry and knuckle-farted this one-of-a-kind gem. An oasis of sloth and riff-Raff in a desert of fine dining. Walls adorned with black velvet Elvis paintings, Christmas tree lights, Frank Sinatra album covers and gum offer a friendly respite from typical life in this high rent area of Boston. The regulars are bicycle messengers and art school Baristas, and they vie for seats like flaunting flox across the shot gun space with a tiny kitchen at the end. The kitchen turns out comfort food like grilled cheese wraps and mango salsa with pita chips, and the tatoo-heavy bar keep always offers a smile, even to the unfortunate accidental customer who didn't know they're not supposed to be there. I've been going here since the early 90s and it hasn't changed a bit. Unlike the surrounding restaurants, Delux is not deluxe. Shank goodnesh.

D T.

I'm from out of town and my sister is a local. After dinner we decided to grab a drink at delux cafe. Drinks were fine. However, there were NO signs saying cash only and the server didn't even tell us as she was taking our order. Neither one of us had been there before. I go to pay, I find out it is cash only. She makes me leave my ID there with her to ensure I come back from an ATM a few blocks away. She doesn't apologize until we let her know that this was the worst experience. I will never return. Apparently being a regular guest there is the only way to be treated with respect.

Jade R.

hole in the wall, dive-esque bar/restaurant. Only came here for drinks, but it was a fun, cozy time! In a place this small, you have to have a cool, good bartender... and she was indeed!

Claire N.

Deluxe has delicious food and a great rotating menu. Definitely try to eat there if you can. The place is rather small and if there aren't seats at tables or the bar you can find yourself standing awkwardly holding your coat... Staff is very friendly. Beer selection could be improved. Its cash only with no ATM nearby- I would give them five stars if they took credit cards.

Scott P.

For the $ it can't be beat. Also, for the first time since I've been hiding out there they have a burger! Hurry though, they change the menu every few weeks.

J B.

Very small place, was uncomfortable for a group of four guys at one table. After ordering, it took 30-35 minutes for the food. One cook, four burners, can't really expect much better I guess. The chips and salsa were excellent, but also took 15 minutes. Overall, the food was great, but the lack of space and overall time it took was a deal breaker. I would go back (last resort), only for the chips and salsa and solo, or with one other person, no more.

Jen H.

$5 for the same cocktail I just paid $10.50 for down the street - heck yea! Be careful trying to find Delux if you're coming from Tremont street, you might miss it! Poor signage on the side - you'll have to use your ears and not your eyes... but coming from the Back Bay T and walking down Clarendon Street, you'll see it in front of you on the left side of the street. Came here after hanging out at another venue in the South End because we wanted a place a little quieter and a little less expensive. We got it with Delux. Still had a lot of people (for their size) in there, but we were able to get some spots at the bar, and not too long after a table opened up and our entire group could sit down. One person ordered food, the rest of us just imbibed. Their menu looked mostly tex-mex? Couldn't really tell. They had things like mediterranean salad, but also chili con carne, quesadillas, etc. Walls were covered with paper, pictures, art, etc. If I lived in the South End and wanted a spot to hang, this would be where I would head since my wallet is lacking dolla dolla bills these days... I'd get the most bang for my buck, and a chill atmosphere to suckle my good tasting cocktails.

Alexandra C.

Love it, love it! I came here on Valentine's Day (a Saturday night) with a group of like 6 indecisive newbies. I swear it was the only place in the area where a poor college kid could chill without being surrounded by couples. I had such a great time, it's warm, cool hang out, with a ton of personality, and great people. I really liked our waitress who was really funny, and the food was great too. Plus pretty cheap beer for Boston. I'll be back, I mean how can you resist a wall of Elvis memorabilia?

Grace N.

This place is one jukebox away from five stars. They play Jesus and Mary Chain, serve $6 mixed drinks, and have tons of kitsch to look at while your friend's in the bathroom WHICH by the way is papered with pages from Eloise (I hear the guys' room is comic books?). In an area that's packed with upscale restaurants, Delux is a refreshingly gritty watering hole

Liana K.

if a bar has a bunny with antlers hanging for decor and sell Schiltz you gotta love it. People call it a dive, which i guess in contrast to everything else in the south end it is. Old record covers and a glowing santa only add brownie points.

John V.

What Bar/Pub doesn't have a burger on their menu...umm Delux. Wouldn't the "Delux Burger" just make logical bar sense? I was totally craving a burger, and was shocked they didn't have one on their menu. I went with this roast beef sandwich with blue cheese and a salad instead. I figured the red meat craving could be satisfied by some form of beef right? To my dismay, the sandwich was literal 2 pieces of toasted rye bread, 1 thin slice of roast beast, and blue cheese. It was hardly filling, nor satisfied my burger craving. Though it was good, it wasn't at all what I needed. I decide to try the Tremont Ale, and confirmed that New England has onlyy a few good local breweries. I've tried the Cambridge Brewing Co. Porter, and Berkshire Brewing Co. Coffee House Porter, and loved both. I don't understand why the good beers are hard to find in local stores and pubs, where is the good New England beer! Don't say Sam Adam's they lost their direction and have 50 varieties now. - DOOONNN"T...../end beer rant Anyway, Delux is ok for a beer, it's quaint, dive-esque has the local attitude feel, and is cool for a quick drink and a conversation. One big downside, no credit cards, cash only baby.

Ali E.

I love Delux. Amazing food - grilled cheeses, pork chops, homemade chips and salsa. I had the Roast Game Hen, because, come on, it's Game Hen. It was good, but the leek risotto it came with was rib-stickingly awesome. The Tomato Basil Soup was a little heavy on the basil and oregano, so it tasted more like pizza sauce, but good for dipping. The menu was well priced, though, and v. ecclectic. We went on a monday night and the place was PACKED, so the fact that there was one waitress, one bartender and one cook on staff made for SUPER slow service. Everything took forever, but if you go on a more mellow night it might be better. Oh, and Eloise is my favorite children's book ever. I would have stayed in the bathroom the whole night.

Grace S.

Pros: Great, funky little bar with an eclectic crowd and a good vibe. Cons: When I say little bar, I mean that quite literally. It's also on kind of a dead residential corner of the South End. Balance: PROS BOTTOM LINE: This a glass-half-full 3 star review. It's not a place I'd go out of my way to get to, but if you're in the neighborhood, it's a great refuge from the stuffier bar options in the mile-radius around you.

Lily F.

It's easy to feel alienated in the South End if you're still in school, don't have a pure bred dog and lack the cash to frequent the many delightful restaurants on Tremont St. However, if you're in the area and are yearning for some cheap bar food and a $3 beer, Delux is for you. I usually order a quesadilla and a Miller High Life because it's a kickin' combo for around $10, though their mixed drinks are delicious too. Their Cosmo is notably delish and packs a punch for under $10 (unheard of at any other bar within five blocks). Their menu food is a bit suspect though, the few times I've been with someone who has ordered it they were a tad underwhelmed. They change their menu almost weekly so check it out, maybe you'll get lucky! Decor is funky and collage to the max, and my favorite is in the Ladies bathroom. Eloise and the Plaza as wallpaper? Oh hellz yeah!!! So, check out Delux for a fabulous quesadilla with some fruit salsa and even if you can't get a table sit at the bar. Both dish up pretty good service and you won't regret dropping a lil' cash here. And yes, I do mean a little.

Angie G.

If you're looking for a place to drink that has some character, this is the place for you! Hidden in the South End is the glorious Delux Cafe. With a menu that changes every 8 weeks and a Blueberry Cobbler that'll make you wonder why you ever stopped eating such a heavenly pastry, this place draws in the best of the Boston Crowd. From the college students waiting for the new semester (Oh my god. Can you believe class starts on Tuesday?) to the regulars who walk in and order their beer on the way to the bathroom (Schlitz, please. I'll be right back. Thanks) this place is the secret place to be. Reader be warned, this is a cash only bar and as great as the staff is, there is the occasional waitress who looks like she could use a good knock in the boots or something. (I know that was really mean but damn, the girl was pretty rude to my friend, okay?) All in all, a great place to frequent.

Steven E.

This is exactly what comes to mind when I think of a dive bar/pub. This place has an Xmass tree up all year 'round and has $5 glasses of wine. If that sounds like the kind of thing you are hungry for then this will be one of the few places in the South End to satiate you. I recommend ordering something that sounds like a dive bar would do well. For example, I ordered the pumpkin ravioli which was $13 and was perhaps 6 tiny ravioli in a thin broth (not that yummy and not that impressed). But my friend ordered an $8 grilled cheese that was SO good and cheesy and greasy. So perhaps the food here is hit or miss but for $5 glasses of wine, what could go wrong with the drinks? Not my first choice but also not really my scene.

Kyle L.

Unpretentious atmosphere, fairly priced drinks, and great food? Yes, please! Delux is the place I go when I just want to relax and have good conversation with good friends. Of all the dives I've been to in my 2 years in Boston, none come close to the overall experience that Delux consistently delivers. And coming from Austin, I'd like to think I know a good dive bar when I see it. 5 stars for you!

Devon S.

Tuesday evening was a hard time to be a Californian/Lakers fan in Boston. I had traveled all day, and at 10 pm, I knew my options were limited to chicken wings at an overrun Celtics hangout or picking and choosing a frozen dinner from the local 7-11. Delux Cafe - what a godsend! Serving food until 11, and without having the game on? Awesome. Instead they had the TV set to the Cartoon Network, with a sweet soundtrack alternating between the likes of Frank Sinatra and the Pet Shop Boys. Obviously, the place was pretty empty, but it allowed me to really soak in the ambiance. Record albums and other paraphernalia tacked to the wall, with Christmas lights livening up the dark space. As I often do, I compared it to places I know back home. Those of you familiar with Oakland, I'd say this place is like a hipper Alley without the karaoke. A good selection of beers on tap, including Tremont Ale (HEY! Let's get this over to CA!), and a pretty decent menu of upscale pub food. I had the $13.95 steak with potatoes and asparagus. Nothing overly spectacular, but delicious for the price. Also, I came to Boston very apprehensive about the "Masshole" warnings I had been given. Setting the tone for the rest of my stay here, the bartender was really nice and recommended a few other places to check out and even was patient while I ran out to find an ATM (they only take cash here). All in all, an excellent introduction into the city of red brick and "BEAT LA" green t-shirts.

Mallory R.

No better place in the city to get Schlitzed with friends all while surrounded by Christmas decorations and Elvis memorabilia. Something about it makes me feel like my Grandfather would have loved the place with it's Elvis decor, Schlitz beer and Roger Miller's "King of the Road" playing in the background. It's got an old feel but it's not a tired bar and definitely worth a visit. There is no other place like it.

Heather L M.

The classic, corner dive bar. The album covers and artwork lining the walls is awesome, as are the year round Christmas decorations. The service is friendly and attentive. I've never eaten here but I hear the food is excellent. Don't be alarmed by the sink-less bathrooms. The sink is in the hall. This way, you don't need to figure out how to open the door without actually touching the door handle after you wash your hands. Nice touch.

Emily S.

One of my favorite bars in Boston! Anything they make that contains cheese is amazing. Their menu is constantly changing too, which is exciting. I took a friend from NYC here and he got a martini for five bucks. He lit up like he had won the lottery or something. The framed art they have of that busty lady totally freaks me out though. In conclusion: a cool bar for cool people.

Ben B.

It has that NYC bar vibe, with the records of jazz and blues and classic rock all over the walls. The half glasses of beer are perfect for pacing yourself, but as far as this place is concerned there are just four words: Best. Grill Cheese. Ever! It's kinda unfair to other grill cheese, really, because I am not sure what they give you is technically grill cheese anymore... it's.... beyond grill cheese. I think it's like $7. Spend the money. The animie always playing on TV is a little off-putting, tho, but I understand it's to keep the riff-raff out who would be staring at the TV watching the Sox. I'm cool with that. Besides, the TV is not why you go.

Leah D.

This place is a giant dive. Everyone else has accurately described it so I won't get into that. The food: The menu changes a lot and when I was there, we got the cod cake and the chips and salsa for an app. The cod cake was delicious and had a really wonderfully spicy aioli and some slaw. It was huge too, a little bigger than a hockey puck. The chips are fried tortillas which was okay with me, so flaky. The salsa has apples in it and some other junk, it was spicy, sweet and tangy so on the tortilla, it covered all the bases. Three of us got steak with blue cheese - which also came with garlicy sauted spinach and roasted potatoes. Very good. The 4th in our party got a bone in pork chop. It was perfectly moist and the carmalized onions really complimented the pork. He got mashed sweet potatoes as a side and they were so good, mashed with....ginger? very very tasty. We also all got beer and the bill was only $100. Yeah it's cash only but there is a BoA down the street. Added bonus - they play adult swim on the tv a lot.

Giovannah C.

Located in a South End nook Delux Cafe offers an impressively gourmet menu (seasonal) at bar food prices. The decor is nothing less than quirk clutter with a Elvis Presley Shrine and a French Comic book wallpapered bathroom. The space is small and during prime time be prepared to wait or be snuffed for a table. With an average beer selection and $2 PBRs, your beer fix will surely be appeased. Delux also offers a full bar should you cull for a nice aperitif before a delicious grilled three cheese and select tomatoes sandwich served with a mesclun salad. The atmosphere is impersonal yet endearing with a friendly stranger no fuss vibe. The staff can be a bit hasty, however they spend their evening evading epic food-drink-patron collisions....so thats OK in my book. Please Note: They dont accept credit cards so make sure to bring the dough.

Julie A.

I love this place! It's a pain in the ass to park near it so I don't go as often as I like, but I make it a destination because it's THAT GOOD. I feel at home with the walls plastered with rock and roll memorabilia. The drinks are cheap and the staff are nice. It can get crowded, but there is usually a really good crowd (not the typical South End crowd, or the typical Boston Bar crowd) and you just end up talking to some cool new people. If you can score a table the quesadilla's are really good. Overall, It's a fun cozy place!

David D.

you're fun, but maybe you should go to the free fenway commuity health clinic? Delux, i love you. BUT, you're kinda dirty. it's been almost five years. your menu rocks....it's okay to douche now and then, though.

Colin N.

Pretty awesome. The second stop on our dive-bar mini-crawl. The tortillas they use for quesadillas and chips and salsa are great. It's a great, but crowded bar to meet friends. Definitely a dive bar. The bartender chick is amazing at tending bar. Love it.

Mia T.

Favorite dive bar in Boston. Super quirky decor. Awesome atmosphere. Not great for large groups. Favorite part: year-round Christmas tree!

James S.

Top value in South End dining! The atmosphere is more typical for Allston/Brighton or Somerville, but the service, food, and drinks were all truly good. Salmon for $13.95...and it was good! Dining partner had the Lamb burger and loved it. Selections were limited but can't expect much more at such a small, neighborhood joint.

Mindy A.

Delux is one of my favorite low-key places in the South End, and one of the few places you can get cans of beer. And wear jeans and a sweatshirt. Nice. The food is good, too, and not too expensive. Bring cash, though.

mickey l.

This Gosh damn bar is across from my buddy's place. They have good beer and almost friendly to strangers vibes I liked their crap ass weirdo art and crafts on the wall almost dive but in too uppity of a neighborhood auora. yeah. i'd get a pint wich yah.

Nicole M.

Back in the day when I lived in Bay Village and smoking was still allowed in Boston, I visited Delux a few times. What a fantastic hole in the wall! Well, not even really a hole in the wall. The decor/atmosphere is cool and comfy, the place was always packed and the food was well worth the wait. I must make my way back there soon...

Jaclyn N.

I meant to write up Delux months ago - mostly because of the pumpkin ravioli that my friend ordered! It was maybe six average-sized raviolis sitting in something that was more like a soup than a sauce. Apparently it tasted good, but there wasn't enough for us to taste test. I opted for the grilled cheese instead, which I believe came with mushrooms or something that at first sounded bizarre, but it was awesome! As for the beer, I think I was told beforehand that there were $2 tallboy PBRs, which I got really excited about, but then they had Schlitz instead. No problem, though... cheap beer is cheap beer (as long as it's not High Life)! I liked the atmosphere and I liked that it was small and divey. I would definitely go back and just recommend against the pumpkin ravioli!

Yak D.

I like this place. I like this place a lot. It's kitschy, but misunderstood: the wild boar ragu over pappardelle pasta was delish. It was also served on crappy dinnerware that would not bode well with 95% of the restaurants in the South End. The menu is short, which helps because I'm indecisive and I change my mind at least four times before ordering. I recommend you go in order to know. PS, cash only. Tricked out ATM though.

David B.

This review is of Delux in general, not a recent experience. I have been to Delux many many times and I absolutely love the place o Christmas lights--you can't help but love the nostalgic feeling of the lights o Very small but with good variety and I usually find one thing I like o Chicken/cheese/or bean quesidillas with fresh salsa is always good o Pork chops, soups, grilled cheese have always been good too. o Cool record album decorations Just a very chill, fun atmosphere. I try to bring all of my out of town guests here to experience the Delux.

Cherie C.

The food was pretty good, a cut above pub grub. Clientele seemed to be young and hip. Drinks were good, prices were average. Don't have much to add beyond what's already been said here, but it's definitely a preferred place to frequent.

M A.

This place is way cool! Great hipster waitresses just paroled from the biker tattoo parlor next door. Yummy food, great decor, very welcoming.

Stephanie M.

Complete downside : I went around 9:00 after I got out of an event at the Boston Center of the Arts Cyclorama, and there was no seating anywhere. People seem to linger, so unless you get there at 7, it's not worth the aggravation. We ended up leaving and going to Anchovies because no one looked like they were getting up any time soon.

Rebecca H.

I really wish I could keep my mouth shut about this one... but the Good Samaratin in me just won't let the selfish-me do that. So I say, begrudgingly mind you: you definitely have to go here. There, happy now? Delux Cafe is one of the last fabulous, divey-yet-charming bars left in Boston. It is not over-processed and over-watered as so many places have become. This is a true South End gem, complete with $3 amaretto sours and Eloise wallpapering in the bathroom (because- inevitably and eventually- the two go hand-in-hand). It's perfect for after-work drinks and nibbles, and boasts an impressive menu of "gourmet" comfort food at relatively low prices. So, even though I'd rather lie and hopefully keep most of you from cramming up this already itty-bitty bar... I just can't. See you there. I'll be the one hanging on the Elvis bust, drowning my sorrows in Manhattans, and rueing the day that I decided NOT to keep my little mouth shut.

Briana C.

I moved from Boston six years ago and I still dream about Delux. From the bathrooms to the rest of the decor to the staff to the food - it's so much more than a "dive" bar and anyone who classifies it as only that is missing out. Five stars for Delux.

Omar E.

Food is excellent and markedly improved since the last time I went there years back. Cool atmosphere. I'm a big fan of Schlitz, so cheap tall-boys of the stuff are always welcome. Only complaint is that lately it's been quiet on weekend nights.

Captain H.

This is one of my favorite neighborhood places to drink. Pluses: The drinks are cheap, the waitstaff is nice, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is awesome. The location is conveniently close to Back Bay. I especially love the Eloise in the lady's bathroom. Minuses: The food can be pricey and the the place gets really crowded sometimes. Also, if you get the table by the front door in the winter, it can get really cold.

danny v.

The last time I was here it was full of smoke. Yes, it's been since the smoking ban that I've dined at Delux and I'm glad I finally made it back. I got the last seat at the bar at 8pm on a Monday night and had the chips & fruit salsa, a short rib special and a Campari & soda. The vibe was low-key and comfortable and I enjoyed a leisurely and tasty meal. I was told that the menu was changing the next day, so I'll have to go back soon (I actually thought about going back on Tuesday...)

Victoria D.

This bar is soo nice... it's a small space- (which I think is great and feels more intimate).. cheap drinks, good music, yum food and kitchy/funky decorating scheme all make for an awesome place to come with friends to hang out... especially on a random monday night when its not full at all to get the week started... only thing that sucks a little bit is that its cash only, otherwise it rocks!

Arestia R.

Every local needs their local bar...and I found mine. I just moved to the south end and I'm charmed every time I visit. You'll find a mix of patrons from 20something hipsters guzzling pints to 30somethings grabbing some food and fun after work. Come what may, the couple times I've visited, the crowd is always friendly (except for the fact that I never look like I belong by the stares I get from men wearing women's jeans, which is why I'm giving it a 4 star). Still, it's got a warm atmosphere, but perhaps that's the christmas tree that's up all year long talking. I love the Tremont ale you can get here and the GRILLED CHEESE. Man, I don't know what they do, but it's delightful. It's relaxed and unpretentious; hip, but welcoming.

Julian H.

I dunno. People love this place, but it just seems kind of ho-hum to me. The food is edible, but uninteresting. The decorations/cartoon network with no sound/etc. were really cool when the place first opened twelve years ago, but isn't it...maybe...possibly time for a change? And they should really fix the lighting--it makes everyone look like crap. Are we so hard up for neighborhood holes in the wall, that this is what we have to write home about? I still prefer Anchovies.

dawn a.

i miss you delux we had a love hate relationship, i loved to give you my money, i loved to introduce you to my friends, i loved to eat your food and drinks your pints of booze and yet you hated me you gave me headaches, you made me vomit, you threw me out again and again and again and somehow i still love you. one day i will return to you my dirty crowded tacky little love. sigh

Pete S.

An oasis of good, common-sense drinking in a sea of pretense. With the fall of most of the last few holes-in-the-wall in the South End, the Delux rises above the fray as a beacon crying "enough already!" to the posh and pristine plague that has overtaken the South End and Back Bay. With just enough grime and chaos to prove it's not out to prove anything, Delux provides a friendly, chatty, good-time atmosphere where you can still sit down and enjoy a cheap beer, rock-n-roll decor, and a random stranger asking "How 'bout this friggin' weather?" It was so refreshing the last time I was there, having come from some over-polished place literally "across the tracks," and ordering a vodka tonic without being grilled on which of a list of twenty imported brands I'd like. Lest I sell it short, Delux would be a fine neighborhood regular anyplace in Greater Boston, but situated where it is, it stands out all the more. And word to the wise, last I checked it was closed Sundays, because any Delux customer with any self-respect at all should be hungover from the weekend.

Jason M.

Very unpretentious, very tiny, and always fun. I always seem to leave smelling like something fried or grilled cheese. Beer is cheap (under $4), and the food is decent. Portions are just the right size to fill you up, and their specials rotate.

Ryan W.

Pete S. says it all--"An oasis of good, common-sense drinking in a sea of pretense." I also like the idea of it being a "monarch" among dive bars (the kind wearing a Burger King cardboard crown). Delux is just a down-homey joint that always has a fun and inventive menu for a decent price, and it's a good place to bring out of towners or rescue random tourists who are headed into the nearby Hard Rock Cafe. It's great because it's so unassuming; the big sign on the windowless box reading DELUX could be for a Chelsea gay club, a bowling alley or a dive bar...and somehow seems to combine the vibes of all three. Delux is a sure thing because you can satisfy any craving here, whether it be for a steak, a margarita, or a late-night combo of cartoons and quesadillas. The salsa does concern me, though, because I think there's some sort of narcotic drug in it--I always start out savoring it but end up using my fingers to shovel it into my mouth, and I don't think it's just because I have really terrible table manners (and Delux loves me anyway). Both carnivores and vegetarians, grown-ups and students, hipsters and refugees from hipness would enjoy this place, but beware coming with big groups; the tables don't turn too quickly because there's only 1 waitress. Which just makes me and a few other Yelpers I've read upset, because it results in everyone being a little harried--both the customers dying of thirst in the corner and the waitress who's getting bumped on all sides in the tiny bar trying to serve them. I hope they change that sometime--it's the only chink in Delux's shiny, Elvis-emblazoned aluminum armor.

Jamie K.

I almost don't want to yelp about this place, because I wouldn't want this place to blow up any more then it already has... but as far as dive-bars, cheap eats, and cozy local neighborhood establishments are concerned, this place is the BEST! A real south end gem! I love it!

ack c.

Divey, campy, and not a south end trend spot unless you can appreciate the finers things of living on the poor end of the spectrum. it's cash only so that should be a clue to those of you who never use cash... it's that kind of place. but if you have some cash, you remember corian dishware, and like good food cheap this is a great spot to hit. but like i said, if you note the lack of a cloth napkin, skip delux and leave space for those of us who really, really want a table.

Alexander W.

I've been in Delux a couple times with other people and its charm is completely lost on me, as much as other people seem to think it's cute. The bathroom situation is downright ghastly -- it makes the common Starbucks restroom feel like a sterile oasis. The sink isn't even inside the restroom 'proper' . . . sick. The decor is also hot trash, although it's so bad that it almost approaches a favorable brand of kitsch (if you are into that). If the sound of dining on macaroni and cheese sounds appealing to you, then go right ahead!

Beth M.

Came here most recently for dinner with friends. There is usually a super long wait, and that night was no different, although it was made very pleasant with good conversation and tasty cocktails. Once seated we waited a while for our waitress's attention, and the roasted chicken entree i tried to order wasn't available. No sweat. I switched gears (once the waitress finally came back after giving me a 'sec' to take another look at the menu) and ordered the grilled cheese with apples and tomato, with a side of the tomato basil soup that was being offered with one of the sandwich specials. My sandwich was definitely tasty-- the soup was good too, creamy and appropriately basily, but bore a suspicious resemblance to the tomato basil sauce on my friend's raviolis...hmmm...i'm pretty sure they were the same thing. Everyone was satisfied by their meals-- the service continued to be slow buy hey, it was super busy. Over all, this is charming bar food with a splash of class and cheap-ish drinks. Good place to go grab a drink or dinner if you're already in the area...not really a destination...though I do love the kitschy atmosphere with all the elvis paraphernalia and such...especially in the winter, because this place oozes coziness.

Jeff S.

GREAT FIRST DATE PLACE! The drinks are wicked cheap and the decor kitschy retro and funky. It is the one of the few places in the South End that leaves the attitude to Hammersly's and a slew of other snobby places in the vicinity. The food is incredibly good more than any other type of bar that serves food. Once I had pumpkin ravioli in a spicy basil sauce that was busting with flavor. The crowd is usually a mix of gays and yuppies. It gets packed quick with the after work crowd and stays busy most of the night. Friday nights are probably the busiest but the most fun in my experience. I believe they still sell Hoegarden if I am correct which automatically is a plus in my book.

George H.

Ummm ... Delux rocks. Why would anyone not give it five stars?!? Wonderful atmosphere, incredible character, great food ... all delivered in a value sensitive package. It's one of the few bars in Boston that remind me of when I lived in NYC.

Bonnie G.

Even though one has to wait a bit too long for a table some times, I have to give it 5 stars. The food is simply outstanding. Gourmet contemporary American cuisine at its savoury best. A rotating style of grilled cheese (brie one season, rustic cheddar the next, etc); satisfying quesidillas, buttery fish dishes (usually at the low price of 11.95!), friends have told me the meat loaf is one of the best comfort meals they have ever had, the ravioli is usually a safe bet, their bread and mashed potatoes will have you fighting your table mates for each bite, and to tell the truth have never had the sweets since usually too full from dinner to eat it! The wine selection is bare (red and white-thats it folks), some decent selection of beer and some on tap, but fully stocked bar (and STRONG drinks), the ambiance is cozy and dark good for groups of about four people at most (otherwise have to wait for the rare large table in the back). Located close to the back bay orange line, 39 bus and Copley Sq. green line station, I don't know what I would do without Delux. I CRAVE their delicious unpretentious food-such a bargain for such high quality fare! Even chose it for my birthday I couldn't think of ONE place I would rather relax and be guarenteed to have a great delicious meal. Really! I may be gushing, but it is the damn tasty truth. Be forewarned, cash only, so hanker down some cash before you jet over. Can take a while to get the tab settled as well. The walk around back bay is reward enough after dinner and drinks are finally drained. A hidden gem I regularly polish off to a satisfied finish.

Sean E.

The first time I walked into Delux it was 12/31/02 (or was it '03?). Through some hilariously depressing confusion I was separated from my friends and made to walk the South End alone. But no worries, I stumbled upon Delux, was able to find a seat at the bar and a well poured cold beer. Cartoon Network was on the TV and a good mix CD was playing on the stereo. The album cover wallpaper was especially lively that night and made me think things wouldn't be so bad here. I took a look at the menu and saw striped bass was one of the specials and figured, why not. It doesn't seem like the place you'd go to get striped bass, but the price is right. On that evening it was one of the best dishes I'd ever had in Boston, perfectly prepared and even a lad de da plate presentation. And I wouldn't of had it if I'd met up with my friends, so I decided that I was the lucky one that night. And I've been going back ever since -- a couple of Tremont Ales from the tap and whatever the special of the say is, because it's bound to be great.

gado.gado D.

good food - cozy setting ...

Josh F.

The Delux is a fun and funky place to get dinner and a drink downtown. The decor is great, you could spend all night looking at the album covers that plaster the walls. The bathroom (at least the men's room) has old comic book pages as wall paper to keep you entertained. The place is very small and there really isn't any room to stand when it's crowded. The menu is always changing and varied. I once had a great ox-tail soup there. They also poor one of the best pints of Guinness in the city that will rival any Irish pub around. Great prices for the quality.

Joe C.

This place sucks, don't go here. I'm kidding! The only reason it's not 5 stars is that from about 8pm-10pm on Fridays and Saturdays it gets seriously over-crowded. And not in the good way--a crowded bar is great, but there are few things worse than an OVER-crowded bar--you constantly are getting "excuse me'd" so you can't even talk to a friend, you stand there trying to awkwardly hold your coat and drink while attempting not to spill as you stand, part of a throbbing amoebic mass, smack dab in the middle of the corridor the poor waitress is trying to squeeze through. That said, I find it utterly worth the crowd to hang out at one of the funnest bars in Boston, and come 10pm or so the throngs boil down to a much more reasonable size. I agree with Lacey P that the food is kind of weird (who wants roasted pork loin with their $2 can of schlitz?), but my friends thought the quesadillas and grilled cheese were OK, just nothing special. The great people, decor, and excellent, inexpensive drinks define Delux. I love it!

Christian H.

This place is so random and quirky. It doesn't fit the neighborhood at all and that's why I like it. I feel like it would be more at home in say, Allston. very hipster chic. Anyway, it's a decent place with reasonably tasty, greasy food. I really dug my quesadilla (the pico was delish). Other than that the selection of beers is sort of mediocre, but I admire what they're going for. Not a bad little dive to hang out at every now and then. A welcome change of pace from everything else in the area.

Dirt G.

I loves the DeLux. Having just moved from Portland, Oregon, home of the Microbrew, it was refreshing to find a bar that wasn't trying very hard to play 80s rock, get me to drink a vodka tonic with a splash of cranberry, and generally couldn't give a damn if I was smashed of not. That's my prerogative. What they do care about is the Cuban spice-rubbed Tilapia and the coconut risotto. They care about clean taps and yummy Tremont brew (can anyone think of anything more local than a beer named after a street?). It's nice to see a pub, albeit crowded, noisy and smotheringly small, serve up something other than snotty nosed stoli O and sodas in the South End. My advice? go here. go here alone, go here with friends. ahng out, read the paper. talk to someone you've never met. Anyway you slice it, it's your pie. Thank you Jesus poster on the wall. thank you.

Sierra K.

Possibly it was just the luck of the draw, but man was Delux so below life last Friday night. We came early to avoid the rush. They quoted us as a 20 minute wait so I run off to park the car and run an errand. 50 minutes later they call me and tell me the table is ready. Well, I come in, find what I want to order... wait 30 minutes. Then the waitress takes our drink orders telling us 7 tables came in and she had to seat them. Anyone who has ever worked in food services knows that it's first come, first serve unless there's an A-List guest. It rotates evenly for the most part and keeps customers happy, plus you're not running back with 50 drinks at a time to appease all 8 tables. The waitress was a trainwreck and didn't remember the order, didn't remember the right drinks, and let us sit there to amuse ourselves without drinks or food. Of course, after we paid she shoved passed me to clean off the table for the next guests, even though my purse was clearly sitting on the table. Thanks, dear. As for the food... stick to what you know. It's a kitschy dive, so serve easy food. Don't try to glamourize the menu when you don't have the basics down. The clam chowder was watery and burnt, and the quesadilla had close to no cheese or spinach. Really? Simple foods yet somehow they were ruined. I hate giving places bad reviews, especially when I have had good experiences in the past but that waitress was severely misoccupied.

TJ M.

Everyone needs to stop reviewing this place, so it continues to be an undiscovered gem of Boston. My public rating is a "1", but if you are reading this the real rating is a "6". Your waitress will be covered in tats, the bathrooms are unacceptable and the lighting is dim and dark.. however, you can not find a better meal at a better price in town. In addition the place has a vibe that makes you feel there is not another resturant you would rather be. I only wish they would open early enough for lunch.

Heather H.

Delux Cafe is one of my favorite date-night spots. Be sure to arrive early to avoid waiting for a table. Their menu regularly changes, with their chef always working on something new. I have always ordered from their specials and not once been disappointed. The atmosphere is great with records adorning the wall (reminding me of places back in Portland, OR) and the Cartoon Network always on the tube. Service has always been good if not excellent. Remember to hit the ATM first, because it's cash only.

Aislinn H.

This place was great, good food, cool vibe, and a champagne of beers for yours truly. My one complaint is that the bartender was a bit standoffish at first but did warm up after a bit. This wasn't the greatest dining experience I've ever had but it was a cool place to spend a rainy night. I'll have to go back sometime and see if it intrigues me anymore.

Anh D.

delux was recommended to evan m. and me, by the the abiguous gentleman, wearing the very fit black and white stripe top, who works at the beehive. we started off with dinner and jazz at beehive for evan m.'s birthday. it was fab! then came to delux after for drinks. it was a tuesday night so it was not quite happening(which is fine), but the bartender was friendly, the crowd was low-key, the music selection was cool, and the decor was very kitsch. there were midcentury scandinavian looking chairs, musical memoribilia and records posted all over the wall. the prices were not bad. a guiness and a screwdriver for $9.50.

Michelle P.

Sorry, gotta say it, the portions are small. I know, I know, it's a cute dive-ish bar in the unlikely South End, the decor is fun and kitschy and I want to love this place...but I just don't. It's pretty cool. But I don't get all the hype. In my world, a dive bar has cheap beer, big $6 hamburgers, and a jukebox. All Delux has is sink-less bathrooms and tiny plates of pumpkin ravioli.

Shan C.

I love the laid-back, hole-in-the wall feel this place has and will most certainly come back to try the grilled cheese. I had the catfish, but was not impressed, I was actually thinking it might be more breaded and deep fried, something I must admit would seem fitting for the look of the place. The fruit salsa is divine, I would say a fun first stop for a night out with friends.

Eleanor C.

Best place for late night drinks and great bar food. Love looking at the stuff they have on the walls and the great conversations with the locals. Two thumbs up!!

Rhiannon L.

i love delux, especially on chilly nights. you can really appreciate the cozy interior and inexpensive comfort foods. i love the home made ravioli and my boyfriend always digs into the macaroni and cheese or meatloaf. i went recently with a friend who is allergic to garlic and they had a tough time finding something she could eat but really made the effort eventually found a solution. in the ladies room you'll find olivia the pig on the walls, which is the cutest detail.

tom V.

Not too divey, and not too chic. I love this place, especially since it's sitting on a quiet corner in the South End. Food here is wonderful for the price and the drinks are very reasonably priced for it's location. Upon entering you'd think you just walked into a rock bar for the middle class. It's clean inside and not too loud. The wood interior is definitely a nice touch to the feel. The service is a little slow when sitting down, you'll notice that it's better when you're at the bar. This place can get crowded though by 7pm since the space is particularly small, and sometimes you have to squeeze between chairs to get to the bathroom. This is a great place to stop by after a long day at work.

Kate S.

FINALLY a new place I love in Boston. This bar is cool and tucked away on Claredon but only a block or so from the T (Backbay). It has kinda a diner style feel but also dive bar, but not in a nasty way. It's very welcoming. Fun retro music from (I guess) the 60s was playing and it wasn't too crowded for a friday night. Chicks were running the place that night too which I dug. Everyone was chill and friendly. Not sure if I would eat here but definitely it's a great drinking establishment. Prices weren't bad either!

Laurel D.

This place is a slam dunk. My boyfriend and I have heard great things about Delux for a while now and we finally made it over there tonight. Fresh, flavorful, and honest food. Down to earth, laid back atmosphere. Food is very reasonably priced and varied. Everything from pork to fish to vegetarian. If you're looking for an inexpensive, casual and delicious place to go in the South End, this is it. Definitely a hipster vibe -- you won't be doted on by your server and they don't have all the bells and whistles, but if you just want well-priced, thoughtful and delicious dishes at an amazing price, go to Delux!!! We will be back.

Alyssa N.

A dive bar that makes a decent mixed drink is a good thing.

Sarah R.

Delux is a good, solid, unpretentious little bar nestled in Back Bay. I especially enjoy the Elvis shrine, the mini Christmas tree that's up year-round, the wood paneling, and the Christmas lights everywhere. My date and I concluded that it was reminiscent of a grandma's cabin in the woods, if grandma was slightly eccentric and an Elvis fan. It's very cozy and warm, the drinks are reasonable, and the food is a little fancier than your typical burgers and pub fare. I got the buffalo mozzarella grilled cheese, which came with an herby tomato soup. Service was a little slow, but there was only one waitress. Go here if you're in Back Bay and want a nice little un-trendy joint to hole up in for a few hours.

Matthew S.

This is one of my favorite hangouts in Boston. The food is great, especially considering the price. The funky decor me feel like a cool, South End hipster when I take friends there. I dislike televisions in bars, but their only one is always tuned to the Cartoon Network. On the downside, the place is not very well ventilated and smells strongly of the kitchen, and the bartenders could be nicer, but these are mostly minor issues.

Marissa M.

So, I like Delux, I really, genuinely do. I take my friends there. The food is always good, as is the drink. However, I think they are shitty and heavy handed with the weapon known as gratuity. And I am a WAITRESS! The first time, I was with four friends for a total of five girls for a lovely dinner. Twenty percent of the !after tax! total was added as a gratuity. Forgiven, but not forgotten. Tonight, eight girls, four apps, again, 20 percent AFTER TAX! And we were rushed because the kitchen wanted to go home... entrees were discouraged, and our server made it quite clear that we weren't getting anyone's best work. I guess it is what it is, but check that hand scribbled bill and make sure your total doesn't already include a generous, by any standard, tip for your server.

Dana B.

I guess I don't get it. I really loved the atmosphere of this place, but otherwise I feel everything was m'eh. For a "bar" they only had three beers on tap. None of which really interested me, which is strange because I LOVE BEER. The food was ok. Their menu is super small and nothing on the menu jumped out at me. It took forever for our food to come out and when it did my grilled cheese sandwich was a little gross. The cheese wasn't melted and the tomato and apple that were promised inside were a little MIA. Seriously, how long does it take to make a grilled cheese and actually serve it when it is hot!? It wasn't difficult to get a table or a seat at the bar, but it so wasn't worth it.

Leave W.

Good cocktails, good location, nothing vegan to eat.

Nico F.

This place was made for me. Great prices, great food, funky ambiance. You walk in there and you feel like you are in another dimension--a dimension of kitsch tastiness.

Alinna C.

Delux is easily one of my favorite spots in Boston. How can you NOT love a place where tacky Christmas decorations never get put away and plays the Cartoon Network all the time? Not to mention reasonably cheap drinks and fantastic food (most of the time). It's off the menu now, but the stuffed pork chop was amazing (I ordered it twice in two weeks) and big enough to fill most guys. Incidentally, also plenty for a 5 ft tall Asian girl. Both the chef and the waitress came by to applaud my fine showing after I finished the last bit of pork off the bone (I am not one to let good food go to waste. Shame on me!). Always good to have a place where they encourage you to pig out.

Emily P.

i had the best second date ever at this place. during a blizzard. mussels and high life. coziness factor unmatched. price tag easier to swallow than the mussels and beer. i've been back...

James W.

Cheap home style food (~$15 per entree). This is one of the few restaurants I go to with regularity regularity in Boston. If you want a solid pork chop, grilled fish, or roasted chicken (menu rotates and varies weekly) for a reasonable price, this is the place.

A. D.

I absolutely love this place. I love it so much, in fact, that I almost wish I could just annex it to my apartment so I wouldn't have to leave it to get there. The best part about it (other than the decor, the atmosphere, and the fact that the Cartoon Network always seems to be on the TV above the bar) is the menu. It's always short, focused, fresh, and delicious. I'd much rather go to a place that does a few things well than a restaurant with a novel-sized volume full of junk (cough, Cheesecake Crackhouse). Delux gets it.

Gigi B.

My boyfriend has been claiming Delux is his favorite bar in Boston all summer, so last night we finally went. It blends in so well to the neighborhood (corner of Chandler and Clarendon) that I practically missed the doorway. It was a fairly quiet Wednesday evening, so we sat right down at a table. My Cape Cod was fairly priced at $5 and was mixed practically perfectly. My boyfriend informed me they are famous for their grilled cheese sandwiches, so I had to try it. Definitely a quality grilled cheese sandwich, but perhaps slightly too much butter on the bread and browned just a bit too much for my taste -- still, it was fabulous. It came with a side salad not mentioned on the menu, and I immediately wished there were French fries as well. My boyfriend's catfish was divine, and the side sweet potato hash was amazing. I was disappointed cartoons were not on the television (as claimed they always have), but the music was terrific. I loved the decor as well -- lots of old record albums, prints of Elizabeth Taylor and other classic film stars, and even a year-round Christmas tree on the bar. Overall I was very happy with our experience at Delux. Cash only is a bit frustrating, but come prepared and you'll be fine. Conveniently located just steps from the Back Bay T station as well. I am sure I will be back again!

Robby T.

Can't say anything new, but I must recommend this hidden gem to Left Coasters. A bit of hipster SF muddled with a Seattle dive. Cheap drinks, friendly folks, but mediocre food prevents me from five-starring it.

Katie W.

This is the only bar in Boston that I really like. When I moved here I was like - oh no -the bars in this place are cheesefest 2000. Then my friend brought me to Delux and it was perfect! It's just the right size, the right loudness, fun decor, good music, good food, great people, and cheapish drinks.

Isabella R.

Delux Cafe, you are one of the only things I miss about Boston. I've spent so many lovely hours perched on your stools with a pint glass of margarita (pint glasses for cool kids? maybe), At the corner table with friends having a grilled cheese, quesadilla with fresh fruit salsa some gorgeous southeast Asian inspired stew. You call this a dive bar? Maybe, but in the most loving way. At what dive bar can you have something with balsamic reduction?The music is always good and has inspired my CD making for friends. And don't forget Eloise on the bathroom walls...it's still there, right? Yay Eloise, yay Delux. xox

Erin W.

I absolutely love this place! Old album covers and other miscellaneous posters decorate the walls, and always good music (if you are into oldies, that is). Cheap drinks and pretty good food too. It gets a little crowded as the night goes on... but is perfect for a low key, after work drink or three. The bathrooms are decent, except there is one sink in the hall for both girls and boys... which I missed the first time I went there (gross...thank god for hand sanitizer!) It draws a nice mix of people too, which I always love (anyone from hipsters, to gramps). One of my favorite places!

sheila s.

Delux could have gotten a 5, but what kind of dive bar does NOT have french fries! the drinks are cheap, but the food is gourmet, be forewarned!

Rachel G.

one of my favorite bars in boston. the comfort food is eclectic and yummy. the bar has a chill vibe with an array of characters...lots of good looking boys too! a perfect little hangout...especially when the weather's cold!

Dean C.

I've made my way to Delux twice now for dinner. Both times I really enjoyed the food and the authentic decor. Did I say I really enjoyed the food? Really good. Do it.

S G.

Nice little place to have a cheap beer and a bite to eat. Usually nothing on the menu is over $13 and most items are actually really good. Be aware that the decor can be too interesting for some people, but anyone who loves the 80s/cartoons/organized chaos/good food/great beer will love this place.

Katia M.

My big question is, why didn't I know about this place sooner? With an inventive menu and a dive bar attitude, this place has, like, everything I could ask for in a local spot. I'll go back there for drinks again soon, and I'm excited to see what the next rotation of the menu will bring.

Matt R.

An eclectic little dive that stands out from its neighboring establishments. Expect to see just as many inked bike couriers inside as the gay & young professional clientele that normally dominate the South End's eateries. Great food for cheap, $3.00 drinks, a fantastic decor, and superb waitstaff make this place a favorite. If the album covers and funky art on the walls don't catch your fancy, maybe the Cartoon Network on the TV will? They wouldn't even change it to the Red Sox game during last year's series. Cartoon Network at all times, owner's rules! The employees snuck down to the basement to watch it on a little black & white unit when they had time. ;) Also, the men's bathroom is completely plastered with comic book pages and then graffiti'd over. It's almost as if they encourage the graffiti. I wonder what the women's room is like.

Geoff T.

Despite getting a bit trendy over the past few years, the place hasen't changed. It's small, slightly dingy and decorated with old album covers all over the walls. When it's crowder, it's standing room only, which doesn't really work for me, but if you are fine with that, make sure you go. They have cheap beer, good cheap food and the people who work there are pretty attitude free. Another place that I like when it's empty-- a great place to meet with a couple of friends, listen to some good music (not live), see some cartoons on the tube and have a few rounds. The ambience can't be beat.

Seph S.

Awesome Pork Chop. Have some patience and a beer when trying to get a table though.

Kristin B.

this was great

Maggie P.

Super cozy atmosphere. Super yummy food. Super helpful staff. Now, if only there was a way to drive the masses elsewhere...

Eve G.

The wait was a little long, but once my friend and I decided to eat at the bar, we were on a roll toward success. We both had two glasses of an average Shiraz, a special green salad, and a buttery halibut. Yum! The bartenders were really helpful and easy going...and super patient considering the mass of people ordering drinks over our heads. My favorite part about the night was listening in on the conversations between people hovering over us. Hi-Larious.

Susan D.

This is one of those 'who-cares-how-it-looks-I'm-here-for-a-good-time' sort of places. Low-key, clutter look of magazine cut-outs, christmas decor, and vintage 50's record cases. Definitely stands out in the slick and prosperous south-end. I would say this place rocks for its cheap gourmet meals (fancy grilled cheese $7, fried chicken with mashed potatoes $12) in comparison to its neighborhood competition, but we have these sort of places all over Cambridge and Somerville. Honestly, it's decent. I go about once a year only if I am in the area.

Jessica G.

Delux is an absolute go-to. You can't do better for the price, and while the menu is pretty limited, the food is always delicious. I love the vibe, totally informal, and somehow the limited beers-on-tap selection makes it even more appealing (definitely go for the Tremont ale, it's a perfect match for any menu item). I do wish they would switch up the offerings more frequently and offer more vegetarian specials, but really, you won't be disappointed no matter what.

Razzle Y.

The only reason I miss my teeny tiny studio apartment is Delux being a 2 min walk out the front door. Small, crowded, and totally chill atmosphere with great food. I've never had bad food or drink here and the bill is never high.

Carolyn B.

i went to delux on a friend's recommendation, on my birthday night after dinner in the south end. he said it was "divey but cool" which knowing this friend, made me worried about what i would encounter. now i love a good dive bar, but divey from this guy could have been too much for me (and i mean that in the nicest way possible). but i loved it! i was pleasantly surprised at how cute and fun this place was - great music, fun decor, and a nice strong drink. our service was great - the bartender seated us at a prime table that fit our somewhat large group and was right on top of getting us each round of drinks. love this bar!

brooke t.

Ok...I LOVE this place. I mean, maybe I'm bias because it's a few blocks from my house, but I really feel this is one of the best places to grab food, drinks or both in the South End (especially if you are looking for a change of pace from many of the upscale or trendier restaurants that tend to be around). The atmosphere is chill and the combination of the music and the cartoon network on the television above the bar make this an extremely fun and laid back joint. As far as food goes, I've had a couple of different items off the menu including the pumpkin ravioli, the grilled cheese, the tomato basil soup and of course, the quesadilla and have been happy with them all. Add in the well poured drinks and decent variety of beer all for around three bucks, and I'm a happy girl.

Sarah S.

Wow, talk about love/hate...My man and I had our first real date here and I think its what sealed the deal. Unfortunately despite multiple attempts we have NEVER been able to go again! Its always randomly closed, we cant get a table for some inexplicable reason, or something goes awry. That said, the first time we went was great - its so low key looking from the outside, and inside its cozy and has great atmosphere. One step up from regular bar food, its the perfect date place if you like relaxed boozy times....assuming you can get a table.

Jessica F.

I've been a fan of the Delux since I moved to the South End in 1997. (It helps that it's only a few steps away from my door!) Kitschy decor, cool bar and wait staff and a nice dark room make it the perfect neighborhood spot. I've read other reviews that call the Delux a dive bar, but I would disagree - it's just a casual spot, with good prices on drinks (they still have Schlitz beer!) and tasty food. Don't miss the quesadillas and the grilled cheese. And they have takeout, so you can slip in the side door, grab your dinner for home if you like. Be sure to spend some time surveying the eclectic collection of old albums they covering the walls - you'll definitely be thrown down memory lane no matter what your musical taste! With all of the trendy new spots cropping up in the South End, the Delux keep its true neighborhood feel as a great spot to meet friends to catch up.

Kala H.

If dive bars had a monarchy, this would be the king. I was there in early April and there was still garland, strings of colored lights, and a fake Christmas tree to boot. Love the irony of the name because inside you feel like you're in a mobile home that has been converted into a bar just by covering its plastic "wood" panel walls with old movie and album pics and stocking a bunch of booze in the corner. The temp was too warm for comfort inside and rumor has it that the TV is ALWAYS on the Cartoon Network. Met a guy who said he was in there when the Red Sox were in the World Series and the bartenders refused to change the channel to watch the game....CN it was. Despite the wackiness I dug this place and would go back on one of those random nights that calls for sneaks and sweatshirts and beers with a friend. (I don't even like beer, but that is all I would really dare order here).

Mary P.

This is one of my favorite places in Boston. It's definetley a great winter spot - it's cozy and has a ton of character. The food is fantastic. The service is slow sometimes - they tend to only have a 1-2 servers - which is fine, but it tends to get crowded. It's worth it though, good local place to meet up with friends.

Cody H.

As a bar, it has an eclectic hipster vibe, if the interior decor is a little forced. Schlitz beer...how ironic. A fine place to drink and meet up with friends from the neighborhood, but the food and service were mixed and slow, slow, slow. My mussels were fine, and a bargain. The other dish at the table, pork, was over salted and left something to be desired. I might come back for drinks, but I'll go elsewhere for food.

Michael G.

Good food doesn't have to be expensive at this place that's so untrendy that it has got to be trendy. My plate of mussels was fairly good (though not excellent) and the salsa is quite good. If you get the quesadillas, though, skip the chips and salsa, as it's nearly exactly the same thing. My only complaint is the lack of beers on tap--only Tremont and Guinness. However, don't let that detract from going here. One thing to keep in mind is to take cash with you; they don't accept credit cards.

Jennifer B.

Dive with character!! Just wish it were bigger.

Brandon G.

Good prices. Food ok. Service could be better. Waitresses can be a bit rude.

Anthro Food E.

this was a nice cozy sort of dive bar for people in groups...with its random paraphernalia covering the walls, it wasnt bad at all...there was not a frat guy in sight, which was nice...it seems as though, most bars in boston were filled with frat guys...ugh...so this was a sight for sore eyes...

Jeffriana S.

Eh, I am going to have to be the fly in the ointment on this review. I don't really care for Delux. I've lived in the South End for over three years and have been to Delux many, many times. It just doesn't do it for me. I also have to add that I really have tried to like this place. I mean, it is a bar in my neighborhood that isn't overwhelmingly gay (not that there is anything wrong with that), is fairly priced, and has Newcastle. However, for me, the negatives out weigh the positives: the place gets oppressively crowded, the staff is somewhat reminiscent of a coffee shop (if you know what I mean), it is stuffy inside (especially in the summer), and the lighting and atmosphere make me want to fall asleep. Given how many people like Delux, I would recommend you try it; but, if you are like me, the cheap prices don't outweigh the lame service and overcrowded environment.

Kelly L.

Good drink prices, and the food is not what you'd expect for a bar. Lamb chops anyone? So it surprises in a good way, plus the atmosphere is pretty chill. You will likely have to wait for a table, but just relax and enjoy the place.

jiat j.

Great place to meet before 6pm. After 6pm (Friday-SUnday) stay away--all the yuppies come out and take over. Reasonable drink prices, good bar food (which changes seasonally). Cash only.

Jason S.

Delux is a great place to get beer and food. The menu is small and changing. The service can be off and on. Cash only. It is laid back and relaxing after hanging around Back Bay. It doesn't have the same annoying clientele as many of the other South End places. It feels more JP than South End. I try to go early if I want to get a table. It can be very crowded.

Lacey P.

I love this place. I love it. They have pink toilet paper in the ladies' room and I hear blue in the boys'. They always have good artwork on the walls, amazing music and good drinks. There are Elvis tributes everywhere, the walls are covered with album covers, and there is usually cartoons playing on the tv. The people there are always very nice, and it draws a very tolerable crowd. The only thing is the food... it's always kind of weird. Sorry. Oh and it's not open on Sunday. But I would say the best bar in Boston.

Jessica B.

One of the best cheap spots in the city. The grilled cheese is fantastic (& ever-changing, like the menu, every six weeks or so). Most dishes are under $10 & drinks are around $5. Delux gets crowded, but that's part of the fun. With a giant painting of a woman whose breasts defy gravity.

Brian D.

this aint no dive bar, way to scenester-y and no local old men holdign up the end of the bar. but, you gotta love the graffed up bathroom and the pretty cheap meals.

daria m.

delicious. perfect ambiance for a neighborhood hangout, good prices on drinks. i love this place. its my favorite place in boston

Julie F.

The Delux Cafe has a very bohemian style to it, so if you're in your 20s/30s and aren't wearing a suit, you'll probably fit right in here. The food is wonderful, in my opinion, though always 'different' from what you'd expect in a cafe. The menu is always changing and is usually small, but it's a tiny place. Try the quesadillas and load on the fruit salsa- it is amazing stuff you'll want to eat with a spoon. I wasn't impressed at all with the waitress we had, but it might have been an 'off' night for her. Either way, we felt like we were putting her out by asking her to wait on us. Barstaff was cool, though.

J B.

This hip, urban bar/restaurant serves up great, inexpensive comfort food in a funky setting. Order the nachos which are basically grilled quesidillas served with a unique fruit salsa and sour cream. There are some standards on the menu -- grilled cheese, quesedillas, and a rotating list of specials each night. It's the perfect place to go when your wallet's light but you're looking for some substance for your dinner.

Joe R.

An upscale dive bar perfect for Mainers in the south end. This place serves food not from the George Forman Grill but from a kitchen. Not your typical dive bar. We only went for drinks and felt quite at home.

Kristina D.

I love this place. I love the kitschiness and even though I hate waiting when hungry, I will gladly do so for things like the grilled cheese sandwich and pumpkin ravioli. I am amazed that a kitchen the size of a studio apartment's bathroom can churn out such good grilled cheese and pumpkin ravioli. I love that if you run into the chef while walking around the restaurant before it opens and talk to him, he'll reserve a table for 4 for you at 7pm. If you still get there well before 7, the waiting is still made interesting by the atmosphere--the kitsch is a conversation starter all on its own. I like that the ladies' room has pages from Eloise at the Plaza on the walls. A cute restroom is hard to find these days.

Mick T.

Small bar, cheap beers, good inexpensive food, cash only. Opens at 5.30pm, CASH only, closed Sundays. This is a bit of a stylish dive bar. The drinks are cheap, and the food is really good for the price. I really like this spot, and considering they have one waitress cover the whole bar the service is usually good. It is a small place, so be prepared to wait for a seat. If you show up and it's busy tell the waitress your waiting for a table, and she'll sit you when she can. The beer selection is rather small and different. So no Bud Lite for you my friend, but try the Brazilian beer, Brahma, it's like a nice Corona, or have a Hoegarden. Now I'm just worried after writting this review that I'll have to wait even longer to sit and eat!

Hanh R.

I live a block away and I always forget that I love going to Delux because it is so well hidden that it blends into the neighborhood. The decor is little offbeat with the mini-Christmas tree and Santa along side a wall devoted to Elvis. That is what I like about it. Sure there are tons of chain restaurants with their own walls filled with junk which are truly annoying, but this place has it's own unique vibe. The food is great!!!!!! The menu is small which is a relief. I am tired of having too many choices and not knowing if you are picking something good. The menu changes around and it is always so yummy. I went last weekend and had amazing chicken lettuce wraps for an appetizer. It came out piping hot and was so flavorful. Then I had the chicken tacos for my meal. I could have had double of everything! The best part are the prices there. The drinks are cheap! Beer was $4.50 while my mixed drink was $5. The food is also equally reasonably priced. That is amazing since the neighborhood can be a bit pricey! Overall good times at Delux! The only downside is that it is a small establishment and it can be quite crowded as you wait for a table to clear. You will just have to get a drink at the bar!

Toni D.

I read the reviews prior to my first visit and all the reviews were pretty much on point. This small, funky place in the south end is a great place. The quesadillas with the cheese, chicken and black beans are awesome. Not to mention the freshly made salsa that comes on the side. The drinks are cheap and all of the food reasonably priced for this area. The downside is size of restaurant and service. They only had one waitress on a Saturday night. She was nice but this place gets busy and she writes your name down on her hand. She swears that she's able to keep track of everyone name that way. But I think she may have let a few people ahead of us. I'd advise you to get there early like around 7 or 8pm. If you have to wait, it's worth it. Grab a drink at the bar and stand around. Maybe keep track of who is waiting for a table.

Molly W.

I love the vibe in Delux. It's a cozy little joint right around the corner from Back Bay Station, and it's kind if off the beaten path, so it's thankfully not inundated with people/Back Bay tourists. They have a full bar and the Best grilled cheese I think I've ever had. Gooey gruyere, pumpernickel bread... Ooh! This is is the perfect after work dinner spot. They always have great specials, the prices are reasonable, are the atmosphere is totally laid back. I actually haven't been here in a while, but writing this review makes me want to go back, stat!

Maggie D.

I can't express in words just how much I love Delux. Delux is a rarity in Boston-- I wish I lived in the South End so I could call it my neighborhood hangout. The drinks are cheap ($4.75 for a gin & tonic? YES PLEASE), and the decor is really cool. The menu rotates every couple of weeks, but there is always the standard HUGE quesadillas with homemade pico-style salsa--delish. If you go on the weekend there may be a slight wait for a table, but there are usually a couple of bar stools available to wait it out and have a perfectly pulled pint of Guinness.

Tarryn G.

Consider this 2.5 stars. Yelp, when are you gonna let me give half-stars? Anyway -- I feel like Delux is the South End's attempt at a "dive bar".. A dark little nieghborhood hole-in-the-wall filled with christmas lights . . . all the makings of a good time. The menu is not super extensive, but its got a nice selection of hearty, appropriately delicious-sounding pub fare -- sammies, quesadillas, pasta, meat. A few salads for those of us who like to consume most of our daily calories in alcohol form. I must knock off a star, however, for the food quality. The 2 times I've been here, I've had dishes with onions in them. Both times, the onions have had this weird, musty aftertaste . . .like they'd been hanging out in a cellar for a couple years. I will give them kudos for the homemade tortilla chips, which are carb-tacular! Be warned -- the place is also cash only, and there is no ATM inside. I get that a lot of small establishments don't wanna bother with the hassle of getting a credit card machine . . . but when you offer a full dinner menu in addition to booze, it would be nice to warn people up front that they need be packin' cash.

Chris F.

I have a soft spot for Delux as it's like a 50's-diner-on-crack in a hole-in-the-wall atmosphere. Drinks are cheap, the food is dang good, the music is solid, and the nude painting on the wall is ace. Last time around, we got a G&T, martini, merlot, veggie linguine, and the turkey sandwich, which I completely wiped out. The chips are more like quesadilla crusts, which is cool, and the salsa is runny but mind-bustingly good. I highly recommend taking a pad of Mad Libs to do while you're waiting on food.

Zach S.

A classic dive bar where the bill was probably more expensive than it should be for a dive bar. There are very few options in terms of food or drink. The menu is one page long and they had all of three beers on tap. A little frustrating that it was cash only but as long as you know that going in it's not that big a deal. But the feel of the place was nice and the food was pretty good. It was mostly what I was expecting it to be, no more no less. But this being my first time there I can't imagine myself going there again.

Stephanie H.

I'm writing this review in the morning, still drunk from DeLux the night before. That's a pretty great start. I can't really say anything about DeLux that people haven't already said. I liked it a lot because it was a bit of a divey-neighborhood bar and yes, they have pretty good food there. Not amazing, not great, but pretty good is good enough in my book. DeLux reminds me of the dive bars I used to go to when I lived in Pittsburgh (which probably doesn't give you much reference unless, of course, you've lived in Pittsburgh and now how fabulously bad the bars are there. I very much enjoyed the $2 tallboy of Schlitz. A+++. The place just makes you want to drink cheap thanks to the poor-man's wallpaper (tear-outs from magazines), cheap-ass lighting (colored Christmas lights), and the bartender who wasn't particularly engaging, though not a complete bitch. As soon as they broke out the Bow Wow Wow CD and I moved on to my thiird Schlitz of the night, I knew this place was OK.

Tom E.

ahh.. my oldest Yelp Bookmark. This place was a hot pick when I joined yelp back in Jan 07. I'd eaten here a few months before that and not been too impressed and the same again happened this week all these months later. So stop being so effing lazy Tom E - write the review already! So I don't get it. People love this 'dive bar' - but come on, it's not a real dive bar is it? It's a cool south end bar in the style of a dive bar. It's a faux dive bar. It's not too expensive to eat and drink here, but it's not cheap and dirty either. In fact the menu positively reeks of chef working his way onto something good. Great picks, but usually a little disappointing and in the case of my grilled cheese sandwich... just damn little. Or maybe Delux doesn't get it. Yeah Delux - what do you want to be? If you want to be a dive, stop serving good and slightly pretentious food and bring in the Big Buck Hunter. If you want to be a good place to eat - throw out the small tables and uncomfortable seating. Having complained so much I have to still give this place 3 stars as I love the interior - the Elvis wall, the year-round Xmas decorations, the album covers - and everywhere else around here is just SO south end, that this fake place at least makes a great change. PS. I hate the lack of the E at the end of the name. Ich bin ein pedant!

Fern H.

Low key watering hole...stopped by for a night cap and sat at the bar. Loved the cozy atmosphere. Didn't have any food but did have a couple pints of Tremont Ale.

T W.

I went to Delux Cafe on a Friday Night around 10:30pm and it was practically empty. I expected a crowded bar at prime-time on Friday, but was sorely mistaken. Despite the lack of crowd, the decor was kitschy and cute. The crowd was eclectic, but not really that hipster. The drinks were reasonably priced, 6 dollars for a Well Drink (and strong). Overall I was left feeling that my experience could have been better, but I would come back here for a drink sometime.

Steph D.

proscuitto, fig and mozzerella sandwich on toasted buttered bread... i have literally never orgasmed that hard in my life. ok, this one time in costa rica with this amazingly hot australian, but i was really high.

Andrea H.

I have to be among the dissenters here. Last night was my second experience at Delux. I don't really remember my first one, as I think we only went there for drinks and that was about 5/6 years ago. Our waitress was lost somewhere in outer space. She wasn't surly or unfriendly; she just didn't seem to care. She may have been doing bong hits in between tables. She would come to our table with drinks, look at us, blink a couple of times, and either go to another table or give the drinks to the wrong people at our table. Our chips and salsa took a long time to get to us, and was, IMO, a very skimpy portion. Yes, they were good, but the portion was so small for a group. Our table ordered 3 spring vegetable risottos, 1 goat cheese and spinach ravioli, 1 grilled cheese, 1 meatloaf and 1 caprese salad (which I didn't partake in but it looked good). We got a catfish dinner instead of the ravioli (this was an order for my vegetarian husband). She did let us have the catfish gratis, which the three of us who weren't veggie or kosher (the hash browns have sausage in them) split. When the ravioli did come, my husband was disappointed to find there was only 7 of them on there. At $12.95, that's $1.85 per little piece of ravioli. Yes, they were good, but not that good. I had the spring vegetable risotto, which was edible but not wonderful. I found it to be a little oversalted and my shoes don't fit today because of it. It didn't appar to be a large portion, but it did fill me (which may have been the salt talking). I was told that the grilled cheese w/bacon and the meatloaf were both excellent. Both dishes seem to be the ones to beat, quantity-wise. The bit of catfish and hash browned potatoes that I tried was incredibly good, and I wish I had gotten that instead. We only ordered one dessert (for six people) and we didn't all sample it. I did. It was a carmelized peach with vanilla ice cream and candied pistacheos, and was quite tasty. I think this would be a good place to hang out for a drink and listen to the excellent music they play. If I lived in the neighborhood, I may even stop in for a small nosh if the mood hit me. Since I don't live in the neighborhood, I probably won't be back. Life is too short and there are much better places to eat in Boston. ETA: I received a message from our waitress, informing me that she wasn't stoned, just Asian, which is why her eyes looked like that. WTF? My comment about "bong hits" made no reference to how her eyes looked, but to her performance. Whatever.

Anastasia R.

Yay for fantastic hole in the wall places like the Delux Cafe! It doesn't have windows, it has about 10 tables, and the last few times I've stopped by it's been totally packed. The food is cheap for the quality and will fill you up on a cold night. The walls are covered with fun crap and wierd kitchy art, plus the tiny TV at the end of the bar is usually on the Cartoon Network. It's my reliable stand by when I'm in the south end and feeling a little beaten down by life. I heart you Delux Cafe.

Kelly G.

Delux is a ton of fun. The menu always changes, and for a hole-in-the-wall place, they have some great finds-- the pumpkin ravioli this fall was amazing, and the quesadillas are always a fallback. It's crowded (even on a Tuesday night) and there can be some issues getting a table if you're not aggressive. The one waitperson on was overwhelmed and as attentive as she could have been but not terribly friendly. All in all, my partner and I had dinner and drinks for under $30-- which is pretty good for the south end.

Ligaya T.

This place is really low-key in an endearing sort of way. Like that friend you have that gets along with everyone, the one you visit for a pick-me-up when you're bummed, is the first to toast with you when things are going well and can hang on a Friday night and Sunday morning. Totally unique for the South End, this place attracts the cool segment of the Boston population, though it'd really be nothing special in say, Cambridge, where dives are to be had at every square. Still it's a nice place to slip away to when you're in the mood for mellow. Just plan on drinking mixeders cuz the three nondescript beers on tap ain't gonna cut it for most.

Laura A.

i never yelped about this place even though i have been coming here for four years because it's one of those kinds of places that a) everyone else likes, so why be the 69th review of an awesome joint, b) it's so obvious that i like it i don't even think about writing about it, and c) it's also so obviously awesome i don't want to point that much attention at it cause it's crowded enough as it is. but i guess now that it has almost 70 reviews, why keep my mouth shut? my liver hurts.

Jim B.

What a great place. Always a fun time.

Deepa C.

We came here after standing in a stagnant Beehive line for a few minutes. We were expecting a hopping place but found the bar in dive mode, which was perfectly fine with us (had already bar hopped our buzz into full on drunkeness). The waitress was extremely sweet and helpful and took good care of us (rightfully so, it was us three and two people at the bar). I loved the decor, art and Elvis paraphernalia everywhere, Space Ghost on the TVs and graffiti all over the men's bathroom (don't ask). I kind of felt like I was at a private frat party. If I never need to escape South End noise, lines and attitude, I will run away to Delux. Not a bad way to end the night.

J. C.

So disappointed. I am a huge grilled cheese fan - and I'd been hearing a lot of hype about the one at Delux cafe. Then - I got a yelp email featuring the best grilled cheeses in Boston, there Delux was again. So...shortly thereafter, I went - to find grilled cheese was not on the menu! From the reviews, I know there menu changes often but I thought that was a standard. The waitress sold me on their other panini - brie and fig; it was terrible and ridiculously sweet. so disappointed.

Stephanie H.

I love this place and the only thing that sucks is that I don't work so close to it anymore! I used to work in the Hancock Tower so was a hop skip and a jump away from it. I don't think it fits right in with the neighborhood it is in- it is a different type of trendy then the people that live in the area. They change the menu alot but look out for the Mac & Cheese! LOVE IT! And the drinks are TO DIE FOR! LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT! A definate place to eat and drink in Boston!

John W.

Everybody has a token dive bar where they WANT to give a 4 star review, but cant. Well Delux is my pick. And i really do want to love this hipster joint. I've had no problems writing 4 star reviews of other dive bars. They have old lp covers as wallpaper from floor to ceiling, they have adult swim anime muted over the bar, they play pretty good tunes, and the bartenders tend to be cute. But they only have two or three beers on tap, the food's mediocre (but cheap), and t lacks atmosphere. Having said that, i've had some good times here, and if you go, i bet you will too.

Clifford T.

Reminds me of my favorite college bar with a retro / Elvis twist. Has really great food specials. It is a good place to grab a beer and have a conversation.

Cory M.

The first time I walked into Delux, I was nervous. It was dark, there were all these strange decorations on the wall, and there were almost no people in there. But now I have come to love it for that reason. I love how quiet it is in there Abe their food is so delicious. They have a seasonal menu and the prices are really reasonable. It is a little kitchy but i love it's charm!

Chris C.

Looking for a complete departure from everything near Columbus Ave in Back Bay and the South End? Then welcome Delux into your life. The world inside is an entirely different than the atmosphere wrapped around its outer barrier. First, the mood: The sun could literally be standing out front smoking cigarettes and Delux would still be incredibly dark. Little natural light from outside makes it in, the appliances inside aren't radiating megawatts of light. Just about everything imaginable is on the walls -- random pictures, toys, GI Joes, and etc. You could spend a full day examining every square inch of space and not make further than one wall. That said, everything seems deliberate and makes Delux feel incredibly cozy. This is also a bar where regulars pay their dues and are treated extremely well. With the exception of Coda, nothing else feels quite like home than Delux. The draft beer selection is minimal at best and doesn't tickle the bones of a hops-loving connoisseur. For those of you oriented in that manner, try something else. However, two different motivations will be pleased by a visit to Delux: 1) those who like paying next to nothing for their drinks, and 2) those that prefer what is fast becoming the trendy competitor to a PBR Tall Boy -- Narragansett. You'll receive faster service if you don't look like you just finished analyzing business processes. Wear flannel instead. And don't forget that Delux is completely cash only and doesn't have an ATM.

Ted B.

Best food, best service, best cast of characters out of any bar in its class in Boston. The food is the same stuff you would pay twice as much for in the neighborhood. The service is service with attitude. The people who go here are from all around the area and economic scales. Highlights include: Tremont ale on tap. Hot Chips and fresh salsa Christmas tree 24\7 along with cartoon network.

Joshua D.

This tiny, cash-only bar decorated in Spaceghost and Elvis regalia boasts a fantastic, inexpensive menu of comfort foods and an unprecedented allegience ot the Cartoon Network. This place is often packed but always worth a visit, and is often where I start my Saturday nights. Don't miss out on the grilled cheese sandwich (even if it's not on the menu; they'll make it) or the quesadilla.

Kerstin S.

Great low key bar that does not smell like a dive bar. Located in a beautiful neighborhood of brownstones, it felt like classic Boston. I didn't eat a thing, just drank but would be delighted to venture out to this cozy place again.

Sarah Q.

I can't believe I've never noticed this place - I love a good hole-in-the-wall, especially in downtown. Small beer selection, but excellent food and fun atmosphere. My fellow patrons were particularly impressed by the cartoons while I focused mostly on the food. and it was delicious. highly recommend the pork tacos. yum.

Scott L.

So neighborhoody that it probably has only local appeal (or at least did to us) "I agree with Jeffriana's review that Delux is overcrowded, loud, and dive-ish. But on top of that, our meal was fairly bad. And isn't that the main reason to go to a restaurant?? We started with a chicken and cheese quesadilla which was lukewarm, tasted pre-made and had an odd peppery flavor to it. Strike 1. My wife wanted a glass of white wine but all they had was chardonnay so she went with a red. The shiraz, which was her only other option. She took a sip of it and by the look on her face we knew it was horrible. All three of us tasted it and came to the consensus that this wine was so vinegary that it had to have gone bad. We told the waitress and she said "No, that's just what it tastes like." Strike 2. On a positive note, the waitress gladly took it back and brought my wife a beer. Then came the dinner. We were advised by a friend to order off the specials. However, when we got there at 6:30 pm, already the special we all wanted (meatloaf) was sold out. Hmmm. . .our theory that a florida senior citizen contingent must have raided the place at 4:30 was shot down by the waitress who empathetically told us "the chef just didn't make very many of them" Strike 3. Of the 6 dinner entrees left to choose from, we went with the roast pork, which sounded very good in the description. But oh how naive we were thinking a pork dinner for $12.95 would actually be delicious. The pork was dry and had no taste. Now I know why people forget about the other white meat...It was slathered in a very sweet glaze / bbq sauce with oregano, which was odd and reminiscent of the quesadilla. One person at our table could not even eat it. The side vegetable was miniature corns that were straight from a can with some herbs added, again with no taste. Yerrr out! People may like this place because its dive atmosphere is comfortable. Our table was made from pressed wood flakes, for instance. Maybe people feel like they are getting a bargain. But we didn't like our meals; the entree list very limited, and the place was overcrowded. The only positive about our experience at Delux was our waitress. She was friendly, honest and fast."

ryan c.

Delux is a complete anomaly in the South End, and Boston in general. It is a dive bar with character, a great menu, and an eclectic group eating and drinking. If you are in the backbay or southend and you want to get out, go here. Order the Chicken Quesadillas. Great Spot!!

Irene R.

I really enjoyed this relaxed, dark, cool south end bar. The funky comics on the bathroom walls, the artwork/records etc on the walls and the food, super good (but small portioned), the music was great (indy/sub-culture music, and not played too loud). Small selection of beers on tap and not a huge selection of bottled/imports. They are a full bar with house special martinis and drinks. The bartender also doubled as a server and was nicely distant, not unhappy to be a bartender there, but not overly chatty or smiley. I can't really call it a dive bar as many others do in these reviews. Dive bars, to me, are not just cool and funky places to relax and enjoy being at a bar that doesn't reek of some bloated sense of purpose. Delux has too much funk and offbeatishness to be a very divey dive bar. I find it far cooler than your average dive bar, a bright piece of understated punk, like finding a foreign coin in pocket change. I enjoyed going here and will try to go back again when the night calls for a dark chatty corner of drinks in the south end, perhaps on another SOWA first fridays!

Shams A.

This place seems a bit dodgy, but honestly has some of the BEST food i've tasted in this neighborhood. #SouthEnd -Torta -Cheeseburger Not too many food choices, but they know what they're doing, so you don't have to worry about anything being subpar.

Dimple B.

The quesadilla was decent, nothing to rave about. The salsa was really good though! My friend liked his burger. Good neighborhood-y spot but I'm sure there's better things in the area to eat. Also, no signs that it's cash only until we got to the bill! So CASH ONLY! :)

Mark S.

Cant believe how awesome this place is! I say that because for being on the edge of the south end it is reasonably prices and not super modern/fancy. The food was AWESOME! My catfish Po'boy was everything I wanted. Four of us ate and drank all evening for a very reasonable price, couldn't have been happier.

Mike B.

Great, landmark spot in the South End. One of the few true bars that are fit for walking in and ordering a beer in the neighborhood for a straight male. that isn't anything against other bars but more a complaint that on this side of the South End you have to choose between Clery's (sticky floor, dark weekend night spot for the younger set) or the Trophy Room (traditionally gay despite the rebranding) if you want to get a beer and watch a game. Pro's: cool, authentic weird neighborhood feel. random, old vinyl records etc on wall, TV playing random stuff like cartoons (never sports or news etc so don't ask), and generally dive-ish decor. Good food, sometimes great food if it what you are in the mood for. Con's: music can be loud if you aren't in the mood for that, many nights there isn't a table available (that is also a PRO and a good sign), service can be sloooow as there is one waitress/server/owner and the kitchen is tiny. Food can be on the heavy side, only have house wine (the red or the white). people in the neighborhood are deadly loyal to Delux because it a) is a great bar b) has good food and c) has been true to itself. new owners worked there for years and are great people.

Tim S.

This is a great, hidden gem in the South End. It's small and has a hip feel to it. The music was great and the wood paneled walls covered with old record covers and photos (including a wall dedicated to Elvis) makes for a lot of interesting decor to look at. There's good beer selection and good service. Quick note: this place is CA$H ONLY (though there is an ATM in the back if you forget). I haven't tried the food yet, though the menu looked delicious, so I'll probably be back for it. On busy nights, they won't let you sit at tables if you're not eating (or will make you give up your seat if people come in that do want to eat), but they're up front about it ahead of time -- so that didn't bother me a bit!

Dennis W.

We love everything about Delux. This is our favorite neighborhood bar, we send everyone we know here, and pretty consistently can order the special entree and special drink and leave pleased. Big fan of everything they have to offer here, and have no issues coming here weekly.

Vinnie J.

Some decent beers on tap but not too many choices. The location and price are top notch. I got the enchiladas .. I was down with them. Also , I was digging the music. I would def go back.. Hope it stays there.

Tom O.

Nothing fancy. Just a small place with good beer and what I thought was fast service. Had the cheeseburger which I thought was pretty decent.

Alexandra O.

Hipster trendy bar. The food was fantabulous. We had the brisket sandwich with black beans and fish tacos. Not just a cool bar but awesome food and menu.

Ryan R.

Went here with a friend to grab a bite to eat for dinner. This place is very cozy and quite a different feel from many other places around the South End. The place was decently crowded but we were seated right away. To start, we went with an order of the tacos and a quesadilla. These were decent, nothing amazing (this is coming from a jaded Californian though) but I actually really enjoyed the salsa that came with them. For our meals, we both decided to go with the chicken dish. It was a decent portion and was very "home-style" and hearty. The flavors were good but they were very one node. The service here was friendly and the pricing was reasonable, especially for the South End. Not a bad spot to check out if you are looking for something a little cheaper/low key in the South End.

John G.

THEY'RE BACK!! Decor intact, and as good as ever. Still tasty and reasonably priced, with some menu changes. The cauliflower tacos are delicious (and messy).

Chris C.

DeLux is the prefect dive bar on so many levels: Just the right size Just the right dive / hipster / trendy environment Just the right foods for a place like this (the food is surprisingly good and simple) Just the right bartender that is nice but not to nice And BEST of all ..........almost no one knows this places exists!!!! PLEASE DONT GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nicky E.

Can't comment on the food - just the cocktails and ambience. I got their one cocktail on the menu (I asked for a mojito and the waitress looked at me with disdain - I'm a snob, I admit it, okay?), and it was STRONG. I mean, I had two cocktails and I started jibber jabbering and speaking in tangents. I liked the vibe - it was sort of a hipsterish tuckaway that I would expect to find in Allston, but conveniently in the South End. The people next to us were on a first date from an online instance (it seems like a good meeting spot for that sort of thing), and I found myself thinking that she was much more of a catch than her date. All in all, a nice place to get cozy and stop for a bite, as well as people watch/eavesdrop on fellow diners (I guess I'm a voyeuristic snob?). ProTip: They only take cash.

Rather Not Say Name On The Web N.

This is really the perfect hangout spot. Chips and salsa + a christmas tree year round + cartoon network= PERFECT!!! Food is delish. Definitely go here. (Don't go on thursday though. One of the snobby waitresses is there. The bartenders however, are the best there, all the time.) Food is great, but the arrangement on the plate isn't good. No biggie, because the food is. Lastly, lots of you are complaining about space. If there is no space in a restaurant, that usually means it is good!!! GO HERE!!! YOU WON'T REGRET IT!!

Laura P.

Strange in 2015 there is no up to date online menu. A weird, undeserved arrogant vibe (is it the 90's still?), the staff member was downright cheerful that ordering food via the telephone with no menu was impossible. Are they doing that well?!

Jennine S.

I've had several menu items and they are all amazing. They rotate the menu to keep it interesting. Great burgers!!! Bring cash since they don't take cards. I eat here at least once a month and can't get enough!

Kristen J.

This is my favorite go-to place for a low-key dinner out. Living nearby, I've been too many times to count. I would be seriously devastated if this place closed. Bottom line is, for the price, you cannot get a better meal (not comparing to specialty food like pizza, sushi, thai etc). With a set menu plus a few daily specials, they serve a good variety from salads/apps to square meals such as pastas, roasted chicken, fish, etc. and also a few mexican options (tacos, quesadillas) - I have never had a bad meal here in 4+ years, in fact, it's quite the opposite - I am always delighted. The ambiance is cozy, dark, hipster quirky; beer on tap; small kitchen so sometimes a wait for the food, but never feel unattended by the staff. Bring cash, and a friend or 2. :)

Daniel B.

Best hipster dive dive bar around. Love the food and beer menus. Music selection is awesome. Ambience is fun. Go, drink, eat, be merry.

N A.

Cool ambiance. Categorized as a dive bar but I'm not sure the shoe fits. Regardless it draws an interesting crowd especially for the neighborhood. They take pride in the food and drink menu has depth. For those that know, reminds me of Natt Spil. The Wiz was playing on the tube which was a pleasant surprise. Trout w/crawfish risotto, black IPA, and Diana & Michael going to see the wizard. Thursdays are not bad in Boston.

Lisa S.

I have only been to Delux a handful of times but it already is a spot that I would not hesitate to visit. The dinner entrees are not only delicious but also quite unique; for example, the grilled cheese is made with feta cheese and Kalamata olives -- hardly what you would expect when ordering "grilled cheese"! I also very much love the catfish po'boy, it is cooked perfectly and so very rich and satisfying. The service is very friendly and attentive- we never wait long to have our glasses refilled with water. The decor is just delightful, while the seating is very comfortable. Wait time for the meals is a little on the long side, but that just goes to show how much effort is put into each dish (in other words, it's worth the wait!). All in all I definitely recommend checking out Delux- don't let its small appearance from the outside deceive you, as it's the inside that counts! ;)

Anthony L.

Delux Cafe re-opened after several months last night, at 5:33 PM. I got there 15 minutes later to see that a South End neighbor of the place had been the first in the door, thus winning himself a singing fish wall trophy. With the pressure thus off, I was able to just enjoy my visit and can offer a review untarnished by the influence that must burden any recipient of a piping piscine payola plaque. I had not been to Delux recently, as it is not on my usual path. I'd been concerned at its closing, and cautiously comforted by news that it had been sold to a longtime employee to "keep it in the family". My very occasional visits there probably mean that I cannot reliably compare the new incarnation to the old one at a fine detail level. But I can offer a very favorable review without worrying about new versus old. I ordered a margarita and the Cod with lentils special, as I'd seen a plated order go by earlier and it looked good. The menu's special bore the day's date, suggesting they will rotate often. Food came pretty quickly after ordering, which was actually very quickly given the place was hitting capacity by 7 PM as I was finishing up. The fish was delicious, and swimming in a sea of lentils. The upside was that I was well fed on one dish, but the downside is that I did not follow through on ordering some of the smaller plates to round out the meal. My girlfriend had a chicken-and-cheese quesadilla. It looked good, but I only poached some of the salsa, which had a nice tang with just enough edge to keep it from being too sweet. A seat near the kitchen showed a very modern and new -- and very small -- work area. The restroom with its common sink area outside is still richly covered in graffiti, but the plumbing is spanking new and one of the welcome updates over the old Delux that I feel few purists would complain about. I'm certain to stop in when next I'm in the South End at a suitable hour.

Ryan L.

this is a great low-key joint hidden in the middle of the south-end. i love it! haven't gotten a chance to eat here yet because we went in on a whim. has a very nice, cozy atmosphere, and not too crowded. the service is nice and down-to-earth. all i could ask for in a bar in a really uppity neighborhood. check out the bathrooms, i don't want to give it away!

K G.

Such a great neighborhood spot. Fun, relaxed atmosphere. Fresh, flavorful food and awesome service! The drinks are great too.

Paulina B.

A friend of mine raved about this place a few months ago, so when we stumbled upon it on a random Friday night we decided to check it out. We were hoping to establish another neighborhood go-to, but it did not live up to the hype. The service was probably the slowest I've ever experienced. Our appetizer took 30 minutes, with food following another half hour wait. We waited over 20 minutes after asking for the check only to find out the place is cash only. No sign, no warning. And off to the ATM we went. The food was okay, but definitely not worth the drastically long wait. I had a pork belly sandwich, which was greasy and unevenly cooked. I wouldn't be opposed to grabbing a beer at the bar, but I definitely won't be back for food. Unfortunate, given the place's long standing in our neighborhood.

Matt S.

Anyone been back since it reopened? I first went in 2001 and last went in December 2013. Precious little had changed. I hope precious little has changed since the new owner took over. Also, anyone know if they'll ever have the grilled catfish again? It's been well over a decade since I had it there, and I've never had catfish that good anywhere else (that wasn't a Vietnamese restaurant that caramelized it). Goddammit, Boston, stop changing!

Maggie G.

If I could give this place no stars it would be too many. The service was terrible. Took at least 10 minutes for us to get a drink Our waitress got my drink wrong twice, and flagging her down was like pulling teeth. She would breeze past us every time. At the end of the night we were charged for the two drinks that she got wrong. I never got a drink. The food took about an hour to come out. An hour for chips? Kind of excessive. I still grimace at the thought of this place.

Holly M.

There's just something about this place I really like. Food was surprisingly good, drinks were tasty, bartender was friendly, you know, the usual stuff you expect. But beyond that there was something I can't put my finger on that made me feel really comfortable and relaxed here. Just a great little place.

Eric I.

I love this place!! Please remember you are entering a corner bar that has been there FOREVER! Drinks, good food and comfortable atmosphere. This isn't upscale, fine dining we're talking about.. But the food is great and I love some of the new menu items. Also, remember this place is small... there's one server and 1-2 bartenders. So things take time. Sit back , relax, and enjoy. It's nice to still have a place in the south end feel free from gentrification. Come as you are and hang out with people from every walk of life. * I have been back since the re-opening and they essential gave it a good cleaning and slight updating in the dining room. Sorry the records covers on the wall have been changed, but the theme is the same. Apparently the the real major updates were behind the scenes... kitchen, bar, etc.,.

Laura B.

If I never came here again I would be happy. WORST service ever. I've never been treated like a piece of trash before. Here's the story: I work nearby and we come here a lot for after work drinks, going away parties, etc. We came her around 5 one weekday and there was no one there (which was great). We took up the area near the bar. The waitress rudly told us that we couldn't put our jackets or bags on any of the chairs and that "We need to make room for our regulars, they will be coming in for dinner". This isn't a rude sentence but the way she said it made us feel like we were less valued and not good enough to be considered "Regulars" even though we come here all the time. She had a terrible attitude. We were just getting drinks at the bar, and I think she was pissed because she had to keep walking through us. instead of treating us like shit so we don't come back, why not nicely ask us to make room? How do you deal with a group of people ever? The place wasn't even busy (4 tables) other than us so that's why it was ridiculous. That terrible service made a bed enough impression we will not be returning for our happy hours.

Steve L.

Actually a better restaurant than a bar. Delux is an oddity. Not counting the Elvis shrine or the interesting combination of local professionals and hipsters who haunt the place, this neighborhood bar has a rather limited (and unchanging) set of beers on tap, all hiding a top-notch but low frills kitchen. The menu changes frequently, but several dishes have been notable winners. If it's available, get the seafood paella. Not only warm and flavorful without being oversalted as fancypants restaurants are wont to do, this paella also featured an exquisite mouthfeel that encouraged me to turn each bite over in my mouth multiple times before letting it slide down my throat. Coq au vin was also terrific, as is any steak. Fortunately, the chefs at Delux will take an "extra rare" order seriously, allowing my slab of meat to come out cold in the middle, as requested. No comments on mixed drinks, but these guys could do better than four or so middling craft beers on tap. Fortunately, Harpoon IPA is usually one of the four, making a decision easy. Overall, perhaps a good place to take a hipster girlfriend. Or just dine alone.

Ian W.

Cool vibe, good service. The quesadilla was great but the coleslaw sucks beyond belief.

Keith B.

Lived down the street from delux for two years and it's probably one of the most unique bars in the back bay - pretty much every other bar in the area falls into three categories: fist pumping clubs, sports bars or yuppie havens. Delux is none of these things - it's hipster without being pretentious and although there's a TV (CRT mind you) it'll be playing cartoons and nothing else. I remember when the celtics were in the playoffs a wild bro appeared and asked the bartender to turn the game on and she simply said no - amazing. There's a limited drink selection and it's cash only. The bartenders can take some friendly harassment but they can also dish it out. Awesome place and really great food.

Meghan H.

A dying breed of original south end restaurants. Small, intimate, cozy and perfect. My go-to neighborhood spot.

Jason B.

Well *I* can't get enough of this place. Hole-in-the-wall, hidden gem, diamond in the rough, the euphemisms just don't do this place justice. Delux is one of those places you'd own and operate if you could own and operate an eating and drinking establishment. Located in a quiet brownstone area of the South End, the storefront is completely unassuming. Inside, the decor immediately shouts HIPSTER, and the music selection of big band, classic R&B and 50s pop just levels it up. But that's really where the appearance of pretentious ends, and where Delux backs up its vibe with hardcore doing-it-right. The bar is amply stocked, not with run-of-the-mill well liquor, but with fixin's for REAL cocktails, and the bartender knows how to make 'em. The draft beers are sparse, but well-chosen. The food - this is where Delux earns its five stars. At a price point rivaling that of casual dining chains, they turn out incredibly prepared, top-quality dishes that celebrity chefs would envy. The Hoisin pork tacos are a marvel of flavor, texture and freshness - spicy, tender pork, crisp cut vegetables, fresh mint and just crispy flour tortillas are an OCCUPY MOUTH experience. The burger is unreal - on a short list of "best burgers in Boston" as far as I'm concerned. Hormone-free organic beef is simply exploding with huge flavor, and complimented with sauteed mushrooms and melted Swiss, I can't remember the last time a burger made me as happy as this one did. You absolutely cannot do better than Delux for great food at amazing prices, in a funky, cool, laid-back atmosphere. CASH ONLY, my beauties.

christina m.

The one and only deluxe. One of my favorite spots in Boston . Want home cooked food that is delicious , fresh, affordable and delivered with a smile . Go to Deluxe. It is a small cozy spot that has held its ground in the south end for the last 15 years. May have to be a bit patient as the kitchen is tiny and the food is cooked to order. By far the best deal in the whole city. Thank you to deluxe for being you:)

Joanie L.

Good time at the Deluxe last nite which I hadn't been to in a couple years. It's not quite the hot spot it once was but it should be. Esp. when you can get pork chop and scallop dinners for $13.95. The food is probably more 3-3.5 stars but it's a good time overall. And they confirmed for us that it's being sold, although we were told that it probably won't change much. I can't imagine the food prices won't go up but supposedly the owner is an independent person who needs to close it for a bit to fix some things but will keep the same idea. Fingers crossed, there aren't enough Deluxe type places in this city. (Which begs the whole other question of why Boston is so bereft of funky, 50's looking fun hangouts but you need to hit Seattle or Portland for that.)

Meg C.

Back in the day, I frequented the "old" Delux and was sad to see it close. It's re-open now, with a lot of the same quirks. It looks like the place got a good scrubbing, but the Christmas lights and Elvis shrine are still there. We arrived at 6pm on a Thursday and had no problem getting a table for 4. We promptly got our drink order taken. That's where the promptness of our experience ended. There was only one waitress and as it started to fill up, she got swamped. We had to flag her down to order our dinner. We were on our way to see a show at the Lyric Stage Company a couple blocks away at 7:30, so we had 90 minutes. We thought that would be plenty of time....More on that later. The menu is sparse, perhaps 15 items in total. The "specials" written on the chalkboard were actually just regular menu items, so that didn't expand the options any. I'm kind of a picky eater and each of the menu options was a little funky, but I was able to get by. I ordered the flounder "special" (which is on the regular menu) which came with spinach and polenta. We ordered around 6:20 and did not receive our meals until 7:00. That's a long time for 2 grilled cheese, paella and some flounder. The kitchen is tiny, so I can sort of understand, but it seemed like the tables around us also ordered between 6:00 and 6:20 and didn't eat until 7:00. What was going on in the kitchen in the meantime? I sampled a grilled cheese and it was delicious, but really how can you mess up grilled cheese? The Paella looked good and was served piping hot. I wish I could say the same for my flounder and polenta, which were lukewarm. Just an FYI, lukewarm polenta becomes a solid congealed mass that looks like scrambled eggs and is not at all appetizing. The spinach had barely hit a frying pan and was mostly raw and extremely bland- no seasonings that I could detect. The flounder was fine, but again, lukewarm fish is not so appetizing. For $15, it would have been nice to at least have had my meal be hot as I was rushing to scarf it down in order to get to the show on time. In short, Delux is great for a drink or two, or if you're not at all in a rush and don't mind your food lukewarm. They could work on the service.

Scott W.

Sad to report: the Delux is 86. Update: Delux Part II will open in Feb; it was sold to "a long-time employee"

M F C.

Haven't been here in years, so my review is a bit dated, but I think still applicable. Used to go here semi-regularly for after work snack/dinner and a few drinks. It's a funky joint, about 10 bar seats and maybe 10 tables, so small. They keep the only tv on the cartoon network, which is funny if nothing else. Christmas lights abound year round. This isn't your typical bar. If I had to classify it, it's more divey then trendy for sure, but in a good way. You won't see anyone in a suit here, more likely a chain wallet or a mohawk. It's great. Grilled cheese is great, and PBR in tallboy cans is also great. This is a divey-esce joint, fun place to go with friends, but not the place to meet new ones. Just too small.

Vanessa V.

Pros: Good, affordable food, decent beer selection, kitschy atmosphere that makes me feel for a night like I live in a cooler city than Boston Cons: Waitresses often seem personally offended that you came in, slow service, cash only, closes at 1am It's a good place to come for a low-key night and have a couple beers, and it's the only place in the South End/Back Bay area that's affordable and not super fancy/expensive, so I'm glad it exists.

Hector D.

I wish I can give this place four stars for the food and the place. My friends and I got a quick dinner and a drink here. I got the hoisin pork tacos, and they were pretty tasty. This place definitely gives off a divey, hole-in-the-wall vibe because it's kind of unassuming from the outside and it's pretty small and dark inside, but it's actually pretty cool...borderline hipster (per the other reviews lol). My only qualm about this place (that knocks it down to three stars) is the choice of beers. The draft and bottle selection was very limited and what they had was pretty crummy. For a bar to have subpar beer selection is a clincher for me. I don't mind too much about the cash only policy, but it could be better if they didn't have it.

Alexandria V.

I haven't tried the food. I'll be upfront about that. However, after being introduced to Delux from a friend who raved that I would "love this place," I haven't found a spot to match. I live in Somerville, and travel into Boston just to bring people here. So it's no stretch to say this is hands down one of my favorite spots in the area. Decent music (the walls are lined with records, might I mention), the people who frequent are solid, and the bartenders/ servers are genuine. No awkwardbarfeel here. Cash only. Don't forget your monies.

Monique S.

When we arrived, the bartender was too busy writing to help us. When she finally did, she came back with some pretty good drinks. My best friend ordered a long island, which was delicious. It was her birthday, so she was in a good mood. We took pictures, laughed, talked. After taking a couple of pictures with the Santa figure, we get back, and the bartender tells my friend that she is welcome to stay but cannot finish her drink. She did nothing to make herself appear intoxicated or a harm to herself or others. So, I told the bartender that I'd finish her drink for her. The bartender had no problem with that. I honestly think that the bartender was perturbed that my best friend was enjoying her birthday and wanted to throw a wrench in the works for her own sadist pleasure. In any event, while I was ready to make this a go-to place, I will not be back again.

X X.

Lovely.

Steve T.

What a find! This place is hidden away on a corner just a few blocks from my hostel. Their food is absolutely amazing (I recommend the gnocchi) and the service was as friendly as any place I've ever been. I plan on going back, because I hear I can't leave this city without trying their burger. My only complaint is that they're cash only. I really can't fault them for that, but as someone who doesn't usually carry cash it was a bit inconvenient.

Samantha B.

i loved the place. the tv had cartoon network channel on all the way. won't change. christmas lights are there all year around. awesome decorations. this is a cash only bar. small bar. funky and down to earth. i loved this place but it was a bit too dark for me (i'm deaf) so it was difficult kind of to focus on conversation if it was too dark for deaf people. i'd definitely come back if i'm ever around in the area though. check it out.

William M.

CASH ONLY. Seriously? Food was ok, but everything about this just felt like it was poorly run. For example, they have ONE red wine. Their menu the night I went had zero variety to it. Everything was a stewed protein over pasta. Even the place itself is dirty and grimy. I will say the staff is great. Our waitress did a great job, and even told us where the ATM was. But seriously? Cash only? Um... credit cards, debit cards, paypal, levelup, google wallet.... This is just stupid. I'm never going back. There are far too many places with better drinks, better food, better atmosphere, and they don't make you jump through hoops.

jun k.

Awful. Came here because of the great reviews since my friend A was visiting from CA and wanted to eat at the South End AND this place was semi-near the T. Obviously I'm a New England noob too because I brought her (and 3 other friends here). We got here, "cool vibe" or weird, dark vibe - depending on your temperament. We got the grilled cheese, some sort of salad, the gnocchi special (me), the cubano, and the pork thing. The grilled cheese was greasy. and small. ($8) The cubano was yummy but small (what's all this business of LOTS of food - you guys must be elves.) ($12) the apple salad was.. whatevers. She asked for it with dressing on the side. She got it with the dressing mixed in. ($9) J's pork looked and tasted decent. ($14) My ricotta gnocchi special was abominable. ($14) It sucked b/c i was deciding b't this and the grilled cheese and the waitress said the gnocchi was amazing. I got it per HER recommendation. I don't think she even tasted it. It was rubbery AND raw-textured in the middle. The sauce was okay .. but seriously. oh yeah, i got about 14 pieces, which means, each piece of gnocchi was a dollar. the service was SLOWWWW. They took forever refilling waters. Never. coming. back. ever.

Sharon C.

I can see myself coming back here to hang out again. I'm new to South End and this is the second bar I've been to since arriving. My friends and I came on a Monday night so the crowd was sparse, but I liked how laid back and unpretentious the place was. It's cluttered with decorations and it feels like it has some history to it. Graffiti in the bathroom is always a good indicator of the quality of a place.

Andrew T.

Awesome bar in the South End for food and/or drink. Interesting menu that changes frequently, cheap beers available, awesome atmosphere. It's a real unique place.

Kyle S.

Couldn't find a place to grab something good to eat last night with a group of friend -- so we gave Delux a chance to feed us. We've stopped in for drinks a bunch of times and absolutely love the atmosphere. The food was incredible. We ordered the steak tacos, grilled cheese, ribs, and Cubano. Everyone was raving about how great their food was. I'd really like to give them a 1 star yelp review, just to keep my favorite bar a Boston secret for years to come.

Christina G.

Delux is great! The epitome of dive! It's nothing much to look at, but It's funky, and I like it. I love all the old music memorabilia and the Elvis wall. The drinks are dirt cheap, the atmosphere is chill and the food is pretty decent for the price. Definitely a cool late night spot.

Tony S.

"A building that looks like a public bathroom on the outside" ..... that's what my British friend texted me as I headed over there on a Tuesday evening..... which didn't really help me at all because, frankly, I have no idea what a public bathroom looks like on the outside. I even told the cab driver that, who then proceed to resemble a deer staring into headlights. Thankfully, because of my innate sleuth skills, and partially because it says "DELUX" in gigantor bold letters on the outside, I found the place. The very first impression I got as I entered was that it looked like the backdrop of an album cover by 'The Clash'. I swear I thought I was in a punk pub in mid-80s London. Record album covers adorn the wall, and there is even an Elvis wall, which, in my book, automatically makes it blue-suede-shoe-cool. The place is surprisingly small on the inside, but perhaps that's part of what gives it a kind of cozy feel. While they have no cocktail menu, they have a fully stocked bar that can make you practically anything. But it is the eclectic food menu that raises the bar of this place over other, um, punkpub-looking places. No seriously, the menu red like a sci-fi novel, and my British friend insisted that everything was a must-try. Unfortunately, I'd already eaten dinner, but I did opt to try what I thought was typical plate of nachos. What I got was something totally unexpected. It was a plate of baked (I think) tortillas accompanied by the most amazing mango salso I've ever had. I swear if I hadn't already eaten dinner, I'd have ordered 3 more portions. I was told that the quesadillas are to die for as well, and I've marked it down as a must-have on my next visit. Delux does not have any deep-fried foods on the menu (no friolater chips or typical pub grub grease-on-a-bone items), which I thought was rather original. Apparently, there is a specials menu that accompanies the regular list, which I think they said changes either weely or monthly. It added an artist-feel to the whole concept of Delux, and I find it hard not to want to come back just to sample everything on the menu. I was told to avoid the place on weekends unless you love being shoulder-to-shoulder with young kids (which I loved back in the day), so if you're in the mood to experience "cool", come on weekdays.

Ryan M.

I would have to agree with other commenters that this place isn't really a dive bar, its just a normal bar that plays good music and has a terribly kept bathroom. Other than being cash only and serving Narragansetts I think this place was simply established to allow South End and Back Bay residents to feel like they are going to a dive bar without leaving the comfort of their posh neighborhoods (no offense, I try to evacuate Allston as quickly as possible too). Not a bad spot, went here for a few late night drinks. I will say that the nachos leave a LOT to be desired.

Jonny H.

I'm torn. Want to rate this place high, but am totally put off by the CASH ONLY policy. Actually, not necessarily opposed to the idea (who carries cash??), but how about a little note in the window that states the policy?! Maybe a mention as you're seated? OK, you've been here for 20 years, and that's been the way you've done business for lo those many years... but what about a business tourist in town for two days, just looking for a late night meal & a tasty brew? Delux seemed, and DID answer all those questions... then came the CASH only BS. Had to hike to the train station 2 blocks away, wade through the "nighlife" there, and find an ATM, only to hike back to Delux to pay the poor girl who had to listen to my tirade because management is stuck in some sort of "ain't gonna share my money with the man" curmudgeonly rut from a time long since gone by. The steak frites was off the hook delicious, accompanied by an off-menu mixed green salad. Cool crowd, images of Elvis everywhere, great tunes. All the trappings of a great meal in a city I wish I could visit more often. Don't want to deal with the big credit card companies?!? No problemo, jerk-o... HOW ABOUT AN ATM IN THE RESTAURANT?!?!? How hard is that? Make cash easy to get, and your patrons won't be compelled to get back to their hotels and write nasty reviews on YELP! about your establishment. Dinner: excellent. Service: friendly & prompt. Beer selection: not bad. Cash only policy, with no indication of same: super El-dumbo. Get with the times, old man. Spell it with me: A - T - M.

Sarah G.

Ya gotta love bars that when you walk past them you would never know it was a bar from the outside. There is something about walking into what you feel like is an invite only party, when really all it is, is a small bar, but a small bar with lots of character!! The drinks here could be made a bit stronger in my book, but once you have a couple there are all kinds of things on the walls and especially in the tiny tiny bathrooms for you to entertain yourself with! All kinds of posters and art.... BUT the food is where Matt J. and I were a little disappointed. It was pretty pricey for a dive bar. We took our waitress's advice and got their special carne asada steak tacos since she said they were amazing and we had been craving steak earlier that day, but when she brought them (about an hour later it felt) those tacos were really the size of my pinky!! And there was nothing on the side either!! Just two tiny tiny tacos....and it was a $13 meal too!! I mean come on...I lived in LA for two years and had my fair share of overpriced mexican food, but Delux...there is NO WAY you should have charged that much for those tiny little tacos unless you actually had them flown in from mexico and had to pay their non-stop airfare! So Delux, you are lucky that Matt and I thought the vibe and ambiance and the fact that you look so darn secretive pushed you back up to three stars, because disappointing tacos just hurt my heart and my wallet in this case!!

Michael T.

This is my kind of place. I don't drink and like a quiet atmosphere. I came in on an early Friday evening before work. Delux Cafe is cozy and welcoming. The bartender was friendly and attentive but not pushy. The chef in the kitchen created a masterful Pork Enchilada that was delicious and that kept me satisfied until the end of work that night. This place is a gem and I will surely be coming back.

Julie N.

Lately it seems like the only good bar I can come up with going to is Delux. I really don't have a problem with that either. Delux is an awesome bar. It's dark, quiet enough, the waitresses make sure you're always got a drink in front of you, the food is great, and it's not that expensive. Sounds like a bunch of good reasons to go, right? I don't love that the only white wine in house is chardonnay and it tastes like apple juice. I don't love that three of us walked in at 6:00pm to an empty bar and by the time the rush hit at 8:00pm (after ordering four rounds) the waitress said we couldn't take up the table anymore because it was for dining customers only. Then she said she'll let it slide. Hmm.. so yeah. I guess there are just two things I don't love about this place. We'll be moving a block away from Delux soon and I have a feeling it will be our regular bar and I'm definitely okay with that. Oh, and get the empanadas. Realllly good.

Tara H.

F**k yes. For the past three weeks, my cast mates and I have been spending plenty of nights here. Frequently, as we emerge from our shows beat but looking for a place to relax with a delicious AND cheap beverage...no other place but Delux came to mind. This place has personality. It's not some super chic, traditionally expensive South End establishment. No, no...this place has SPUNK. There are posters, pictures, and memorabilia from old movies and performers. It's lit dark, creating a borderline hole in the wall vibe. It's small, quaint, cozy and the least pretentious place you will find in South End. After each show, around 9:30-10pm we were able to easily and quickly get seats to accommodate our group of 6 or more. Even the other night, when we were sure the group of 15 of us would not work, we managed to all squeeze in and eventually sit. Not only are the waitresses we had totally on top of their game, they have always been super friendly and eager to help no matter what. Plus you can't beat the drinks. They have everything from $4 Narraganset's to $6 mixed drinks, which never feel shy on the liquor. THEY ALSO SERVE FOOD! I've only had the Chips & Salsa, which the chips are baked tortilla slices. It threw me for a loop, but was a delicious treat to have. I found the perfect bar.

Graceypoo M.

Great dive bar with admirable entrees. Cash only. Lots of chotzkis all around... my favorite are the Playboy issue of Marge Simpson, the huge painting of the nude woman on the other wall, the Elvis bust, and the plastic Santa Claus lantern. The entrees are not bad. Beer selection is not that extensive, but prices are pretty good. Very cramped seating areas for groups. Remember that you are accepting all the charms that this place has to offer including the personalities of folks who work here.

Logan J.

this is a pretty fun place to grab a drink and bar food with friends. its definitely one of the least pretentious places in the area and is a great place to relax--it has a townie bar kind of feel. they have a pretty good beer selection but not too much food. i will say that the service here is pretty bad. there is/was a waitress here who treated my group pretty poorly and seemingly, purposely made us wait for drinks. it happened to me once out of the many times that ive been here, so im not going to let it affect my review too much. other than this event, its a great little bar.

Jonny C.

Delux, by no fault of it's own, usually happens to be my last stop of the night, when I am in a state of complete and utter weirdness. Like, I play tricks on people weirdness (most recently, i pretended to be a Russian doctoral exchange student studying industrial cleaning and janitorial practices and my friend/boss was my interpreter. I would essentially just blurt out names of hockey players, vodkas and say "dasvidaniya" over and over again, and it was gobbled up hook, line and sinker) Digression, your name is Jonny. However, the staff at Delux always appears amused by my antics, fills my cup quickly, and balances being relaxed and uber hipster quite well. The mix of red christmas lights, pitch black interior and acceptance of less than mature antics will continue to put Delux on my menu. Speaking of menus, I cannot picture food being served here.

Jennifer D.

Huge fan of the Delux Cafe. Cozy and quirky inside- I don't want to spoil it for you, but I'm guessing the other reviewers have anyway-- with Christmas decorations year-round, a wall dedicated to Elvis, a Jackalope mounted to the wall, and very interesting decor in the bathroom. I wouldn't go here on a sunny summer evening as it's dimly lit inside, but it's perfect any other time: late night, cold nights, rainy or wintery nights, or just your average night after sunset. Meanwhile, the drinks are cheap and the food always satisfies (grilled cheese and tomato soup? Bring it on!). What more could you ask for?

Mel L.

We came to this bar because we're from out of state, and we wanted to check out the local bars around our place. The place seemed interesting, especially since the last reviewer called it a "hipster paradise." I wasn't sure if I wanted to drink or not, but I decided to order something anyways. When the waitress asked me for my ID, she asked me for my passport. I am 25 and I am from Ontario (Canada). I never had a problem using my driver's license when i traveled anywhere in the states before (Michigan, New York, New Jersey, and Florida to be exact). I didn't bring my passport, because 1. I usually don't need to because I have a valid driver's license, and 2. I really only brought the minimal with me to this bar -- my phone, my ID, and a 20. When I complained that I never had a problem with this before (I used my license last Saturday at another bar in Boston), she had me talk to the manager. The manager was rude and just explained to me exactly what the waitress said. Now, honestly, I get it if your boss told you random things you have to do that make no sense.. but at least lie to me and give me a reason that makes sense to why you won't accept my ID. Tell me that you had problems in the past with fakes or something.. I don't know. Don't be rude and just regurgitate some lame bull. Needless to say I won't be visiting again.

Turner H.

GREAT date spot. Occasionally the service is a little less than friendly, but nothing that would deter me from coming back. It is also the ultimate 'randomly not crowded on a Th-Sat night' bar. It's small, but I've almost always been able to find a table. REALLY good chips and salsa plate, simple but delicious

Julie C.

Delux Cafe reminds me of that one creepy loner guy in your neghborhood as a kid. You hear stories and if you grew up in the neighborhood, you knew who he was. You drive by on your bike and wonder what sort of things happens inside, does he hurt animals, does he have any friends, what does he do all day? You imagine his place is the kind of place that is full of randomness. Pictures of naked or half naked women that is considered "art", collages of random cut ours from newspapers & magazines. Prom pictures of old friends. Old record covers that he got from his father whose past away and every kind of knick knack, sculptures, statues you only find from yard sales or flea markets. Then one day you see him. You stop dead in your tracks as he says hi to you. he's sitting on his front lawn drinking a Miller Hi-Life. He invites you to come in and have some dinner. You feel bad saying no despite the stories you heard , so you nod yes. His Bourbon corn chowder is sweet and the toast that comes with it has the perfect crunch and complements the chowder wonderfully. The grill cheese- wow, its like art. perfectly brown and oozing of cheese. It looks like something you can devour in a second. The baked penne cooked al dente and comes out hot. The mezzaluna is delicious. To wash this all down, he pours a tall Tremont Ale. It goes down smooth. After the meal, you thank him and leave thinking, this guy isnt so creepy anymore. he is actaully awesome! Next time you come around, you're going to bring a few friends and some cash.

Josh C.

Josh: "good prices and mellow atmosphere don't overcome lack of draft selection" Rebecca: "grungy but cool cozy atmosphere"

Travis L.

Amazing cod and mashed potatoes. The place is warm and divey in a good way. Our server was friendly and kept that water coming.

Kristin A.

Casey Keenan took me to this bar because he knew they served Schlitz. I loved the improv cocktails and the music was great. A refreshingly comfortable and almost fringe corner bar in an otherwise undeservedly upscale neighborhood. This place almost reminds me of Central Square in the nineties. Highly recommended!!

Emily C.

I'm going to second everything Jason B. said. I love everything about this place and it's totally the type of place I'd run if I ever had a bar. Don't be afraid of the shithole-esque exterior! Laid back, delicious food, and prices you can't beat. I work in Back Bay and this has now become a staple in my post work dinner and drinks rotation. I can't believe I waited this long to pop in!

Kevin B.

Great spot in the south end - a bit cheaper than a lot of other places and the food is awesome. Small in size but a favorite for a post-work drink or meal. Super friendly staff.

R C.

True dive. Amazing service, love the food, no nonsense service w/ a charm. Keeps me coming back. Only fault is they don't have a cocktail menu, other than that I love pretty much everything about it!!!! Never crowded overly crowded. Definitely recommend for any and all!

Keli R.

We're always one for trying out the hole in the wall place amidst a sea of high end choices. Delux Cafe seemed to hit the bill. We were staying at a hotel a few blocks away and decided to make our move. We literally almost walked by the place. Placed on the corner of two streets, it is hard to spot. It's dingy, it's dirty and it's small but that's why I like it. I had read a lot of reviews on here that had said the food was good and the drinks were cheap. We ordered a few Champagne of beers and an appetizer that was chicken and cheese empanadas with spicy ketchup and a mixed baby green salad. YUM! Let me give it to the chef/chefs here. That kitchen is small and cramped. The waitress or bartender sends a ticket through the window at the side of the bar and they get to work. I was lucky enough to be able to peer into the kitchen and spotted the female chef making everything from scratch. No pre frozen empanadas here! I was impressed. If I lived in Boston, this is a place I would go a lot. It's quirky and completely off key. You can go there in your sweats. The menu is small but ever changing and always eclecticly delicious. I do have a few gripes though (which is why I could not give it 5 stars). The bartender and waitress, although not rude, were not overly friendly and spent most of their time reading gossip mags in the corner. Also, a table came in (older people who looked like deer in headlights upon stumbling on this place...but were too proud to leave)...were given a horrible attitude from the waitres when, being slightly confused, tried to order their meal while she was taking drink orders. I guess she thought this was a no-no.. and instead of just remembering the order...said..DRINK ORDERS ONLY!! Phew...she was tough... But sit me on a bar stool at this place with some beer and food and I'm forever good to go...