I had a margarita and it was delicious! The stuffed mushrooms were awesome too, but most of all the service was spot on . Our bartender , Carolanne ( I think) was very accommodating. We will definitely be coming back.
Where is my 2010ish review for Shenanigans??? I, too, was part of a bar crawl crowd that was kicked out for shenanigans at shenanigans once upon a time. I don't think any of the other reviewers actually defined these shenanigans, but I remember them well. It was STOP 2 on the bar crawl, which means nobody was drunk. We were just telling stories and taking selifes and that was a about it. Sure, maybe an hour later people were getting "iced" (if you dont' know don't ask) and shots a plenty were had. The crowd ran wild. Way way way way way after leaving Shenanigans. That review, left me with one star. Recently, however, I had lunch at Shenanigans with coworkers. The ham sandwich special would have been mounds better were it served on the sour dough bread it was alleged to come with, however, I was starving so I ate the rye. The beer selections is good. The fries are crispy. For work lunch: solid choice. For bar crawls: skip ahead to the next place.
(3)
Connor E.
I remember when this place was an old school restaurant on one side and a dive bar on the other. It's come a long way since then. The value for what we got was superb. I took my mother out to dinner here and we had a beer, martini, an app, and two dinners. Tab, $50. There are few restaurants that offer comfort food anymore. Just what you need after a rough day.
(4)
Scotty C.
Friends and I were looking for a casual place to grab a bite to eat before meeting friends in Seaport for drinks. We weren't looking for anything fancy so my buddy suggested we go here because their food is always solid. It was fairly early on a weekday so we were one of the first sets of patrons to arrive. As the name suggests, the atmosphere is very irish pub-ish. A huge U shaped bar commands the room with some scattered tables off to the sides. This is the type of place you saddle up to the bar. The draught selection was impressive offering Irish import favorites to local brews from down the road. The true standout surprisingly wasn't the beer though, it was the food. It's simple bar food mixed with some traditional Irish dishes and the three of us were impressed. One had a burger, one the steak tips, where as I opted for the Shepard's Pie. Hands down the best Shepard's Pie I've had to date. The gravy was life changing and had a good mix of meat and veggies. Over the top was a thick layer of mashed potatoes whipped to perfection and then put back under the broiler to give the whole dish a lite crispy crust. This dish is an absolute must for any visit.
(4)
Kayabba L.
I haven't decided what was worse the service or the Lobster Roll Sliders. The lobster roll description should have read diced celery with minced lobster meat. To be fair the celery wasn't diced big at all I just want to give you a better idea of the size of the lobster meat. Since I'm being fair I'll also say that 2 out of 6 sliders did have extremely small pieces of cut up tail. I'm also not a fan of lobster drowned in mayo however when it is so dry you begin timing your waitress in need of a drink to wash it down it says a lot. Onto the service or should I say lack of. After being served our meals the next time we had contact with our waitress was about 15 minutes after we were finished and asked the bar tender if someone would bring our checks. I noticed our waitress begrudgingly pulling herself away from her lunch. I'm assuming she wasn't eating lobster rolls.
(2)
Angela S.
Great place for food and/or drinks. I'll come here often for some after work beverages and apps. It's conveniently located on West Broadway so easy it's a quick stop off of the #9 bus or approx. 10 min walk from Broadway Station. They have a daily specials menu that usually has some great options that always taste great! Weekends- I'd much rather head here than somewhere like Stats or Lincoln.. Aka where everyone who just discovered Southie between the ages of 22-30 are. Plenty of TV's around and usually plenty of seating. Great place to go for dinner or with a group of friends for a game. Reasonably priced, too. Overall, no complaints about this place!
(5)
Laura F.
This place could be amazing if the service wasn't horrible all the time. I live close so I frequent shenanigans often. Reggae night is fun. Their food is great but service is painfully slow and no one is friendly.
(3)
Dane M.
So many wacky shenanigans occur at this fine establishment!! Make sure you keep your head on a swivel or you could suffer a sports injury!
(4)
Leah R.
Came here after a work event with a big group on the recommendation of a colleague, and definitely was not disappointed (even though I was skeptical about the name of the place). It took us forever to decide on food as it was a bit loud in the restaurant and there are so many good choices on the menu to choose from, but our waitress Kate was very attentive and patient- even when we asked for 6 separate checks for expense account purposes. I got the buffalo chicken nachos as my meal which were top-notch, but my co-worker that ordered the beef skewers won the lottery for the night. They were the most tender and perfectly cooked skewers I have ever had. Food and service = 5 stars Acoustics = 3 stars
(4)
Barry W.
The service was horrible. Although, they seated us quickly and at a requested booth, the wait staff continued to pass our table as if we were invisible for over 10 minutes. I had to yell out for service. WTH! The guy who was waiting on all the tables in our area sent over another girl and continued to ignore us. This isn't a welcoming establishment, unless, maybe for locals. I should have left. Instead I put my feet up and forced them to serve me. The food was ok - not great, not bad.
(1)
Ashley N.
I really like this bar in Southie. Good atmosphere and good food. I love their chilli. It's really good. Try it! I come here to watch some football games and it's great and loud and fun to be in and around people (although anywhere is). The waitress was very nice! Service was good. The next thing to try on my list is their veggie burger which I hear is one of the best ones!
(4)
Anne S.
I would give 10 stars if I could. Best food. Best drinks. Best service....in Southie. It's essentially our second home and Erin, Julie, Louise, Carol Ann, Marie, Brendan, Dominic, Tony and Joey make us feel that way everytime :)
(5)
Emily L.
Bartenders and waitstaff are great! Their nachos and burgers are yummy. Tv's everywhere if you want to watch a game. I do wish they had authentic irish coffees though. Still trying to find thee place for that.
(4)
Ryan W.
I give it four just because the food is amazing have yet to have a bad meal, chicken pot pie and Shepards pie unreal. The only downside is the red headed Irish waiter the guys an absolute miserable douchebag...bartenders are great to
(3)
Jerry T.
Great drinks, ok food. The food was a bit bland for my taste, but the beer on tap was cold and fresh! All and all, not the worst meal ever.
(3)
Jason M.
Nothing here impressed me that much; it was fine. It's nice inside. They have a lot of HDTVs. There's a patio out back. The bartenders are pretty. The mediocre reggae band played their renditions of Ace of Base's "Don't Turn Around" and Phil Collins's "Another Day in Paradise." You can't make that last sentence up. It must be true then, right? Give the stars to the bartenders though. Even though this place was hopelessly crowded by 11PM, no one in our party waited particularly long to be attended to. Also, the prices weren't bad for the big city. Two well drinks and two ciders on tap for $23 on a Friday Night. You could do worse, for sure. For those of you looking to meet women [self not included], I did notice a good ratio of ladies to gents, most of whom were quite attractive by my standards. My friend hit one of them; she looked like Alison Brie from Mad Men... if that gives you a good idea. So it's a pretty good hangout spot. Close to the T and reasonably priced.
(3)
Ann M.
I'm editing this review because I came here for lunch with a co worker and our food was delicious ... We sat at the bar and our bartender was very nice and attentive ! It makes a difference!
(4)
Julie B.
Last weekend I suggested coming here for lunch solely so I could say the classic Super Troopers line: "I swear to God I'm going to pistol whip the next guy who says Shenannigans." Not really. Truthfully I just moved to Southie and wanted to check out some of the places closest to my new digs. My friends and I got prime seats right next to a big open window on quite the beautiful day. Can't really beat that. I ordered one of the sandwich specials -- grilled chicken, swiss, acocado, and chiptole mayo (?). There was SO much food on this sandwich. Look at the picture, I think they put an entire avocado on top -- I'm not complaining. The fries were decent and my friend's salad looked awesome, for a salad that is. They also have a cute little outside area that makes me wish it was July. I'm sure I'll be back for some hangover food!
(4)
David S.
Love this place. They always make you feel welcome, and the food is better than average pub fare. Love the steak tips, turkey tips, fish & chips, and beef stew. Great beer selection, and generous cocktails. Lots of TVs for sports, and the music is always at a level where you can carry on a conversation. Perfect for a casual night out. You'll be happy.
(4)
Sam A.
The best pub food in south boston! The whole menu is incredible but the buffalo chicken is the best in the area.
(5)
Alexander R.
HORRENDOUS SERVICE! I used to be a "regular" here, only because I was new to Southie and didn't know better. I would go in there a couple times a week - sometimes for lunch, sometimes at night for drinks with friends. The staff was NEVER POLITE. They'd never smile or ask how I was....and I WAS a "regular". I spent lots of money there and always tipped well...sometimes, begrudgingly....then came the tab mix-up of 2012. Not only did my friend and I pay our tab, WITH CASH, but we gave the (new) server about 40% tip. Well, next time i stopped in, I was treated like a villian. Again and again. I finally went in one slow afternoon to talk to the bartender on that day, the same one that was tending bar the day I was in. Long story short, she didn't believe me. She thinks I walked out on my tab, which I've NEVER done in my life. I've been in once or twice since and it's the same old stuff. Rude, rude, rude. I honestly think they actually make it a point to look stressed and busier than they really are! I've worked in the restaurant/bar/service industry for almost 20 years and I've never seen anything like it. The food and drinks are painfully average. But the SERVICE IS AS BAD AS IT GETS. I'm all set with this place. Go to the Lincoln, or Junction, or Stats, or Telegraph Hill, or the Franklin....
(1)
Kelly M.
This is a great local spot in Southie. Large U shaped bar with attentive staff. Great food - pot pie, nachos, any special dish!
(4)
Megan M.
We went there for lunch as we were traveling here from Ohio for a conference. The food was great however the service was awful! We ordered 3 salads and it took almost 45-55 minutes just to even get food. It took us probably 15 minutes to get waters. Really? We then wanted to get our checks as we needed to get back to the conference and asked for separate checks as we needed them for itemized receipts for work. The waitress actually rolled her eyes and said "you never specified at the beginning that you wanted that." Ok understandable, we are from out of state, but no need to be rude. I would go there for food but just know that it may take awhile...
(2)
Kevin C.
Very discouraged. Pretty regular customer. Went there today late afternoon. Mashed potatoes so salty could not eat them. Green beans and carrots which used to be great we're overlooked and way over salted. NY Strip asked for med and got well done full of grisel (sp). Not sure I will be back anytime soon.
(2)
Local G.
I love this place for several reasons ... 1) you hardly ever find the same db frat boys here that will wait in line at Lincoln not even a block away 2) food is consistent, reasonably priced and quick (don't bother with the nachos though - they are boring) and 3) lots of tvs 4)it's one of the few places left with some Southie flare. The manager or host has an awful attitude but for some reason I like the grumpy bastard.
(4)
Jen H.
No shenanigans Allowed at Shenannigan's!!!!! Boo hisssssss.
(2)
Allie H.
I went here for lunch on a Saturday. I had an amazing Fish Sandwich that I would certainly want again!! Everyone I was with loved the food as well The service though was not the best. It took forever to be waited on, then get drinks, forget for our friend who ordered a beer. When you can see the bar it is tough to justify why it is taking so long. Our server was not on the floor much and did not seem interested in making sure we had the best experience possible. Their food is great but just don't expect to be in and out of there quickly or wowed by their service
(3)
Christina Z.
This is EXACTLY what i never knew I always wanted #heartheartheart Facts: It is is Southie; the space is GORGEOUS and clean; they serve up a mean shipyard pumpkin with sugar and spice and everything nice, and the crowd is deliciously Southie-Student-Yuppie hybrid. I couldn't ask for more. I'm dying to go back. The music was great, they had always sunny on the telly, the bartenders were friendly but didn't harass you. I could totally see this as my favorite haunt. Haven't been this in love with a bar (and felt like I belonged) since the Mission Bar in Mission Hill.
(5)
Cathryn D.
Would give this place negative stars if possible! Never have I been so disrespected in my life!! Rudest employees I have ever dealt with and will NEVER be going back to this place. Was asked to meet here for a friends birthday last weekend. She wanted to see the reggae band, which we had heard was very good. I got to the place at around 930 and 3 of my friends were already there. When I sat down my friends had informed me that the waitress came over when they got there and told them that she wasn't going to serve them drinks because she wanted to leave when her shift ended (I thought that seemed a little rude but it didn't bother me and I was fine with ordering from the bar). We had begun a conversation amongst ourselves as we waited for our birthday guest and the rest of our friends to arrive. The band was setting up and there were some people in and around the bar and sitting at tables but it definitely wasn't crowded - there were still quite a few empty tables. I had probably been here for about 5 minutes when a man (who we later found out was named Dominic - probably a manager, I know he is not the owner because we looked that up after) came over and rudely told us the waitress had left for the night and we needed to order our drinks at the bar...before even being able to answer him he hurried away. Maybe a minute or two later a woman came by and told us the same exact thing. We told her we knew that and that we were just waiting for the bday girl and rest of our friends to get there. About 30 seconds later Dominic comes back and tells us that if we aren't ordering drinks we need to leave. At this point I'm so pissed at about how rude they are being that I don't even want to buy a drink at this point - mind you we probably would have spent hundreds of dollars over the course of the night buying drinks because we had a a few more people coming to meet us. My friends and I begin to discuss if we should leave or not because we're already feeling disrespected and upset. Then Dominic comes back (he probably did about one lap around the bar since he had been there before - because it hadn't even been a whole minute yet) and demand we need to leave and that we are not allowed to hang out there. At this point the band still setting up, there are still empty tables at the bar, and it's not even 10PM yet. We try to explain that we are waiting for our friends and he just says "No, get out, you need to leave, you can't hang out here." The only people that were nice to us were the bouncers who began talking to us when we were leaving, we told them we were waiting for our friend who's bday it was and he said he would talk to the manager and figure things out but we didn't even want to stay at that point because of how rude everyone else in there was, so we left. Not much to say about the food or drinks since we didn't even get to experience it, but the service is absolutely TERRIBLE and I will NEVER be going back to this place EVER. In hindsight, we probably should have ordered drinks instead of hanging around for a half hour but I never knew it was a rule that you had to drink at a bar, and we were GOING to order drinks once the rest of our friends got there. If the waitstaff let us explain that instead of rudely demanding us to order drinks or leave then maybe the situation would have turned out differently. But instead, leaving here, I was pissed off and felt extremely disrespected.
(1)
Laura J.
I went to Shenanigan's last Friday and had a beer, appetizer, and entree. The appetizer was the fish tacos which was delicious and the entree was the grilled salmon. Everything was delicious. The grilled salmon was fresh and had a creamy sauce. The service was fast and Just perfect for a friday night!
(5)
Christine S.
The food at this Irish pub is so underrated. In fact, it's one of my favorite places to grab a casual bite to eat. Our favorite things on the menu are the Beef Skewers - yummy, tender, with a little kick, and the delicious salads. Sure a salad with grilled chicken seems easy, but I have had so many in Boston with dry, almost inedible meat. The salads at Shenanigans are HUGE and the grilled chicken is warm and juicy and a very generous portion. Their balsamic vin is a mild white balsamic that is just to die for. My favorite is the apple and goat cheese salad - try it - you won't be sorry. Best night for dinner is Wednesdays for pub trivia. Great date night!
(4)
Emily G.
Dear Shenannigans, If you do not allow such actions in your establishment, you might consider changing your name, or at least putting a "No" in front of it. Love, Emily G. and the rest of Red Scare 2010.
(2)
Linda E.
How about you guys leave the kitchen open after 9pm if you are open until 2am? Went here with Elizabeth D. after a Yelp event to get a drink at the bar. I got a Landshark which I loved and she got a Blue Moon with an orange slice. The bartender was a bit quick to cash us out even though we were just hanging out, that was a bit weird. We were able to look at the menu, which looked to be ok, but a bit expensive, good place for beer, the Blue Moon was only $4.75. I wouldn't go here for late night food since it's non existent!
(3)
Ren X.
SUPER CHEAP DRINKS coming from new york, im used to all cocktails to be at least 10 dollars. theirs is only like 6.5-7 dollars. this place is great! crowded on a friday nite.
(4)
Lauren L.
The only reason this place is getting 2 stars is because the food was ok. Not great, but decent. The service was absolutely terrible. I was in on a slow Sunday night and it seemed like the staff was mad we stopped in. We were hoping to watch football and they did switch one TV to the game we requested. However, the bartenders made us feel like we were inconveniencing them when we asked for drinks. One of the bartenders boyfriends was sitting next to me and would make rude comments under his breath anytime we would cheer for our team. The only people the bartenders wanted to be paying attention to were the other people working in the bar or their significant others. This made for a really poor experience and I will definitely not be returning here.
(2)
Nina H.
OK so I only have one visit to critique and it was on the St. Patrick's Day parade day. Yeah , $20 cover charge but seriously, if you expected something cheaper or no cover on parade day in Southie you're either from Mars or just turned 21 and this is your first day in a drinking establishment. Anywho... I thought the bouncers and waitstaff and bar backs did a great job this day. Cash only bar on this day which they have to do or sink in the red tape... I brought a fist full of cash and I gladly paid the cover and $6 Bud Light drafts and I had a blast, it was a great day. Only thing that bummed me out is that I momentarily was told I had to wait in line again after stepping outside to view the parade for a few minutes, thankfully the other bouncer found mercy on me and let me back in. :)
(4)
Barbara J.
The stars they get are for the food alone. The steak tips and turkey tips are DELICIOUS. I used to come here at least once a week for dinner and once a month with my coworkers for an early happy hour. We had half days so we were typically there around 2:30 on a Friday. Not a busy time but still get the absolute SNUB. I'm talking a group of 10-12 people all drinking more than one drink, with about half staying for dinner. I'm talking a hefty bill with people accommodating tips for our large party size. We're a rowdy bunch and had made this our place for over a year. But the past few times we've been we've gotten nothing but rudeness and cold shoulders. Bad bad bad service and acting like how dare we bring a large group into a dead restaurant at 2:30 on a Friday? We've made Telegraph Hill our new spot. Awesome drinks, food, and they servers actually talk to you, make suggestions, and want you to come back.
(2)
May N.
Cute place for a drink in good weather - they open up the front windows and there's a small patio in the back. It's not too crazy or busy on a weekday afternoon so didn't experience the usual "hate outsider" Southie attitude. Enjoyed a $3 alcoholic tea (bottled) and a blueberry beer (draft). Service was good, checked in on us throughout the afternoon, but didn't constantly hover. Several big screen tv's throughout the place so I bet it'd be fun to watch a game.
(3)
Mandi R.
Keeping in mind this is a local joint, really love this place. Have yet to have one bad meal here (from apps, to salads to entrees). Ive actually chosen to go here on dates over more "fancy" restaurants because the food is that good. Two words: spinage dip. Super reasonable (if not underpriced) meals. Friendly staff. All the patrons seem to be enjoying themselves too. Fun laid back atmosphere. You can order a draft beer or martini and not feel put of place.
(4)
Cait O.
I just left Shenanigans for my fathers birthday. We had a party of 6 and were looking for something affordable and reliable. Shenanigans is always a guaranteed GREAT meal and a good time! I ordered the Cajun Haddock special and it was great! Our bill for 6 came to less than we expected and the service was much more than we expected!! There is also a reggae band on Fridays at 9 that is THE BEST!!!
(5)
Katherine D.
4 stars because the food is just so good. Don't ever come on a Friday or Saturday for a night out, but come by for food and leave satisfied. Country fried chicken is great, the blackened chicken pasta is delicious, and all of the fried apps are worth a try.
(4)
Sarah C.
Head over to Shenannigans on Friday nights for live reggae - yeppers REGGAE! It's a amazingly random combination and yet fabulous at the same time. Townie Southie boys all dressed up in their red soxes attire, popped collars and perfectly white sneakers swaying to the music of Jamaica. Plus the reggae band is amazing. I could watch the keyboardist play all night and pretty sure I laughed out loud when the lead singer pulled out a joint during the drum solo and took a hit - now that's what I call reggae. Food here is above average for a pub. Good burgers, huge salads and all the bar food munchy apps you could want. The beer selection is what's great - tons of beers on tap and plenty of bartenders to get you a cold one. Ladies - on the weekends you're in luck. If you're on the prowl for a Boston bred Southie man the odds are in your favor here - it's about 3-1 men. ohh ya!
(4)
Tom K.
I really don't like this place. I've been here 3 times over the last 1.5 or 2 years or so and hope to never be back. In my 3 visits, I've never had anything stand out. There are quite a few reviews here that rave about one dish or another but I, at best, have found them all to be forgettable or, at worse, have had them make me or my friends ill. Its just not worth it. And the service is terrible too. The bartender does a good job of not seeing you, whether you're trying to order some food, get another drink, or trying to get the check so you can get the heck out of there, its almost impossible to get anything done in a reasonable amount of time. With so many options on Broadway and surrounding area, I'd avoid this place and keep walking to somewhere that can get it right.
(1)
Dino D.
I really enjoyed it, I was expecting the usual pub food but was pleasantly surprised. Had the steak and blue cheese salad, stuffed mushrooms, and a lobster or shrimp (I forget) mac and cheese. All were delicious, the service was okay, but the food is the reason I want to go back.
(4)
R A.
I enjoy Shenannigans. Food is really good!!! I enjoy the ambiance and decor. The band on Friday night was awesome. I'd definitely stop in again for dinner/lunch or to grab a beer. I was a little disappointed that they didn't have the NFL ticket. Of course they have the Pats game on, but my friend was hoping to see another game. Overall great neighborhood spot.
(4)
Courtney B.
Good food. Great service. The place was packed, but our server still managed to bring all our food out on time. Mac and cheese is to die for. Definitely recommend it!
(4)
Southie R.
I'll say it now: Best food in Southie. Not even a question. Better than the Beer Garden. Better than the Playwright. I love the food, and they give you a ton of it. I usually come with regulars, so the service is top notch. The prices are very decent (compared to other parts of Boston). On Wednesday's, they do Trivia, which I'm not into, but some are.
(4)
Lauren L.
Shenannigan's on West Broadway is one of my favorite by far bars/restaurants in South Boston, we are "regulars" there at the bar. Parking is free on side of building. HUGE +. The food is always consistent and the chef has been working there for 10 years. The salads are HUGE and always fresh. I highly recommend the Turkey Tips that are $9.99, they are delicious! In the Summer, there's a small outdoor quiet patio. HARD TO FIND IN SOUTHIE. The managers are always friendly. Bartenders: "Val" who is from Ireland works on Thursdays. She always greets us by our names and knows exactly what we want every single time we go! Great personality! "Lauren" who works at this bar full time is a doll! She knows how to handle a busy crowd and makes a GREAT bloody mary. LOVE HER! "Brendan" who works on Saturdays is hysterical. He always makes us laugh and makes the best drinks. Thanks Shenannigan's!
(5)
Krys A.
No Shenannigan's Allowed at Shenannigan's!!!!! Meh. The 1st time I did the bar crawl here they said we were too loud and people were trying to eat lunch. 2nd time here,... we were too loud and people were trying to eat their lunch. 3rd time... welp, there wont be a 3rd time for the Red Scare. Though I did enjoy one of the bartenders who was quite pleasant he was very happy to take pictures for us :) Don't let the name fool you. Shenannigan's... Ha!
(2)
alison j.
I am taking away one star because the bartenders seemed to have gotten worse. I went in here TWICE in the last month on a Friday night only to stare at the bartenders for 20 minutes, be ignored, get annoyed and go next door. There were 3 bartenders. The bar is not that big. Now why would I come here twice in a month if that's what happened to me the first time? The Friday night reggae band is awesome. I might just have to start sneaking in nips or something so I can have a drink while I listen to them.
(1)
Sara M.
This is a chill bar ideal for having lunch or an after-work beer. The food is quite good and portions are generous. I especially recommend their salads which are always HUGE and fresh. On a nice day they can slide open the large windows in the front of the building and let in some fresh air. Also of note, they have large flatscreen tvs around the restaurant so you can eat lunch and watch the world cup ;) I would not recommend this bar to people looking for a super energetic, loud, young scene. It's just not that kind of place. However, it is clean, reasonably priced, has nice staff, serves good food, and is a great spot to catch up with a friend.
(4)
Sally J.
Just moved to the area and went to dinner with my Mom and brother. I thought Shenannigan's was just a fun place to drink; however, I was pleasantly surprised by my food and experience. It is obviously not fine dining but is excellent bar food. I ordered the buffalo chicken mac and cheese and boy was that a huge, cheesy, and hearty meal! Much better than the recently opened Lincoln restaurant across the street. Also the chili is tasty and heart-warming.
(5)
Julie S.
One of my favorite places to go in Southie- but only during the week! On weekends, the vibe in here is really weird. The people are local Southie people who get completely dressed up for a night at a casual bar (they often look like they are going clubbing). On weeknights, the place is great. I can usually find a seat at the bar, and the bartenders are very friendly. It is the kind of place where other people in the bar will make small talk with you. Additionally, it's not gourmet but as far as bar food- it blows Playwright and Beer Garden away. The onion rings are phenomenol, many of the sandwhiches are huge and delicious, and the main courses aren't half bad either.
(4)
Kim S.
Teriyaki beef sticks were amazing!! Had the Philly cheese steak that was great but a little dry but still worth eating. Great atmosphere!
(4)
Krista S.
This bar was filled with men on Friday night. Someone must have put out the word for all the attractive late 20s early 30s men to show up at Shenannigans and the forgot to invite the ladies. It was around a 8:1 males to female ratio! The reggae band seemed a bit out of place for the clientele but I loved it! I'll be going back and bringing all my single gals.
(4)
Carly R.
I always go here for lunch on Fridays when I have doctor's appointments in the area. So that's the context. Great food for a pub environment, though I rarely get more than a cup of chowder. I really like the vibe and the other people who frequent the spot during daytime (think older locals who are very vibrant and friendly.) It was a breath of fresh air to go there today, after seeing, to my horror, the Starbucks and high priced residential building being constructed by Broadway station, and feel like the place was still dominated by down to earth Southie types, construction workers on lunch break etc... who never lack a smile or conversation starter (love how people were talking across the room to each other from several tables away.) It's clearly a spot that people are regulars and recognize other regulars. It's a nice touch that they have appealing specials; too many casual pubs don't even bother mixing it up to keep steady clientele entertained with new options. I haven't been out there just to hang at night since 2007, so I can only speak to the daytime vibe, which is super comforting, especially on this chilly Winter day.
(4)
Erika K.
Been here a few times and am always very pleased. The service is nice and really friendly and the food is delicious! First of all food, I mean come on food always comes first! The buffalo chicken quesadillas are really good and creamy the Onion rings come with a fantastic sauce that I suggest you keep and use on everything! The shepard pie is well words can't describe Chicken Pot Pie is alright too sweet for my savory desires Potatoe Skins good Drinks! Reasonably priced and really generously poured. LOVE THAT! Atmosphere. perfect for what you want on different days of the week. Early dinner... soft lighting quiet music and calm Lat night ... great music lots of people great reggae band on friday TRIVIA! Wednesday night ... and they have fun prizes full of alcohol nothing better. You should go here if in the south end.
(5)
Mary M.
I stopped in here for a bite and a beer before meeting some friends for an evening of joviality. The bartender, Rob, was quite friendly and let me sample one of the draft beer selections before I made my decision and was more than happy to answer any question I might have had about the menu. I was only seeking an appetizer, and I chose the beef teriyaki skewers, which were quite delish. They came out served on a bed of rice (done just the way I like it - a bit sticky) with some chopped tomato for garnish and a serving of peanut sauce, which was also quite tasty, even though the beef did not need any additional seasoning - it was wonderful just as it was served. Overall, I liked the place very much, nice atmosphere, very clean, when I arrived, it was pretty quiet, but it was starting to fill up by the time I left. I would definitely be open to returning to Shenannigans for an entire meal.
(4)
Special O.
Worst in the league. If you want to stand around a bar and wait for the bartenders to come to you, try Shenannigan's. You will lose your buzz rather quickly - trust me. Oh and.....no dancing. Bouncers get mad. When the DJ is blasting music and you are trying to dance, they tell you to cut it out and sit down. They also have flat, warm beers. The drinks are weak. Trust me on this one. If you're in the Southie area, stay away from Shenannigan's.
(1)
Aditi R.
I haven't frequented Southie much at all. But the couple of times I've been it's involved this particular place and if anything, it's a good place to be acquainted with Southie. The bar is fun in general. They have different nights. Thursday is Karaoke nights and Fridays/Saturdays they have a DJ spinning various music and taking requests (though you may have to fight with him to play your song of choice at times). The best part about this place however are the bartenders and how nice and efficient they are. Right from the start they pay attention to you and no matter how full the bar may be make their way around and never give you the need or the attitude that comes with a busy bar. The crowd here is a mix of age groups, but generally one that is always interesting. I haven't tried their food so I can't write about that much, but as far as drinks and bartenders and atmosphere goes, I do enjoy this place. If I find myself in Southie, this will definitely be a place I come again and again.
(4)
Mary S.
HUGE portions, excellent taste and an up-scale pub feel--a great find in South Boston. I recommend the Shenannigan's chicken sandwich--so crisp, warm and delicious (plus it has BACON!) It's served along side a bed of fried-to-perfection french fries. My friend had the Shepard's pie which she found equally amazing and enough food for three!
(4)
Kaka-Q S.
Favorite pub in SoBo. Fantastic Irish pub food - try the pan fried steak and mashed potatoes or fish & chips - and great apps for games. Salads too - chicken fiesta salad with home made chipotle dressing. Yum. They have flat screens everywhere, a back patio, extremely clean everything, and lots and lots of beers on tap. The waitresses are friendly and fast and remember your drink orders. It's always a great place to grab a bite on a week night or catch a game.
(5)
Jackie D.
Here's the SITUATION: Came here with the boyfriend after work on a Friday, 5:00-ish, sat at the bar, didn't leave until 9:00-ish (four hours? yes, we were surprised too!). It was empty when we got there and full when we left. I've also been here before for just drinks. I have random thoughts of my experience and feel the need to make pro and con bullet points... ATMOSPHERE +Comfy bar stools +Chill feel +Random crowd, all ages aside from kids +Flat screens, some with the games on -One of the T.V.'s had CNN on which was airing a disturbing segment. The T.V. sound wasn't on so I'm not sure if it was even a sad story, but the visual def was...I just felt the need to mention this as it was a bizarre part of my experience DRINKS: +Good enough beer selection +Delish chocolate martini -The drink menu is basically all vodka drinks...would've liked to seen more of a variety. Vodka is usually not my friend -The pinot grigio I had was no bueno FOOD: +Boyfriend claims that the beef skewer app was delish and like a fellow yelper also thought the sauce was not needed. This could've been a meal with the bed of rice they were served over +Onion ring app was good as well. Wish the sauce was a little spicier but that's just my preference. +Portions were generous -I ordered the mussels and linguine with the "white" sauce for my dinner. Sauce was really just an odd butter mixture with a funky taste. Wouldn't recommend it, maybe try the "red" sauce instead SERVICE: +When we first got there, our server was friendly and attentive, and after changing shifts the new ones were as well +The guy bartender that ended up taking care of us for the night was attentive and friendly...and cute, bonus. -During the shift change we were neglected for quite a while and sat there with our app dishes in front of us waiting for our order to be taken and dishes to be cleared --The bartenders all chomped their gum. I feel as though I should take a star away this drives me so crazy! One of my biggest pet peeves and I couldn't even understand what one of them was trying to say to me. RANDOM POINTS: +Taxi stand right outside the entrance +Clean bathroom -Not that close to the T -Who doesn't have a website these days? OVERALL: Although I liked my app and drink, and am sure that there's better items on the large menu than the mussels, and service without the gum and shift change might have been superb, I just can't bring myself to give it 4 stars. Especially not with the competition around them. Would/will I go back? Of course. I think I would def be more impressed on another visit, seems like a good enough place.
(3)
Jen S.
I Will Pay A $20 Cover To Go To This Bar When Pigs Fly, And Then When One Of The Flying Pigs Lands And Bitch-Slaps Me. Until then, don't count on ever seeing me hand over a $20 to get in this door. I'm going to take this out on Shenannigan's, because I cant review three bars all at once, but apparently on Sunday the Playwright and Boston Beerworks in Southie were also charging $20 covers. Here's a thought - about one trillion people would go buy beers at your establishments if you wouldnt try to jack 20 bucks off of us to get in. I know, you can only fit so many people in, so why not make the extra money. But I have another idea - why not NOT be douchebags? Great question. I especially have a problem with this because of how much we all needed to pee at the parade. Obviously we were drinking beers standing on the street, so after a few of those the need to pee was somewhere between "if I wasn't 26 I would shamelessly piss myself" and "nobody knows me in Southie, who cares if I piss myself." Ideally, I could have just walked into Shenannigan's across the street, peed, and then I'd be writing a review that was like "Oh man, Shenannigans is f*cking awesome, their bathrooms are so nice and I just love thier decor." Okay, whatever, I would never write anything like that, but you get my point. But no. $20 bucks to hang out inside and drink, $20 bucks to pee. Let me make myself clear - I would gladly pee on the shoes of the dude taking the 20s before I gave him the 20. I kinda still want to. Anyway, instead of going to Shenannigans, my friends and I went to a strangers home, used their bathroom and then hung out at their party drinking their beer. I think they loved it. Don't pay a cover to go to a bar in Southie unless Whitey Bulger is there holding a gun to your head.
(2)
Jorge F.
One of my favorites in southie. Good food and rarely over crowded. The beef teriyaki skewers are my favorite appitizer. The fish tacos are huge and a little sloppy but very tasty. Steak tips were ok.
(4)
Robyn R.
This place is a great spot for Southie - not your traditional Irish pub, but more of an upbeat spot with live reggeeon Fridays and good drinks. There is always a line later on the weekends, but I must say - it was my 2nd time here and I was def impressed! The crowd is pretty decent... Staff friendly, too.
(4)
Alex V.
Good pub food... staff is as rude as it gets... rude and lazy.
(1)
bex g.
usually the last spot of the night, but always a good time. friendly waitstaff, good prices, karaoke (!) and fun crowd. always important, they have clean bathrooms -- but beware the hand dryers...they *could* blow your skin right off.
(3)
Ashley M.
irish pub meets retro sports bar... food's not too bad either. its always been pleasantly crowded (week days and weekends) when i've gone - but not so crowded you're waiting outside.
(3)
Tyler C.
This place is hard to figure out. I have been in here on days when the atmosphere is good, and on days when the atmosphere is downright horrible. It seems with this place if you time it just right it's a good place to stop into for some drinks and food. The food here is good. I had a daily special here once of spicy shrimp gumbo and it was fantastic, but nothing else comes to mind to brag about on their full menu. Their tap choices are actually not bad, and the bar is big enough so usually you don't get squeezed off the bar while trying to order. Every other time I am in here though something always goes array, and it always has to do with the other people who show up to this place. Once the scantly dressed Miller Lite Girls showed up and every meat head in the place became uber frat boy and annoying. The Party Trolley also shows up quite often to dump off a bunch of black out drunks onto the scene, which is always a good time as well. The sad part is this would probably be at least a 4 star establishment if it wasn't located in Southie and the people inside weren't so annoying sometimes.
(3)
Marie F.
On 1st visit, food was good but waitress was horrible. On 2nd visit 4/7/13, got same bad waitress & food was just ok. Ordered burger & steak tips. Waitress never came back after food was served to make sure was cooked ok. Was given empty bottle of ketchup. The place was not busy. When i was able to locate waitress she was just sitting down at a table. Its too bad. Cute place but wont go back.
(1)
Mike H.
Good place to watch a game and enjoy a beer. Tons of flat screens so you won't miss any of the action. The Cajun chicken sandwich is good but the roll it is on dissolves while you are eating it. Burgers and aps are also good. Bar is fun. There is ussually a band playing on Friday or Saturday night and Karaoke on Thursdays. I shall return.
(4)
Doug R.
WOW- i have lived next to this bar for over two years now and have also been on yelp for just as long and i have no excuse whatsoever for not writing a review. it has been a quite and adventure for myself and shananers... when i first moved over there i would have said this bar was a two, i thought the best thing about it was the changing lights in the ceiling. i wasn't a big fan of the menu and it was a little to quite. since then they have opened the back patio! amazing, that's all i have to say about that. they a constantly running beer specials and they have quite the selection on draft. not mention they were one of the first to have Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka available. Billie M's and my excitement for this find that we drank the whole bottle in one night. no lie. the bartenders there are great, friendly and personable. if you bump into them on the street, you may end up having a small conversation. Believe me this happens more to me and than some would like to admit. but I'm OK with it. karaoke on Thursdays is hit or miss. sometimes there is a line and you cant even get near the joint and sometimes its low key, i prefer the low key but i am always up for dealing with a crowd. if you don't like the crowd head next door to its sister bar the CLOCK TAVERN. The one thing i wish they had more of was live entertainment. they usually have something going on Friday and Saturday. but sometimes its just a DJ. a little more live music never hurt anyone. just saying. Oh sweet Shenannigans, how you brighten my week up my week, 2-3 nights at a time!
(4)
Susan K.
Don't come here and expect to finish giving your order to your waiter. He has better things to do. Came here with a group of six (family). Sat on the patio in the afternoon. Must have been a leper colony based on the way our waiter treated us. Four people in our group had given him our order and when the fifth wasn't fast as lightning to give hers he simply walked away. No "Do you need another minute?" or even asking the sixth member of our party what she would have liked. Just walked away. And nevermind trying to get oh, lets say, a refill of water on a hot Saturday. In the end we just got desserts which are actually made at the bakery across the street, so I can't speak for the food. Our waiter acted as if he had to make the cakes from scratch in his own kitchen. Anyone know if constantly rolling your eyes is indicative of a nervous tic or maybe a brain tumor? Either way, he should see a doctor. Or maybe a therapist. I have never seen such an attitude in someone who works essentially for tips, so I figured him for a manager. Asked the hostess on the way out and she said he was a server. The hostesses I should add are very nice and must be overworked apologizing for service. This is definitely a gentrified Southie bar and I'm sad to say I'd rather take my chances in the old Southie bars than visit this sorry excuse for a business again. I won't pay someone to treat me like trash.
(1)
Dan C.
A fourteen year old English chick probably best summed up the disparity between what one is and what one pretends to be best, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose [b]y any other name would smell as sweet." However the corollary also hold's true--it doesn't matter what you call yourself, if you're a bull but call yourself a cow, now matter how hard I tug, I'm not getting out any milk. What does this have to do with Shenannigans, you ask? Well, Shenannigans doesn't allow shenannigans. Similarly, shenannigans is actually spelled shenanigans.
(1)
Ashla D.
I recently moved to Southie from Beacon Hill...and live right around the corner from Shenannigans...so my roomie and I decided to check it out. We've only been on weeknights--once just for drinks and once for dinner. The first time we were greeted by a very friendly bartender. The bar was pretty busy on the night we went and we were having trouble finding 2 spots together at the bar--and the bartender came out of his way and finagled 2 seats for us--and then was very tentative all night! Second time --food was mediocre..and service also! Our server wasnt horrible, but he may have only said three words to us all night. Decor is decent--and the resto was pretty clean! There was a mixed crowd between the young professionals, probably new to the area like ourselves and the older 40+ regulars... The Sox were also playing one of the times we went--and if you like hearing the commentators--this would be a great bar for you--they had the tv up and music off--and there were also plenty of flat screens around... We'll be back for drinks for sure--and maybe just stick to the apps!
(3)
Billie M.
So it's still a three, but now it's a HIGH three instead of a low three. Why? Back patio. 10 tables outside, under shadowy lattice work strung with hanging plants. NEVER a wait, and finally (!) a waitress with some pizzazz. I'm slowly coming around to you Shenannigan's. Just give me a little more time.
(3)
Tom W.
We visit Shennanigans on a regular basis, more for the food than drinking, and always leave by the time the band strikes up. The environment is very nice, clean and comfortable, sometimes we just eat at the bar, or take a raised table which are well spaced with some elbow room. The menu is long and varied. We particularly like the Shennanign's Chicken which is their take on Pasta Carbonara. The portions are large - my significant other and I usually split one Chicken serving between us and leave both well-fed. We find this a nice place for a couple to enjoy a quiet , well prepared meal, but we are usually going out the door as the band tunes up and young singles begin to fill the bar. we always can find nearby parking on Broadway.
(4)
Jennifer K.
Cute little place for a beer and a snack down the street from our apartment. Food is classic bar food and the prices are decent; there are a lot of interesting drinks to try on their website. The place was clean and modern and the staff was friendly. TVs around the place to watch sports but not obnoxious enough to prevent conversation with others. Found out there's Reggae night on Fridays - looks like we'll head back one of those nights!
(4)
South B.
Great place to eat. Nice waitres, amazing food--recommend steak tips, country fried chicken and chicken fiesta salad. Can always count on Shenanigans for good food and quick service. On a a side note; it'd be nice to have a band play other than the reggae for once..
(5)
Brian B.
Love this place. And, I'm not even Irish. Shalom, and welcome to South Boston, you mashugina. No, you won't find Matzo Balls or Latkes, but you will find what I consider to be the best non-Jewish, pub food around (is there Jewish pub food?). What do I mean? I mean good, honest American, errr, Irish, food, that's what I mean. Steak tips, curry, wraps - and get this - fresh salads and traditional Irish breakfasts, etc. And, all of it is fresh and very flavorful. I'm actually tempted to say that you can find some of the best noshes in Southie here. Yup. That's right. I'm kvelling because the menu is so varied, so consistently good, and so affordable. Also, the place is clean with a contemporary look - from the floors to the bar to the bathrooms. Also, every experience with the staff here has been fantastic. They're a bunch of mensches. They're comprised of about 143% Irish goys, and they're great. Always a smile. Always willing to share a story. Matter of fact, when I pop in with my little boy, the staff takes him for a walk around the entire place, and plays with him if it's not too busy. Free babysitting!!!!!!!!!! I can't gush enough. This place is so good for bar food and pleasant conversation (the music can get a little loud late). I mean, we spend so much time here that my wife practically gave birth at the table by one of the sliding, wide open windows while watching the World Cup (great place to catch a game - lots of flat screens and it's never standing room only). Seriously. We were counting contractions over Smithwicks (at least I was). Hours later, my boy popped out with an Irish brogue.
(4)
Katia M.
Shenannigan's food is pretty good, and it's a good after-work spot, but as a late night bar it doesn't do much for me. Bartenders go either way -- super nice or kind of not. Karaoke nights are fun. The deco is nice and the bathrooms are clean and there's supposedly a patio out back (?!?). In the evenings, they crank up the tunes WAY too loud, and it's impossibly trying to listen to your friends, let alone the fellow with an accent who's trying to chat with you. But hey, rarely is there ever not a place to sit. "Whats the name of that restaurant you like with all the goofy sh*t on the walls and the mozzarella sticks?" This isn't *that* Shenannigans, but I'm still going to pistol-whip you if you say that word again;)
(3)
Kate M.
This is my bar of choice if going out in Southie. If you don't want the meat market atmosphere of the Beer Garden and Playwright, take yourself to Shenannigan's. It is a more mature crowd without all the flim flam of trying to get a piece of ass. The staff is friendly and real...lovely Irish accents. Drinks are strong and the Cajun chicken sandwich is honestly the BEST chicken sandwich I have ever had. Good place to watch a ball game, as well.
(4)
Kate L.
I've only eaten here a few times, but the food has consistently been good. The service has been decent, but sometimes indifferent. But this review is really about...their veggie burger. Literally, I wait for Fridays during Lent so I can order it, guilt free!! It's certainly not a "health food"...I'm pretty sure it's deep fried and served on a buttered bun. It comes with sauteed mushrooms and onions. It's so good, you definitely don't need ketchup for it (and it oddly comes with salsa, which I've never used on it)... Also, I'm pretty sure the inside is filled with crack. Or something like it. There is NO other plausible reason why a veggie burger should be this good. You can see hunks of carrots in it. It's not a grain-based burger. In fact, I have no idea what it is made with. I don't care. it's that good. I've turned other people on to the veggie burger deliciousness. AND, I get it with white rice, just to add to the fat-kid effect. I don't even want to know how much butter and salt they put in their plain white rice to make it taste so good, but MAN! I take it back to my office and close the office door so that no one sees me shoving this down my gullet...it's not pretty. But is IS awesome!
(4)
Romulo R.
While this may be a good neighborhood bar to go watch a game, etc, you may want to behave and keep any shenannigan's outside. This seems to be the kind of bar where people go to quietly eat their lunch, if that's your thing. Shenannigans are certainly not appreciated. although the staff was nice for the most part.
(2)
Meg M.
Its been a while since I've updated my Shenanigans review so I decided after my last delicious trip in for lunch that I would hit it up. Stopped in here with the boy while I did my laundry next door to Baileys. While I've moved to the Fort Point side of Southie now, I still hop in my car to Shenanigans pretty often. The service is always great. I really have never had one bad experience service wise at any time. I have gone in on Saturday nights as much as I have stopped in for a cure to my hangover on a Sunday afternoon. The bartenders are quick, friendly and know how to mix a drink. The food? Its actually really friggin good. I swear! Not good as in "good for pub food" good... good as in genuinely delicious. Their burgers are juicy and piled high with cheese and irish bacon (just the way I like it). If a menu offers irish bacon on a burger, it pretty much has already won my heart. They run great daily specials and their brunch/breakfast is wonderful too. Good run at the Irish breakfast too. SO if you were like me, abusing Shenanigans the way I abuse my right as a woman to change my mind, my clothes and my hair color... think again. Stop in on an off day and see what you're missing!
(5)
Josh P.
Their food is great. I especially like the clam chowder, fish and chips, and Shepard's Pie. The staff is pleasant (and some are actually from Ireland). Their beer selection is good as well.
(4)
Tiffany Q.
As a South Boston newbie and now resident my boyfriend and I quickly scouted out the neighborhood bars and restaurants. We were quickly drawn into Shenannigan's honestly because it was close and looked busy. We knew nothing about it. But now we are hooked. We both eat there on a regular basis and anytime we have friends in town that is one of the local spots we hit up. They have great food that is reasonably priced. I can't say that I've tried many things on the menu because the first time I went in and had the TACO SALAD with the Chipotle dressing I was hooked. I've only ventured off once and ordered the Southwestern burger which was awesome with the salsa on it. My boyfriend has ordered something different everytime we've gone in from the ribs which he loved to the nightly specials. The atmosphere is great and they offer entertainment several times during the week.
(5)
M M.
My personal fav. home town joint. Not over crowded, love the food-steak tips are by far the best and caesar salads are awesome!
(4)
susan t.
Good neighborhood bar for all ages. Very nice on a warm night to sit in the open front with friends, a beer, and a plate of nachos or a quesadilla to share. Not dirty like the Beer Garden and not as loud and yuppied as Playwright. Friendly waitstaff.
(4)
L. O.
Shenannigans has become our new local since we've moved from the east side of Southie over to the west and honestly, I couldn't be happier with the change. Great place to grab food, drinks and get some quality time catching up -the food is very good for pub food - much better than the east b'way pub that had been our local for the last few years. Staff is really friendly and I've not had an issue with the bartenders as is noted by a few other yelpers. I do agree that after a certain hour it gets quite frat-ish and that's generally our cue to move outside Southie for the rest of our evening, but for very reasonably priced food and a great place to start off a night, Shenannigans always serves us well.
(5)
Southie G.
This is place is a good spot for drinks after work. Friendly Staff...pretty standard pub place.
(3)
christina c.
Its close to the apt so we go here every few weeks. I end up getting their veggie burgers, no bun and for my side a salad with the spicy dressing on the side. The veggie burger is actually really good with sauteed mushrooms and onions and cheese oh my! SP gets the spicy chicken pasta dish and he likes it. Late night its a little to loud for us with a DJ it becomes more like a club but on nice sunny days in the summer we go and get beer and sit on the back patio. Over all not bad for a quick dinner out.
(3)
T B.
I love the food here! I work 5 min away and we make a point to get here once a week even if it means going out the brutal cold because the great food and warm atmosphere are worth it. Best dish on the menu...Shenannigans chicken pasta! Give it a try it won't disappoint. Also they have a parking lot and street parking too.
(5)
Alison H.
Since writing my last review, I've gone Vegetarian and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by Shenanigans' veggie burger. It almost looks like a real burger, not a frozen one I can make myself. I get it without mushrooms but you can get it loaded with cheese, onions and mushrooms. It seems like it's hand packed. Good stuff! Also love their Caesar salad. Unrelated to the food: I dig that there's a Reggae band there quite frequently on Friday nights. Drinking the beverage of one island while listening to the music of another. Yeah mon!
(4)
Mindy M.
If you like water down drinks, and horrble service by bitchy bartenders than this is your place.
(1)
Bonnie M.
I have become a somewhat regular rather quickly here. We always sit at the bar and receive wonderful service! They knew us after only visiting one time! My glass is never neglected and the food so far has been great! (The steak tips were super, and large portions so you have lunch for the next day!) I can't say its the best for mingling, but a great place to hang out with friends, and hey mingle with the bartenders! I will continue to be a regular!
(4)
Doug W.
While I've never been a huge fan of the atmosphere at this place for a night out destination, I was pleasantly surprised when I stopped in for lunch with my roommate a few weeks back. The burger that I had here was actually the best I've eaten in Southie. If you're thinking that sounds like a backhanded compliment, it is, but I would still happily come back here to eat again, which is more than I can say about some of the other pub food options in the area (yes, I'm looking at you Playwright). The burger was perfectly cooked, juicy, and topped with just the right amount of melted cheddar and mushrooms. Add in reasonable prices and a decent beer selection and you've made a believer out of me. I'll be back.
(3)
Meghan C.
The weekends, specifically Friday, Shenannigan's is jam-packed and it's almost impossible to get a drink. But, it's a nice bar, with a good atmosphere. Food-wise, I haven't been disappointed with anything I have ordered. The food is hot and fresh and makes me want to come back. Especially on a nice day, sitting by the window..there's nothing better. I would recommend this place to anyone. Great food, great company...that's all you need.
(4)
Shelley G.
Food, beer and atmosphere is good... but if you get Dominic as your waiter, you may want to say "thanks, but no thanks" and head for the door. Ireland's version of Eminem is rude, slow, and must be independently wealthy because it's obvious he is not interested in getting a good tip.
(3)
Deb K.
Shenanigan's: every time I hear the word all I can think of is crap on the walls, liter of cola, and a bar of soap in coffee. The actual bar in Southie had none of these. Actually it was really classy looking with nice dcor, a huge bar in the middle, and extremely attentive bartenders. I didn't try the food, but the bartender was quick to give me a sample when I asked about a White Ale I had never seen before, and the beers were cold and nicely poured. A little out of my way, and a lot like the bars on this side of the channel, so I may not make it back there due to its location.
(3)
Don G.
this is the best restaurant in south boston, got the best chicken broc and ziti, many different brews and always changing for the seasonal brews. the staff is always friendly and refilling or asking if i need another beer before glass is empty. is actually a 6 star but doesnt go that high
(5)
Johnny K.
I believe that this has the best food for a bar in Southie! They have a good beer selection and always has something going on. Whenever I feel indecisive about food, I always turn to this place because they are consistently good. Bring back the taco salad. I swear if you try it you will like it as i do!
(4)
Jen R.
Shenannigans was recently remodeled inside. It is now upscale and modern with booths and high and low top tables. The food is fair to good. The waitstaff are friendly. The chicken, ziti and brocolli is particularly good.
(3)
Kelly M.
This is a great local spot in Southie. Large U shaped bar with attentive staff. Great food - pot pie, nachos, any special dish!
(4)
Christine S.
The food at this Irish pub is so underrated. In fact, it's one of my favorite places to grab a casual bite to eat. Our favorite things on the menu are the Beef Skewers - yummy, tender, with a little kick, and the delicious salads. Sure a salad with grilled chicken seems easy, but I have had so many in Boston with dry, almost inedible meat. The salads at Shenanigans are HUGE and the grilled chicken is warm and juicy and a very generous portion. Their balsamic vin is a mild white balsamic that is just to die for. My favorite is the apple and goat cheese salad - try it - you won't be sorry. Best night for dinner is Wednesdays for pub trivia. Great date night!
(4)
Emily G.
Dear Shenannigans, If you do not allow such actions in your establishment, you might consider changing your name, or at least putting a "No" in front of it. Love, Emily G. and the rest of Red Scare 2010.
(2)
Mary M.
I stopped in here for a bite and a beer before meeting some friends for an evening of joviality. The bartender, Rob, was quite friendly and let me sample one of the draft beer selections before I made my decision and was more than happy to answer any question I might have had about the menu. I was only seeking an appetizer, and I chose the beef teriyaki skewers, which were quite delish. They came out served on a bed of rice (done just the way I like it - a bit sticky) with some chopped tomato for garnish and a serving of peanut sauce, which was also quite tasty, even though the beef did not need any additional seasoning - it was wonderful just as it was served. Overall, I liked the place very much, nice atmosphere, very clean, when I arrived, it was pretty quiet, but it was starting to fill up by the time I left. I would definitely be open to returning to Shenannigans for an entire meal.
(4)
Special O.
Worst in the league. If you want to stand around a bar and wait for the bartenders to come to you, try Shenannigan's. You will lose your buzz rather quickly - trust me. Oh and.....no dancing. Bouncers get mad. When the DJ is blasting music and you are trying to dance, they tell you to cut it out and sit down. They also have flat, warm beers. The drinks are weak. Trust me on this one. If you're in the Southie area, stay away from Shenannigan's.
(1)
Aditi R.
I haven't frequented Southie much at all. But the couple of times I've been it's involved this particular place and if anything, it's a good place to be acquainted with Southie. The bar is fun in general. They have different nights. Thursday is Karaoke nights and Fridays/Saturdays they have a DJ spinning various music and taking requests (though you may have to fight with him to play your song of choice at times). The best part about this place however are the bartenders and how nice and efficient they are. Right from the start they pay attention to you and no matter how full the bar may be make their way around and never give you the need or the attitude that comes with a busy bar. The crowd here is a mix of age groups, but generally one that is always interesting. I haven't tried their food so I can't write about that much, but as far as drinks and bartenders and atmosphere goes, I do enjoy this place. If I find myself in Southie, this will definitely be a place I come again and again.
(4)
Mary S.
HUGE portions, excellent taste and an up-scale pub feel--a great find in South Boston. I recommend the Shenannigan's chicken sandwich--so crisp, warm and delicious (plus it has BACON!) It's served along side a bed of fried-to-perfection french fries. My friend had the Shepard's pie which she found equally amazing and enough food for three!
(4)
Kaka-Q S.
Favorite pub in SoBo. Fantastic Irish pub food - try the pan fried steak and mashed potatoes or fish & chips - and great apps for games. Salads too - chicken fiesta salad with home made chipotle dressing. Yum. They have flat screens everywhere, a back patio, extremely clean everything, and lots and lots of beers on tap. The waitresses are friendly and fast and remember your drink orders. It's always a great place to grab a bite on a week night or catch a game.
(5)
Jackie D.
Here's the SITUATION: Came here with the boyfriend after work on a Friday, 5:00-ish, sat at the bar, didn't leave until 9:00-ish (four hours? yes, we were surprised too!). It was empty when we got there and full when we left. I've also been here before for just drinks. I have random thoughts of my experience and feel the need to make pro and con bullet points... ATMOSPHERE +Comfy bar stools +Chill feel +Random crowd, all ages aside from kids +Flat screens, some with the games on -One of the T.V.'s had CNN on which was airing a disturbing segment. The T.V. sound wasn't on so I'm not sure if it was even a sad story, but the visual def was...I just felt the need to mention this as it was a bizarre part of my experience DRINKS: +Good enough beer selection +Delish chocolate martini -The drink menu is basically all vodka drinks...would've liked to seen more of a variety. Vodka is usually not my friend -The pinot grigio I had was no bueno FOOD: +Boyfriend claims that the beef skewer app was delish and like a fellow yelper also thought the sauce was not needed. This could've been a meal with the bed of rice they were served over +Onion ring app was good as well. Wish the sauce was a little spicier but that's just my preference. +Portions were generous -I ordered the mussels and linguine with the "white" sauce for my dinner. Sauce was really just an odd butter mixture with a funky taste. Wouldn't recommend it, maybe try the "red" sauce instead SERVICE: +When we first got there, our server was friendly and attentive, and after changing shifts the new ones were as well +The guy bartender that ended up taking care of us for the night was attentive and friendly...and cute, bonus. -During the shift change we were neglected for quite a while and sat there with our app dishes in front of us waiting for our order to be taken and dishes to be cleared --The bartenders all chomped their gum. I feel as though I should take a star away this drives me so crazy! One of my biggest pet peeves and I couldn't even understand what one of them was trying to say to me. RANDOM POINTS: +Taxi stand right outside the entrance +Clean bathroom -Not that close to the T -Who doesn't have a website these days? OVERALL: Although I liked my app and drink, and am sure that there's better items on the large menu than the mussels, and service without the gum and shift change might have been superb, I just can't bring myself to give it 4 stars. Especially not with the competition around them. Would/will I go back? Of course. I think I would def be more impressed on another visit, seems like a good enough place.
(3)
Southie R.
I'll say it now: Best food in Southie. Not even a question. Better than the Beer Garden. Better than the Playwright. I love the food, and they give you a ton of it. I usually come with regulars, so the service is top notch. The prices are very decent (compared to other parts of Boston). On Wednesday's, they do Trivia, which I'm not into, but some are.
(4)
Jen S.
I Will Pay A $20 Cover To Go To This Bar When Pigs Fly, And Then When One Of The Flying Pigs Lands And Bitch-Slaps Me. Until then, don't count on ever seeing me hand over a $20 to get in this door. I'm going to take this out on Shenannigan's, because I cant review three bars all at once, but apparently on Sunday the Playwright and Boston Beerworks in Southie were also charging $20 covers. Here's a thought - about one trillion people would go buy beers at your establishments if you wouldnt try to jack 20 bucks off of us to get in. I know, you can only fit so many people in, so why not make the extra money. But I have another idea - why not NOT be douchebags? Great question. I especially have a problem with this because of how much we all needed to pee at the parade. Obviously we were drinking beers standing on the street, so after a few of those the need to pee was somewhere between "if I wasn't 26 I would shamelessly piss myself" and "nobody knows me in Southie, who cares if I piss myself." Ideally, I could have just walked into Shenannigan's across the street, peed, and then I'd be writing a review that was like "Oh man, Shenannigans is f*cking awesome, their bathrooms are so nice and I just love thier decor." Okay, whatever, I would never write anything like that, but you get my point. But no. $20 bucks to hang out inside and drink, $20 bucks to pee. Let me make myself clear - I would gladly pee on the shoes of the dude taking the 20s before I gave him the 20. I kinda still want to. Anyway, instead of going to Shenannigans, my friends and I went to a strangers home, used their bathroom and then hung out at their party drinking their beer. I think they loved it. Don't pay a cover to go to a bar in Southie unless Whitey Bulger is there holding a gun to your head.
(2)
Jorge F.
One of my favorites in southie. Good food and rarely over crowded. The beef teriyaki skewers are my favorite appitizer. The fish tacos are huge and a little sloppy but very tasty. Steak tips were ok.
(4)
Robyn R.
This place is a great spot for Southie - not your traditional Irish pub, but more of an upbeat spot with live reggeeon Fridays and good drinks. There is always a line later on the weekends, but I must say - it was my 2nd time here and I was def impressed! The crowd is pretty decent... Staff friendly, too.
(4)
Alex V.
Good pub food... staff is as rude as it gets... rude and lazy.
(1)
bex g.
usually the last spot of the night, but always a good time. friendly waitstaff, good prices, karaoke (!) and fun crowd. always important, they have clean bathrooms -- but beware the hand dryers...they *could* blow your skin right off.
(3)
Ashley M.
irish pub meets retro sports bar... food's not too bad either. its always been pleasantly crowded (week days and weekends) when i've gone - but not so crowded you're waiting outside.
(3)
Tyler C.
This place is hard to figure out. I have been in here on days when the atmosphere is good, and on days when the atmosphere is downright horrible. It seems with this place if you time it just right it's a good place to stop into for some drinks and food. The food here is good. I had a daily special here once of spicy shrimp gumbo and it was fantastic, but nothing else comes to mind to brag about on their full menu. Their tap choices are actually not bad, and the bar is big enough so usually you don't get squeezed off the bar while trying to order. Every other time I am in here though something always goes array, and it always has to do with the other people who show up to this place. Once the scantly dressed Miller Lite Girls showed up and every meat head in the place became uber frat boy and annoying. The Party Trolley also shows up quite often to dump off a bunch of black out drunks onto the scene, which is always a good time as well. The sad part is this would probably be at least a 4 star establishment if it wasn't located in Southie and the people inside weren't so annoying sometimes.
(3)
Marie F.
On 1st visit, food was good but waitress was horrible. On 2nd visit 4/7/13, got same bad waitress & food was just ok. Ordered burger & steak tips. Waitress never came back after food was served to make sure was cooked ok. Was given empty bottle of ketchup. The place was not busy. When i was able to locate waitress she was just sitting down at a table. Its too bad. Cute place but wont go back.
(1)
Mike H.
Good place to watch a game and enjoy a beer. Tons of flat screens so you won't miss any of the action. The Cajun chicken sandwich is good but the roll it is on dissolves while you are eating it. Burgers and aps are also good. Bar is fun. There is ussually a band playing on Friday or Saturday night and Karaoke on Thursdays. I shall return.
(4)
Doug R.
WOW- i have lived next to this bar for over two years now and have also been on yelp for just as long and i have no excuse whatsoever for not writing a review. it has been a quite and adventure for myself and shananers... when i first moved over there i would have said this bar was a two, i thought the best thing about it was the changing lights in the ceiling. i wasn't a big fan of the menu and it was a little to quite. since then they have opened the back patio! amazing, that's all i have to say about that. they a constantly running beer specials and they have quite the selection on draft. not mention they were one of the first to have Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka available. Billie M's and my excitement for this find that we drank the whole bottle in one night. no lie. the bartenders there are great, friendly and personable. if you bump into them on the street, you may end up having a small conversation. Believe me this happens more to me and than some would like to admit. but I'm OK with it. karaoke on Thursdays is hit or miss. sometimes there is a line and you cant even get near the joint and sometimes its low key, i prefer the low key but i am always up for dealing with a crowd. if you don't like the crowd head next door to its sister bar the CLOCK TAVERN. The one thing i wish they had more of was live entertainment. they usually have something going on Friday and Saturday. but sometimes its just a DJ. a little more live music never hurt anyone. just saying. Oh sweet Shenannigans, how you brighten my week up my week, 2-3 nights at a time!
(4)
Susan K.
Don't come here and expect to finish giving your order to your waiter. He has better things to do. Came here with a group of six (family). Sat on the patio in the afternoon. Must have been a leper colony based on the way our waiter treated us. Four people in our group had given him our order and when the fifth wasn't fast as lightning to give hers he simply walked away. No "Do you need another minute?" or even asking the sixth member of our party what she would have liked. Just walked away. And nevermind trying to get oh, lets say, a refill of water on a hot Saturday. In the end we just got desserts which are actually made at the bakery across the street, so I can't speak for the food. Our waiter acted as if he had to make the cakes from scratch in his own kitchen. Anyone know if constantly rolling your eyes is indicative of a nervous tic or maybe a brain tumor? Either way, he should see a doctor. Or maybe a therapist. I have never seen such an attitude in someone who works essentially for tips, so I figured him for a manager. Asked the hostess on the way out and she said he was a server. The hostesses I should add are very nice and must be overworked apologizing for service. This is definitely a gentrified Southie bar and I'm sad to say I'd rather take my chances in the old Southie bars than visit this sorry excuse for a business again. I won't pay someone to treat me like trash.
(1)
Dan C.
A fourteen year old English chick probably best summed up the disparity between what one is and what one pretends to be best, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose [b]y any other name would smell as sweet." However the corollary also hold's true--it doesn't matter what you call yourself, if you're a bull but call yourself a cow, now matter how hard I tug, I'm not getting out any milk. What does this have to do with Shenannigans, you ask? Well, Shenannigans doesn't allow shenannigans. Similarly, shenannigans is actually spelled shenanigans.
(1)
Ashla D.
I recently moved to Southie from Beacon Hill...and live right around the corner from Shenannigans...so my roomie and I decided to check it out. We've only been on weeknights--once just for drinks and once for dinner. The first time we were greeted by a very friendly bartender. The bar was pretty busy on the night we went and we were having trouble finding 2 spots together at the bar--and the bartender came out of his way and finagled 2 seats for us--and then was very tentative all night! Second time --food was mediocre..and service also! Our server wasnt horrible, but he may have only said three words to us all night. Decor is decent--and the resto was pretty clean! There was a mixed crowd between the young professionals, probably new to the area like ourselves and the older 40+ regulars... The Sox were also playing one of the times we went--and if you like hearing the commentators--this would be a great bar for you--they had the tv up and music off--and there were also plenty of flat screens around... We'll be back for drinks for sure--and maybe just stick to the apps!
(3)
Billie M.
So it's still a three, but now it's a HIGH three instead of a low three. Why? Back patio. 10 tables outside, under shadowy lattice work strung with hanging plants. NEVER a wait, and finally (!) a waitress with some pizzazz. I'm slowly coming around to you Shenannigan's. Just give me a little more time.
(3)
Tom W.
We visit Shennanigans on a regular basis, more for the food than drinking, and always leave by the time the band strikes up. The environment is very nice, clean and comfortable, sometimes we just eat at the bar, or take a raised table which are well spaced with some elbow room. The menu is long and varied. We particularly like the Shennanign's Chicken which is their take on Pasta Carbonara. The portions are large - my significant other and I usually split one Chicken serving between us and leave both well-fed. We find this a nice place for a couple to enjoy a quiet , well prepared meal, but we are usually going out the door as the band tunes up and young singles begin to fill the bar. we always can find nearby parking on Broadway.
(4)
T B.
I love the food here! I work 5 min away and we make a point to get here once a week even if it means going out the brutal cold because the great food and warm atmosphere are worth it. Best dish on the menu...Shenannigans chicken pasta! Give it a try it won't disappoint. Also they have a parking lot and street parking too.
(5)
Alison H.
Since writing my last review, I've gone Vegetarian and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by Shenanigans' veggie burger. It almost looks like a real burger, not a frozen one I can make myself. I get it without mushrooms but you can get it loaded with cheese, onions and mushrooms. It seems like it's hand packed. Good stuff! Also love their Caesar salad. Unrelated to the food: I dig that there's a Reggae band there quite frequently on Friday nights. Drinking the beverage of one island while listening to the music of another. Yeah mon!
(4)
Mindy M.
If you like water down drinks, and horrble service by bitchy bartenders than this is your place.
(1)
Doug W.
While I've never been a huge fan of the atmosphere at this place for a night out destination, I was pleasantly surprised when I stopped in for lunch with my roommate a few weeks back. The burger that I had here was actually the best I've eaten in Southie. If you're thinking that sounds like a backhanded compliment, it is, but I would still happily come back here to eat again, which is more than I can say about some of the other pub food options in the area (yes, I'm looking at you Playwright). The burger was perfectly cooked, juicy, and topped with just the right amount of melted cheddar and mushrooms. Add in reasonable prices and a decent beer selection and you've made a believer out of me. I'll be back.
(3)
Meghan C.
The weekends, specifically Friday, Shenannigan's is jam-packed and it's almost impossible to get a drink. But, it's a nice bar, with a good atmosphere. Food-wise, I haven't been disappointed with anything I have ordered. The food is hot and fresh and makes me want to come back. Especially on a nice day, sitting by the window..there's nothing better. I would recommend this place to anyone. Great food, great company...that's all you need.
(4)
Shelley G.
Food, beer and atmosphere is good... but if you get Dominic as your waiter, you may want to say "thanks, but no thanks" and head for the door. Ireland's version of Eminem is rude, slow, and must be independently wealthy because it's obvious he is not interested in getting a good tip.
(3)
Deb K.
Shenanigan's: every time I hear the word all I can think of is crap on the walls, liter of cola, and a bar of soap in coffee. The actual bar in Southie had none of these. Actually it was really classy looking with nice dcor, a huge bar in the middle, and extremely attentive bartenders. I didn't try the food, but the bartender was quick to give me a sample when I asked about a White Ale I had never seen before, and the beers were cold and nicely poured. A little out of my way, and a lot like the bars on this side of the channel, so I may not make it back there due to its location.
(3)
Don G.
this is the best restaurant in south boston, got the best chicken broc and ziti, many different brews and always changing for the seasonal brews. the staff is always friendly and refilling or asking if i need another beer before glass is empty. is actually a 6 star but doesnt go that high
(5)
Johnny K.
I believe that this has the best food for a bar in Southie! They have a good beer selection and always has something going on. Whenever I feel indecisive about food, I always turn to this place because they are consistently good. Bring back the taco salad. I swear if you try it you will like it as i do!
(4)
Jen R.
Shenannigans was recently remodeled inside. It is now upscale and modern with booths and high and low top tables. The food is fair to good. The waitstaff are friendly. The chicken, ziti and brocolli is particularly good.
(3)
Jennifer A.
I had a margarita and it was delicious! The stuffed mushrooms were awesome too, but most of all the service was spot on . Our bartender , Carolanne ( I think) was very accommodating. We will definitely be coming back.
(4)
Ashley N.
I really like this bar in Southie. Good atmosphere and good food. I love their chilli. It's really good. Try it! I come here to watch some football games and it's great and loud and fun to be in and around people (although anywhere is). The waitress was very nice! Service was good. The next thing to try on my list is their veggie burger which I hear is one of the best ones!
(4)
Anne S.
I would give 10 stars if I could. Best food. Best drinks. Best service....in Southie. It's essentially our second home and Erin, Julie, Louise, Carol Ann, Marie, Brendan, Dominic, Tony and Joey make us feel that way everytime :)
(5)
Jerry T.
Great drinks, ok food. The food was a bit bland for my taste, but the beer on tap was cold and fresh! All and all, not the worst meal ever.
(3)
Emily L.
Bartenders and waitstaff are great! Their nachos and burgers are yummy. Tv's everywhere if you want to watch a game. I do wish they had authentic irish coffees though. Still trying to find thee place for that.
(4)
Ryan W.
I give it four just because the food is amazing have yet to have a bad meal, chicken pot pie and Shepards pie unreal. The only downside is the red headed Irish waiter the guys an absolute miserable douchebag...bartenders are great to
Where is my 2010ish review for Shenanigans??? I, too, was part of a bar crawl crowd that was kicked out for shenanigans at shenanigans once upon a time. I don't think any of the other reviewers actually defined these shenanigans, but I remember them well. It was STOP 2 on the bar crawl, which means nobody was drunk. We were just telling stories and taking selifes and that was a about it. Sure, maybe an hour later people were getting "iced" (if you dont' know don't ask) and shots a plenty were had. The crowd ran wild. Way way way way way after leaving Shenanigans. That review, left me with one star. Recently, however, I had lunch at Shenanigans with coworkers. The ham sandwich special would have been mounds better were it served on the sour dough bread it was alleged to come with, however, I was starving so I ate the rye. The beer selections is good. The fries are crispy. For work lunch: solid choice. For bar crawls: skip ahead to the next place.
(3)
Connor E.
I remember when this place was an old school restaurant on one side and a dive bar on the other. It's come a long way since then. The value for what we got was superb. I took my mother out to dinner here and we had a beer, martini, an app, and two dinners. Tab, $50. There are few restaurants that offer comfort food anymore. Just what you need after a rough day.
(4)
Scotty C.
Friends and I were looking for a casual place to grab a bite to eat before meeting friends in Seaport for drinks. We weren't looking for anything fancy so my buddy suggested we go here because their food is always solid. It was fairly early on a weekday so we were one of the first sets of patrons to arrive. As the name suggests, the atmosphere is very irish pub-ish. A huge U shaped bar commands the room with some scattered tables off to the sides. This is the type of place you saddle up to the bar. The draught selection was impressive offering Irish import favorites to local brews from down the road. The true standout surprisingly wasn't the beer though, it was the food. It's simple bar food mixed with some traditional Irish dishes and the three of us were impressed. One had a burger, one the steak tips, where as I opted for the Shepard's Pie. Hands down the best Shepard's Pie I've had to date. The gravy was life changing and had a good mix of meat and veggies. Over the top was a thick layer of mashed potatoes whipped to perfection and then put back under the broiler to give the whole dish a lite crispy crust. This dish is an absolute must for any visit.
(4)
Kayabba L.
I haven't decided what was worse the service or the Lobster Roll Sliders. The lobster roll description should have read diced celery with minced lobster meat. To be fair the celery wasn't diced big at all I just want to give you a better idea of the size of the lobster meat. Since I'm being fair I'll also say that 2 out of 6 sliders did have extremely small pieces of cut up tail. I'm also not a fan of lobster drowned in mayo however when it is so dry you begin timing your waitress in need of a drink to wash it down it says a lot. Onto the service or should I say lack of. After being served our meals the next time we had contact with our waitress was about 15 minutes after we were finished and asked the bar tender if someone would bring our checks. I noticed our waitress begrudgingly pulling herself away from her lunch. I'm assuming she wasn't eating lobster rolls.
(2)
Angela S.
Great place for food and/or drinks. I'll come here often for some after work beverages and apps. It's conveniently located on West Broadway so easy it's a quick stop off of the #9 bus or approx. 10 min walk from Broadway Station. They have a daily specials menu that usually has some great options that always taste great! Weekends- I'd much rather head here than somewhere like Stats or Lincoln.. Aka where everyone who just discovered Southie between the ages of 22-30 are. Plenty of TV's around and usually plenty of seating. Great place to go for dinner or with a group of friends for a game. Reasonably priced, too. Overall, no complaints about this place!
(5)
Laura F.
This place could be amazing if the service wasn't horrible all the time. I live close so I frequent shenanigans often. Reggae night is fun. Their food is great but service is painfully slow and no one is friendly.
(3)
Dane M.
So many wacky shenanigans occur at this fine establishment!! Make sure you keep your head on a swivel or you could suffer a sports injury!
(4)
Leah R.
Came here after a work event with a big group on the recommendation of a colleague, and definitely was not disappointed (even though I was skeptical about the name of the place). It took us forever to decide on food as it was a bit loud in the restaurant and there are so many good choices on the menu to choose from, but our waitress Kate was very attentive and patient- even when we asked for 6 separate checks for expense account purposes. I got the buffalo chicken nachos as my meal which were top-notch, but my co-worker that ordered the beef skewers won the lottery for the night. They were the most tender and perfectly cooked skewers I have ever had. Food and service = 5 stars Acoustics = 3 stars
(4)
Barry W.
The service was horrible. Although, they seated us quickly and at a requested booth, the wait staff continued to pass our table as if we were invisible for over 10 minutes. I had to yell out for service. WTH! The guy who was waiting on all the tables in our area sent over another girl and continued to ignore us. This isn't a welcoming establishment, unless, maybe for locals. I should have left. Instead I put my feet up and forced them to serve me. The food was ok - not great, not bad.
(1)
Jason M.
Nothing here impressed me that much; it was fine. It's nice inside. They have a lot of HDTVs. There's a patio out back. The bartenders are pretty. The mediocre reggae band played their renditions of Ace of Base's "Don't Turn Around" and Phil Collins's "Another Day in Paradise." You can't make that last sentence up. It must be true then, right? Give the stars to the bartenders though. Even though this place was hopelessly crowded by 11PM, no one in our party waited particularly long to be attended to. Also, the prices weren't bad for the big city. Two well drinks and two ciders on tap for $23 on a Friday Night. You could do worse, for sure. For those of you looking to meet women [self not included], I did notice a good ratio of ladies to gents, most of whom were quite attractive by my standards. My friend hit one of them; she looked like Alison Brie from Mad Men... if that gives you a good idea. So it's a pretty good hangout spot. Close to the T and reasonably priced.
(3)
Ann M.
I'm editing this review because I came here for lunch with a co worker and our food was delicious ... We sat at the bar and our bartender was very nice and attentive ! It makes a difference!
(4)
Brian B.
Love this place. And, I'm not even Irish. Shalom, and welcome to South Boston, you mashugina. No, you won't find Matzo Balls or Latkes, but you will find what I consider to be the best non-Jewish, pub food around (is there Jewish pub food?). What do I mean? I mean good, honest American, errr, Irish, food, that's what I mean. Steak tips, curry, wraps - and get this - fresh salads and traditional Irish breakfasts, etc. And, all of it is fresh and very flavorful. I'm actually tempted to say that you can find some of the best noshes in Southie here. Yup. That's right. I'm kvelling because the menu is so varied, so consistently good, and so affordable. Also, the place is clean with a contemporary look - from the floors to the bar to the bathrooms. Also, every experience with the staff here has been fantastic. They're a bunch of mensches. They're comprised of about 143% Irish goys, and they're great. Always a smile. Always willing to share a story. Matter of fact, when I pop in with my little boy, the staff takes him for a walk around the entire place, and plays with him if it's not too busy. Free babysitting!!!!!!!!!! I can't gush enough. This place is so good for bar food and pleasant conversation (the music can get a little loud late). I mean, we spend so much time here that my wife practically gave birth at the table by one of the sliding, wide open windows while watching the World Cup (great place to catch a game - lots of flat screens and it's never standing room only). Seriously. We were counting contractions over Smithwicks (at least I was). Hours later, my boy popped out with an Irish brogue.
(4)
Katia M.
Shenannigan's food is pretty good, and it's a good after-work spot, but as a late night bar it doesn't do much for me. Bartenders go either way -- super nice or kind of not. Karaoke nights are fun. The deco is nice and the bathrooms are clean and there's supposedly a patio out back (?!?). In the evenings, they crank up the tunes WAY too loud, and it's impossibly trying to listen to your friends, let alone the fellow with an accent who's trying to chat with you. But hey, rarely is there ever not a place to sit. "Whats the name of that restaurant you like with all the goofy sh*t on the walls and the mozzarella sticks?" This isn't *that* Shenannigans, but I'm still going to pistol-whip you if you say that word again;)
(3)
Kate M.
This is my bar of choice if going out in Southie. If you don't want the meat market atmosphere of the Beer Garden and Playwright, take yourself to Shenannigan's. It is a more mature crowd without all the flim flam of trying to get a piece of ass. The staff is friendly and real...lovely Irish accents. Drinks are strong and the Cajun chicken sandwich is honestly the BEST chicken sandwich I have ever had. Good place to watch a ball game, as well.
(4)
Kate L.
I've only eaten here a few times, but the food has consistently been good. The service has been decent, but sometimes indifferent. But this review is really about...their veggie burger. Literally, I wait for Fridays during Lent so I can order it, guilt free!! It's certainly not a "health food"...I'm pretty sure it's deep fried and served on a buttered bun. It comes with sauteed mushrooms and onions. It's so good, you definitely don't need ketchup for it (and it oddly comes with salsa, which I've never used on it)... Also, I'm pretty sure the inside is filled with crack. Or something like it. There is NO other plausible reason why a veggie burger should be this good. You can see hunks of carrots in it. It's not a grain-based burger. In fact, I have no idea what it is made with. I don't care. it's that good. I've turned other people on to the veggie burger deliciousness. AND, I get it with white rice, just to add to the fat-kid effect. I don't even want to know how much butter and salt they put in their plain white rice to make it taste so good, but MAN! I take it back to my office and close the office door so that no one sees me shoving this down my gullet...it's not pretty. But is IS awesome!
(4)
Romulo R.
While this may be a good neighborhood bar to go watch a game, etc, you may want to behave and keep any shenannigan's outside. This seems to be the kind of bar where people go to quietly eat their lunch, if that's your thing. Shenannigans are certainly not appreciated. although the staff was nice for the most part.
(2)
Meg M.
Its been a while since I've updated my Shenanigans review so I decided after my last delicious trip in for lunch that I would hit it up. Stopped in here with the boy while I did my laundry next door to Baileys. While I've moved to the Fort Point side of Southie now, I still hop in my car to Shenanigans pretty often. The service is always great. I really have never had one bad experience service wise at any time. I have gone in on Saturday nights as much as I have stopped in for a cure to my hangover on a Sunday afternoon. The bartenders are quick, friendly and know how to mix a drink. The food? Its actually really friggin good. I swear! Not good as in "good for pub food" good... good as in genuinely delicious. Their burgers are juicy and piled high with cheese and irish bacon (just the way I like it). If a menu offers irish bacon on a burger, it pretty much has already won my heart. They run great daily specials and their brunch/breakfast is wonderful too. Good run at the Irish breakfast too. SO if you were like me, abusing Shenanigans the way I abuse my right as a woman to change my mind, my clothes and my hair color... think again. Stop in on an off day and see what you're missing!
(5)
Josh P.
Their food is great. I especially like the clam chowder, fish and chips, and Shepard's Pie. The staff is pleasant (and some are actually from Ireland). Their beer selection is good as well.
(4)
Tiffany Q.
As a South Boston newbie and now resident my boyfriend and I quickly scouted out the neighborhood bars and restaurants. We were quickly drawn into Shenannigan's honestly because it was close and looked busy. We knew nothing about it. But now we are hooked. We both eat there on a regular basis and anytime we have friends in town that is one of the local spots we hit up. They have great food that is reasonably priced. I can't say that I've tried many things on the menu because the first time I went in and had the TACO SALAD with the Chipotle dressing I was hooked. I've only ventured off once and ordered the Southwestern burger which was awesome with the salsa on it. My boyfriend has ordered something different everytime we've gone in from the ribs which he loved to the nightly specials. The atmosphere is great and they offer entertainment several times during the week.
(5)
M M.
My personal fav. home town joint. Not over crowded, love the food-steak tips are by far the best and caesar salads are awesome!
(4)
susan t.
Good neighborhood bar for all ages. Very nice on a warm night to sit in the open front with friends, a beer, and a plate of nachos or a quesadilla to share. Not dirty like the Beer Garden and not as loud and yuppied as Playwright. Friendly waitstaff.
(4)
L. O.
Shenannigans has become our new local since we've moved from the east side of Southie over to the west and honestly, I couldn't be happier with the change. Great place to grab food, drinks and get some quality time catching up -the food is very good for pub food - much better than the east b'way pub that had been our local for the last few years. Staff is really friendly and I've not had an issue with the bartenders as is noted by a few other yelpers. I do agree that after a certain hour it gets quite frat-ish and that's generally our cue to move outside Southie for the rest of our evening, but for very reasonably priced food and a great place to start off a night, Shenannigans always serves us well.
(5)
Southie G.
This is place is a good spot for drinks after work. Friendly Staff...pretty standard pub place.
(3)
christina c.
Its close to the apt so we go here every few weeks. I end up getting their veggie burgers, no bun and for my side a salad with the spicy dressing on the side. The veggie burger is actually really good with sauteed mushrooms and onions and cheese oh my! SP gets the spicy chicken pasta dish and he likes it. Late night its a little to loud for us with a DJ it becomes more like a club but on nice sunny days in the summer we go and get beer and sit on the back patio. Over all not bad for a quick dinner out.
(3)
Jennifer K.
Cute little place for a beer and a snack down the street from our apartment. Food is classic bar food and the prices are decent; there are a lot of interesting drinks to try on their website. The place was clean and modern and the staff was friendly. TVs around the place to watch sports but not obnoxious enough to prevent conversation with others. Found out there's Reggae night on Fridays - looks like we'll head back one of those nights!
(4)
South B.
Great place to eat. Nice waitres, amazing food--recommend steak tips, country fried chicken and chicken fiesta salad. Can always count on Shenanigans for good food and quick service. On a a side note; it'd be nice to have a band play other than the reggae for once..
(5)
Julie B.
Last weekend I suggested coming here for lunch solely so I could say the classic Super Troopers line: "I swear to God I'm going to pistol whip the next guy who says Shenannigans." Not really. Truthfully I just moved to Southie and wanted to check out some of the places closest to my new digs. My friends and I got prime seats right next to a big open window on quite the beautiful day. Can't really beat that. I ordered one of the sandwich specials -- grilled chicken, swiss, acocado, and chiptole mayo (?). There was SO much food on this sandwich. Look at the picture, I think they put an entire avocado on top -- I'm not complaining. The fries were decent and my friend's salad looked awesome, for a salad that is. They also have a cute little outside area that makes me wish it was July. I'm sure I'll be back for some hangover food!
(4)
David S.
Love this place. They always make you feel welcome, and the food is better than average pub fare. Love the steak tips, turkey tips, fish & chips, and beef stew. Great beer selection, and generous cocktails. Lots of TVs for sports, and the music is always at a level where you can carry on a conversation. Perfect for a casual night out. You'll be happy.
(4)
Sam A.
The best pub food in south boston! The whole menu is incredible but the buffalo chicken is the best in the area.
(5)
Allie H.
I went here for lunch on a Saturday. I had an amazing Fish Sandwich that I would certainly want again!! Everyone I was with loved the food as well The service though was not the best. It took forever to be waited on, then get drinks, forget for our friend who ordered a beer. When you can see the bar it is tough to justify why it is taking so long. Our server was not on the floor much and did not seem interested in making sure we had the best experience possible. Their food is great but just don't expect to be in and out of there quickly or wowed by their service
(3)
Alexander R.
HORRENDOUS SERVICE! I used to be a "regular" here, only because I was new to Southie and didn't know better. I would go in there a couple times a week - sometimes for lunch, sometimes at night for drinks with friends. The staff was NEVER POLITE. They'd never smile or ask how I was....and I WAS a "regular". I spent lots of money there and always tipped well...sometimes, begrudgingly....then came the tab mix-up of 2012. Not only did my friend and I pay our tab, WITH CASH, but we gave the (new) server about 40% tip. Well, next time i stopped in, I was treated like a villian. Again and again. I finally went in one slow afternoon to talk to the bartender on that day, the same one that was tending bar the day I was in. Long story short, she didn't believe me. She thinks I walked out on my tab, which I've NEVER done in my life. I've been in once or twice since and it's the same old stuff. Rude, rude, rude. I honestly think they actually make it a point to look stressed and busier than they really are! I've worked in the restaurant/bar/service industry for almost 20 years and I've never seen anything like it. The food and drinks are painfully average. But the SERVICE IS AS BAD AS IT GETS. I'm all set with this place. Go to the Lincoln, or Junction, or Stats, or Telegraph Hill, or the Franklin....
(1)
Megan M.
We went there for lunch as we were traveling here from Ohio for a conference. The food was great however the service was awful! We ordered 3 salads and it took almost 45-55 minutes just to even get food. It took us probably 15 minutes to get waters. Really? We then wanted to get our checks as we needed to get back to the conference and asked for separate checks as we needed them for itemized receipts for work. The waitress actually rolled her eyes and said "you never specified at the beginning that you wanted that." Ok understandable, we are from out of state, but no need to be rude. I would go there for food but just know that it may take awhile...
(2)
Kevin C.
Very discouraged. Pretty regular customer. Went there today late afternoon. Mashed potatoes so salty could not eat them. Green beans and carrots which used to be great we're overlooked and way over salted. NY Strip asked for med and got well done full of grisel (sp). Not sure I will be back anytime soon.
(2)
Local G.
I love this place for several reasons ... 1) you hardly ever find the same db frat boys here that will wait in line at Lincoln not even a block away 2) food is consistent, reasonably priced and quick (don't bother with the nachos though - they are boring) and 3) lots of tvs 4)it's one of the few places left with some Southie flare. The manager or host has an awful attitude but for some reason I like the grumpy bastard.
(4)
Jen H.
No shenanigans Allowed at Shenannigan's!!!!! Boo hisssssss.
(2)
Cathryn D.
Would give this place negative stars if possible! Never have I been so disrespected in my life!! Rudest employees I have ever dealt with and will NEVER be going back to this place. Was asked to meet here for a friends birthday last weekend. She wanted to see the reggae band, which we had heard was very good. I got to the place at around 930 and 3 of my friends were already there. When I sat down my friends had informed me that the waitress came over when they got there and told them that she wasn't going to serve them drinks because she wanted to leave when her shift ended (I thought that seemed a little rude but it didn't bother me and I was fine with ordering from the bar). We had begun a conversation amongst ourselves as we waited for our birthday guest and the rest of our friends to arrive. The band was setting up and there were some people in and around the bar and sitting at tables but it definitely wasn't crowded - there were still quite a few empty tables. I had probably been here for about 5 minutes when a man (who we later found out was named Dominic - probably a manager, I know he is not the owner because we looked that up after) came over and rudely told us the waitress had left for the night and we needed to order our drinks at the bar...before even being able to answer him he hurried away. Maybe a minute or two later a woman came by and told us the same exact thing. We told her we knew that and that we were just waiting for the bday girl and rest of our friends to get there. About 30 seconds later Dominic comes back and tells us that if we aren't ordering drinks we need to leave. At this point I'm so pissed at about how rude they are being that I don't even want to buy a drink at this point - mind you we probably would have spent hundreds of dollars over the course of the night buying drinks because we had a a few more people coming to meet us. My friends and I begin to discuss if we should leave or not because we're already feeling disrespected and upset. Then Dominic comes back (he probably did about one lap around the bar since he had been there before - because it hadn't even been a whole minute yet) and demand we need to leave and that we are not allowed to hang out there. At this point the band still setting up, there are still empty tables at the bar, and it's not even 10PM yet. We try to explain that we are waiting for our friends and he just says "No, get out, you need to leave, you can't hang out here." The only people that were nice to us were the bouncers who began talking to us when we were leaving, we told them we were waiting for our friend who's bday it was and he said he would talk to the manager and figure things out but we didn't even want to stay at that point because of how rude everyone else in there was, so we left. Not much to say about the food or drinks since we didn't even get to experience it, but the service is absolutely TERRIBLE and I will NEVER be going back to this place EVER. In hindsight, we probably should have ordered drinks instead of hanging around for a half hour but I never knew it was a rule that you had to drink at a bar, and we were GOING to order drinks once the rest of our friends got there. If the waitstaff let us explain that instead of rudely demanding us to order drinks or leave then maybe the situation would have turned out differently. But instead, leaving here, I was pissed off and felt extremely disrespected.
(1)
Laura J.
I went to Shenanigan's last Friday and had a beer, appetizer, and entree. The appetizer was the fish tacos which was delicious and the entree was the grilled salmon. Everything was delicious. The grilled salmon was fresh and had a creamy sauce. The service was fast and Just perfect for a friday night!
(5)
Linda E.
How about you guys leave the kitchen open after 9pm if you are open until 2am? Went here with Elizabeth D. after a Yelp event to get a drink at the bar. I got a Landshark which I loved and she got a Blue Moon with an orange slice. The bartender was a bit quick to cash us out even though we were just hanging out, that was a bit weird. We were able to look at the menu, which looked to be ok, but a bit expensive, good place for beer, the Blue Moon was only $4.75. I wouldn't go here for late night food since it's non existent!
(3)
Ren X.
SUPER CHEAP DRINKS coming from new york, im used to all cocktails to be at least 10 dollars. theirs is only like 6.5-7 dollars. this place is great! crowded on a friday nite.
(4)
Lauren L.
The only reason this place is getting 2 stars is because the food was ok. Not great, but decent. The service was absolutely terrible. I was in on a slow Sunday night and it seemed like the staff was mad we stopped in. We were hoping to watch football and they did switch one TV to the game we requested. However, the bartenders made us feel like we were inconveniencing them when we asked for drinks. One of the bartenders boyfriends was sitting next to me and would make rude comments under his breath anytime we would cheer for our team. The only people the bartenders wanted to be paying attention to were the other people working in the bar or their significant others. This made for a really poor experience and I will definitely not be returning here.
(2)
Nina H.
OK so I only have one visit to critique and it was on the St. Patrick's Day parade day. Yeah , $20 cover charge but seriously, if you expected something cheaper or no cover on parade day in Southie you're either from Mars or just turned 21 and this is your first day in a drinking establishment. Anywho... I thought the bouncers and waitstaff and bar backs did a great job this day. Cash only bar on this day which they have to do or sink in the red tape... I brought a fist full of cash and I gladly paid the cover and $6 Bud Light drafts and I had a blast, it was a great day. Only thing that bummed me out is that I momentarily was told I had to wait in line again after stepping outside to view the parade for a few minutes, thankfully the other bouncer found mercy on me and let me back in. :)
(4)
Christina Z.
This is EXACTLY what i never knew I always wanted #heartheartheart Facts: It is is Southie; the space is GORGEOUS and clean; they serve up a mean shipyard pumpkin with sugar and spice and everything nice, and the crowd is deliciously Southie-Student-Yuppie hybrid. I couldn't ask for more. I'm dying to go back. The music was great, they had always sunny on the telly, the bartenders were friendly but didn't harass you. I could totally see this as my favorite haunt. Haven't been this in love with a bar (and felt like I belonged) since the Mission Bar in Mission Hill.
(5)
Barbara J.
The stars they get are for the food alone. The steak tips and turkey tips are DELICIOUS. I used to come here at least once a week for dinner and once a month with my coworkers for an early happy hour. We had half days so we were typically there around 2:30 on a Friday. Not a busy time but still get the absolute SNUB. I'm talking a group of 10-12 people all drinking more than one drink, with about half staying for dinner. I'm talking a hefty bill with people accommodating tips for our large party size. We're a rowdy bunch and had made this our place for over a year. But the past few times we've been we've gotten nothing but rudeness and cold shoulders. Bad bad bad service and acting like how dare we bring a large group into a dead restaurant at 2:30 on a Friday? We've made Telegraph Hill our new spot. Awesome drinks, food, and they servers actually talk to you, make suggestions, and want you to come back.
(2)
May N.
Cute place for a drink in good weather - they open up the front windows and there's a small patio in the back. It's not too crazy or busy on a weekday afternoon so didn't experience the usual "hate outsider" Southie attitude. Enjoyed a $3 alcoholic tea (bottled) and a blueberry beer (draft). Service was good, checked in on us throughout the afternoon, but didn't constantly hover. Several big screen tv's throughout the place so I bet it'd be fun to watch a game.
(3)
Mandi R.
Keeping in mind this is a local joint, really love this place. Have yet to have one bad meal here (from apps, to salads to entrees). Ive actually chosen to go here on dates over more "fancy" restaurants because the food is that good. Two words: spinage dip. Super reasonable (if not underpriced) meals. Friendly staff. All the patrons seem to be enjoying themselves too. Fun laid back atmosphere. You can order a draft beer or martini and not feel put of place.
(4)
Cait O.
I just left Shenanigans for my fathers birthday. We had a party of 6 and were looking for something affordable and reliable. Shenanigans is always a guaranteed GREAT meal and a good time! I ordered the Cajun Haddock special and it was great! Our bill for 6 came to less than we expected and the service was much more than we expected!! There is also a reggae band on Fridays at 9 that is THE BEST!!!
(5)
Katherine D.
4 stars because the food is just so good. Don't ever come on a Friday or Saturday for a night out, but come by for food and leave satisfied. Country fried chicken is great, the blackened chicken pasta is delicious, and all of the fried apps are worth a try.
(4)
Sarah C.
Head over to Shenannigans on Friday nights for live reggae - yeppers REGGAE! It's a amazingly random combination and yet fabulous at the same time. Townie Southie boys all dressed up in their red soxes attire, popped collars and perfectly white sneakers swaying to the music of Jamaica. Plus the reggae band is amazing. I could watch the keyboardist play all night and pretty sure I laughed out loud when the lead singer pulled out a joint during the drum solo and took a hit - now that's what I call reggae. Food here is above average for a pub. Good burgers, huge salads and all the bar food munchy apps you could want. The beer selection is what's great - tons of beers on tap and plenty of bartenders to get you a cold one. Ladies - on the weekends you're in luck. If you're on the prowl for a Boston bred Southie man the odds are in your favor here - it's about 3-1 men. ohh ya!
(4)
Tom K.
I really don't like this place. I've been here 3 times over the last 1.5 or 2 years or so and hope to never be back. In my 3 visits, I've never had anything stand out. There are quite a few reviews here that rave about one dish or another but I, at best, have found them all to be forgettable or, at worse, have had them make me or my friends ill. Its just not worth it. And the service is terrible too. The bartender does a good job of not seeing you, whether you're trying to order some food, get another drink, or trying to get the check so you can get the heck out of there, its almost impossible to get anything done in a reasonable amount of time. With so many options on Broadway and surrounding area, I'd avoid this place and keep walking to somewhere that can get it right.
(1)
Dino D.
I really enjoyed it, I was expecting the usual pub food but was pleasantly surprised. Had the steak and blue cheese salad, stuffed mushrooms, and a lobster or shrimp (I forget) mac and cheese. All were delicious, the service was okay, but the food is the reason I want to go back.
(4)
R A.
I enjoy Shenannigans. Food is really good!!! I enjoy the ambiance and decor. The band on Friday night was awesome. I'd definitely stop in again for dinner/lunch or to grab a beer. I was a little disappointed that they didn't have the NFL ticket. Of course they have the Pats game on, but my friend was hoping to see another game. Overall great neighborhood spot.
(4)
Courtney B.
Good food. Great service. The place was packed, but our server still managed to bring all our food out on time. Mac and cheese is to die for. Definitely recommend it!
(4)
Bonnie M.
I have become a somewhat regular rather quickly here. We always sit at the bar and receive wonderful service! They knew us after only visiting one time! My glass is never neglected and the food so far has been great! (The steak tips were super, and large portions so you have lunch for the next day!) I can't say its the best for mingling, but a great place to hang out with friends, and hey mingle with the bartenders! I will continue to be a regular!
(4)
Lauren L.
Shenannigan's on West Broadway is one of my favorite by far bars/restaurants in South Boston, we are "regulars" there at the bar. Parking is free on side of building. HUGE +. The food is always consistent and the chef has been working there for 10 years. The salads are HUGE and always fresh. I highly recommend the Turkey Tips that are $9.99, they are delicious! In the Summer, there's a small outdoor quiet patio. HARD TO FIND IN SOUTHIE. The managers are always friendly. Bartenders: "Val" who is from Ireland works on Thursdays. She always greets us by our names and knows exactly what we want every single time we go! Great personality! "Lauren" who works at this bar full time is a doll! She knows how to handle a busy crowd and makes a GREAT bloody mary. LOVE HER! "Brendan" who works on Saturdays is hysterical. He always makes us laugh and makes the best drinks. Thanks Shenannigan's!
(5)
Krys A.
No Shenannigan's Allowed at Shenannigan's!!!!! Meh. The 1st time I did the bar crawl here they said we were too loud and people were trying to eat lunch. 2nd time here,... we were too loud and people were trying to eat their lunch. 3rd time... welp, there wont be a 3rd time for the Red Scare. Though I did enjoy one of the bartenders who was quite pleasant he was very happy to take pictures for us :) Don't let the name fool you. Shenannigan's... Ha!
(2)
alison j.
I am taking away one star because the bartenders seemed to have gotten worse. I went in here TWICE in the last month on a Friday night only to stare at the bartenders for 20 minutes, be ignored, get annoyed and go next door. There were 3 bartenders. The bar is not that big. Now why would I come here twice in a month if that's what happened to me the first time? The Friday night reggae band is awesome. I might just have to start sneaking in nips or something so I can have a drink while I listen to them.
(1)
Sara M.
This is a chill bar ideal for having lunch or an after-work beer. The food is quite good and portions are generous. I especially recommend their salads which are always HUGE and fresh. On a nice day they can slide open the large windows in the front of the building and let in some fresh air. Also of note, they have large flatscreen tvs around the restaurant so you can eat lunch and watch the world cup ;) I would not recommend this bar to people looking for a super energetic, loud, young scene. It's just not that kind of place. However, it is clean, reasonably priced, has nice staff, serves good food, and is a great spot to catch up with a friend.
(4)
Sally J.
Just moved to the area and went to dinner with my Mom and brother. I thought Shenannigan's was just a fun place to drink; however, I was pleasantly surprised by my food and experience. It is obviously not fine dining but is excellent bar food. I ordered the buffalo chicken mac and cheese and boy was that a huge, cheesy, and hearty meal! Much better than the recently opened Lincoln restaurant across the street. Also the chili is tasty and heart-warming.
(5)
Julie S.
One of my favorite places to go in Southie- but only during the week! On weekends, the vibe in here is really weird. The people are local Southie people who get completely dressed up for a night at a casual bar (they often look like they are going clubbing). On weeknights, the place is great. I can usually find a seat at the bar, and the bartenders are very friendly. It is the kind of place where other people in the bar will make small talk with you. Additionally, it's not gourmet but as far as bar food- it blows Playwright and Beer Garden away. The onion rings are phenomenol, many of the sandwhiches are huge and delicious, and the main courses aren't half bad either.
(4)
Kim S.
Teriyaki beef sticks were amazing!! Had the Philly cheese steak that was great but a little dry but still worth eating. Great atmosphere!
(4)
Krista S.
This bar was filled with men on Friday night. Someone must have put out the word for all the attractive late 20s early 30s men to show up at Shenannigans and the forgot to invite the ladies. It was around a 8:1 males to female ratio! The reggae band seemed a bit out of place for the clientele but I loved it! I'll be going back and bringing all my single gals.
(4)
Carly R.
I always go here for lunch on Fridays when I have doctor's appointments in the area. So that's the context. Great food for a pub environment, though I rarely get more than a cup of chowder. I really like the vibe and the other people who frequent the spot during daytime (think older locals who are very vibrant and friendly.) It was a breath of fresh air to go there today, after seeing, to my horror, the Starbucks and high priced residential building being constructed by Broadway station, and feel like the place was still dominated by down to earth Southie types, construction workers on lunch break etc... who never lack a smile or conversation starter (love how people were talking across the room to each other from several tables away.) It's clearly a spot that people are regulars and recognize other regulars. It's a nice touch that they have appealing specials; too many casual pubs don't even bother mixing it up to keep steady clientele entertained with new options. I haven't been out there just to hang at night since 2007, so I can only speak to the daytime vibe, which is super comforting, especially on this chilly Winter day.
(4)
Erika K.
Been here a few times and am always very pleased. The service is nice and really friendly and the food is delicious! First of all food, I mean come on food always comes first! The buffalo chicken quesadillas are really good and creamy the Onion rings come with a fantastic sauce that I suggest you keep and use on everything! The shepard pie is well words can't describe Chicken Pot Pie is alright too sweet for my savory desires Potatoe Skins good Drinks! Reasonably priced and really generously poured. LOVE THAT! Atmosphere. perfect for what you want on different days of the week. Early dinner... soft lighting quiet music and calm Lat night ... great music lots of people great reggae band on friday TRIVIA! Wednesday night ... and they have fun prizes full of alcohol nothing better. You should go here if in the south end.
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : Yes Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : No Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Jennifer A.
I had a margarita and it was delicious! The stuffed mushrooms were awesome too, but most of all the service was spot on . Our bartender , Carolanne ( I think) was very accommodating. We will definitely be coming back.
(4)Stacy M.
My fiancé and I were staying in Boston for a long weekend and our host recommended this place. We went for lunch and had buffalo chicken pizza and garlic stuffed mushrooms - both were AWESOME! We sat at the bar and the bartender was super friendly and attentive. Later that night we tried going to a restaurant down the road, but after waiting an hour for a table we left and went back to Shenanigans. This time we had the sweet chili calamari and surf and turf (steak tips and shrimp). We both agreed the shrimp would have been much better if it wasn't fried, but the steak tips and calamari were so delicious, we didn't really mind the so-so shrimp. Definitely worth checking out if you are in the area.
(5)Dawn E.
Where is my 2010ish review for Shenanigans??? I, too, was part of a bar crawl crowd that was kicked out for shenanigans at shenanigans once upon a time. I don't think any of the other reviewers actually defined these shenanigans, but I remember them well. It was STOP 2 on the bar crawl, which means nobody was drunk. We were just telling stories and taking selifes and that was a about it. Sure, maybe an hour later people were getting "iced" (if you dont' know don't ask) and shots a plenty were had. The crowd ran wild. Way way way way way after leaving Shenanigans. That review, left me with one star. Recently, however, I had lunch at Shenanigans with coworkers. The ham sandwich special would have been mounds better were it served on the sour dough bread it was alleged to come with, however, I was starving so I ate the rye. The beer selections is good. The fries are crispy. For work lunch: solid choice. For bar crawls: skip ahead to the next place.
(3)Connor E.
I remember when this place was an old school restaurant on one side and a dive bar on the other. It's come a long way since then. The value for what we got was superb. I took my mother out to dinner here and we had a beer, martini, an app, and two dinners. Tab, $50. There are few restaurants that offer comfort food anymore. Just what you need after a rough day.
(4)Scotty C.
Friends and I were looking for a casual place to grab a bite to eat before meeting friends in Seaport for drinks. We weren't looking for anything fancy so my buddy suggested we go here because their food is always solid. It was fairly early on a weekday so we were one of the first sets of patrons to arrive. As the name suggests, the atmosphere is very irish pub-ish. A huge U shaped bar commands the room with some scattered tables off to the sides. This is the type of place you saddle up to the bar. The draught selection was impressive offering Irish import favorites to local brews from down the road. The true standout surprisingly wasn't the beer though, it was the food. It's simple bar food mixed with some traditional Irish dishes and the three of us were impressed. One had a burger, one the steak tips, where as I opted for the Shepard's Pie. Hands down the best Shepard's Pie I've had to date. The gravy was life changing and had a good mix of meat and veggies. Over the top was a thick layer of mashed potatoes whipped to perfection and then put back under the broiler to give the whole dish a lite crispy crust. This dish is an absolute must for any visit.
(4)Kayabba L.
I haven't decided what was worse the service or the Lobster Roll Sliders. The lobster roll description should have read diced celery with minced lobster meat. To be fair the celery wasn't diced big at all I just want to give you a better idea of the size of the lobster meat. Since I'm being fair I'll also say that 2 out of 6 sliders did have extremely small pieces of cut up tail. I'm also not a fan of lobster drowned in mayo however when it is so dry you begin timing your waitress in need of a drink to wash it down it says a lot. Onto the service or should I say lack of. After being served our meals the next time we had contact with our waitress was about 15 minutes after we were finished and asked the bar tender if someone would bring our checks. I noticed our waitress begrudgingly pulling herself away from her lunch. I'm assuming she wasn't eating lobster rolls.
(2)Angela S.
Great place for food and/or drinks. I'll come here often for some after work beverages and apps. It's conveniently located on West Broadway so easy it's a quick stop off of the #9 bus or approx. 10 min walk from Broadway Station. They have a daily specials menu that usually has some great options that always taste great! Weekends- I'd much rather head here than somewhere like Stats or Lincoln.. Aka where everyone who just discovered Southie between the ages of 22-30 are. Plenty of TV's around and usually plenty of seating. Great place to go for dinner or with a group of friends for a game. Reasonably priced, too. Overall, no complaints about this place!
(5)Laura F.
This place could be amazing if the service wasn't horrible all the time. I live close so I frequent shenanigans often. Reggae night is fun. Their food is great but service is painfully slow and no one is friendly.
(3)Dane M.
So many wacky shenanigans occur at this fine establishment!! Make sure you keep your head on a swivel or you could suffer a sports injury!
(4)Leah R.
Came here after a work event with a big group on the recommendation of a colleague, and definitely was not disappointed (even though I was skeptical about the name of the place). It took us forever to decide on food as it was a bit loud in the restaurant and there are so many good choices on the menu to choose from, but our waitress Kate was very attentive and patient- even when we asked for 6 separate checks for expense account purposes. I got the buffalo chicken nachos as my meal which were top-notch, but my co-worker that ordered the beef skewers won the lottery for the night. They were the most tender and perfectly cooked skewers I have ever had. Food and service = 5 stars Acoustics = 3 stars
(4)Barry W.
The service was horrible. Although, they seated us quickly and at a requested booth, the wait staff continued to pass our table as if we were invisible for over 10 minutes. I had to yell out for service. WTH! The guy who was waiting on all the tables in our area sent over another girl and continued to ignore us. This isn't a welcoming establishment, unless, maybe for locals. I should have left. Instead I put my feet up and forced them to serve me. The food was ok - not great, not bad.
(1)Ashley N.
I really like this bar in Southie. Good atmosphere and good food. I love their chilli. It's really good. Try it! I come here to watch some football games and it's great and loud and fun to be in and around people (although anywhere is). The waitress was very nice! Service was good. The next thing to try on my list is their veggie burger which I hear is one of the best ones!
(4)Anne S.
I would give 10 stars if I could. Best food. Best drinks. Best service....in Southie. It's essentially our second home and Erin, Julie, Louise, Carol Ann, Marie, Brendan, Dominic, Tony and Joey make us feel that way everytime :)
(5)Emily L.
Bartenders and waitstaff are great! Their nachos and burgers are yummy. Tv's everywhere if you want to watch a game. I do wish they had authentic irish coffees though. Still trying to find thee place for that.
(4)Ryan W.
I give it four just because the food is amazing have yet to have a bad meal, chicken pot pie and Shepards pie unreal. The only downside is the red headed Irish waiter the guys an absolute miserable douchebag...bartenders are great to
(3)Jerry T.
Great drinks, ok food. The food was a bit bland for my taste, but the beer on tap was cold and fresh! All and all, not the worst meal ever.
(3)Jason M.
Nothing here impressed me that much; it was fine. It's nice inside. They have a lot of HDTVs. There's a patio out back. The bartenders are pretty. The mediocre reggae band played their renditions of Ace of Base's "Don't Turn Around" and Phil Collins's "Another Day in Paradise." You can't make that last sentence up. It must be true then, right? Give the stars to the bartenders though. Even though this place was hopelessly crowded by 11PM, no one in our party waited particularly long to be attended to. Also, the prices weren't bad for the big city. Two well drinks and two ciders on tap for $23 on a Friday Night. You could do worse, for sure. For those of you looking to meet women [self not included], I did notice a good ratio of ladies to gents, most of whom were quite attractive by my standards. My friend hit one of them; she looked like Alison Brie from Mad Men... if that gives you a good idea. So it's a pretty good hangout spot. Close to the T and reasonably priced.
(3)Ann M.
I'm editing this review because I came here for lunch with a co worker and our food was delicious ... We sat at the bar and our bartender was very nice and attentive ! It makes a difference!
(4)Julie B.
Last weekend I suggested coming here for lunch solely so I could say the classic Super Troopers line: "I swear to God I'm going to pistol whip the next guy who says Shenannigans." Not really. Truthfully I just moved to Southie and wanted to check out some of the places closest to my new digs. My friends and I got prime seats right next to a big open window on quite the beautiful day. Can't really beat that. I ordered one of the sandwich specials -- grilled chicken, swiss, acocado, and chiptole mayo (?). There was SO much food on this sandwich. Look at the picture, I think they put an entire avocado on top -- I'm not complaining. The fries were decent and my friend's salad looked awesome, for a salad that is. They also have a cute little outside area that makes me wish it was July. I'm sure I'll be back for some hangover food!
(4)David S.
Love this place. They always make you feel welcome, and the food is better than average pub fare. Love the steak tips, turkey tips, fish & chips, and beef stew. Great beer selection, and generous cocktails. Lots of TVs for sports, and the music is always at a level where you can carry on a conversation. Perfect for a casual night out. You'll be happy.
(4)Sam A.
The best pub food in south boston! The whole menu is incredible but the buffalo chicken is the best in the area.
(5)Alexander R.
HORRENDOUS SERVICE! I used to be a "regular" here, only because I was new to Southie and didn't know better. I would go in there a couple times a week - sometimes for lunch, sometimes at night for drinks with friends. The staff was NEVER POLITE. They'd never smile or ask how I was....and I WAS a "regular". I spent lots of money there and always tipped well...sometimes, begrudgingly....then came the tab mix-up of 2012. Not only did my friend and I pay our tab, WITH CASH, but we gave the (new) server about 40% tip. Well, next time i stopped in, I was treated like a villian. Again and again. I finally went in one slow afternoon to talk to the bartender on that day, the same one that was tending bar the day I was in. Long story short, she didn't believe me. She thinks I walked out on my tab, which I've NEVER done in my life. I've been in once or twice since and it's the same old stuff. Rude, rude, rude. I honestly think they actually make it a point to look stressed and busier than they really are! I've worked in the restaurant/bar/service industry for almost 20 years and I've never seen anything like it. The food and drinks are painfully average. But the SERVICE IS AS BAD AS IT GETS. I'm all set with this place. Go to the Lincoln, or Junction, or Stats, or Telegraph Hill, or the Franklin....
(1)Kelly M.
This is a great local spot in Southie. Large U shaped bar with attentive staff. Great food - pot pie, nachos, any special dish!
(4)Megan M.
We went there for lunch as we were traveling here from Ohio for a conference. The food was great however the service was awful! We ordered 3 salads and it took almost 45-55 minutes just to even get food. It took us probably 15 minutes to get waters. Really? We then wanted to get our checks as we needed to get back to the conference and asked for separate checks as we needed them for itemized receipts for work. The waitress actually rolled her eyes and said "you never specified at the beginning that you wanted that." Ok understandable, we are from out of state, but no need to be rude. I would go there for food but just know that it may take awhile...
(2)Kevin C.
Very discouraged. Pretty regular customer. Went there today late afternoon. Mashed potatoes so salty could not eat them. Green beans and carrots which used to be great we're overlooked and way over salted. NY Strip asked for med and got well done full of grisel (sp). Not sure I will be back anytime soon.
(2)Local G.
I love this place for several reasons ... 1) you hardly ever find the same db frat boys here that will wait in line at Lincoln not even a block away 2) food is consistent, reasonably priced and quick (don't bother with the nachos though - they are boring) and 3) lots of tvs 4)it's one of the few places left with some Southie flare. The manager or host has an awful attitude but for some reason I like the grumpy bastard.
(4)Jen H.
No shenanigans Allowed at Shenannigan's!!!!! Boo hisssssss.
(2)Allie H.
I went here for lunch on a Saturday. I had an amazing Fish Sandwich that I would certainly want again!! Everyone I was with loved the food as well The service though was not the best. It took forever to be waited on, then get drinks, forget for our friend who ordered a beer. When you can see the bar it is tough to justify why it is taking so long. Our server was not on the floor much and did not seem interested in making sure we had the best experience possible. Their food is great but just don't expect to be in and out of there quickly or wowed by their service
(3)Christina Z.
This is EXACTLY what i never knew I always wanted #heartheartheart Facts: It is is Southie; the space is GORGEOUS and clean; they serve up a mean shipyard pumpkin with sugar and spice and everything nice, and the crowd is deliciously Southie-Student-Yuppie hybrid. I couldn't ask for more. I'm dying to go back. The music was great, they had always sunny on the telly, the bartenders were friendly but didn't harass you. I could totally see this as my favorite haunt. Haven't been this in love with a bar (and felt like I belonged) since the Mission Bar in Mission Hill.
(5)Cathryn D.
Would give this place negative stars if possible! Never have I been so disrespected in my life!! Rudest employees I have ever dealt with and will NEVER be going back to this place. Was asked to meet here for a friends birthday last weekend. She wanted to see the reggae band, which we had heard was very good. I got to the place at around 930 and 3 of my friends were already there. When I sat down my friends had informed me that the waitress came over when they got there and told them that she wasn't going to serve them drinks because she wanted to leave when her shift ended (I thought that seemed a little rude but it didn't bother me and I was fine with ordering from the bar). We had begun a conversation amongst ourselves as we waited for our birthday guest and the rest of our friends to arrive. The band was setting up and there were some people in and around the bar and sitting at tables but it definitely wasn't crowded - there were still quite a few empty tables. I had probably been here for about 5 minutes when a man (who we later found out was named Dominic - probably a manager, I know he is not the owner because we looked that up after) came over and rudely told us the waitress had left for the night and we needed to order our drinks at the bar...before even being able to answer him he hurried away. Maybe a minute or two later a woman came by and told us the same exact thing. We told her we knew that and that we were just waiting for the bday girl and rest of our friends to get there. About 30 seconds later Dominic comes back and tells us that if we aren't ordering drinks we need to leave. At this point I'm so pissed at about how rude they are being that I don't even want to buy a drink at this point - mind you we probably would have spent hundreds of dollars over the course of the night buying drinks because we had a a few more people coming to meet us. My friends and I begin to discuss if we should leave or not because we're already feeling disrespected and upset. Then Dominic comes back (he probably did about one lap around the bar since he had been there before - because it hadn't even been a whole minute yet) and demand we need to leave and that we are not allowed to hang out there. At this point the band still setting up, there are still empty tables at the bar, and it's not even 10PM yet. We try to explain that we are waiting for our friends and he just says "No, get out, you need to leave, you can't hang out here." The only people that were nice to us were the bouncers who began talking to us when we were leaving, we told them we were waiting for our friend who's bday it was and he said he would talk to the manager and figure things out but we didn't even want to stay at that point because of how rude everyone else in there was, so we left. Not much to say about the food or drinks since we didn't even get to experience it, but the service is absolutely TERRIBLE and I will NEVER be going back to this place EVER. In hindsight, we probably should have ordered drinks instead of hanging around for a half hour but I never knew it was a rule that you had to drink at a bar, and we were GOING to order drinks once the rest of our friends got there. If the waitstaff let us explain that instead of rudely demanding us to order drinks or leave then maybe the situation would have turned out differently. But instead, leaving here, I was pissed off and felt extremely disrespected.
(1)Laura J.
I went to Shenanigan's last Friday and had a beer, appetizer, and entree. The appetizer was the fish tacos which was delicious and the entree was the grilled salmon. Everything was delicious. The grilled salmon was fresh and had a creamy sauce. The service was fast and Just perfect for a friday night!
(5)Christine S.
The food at this Irish pub is so underrated. In fact, it's one of my favorite places to grab a casual bite to eat. Our favorite things on the menu are the Beef Skewers - yummy, tender, with a little kick, and the delicious salads. Sure a salad with grilled chicken seems easy, but I have had so many in Boston with dry, almost inedible meat. The salads at Shenanigans are HUGE and the grilled chicken is warm and juicy and a very generous portion. Their balsamic vin is a mild white balsamic that is just to die for. My favorite is the apple and goat cheese salad - try it - you won't be sorry. Best night for dinner is Wednesdays for pub trivia. Great date night!
(4)Emily G.
Dear Shenannigans, If you do not allow such actions in your establishment, you might consider changing your name, or at least putting a "No" in front of it. Love, Emily G. and the rest of Red Scare 2010.
(2)Linda E.
How about you guys leave the kitchen open after 9pm if you are open until 2am? Went here with Elizabeth D. after a Yelp event to get a drink at the bar. I got a Landshark which I loved and she got a Blue Moon with an orange slice. The bartender was a bit quick to cash us out even though we were just hanging out, that was a bit weird. We were able to look at the menu, which looked to be ok, but a bit expensive, good place for beer, the Blue Moon was only $4.75. I wouldn't go here for late night food since it's non existent!
(3)Ren X.
SUPER CHEAP DRINKS coming from new york, im used to all cocktails to be at least 10 dollars. theirs is only like 6.5-7 dollars. this place is great! crowded on a friday nite.
(4)Lauren L.
The only reason this place is getting 2 stars is because the food was ok. Not great, but decent. The service was absolutely terrible. I was in on a slow Sunday night and it seemed like the staff was mad we stopped in. We were hoping to watch football and they did switch one TV to the game we requested. However, the bartenders made us feel like we were inconveniencing them when we asked for drinks. One of the bartenders boyfriends was sitting next to me and would make rude comments under his breath anytime we would cheer for our team. The only people the bartenders wanted to be paying attention to were the other people working in the bar or their significant others. This made for a really poor experience and I will definitely not be returning here.
(2)Nina H.
OK so I only have one visit to critique and it was on the St. Patrick's Day parade day. Yeah , $20 cover charge but seriously, if you expected something cheaper or no cover on parade day in Southie you're either from Mars or just turned 21 and this is your first day in a drinking establishment. Anywho... I thought the bouncers and waitstaff and bar backs did a great job this day. Cash only bar on this day which they have to do or sink in the red tape... I brought a fist full of cash and I gladly paid the cover and $6 Bud Light drafts and I had a blast, it was a great day. Only thing that bummed me out is that I momentarily was told I had to wait in line again after stepping outside to view the parade for a few minutes, thankfully the other bouncer found mercy on me and let me back in. :)
(4)Barbara J.
The stars they get are for the food alone. The steak tips and turkey tips are DELICIOUS. I used to come here at least once a week for dinner and once a month with my coworkers for an early happy hour. We had half days so we were typically there around 2:30 on a Friday. Not a busy time but still get the absolute SNUB. I'm talking a group of 10-12 people all drinking more than one drink, with about half staying for dinner. I'm talking a hefty bill with people accommodating tips for our large party size. We're a rowdy bunch and had made this our place for over a year. But the past few times we've been we've gotten nothing but rudeness and cold shoulders. Bad bad bad service and acting like how dare we bring a large group into a dead restaurant at 2:30 on a Friday? We've made Telegraph Hill our new spot. Awesome drinks, food, and they servers actually talk to you, make suggestions, and want you to come back.
(2)May N.
Cute place for a drink in good weather - they open up the front windows and there's a small patio in the back. It's not too crazy or busy on a weekday afternoon so didn't experience the usual "hate outsider" Southie attitude. Enjoyed a $3 alcoholic tea (bottled) and a blueberry beer (draft). Service was good, checked in on us throughout the afternoon, but didn't constantly hover. Several big screen tv's throughout the place so I bet it'd be fun to watch a game.
(3)Mandi R.
Keeping in mind this is a local joint, really love this place. Have yet to have one bad meal here (from apps, to salads to entrees). Ive actually chosen to go here on dates over more "fancy" restaurants because the food is that good. Two words: spinage dip. Super reasonable (if not underpriced) meals. Friendly staff. All the patrons seem to be enjoying themselves too. Fun laid back atmosphere. You can order a draft beer or martini and not feel put of place.
(4)Cait O.
I just left Shenanigans for my fathers birthday. We had a party of 6 and were looking for something affordable and reliable. Shenanigans is always a guaranteed GREAT meal and a good time! I ordered the Cajun Haddock special and it was great! Our bill for 6 came to less than we expected and the service was much more than we expected!! There is also a reggae band on Fridays at 9 that is THE BEST!!!
(5)Katherine D.
4 stars because the food is just so good. Don't ever come on a Friday or Saturday for a night out, but come by for food and leave satisfied. Country fried chicken is great, the blackened chicken pasta is delicious, and all of the fried apps are worth a try.
(4)Sarah C.
Head over to Shenannigans on Friday nights for live reggae - yeppers REGGAE! It's a amazingly random combination and yet fabulous at the same time. Townie Southie boys all dressed up in their red soxes attire, popped collars and perfectly white sneakers swaying to the music of Jamaica. Plus the reggae band is amazing. I could watch the keyboardist play all night and pretty sure I laughed out loud when the lead singer pulled out a joint during the drum solo and took a hit - now that's what I call reggae. Food here is above average for a pub. Good burgers, huge salads and all the bar food munchy apps you could want. The beer selection is what's great - tons of beers on tap and plenty of bartenders to get you a cold one. Ladies - on the weekends you're in luck. If you're on the prowl for a Boston bred Southie man the odds are in your favor here - it's about 3-1 men. ohh ya!
(4)Tom K.
I really don't like this place. I've been here 3 times over the last 1.5 or 2 years or so and hope to never be back. In my 3 visits, I've never had anything stand out. There are quite a few reviews here that rave about one dish or another but I, at best, have found them all to be forgettable or, at worse, have had them make me or my friends ill. Its just not worth it. And the service is terrible too. The bartender does a good job of not seeing you, whether you're trying to order some food, get another drink, or trying to get the check so you can get the heck out of there, its almost impossible to get anything done in a reasonable amount of time. With so many options on Broadway and surrounding area, I'd avoid this place and keep walking to somewhere that can get it right.
(1)Dino D.
I really enjoyed it, I was expecting the usual pub food but was pleasantly surprised. Had the steak and blue cheese salad, stuffed mushrooms, and a lobster or shrimp (I forget) mac and cheese. All were delicious, the service was okay, but the food is the reason I want to go back.
(4)R A.
I enjoy Shenannigans. Food is really good!!! I enjoy the ambiance and decor. The band on Friday night was awesome. I'd definitely stop in again for dinner/lunch or to grab a beer. I was a little disappointed that they didn't have the NFL ticket. Of course they have the Pats game on, but my friend was hoping to see another game. Overall great neighborhood spot.
(4)Courtney B.
Good food. Great service. The place was packed, but our server still managed to bring all our food out on time. Mac and cheese is to die for. Definitely recommend it!
(4)Southie R.
I'll say it now: Best food in Southie. Not even a question. Better than the Beer Garden. Better than the Playwright. I love the food, and they give you a ton of it. I usually come with regulars, so the service is top notch. The prices are very decent (compared to other parts of Boston). On Wednesday's, they do Trivia, which I'm not into, but some are.
(4)Lauren L.
Shenannigan's on West Broadway is one of my favorite by far bars/restaurants in South Boston, we are "regulars" there at the bar. Parking is free on side of building. HUGE +. The food is always consistent and the chef has been working there for 10 years. The salads are HUGE and always fresh. I highly recommend the Turkey Tips that are $9.99, they are delicious! In the Summer, there's a small outdoor quiet patio. HARD TO FIND IN SOUTHIE. The managers are always friendly. Bartenders: "Val" who is from Ireland works on Thursdays. She always greets us by our names and knows exactly what we want every single time we go! Great personality! "Lauren" who works at this bar full time is a doll! She knows how to handle a busy crowd and makes a GREAT bloody mary. LOVE HER! "Brendan" who works on Saturdays is hysterical. He always makes us laugh and makes the best drinks. Thanks Shenannigan's!
(5)Krys A.
No Shenannigan's Allowed at Shenannigan's!!!!! Meh. The 1st time I did the bar crawl here they said we were too loud and people were trying to eat lunch. 2nd time here,... we were too loud and people were trying to eat their lunch. 3rd time... welp, there wont be a 3rd time for the Red Scare. Though I did enjoy one of the bartenders who was quite pleasant he was very happy to take pictures for us :) Don't let the name fool you. Shenannigan's... Ha!
(2)alison j.
I am taking away one star because the bartenders seemed to have gotten worse. I went in here TWICE in the last month on a Friday night only to stare at the bartenders for 20 minutes, be ignored, get annoyed and go next door. There were 3 bartenders. The bar is not that big. Now why would I come here twice in a month if that's what happened to me the first time? The Friday night reggae band is awesome. I might just have to start sneaking in nips or something so I can have a drink while I listen to them.
(1)Sara M.
This is a chill bar ideal for having lunch or an after-work beer. The food is quite good and portions are generous. I especially recommend their salads which are always HUGE and fresh. On a nice day they can slide open the large windows in the front of the building and let in some fresh air. Also of note, they have large flatscreen tvs around the restaurant so you can eat lunch and watch the world cup ;) I would not recommend this bar to people looking for a super energetic, loud, young scene. It's just not that kind of place. However, it is clean, reasonably priced, has nice staff, serves good food, and is a great spot to catch up with a friend.
(4)Sally J.
Just moved to the area and went to dinner with my Mom and brother. I thought Shenannigan's was just a fun place to drink; however, I was pleasantly surprised by my food and experience. It is obviously not fine dining but is excellent bar food. I ordered the buffalo chicken mac and cheese and boy was that a huge, cheesy, and hearty meal! Much better than the recently opened Lincoln restaurant across the street. Also the chili is tasty and heart-warming.
(5)Julie S.
One of my favorite places to go in Southie- but only during the week! On weekends, the vibe in here is really weird. The people are local Southie people who get completely dressed up for a night at a casual bar (they often look like they are going clubbing). On weeknights, the place is great. I can usually find a seat at the bar, and the bartenders are very friendly. It is the kind of place where other people in the bar will make small talk with you. Additionally, it's not gourmet but as far as bar food- it blows Playwright and Beer Garden away. The onion rings are phenomenol, many of the sandwhiches are huge and delicious, and the main courses aren't half bad either.
(4)Kim S.
Teriyaki beef sticks were amazing!! Had the Philly cheese steak that was great but a little dry but still worth eating. Great atmosphere!
(4)Krista S.
This bar was filled with men on Friday night. Someone must have put out the word for all the attractive late 20s early 30s men to show up at Shenannigans and the forgot to invite the ladies. It was around a 8:1 males to female ratio! The reggae band seemed a bit out of place for the clientele but I loved it! I'll be going back and bringing all my single gals.
(4)Carly R.
I always go here for lunch on Fridays when I have doctor's appointments in the area. So that's the context. Great food for a pub environment, though I rarely get more than a cup of chowder. I really like the vibe and the other people who frequent the spot during daytime (think older locals who are very vibrant and friendly.) It was a breath of fresh air to go there today, after seeing, to my horror, the Starbucks and high priced residential building being constructed by Broadway station, and feel like the place was still dominated by down to earth Southie types, construction workers on lunch break etc... who never lack a smile or conversation starter (love how people were talking across the room to each other from several tables away.) It's clearly a spot that people are regulars and recognize other regulars. It's a nice touch that they have appealing specials; too many casual pubs don't even bother mixing it up to keep steady clientele entertained with new options. I haven't been out there just to hang at night since 2007, so I can only speak to the daytime vibe, which is super comforting, especially on this chilly Winter day.
(4)Erika K.
Been here a few times and am always very pleased. The service is nice and really friendly and the food is delicious! First of all food, I mean come on food always comes first! The buffalo chicken quesadillas are really good and creamy the Onion rings come with a fantastic sauce that I suggest you keep and use on everything! The shepard pie is well words can't describe Chicken Pot Pie is alright too sweet for my savory desires Potatoe Skins good Drinks! Reasonably priced and really generously poured. LOVE THAT! Atmosphere. perfect for what you want on different days of the week. Early dinner... soft lighting quiet music and calm Lat night ... great music lots of people great reggae band on friday TRIVIA! Wednesday night ... and they have fun prizes full of alcohol nothing better. You should go here if in the south end.
(5)Mary M.
I stopped in here for a bite and a beer before meeting some friends for an evening of joviality. The bartender, Rob, was quite friendly and let me sample one of the draft beer selections before I made my decision and was more than happy to answer any question I might have had about the menu. I was only seeking an appetizer, and I chose the beef teriyaki skewers, which were quite delish. They came out served on a bed of rice (done just the way I like it - a bit sticky) with some chopped tomato for garnish and a serving of peanut sauce, which was also quite tasty, even though the beef did not need any additional seasoning - it was wonderful just as it was served. Overall, I liked the place very much, nice atmosphere, very clean, when I arrived, it was pretty quiet, but it was starting to fill up by the time I left. I would definitely be open to returning to Shenannigans for an entire meal.
(4)Special O.
Worst in the league. If you want to stand around a bar and wait for the bartenders to come to you, try Shenannigan's. You will lose your buzz rather quickly - trust me. Oh and.....no dancing. Bouncers get mad. When the DJ is blasting music and you are trying to dance, they tell you to cut it out and sit down. They also have flat, warm beers. The drinks are weak. Trust me on this one. If you're in the Southie area, stay away from Shenannigan's.
(1)Aditi R.
I haven't frequented Southie much at all. But the couple of times I've been it's involved this particular place and if anything, it's a good place to be acquainted with Southie. The bar is fun in general. They have different nights. Thursday is Karaoke nights and Fridays/Saturdays they have a DJ spinning various music and taking requests (though you may have to fight with him to play your song of choice at times). The best part about this place however are the bartenders and how nice and efficient they are. Right from the start they pay attention to you and no matter how full the bar may be make their way around and never give you the need or the attitude that comes with a busy bar. The crowd here is a mix of age groups, but generally one that is always interesting. I haven't tried their food so I can't write about that much, but as far as drinks and bartenders and atmosphere goes, I do enjoy this place. If I find myself in Southie, this will definitely be a place I come again and again.
(4)Mary S.
HUGE portions, excellent taste and an up-scale pub feel--a great find in South Boston. I recommend the Shenannigan's chicken sandwich--so crisp, warm and delicious (plus it has BACON!) It's served along side a bed of fried-to-perfection french fries. My friend had the Shepard's pie which she found equally amazing and enough food for three!
(4)Kaka-Q S.
Favorite pub in SoBo. Fantastic Irish pub food - try the pan fried steak and mashed potatoes or fish & chips - and great apps for games. Salads too - chicken fiesta salad with home made chipotle dressing. Yum. They have flat screens everywhere, a back patio, extremely clean everything, and lots and lots of beers on tap. The waitresses are friendly and fast and remember your drink orders. It's always a great place to grab a bite on a week night or catch a game.
(5)Jackie D.
Here's the SITUATION: Came here with the boyfriend after work on a Friday, 5:00-ish, sat at the bar, didn't leave until 9:00-ish (four hours? yes, we were surprised too!). It was empty when we got there and full when we left. I've also been here before for just drinks. I have random thoughts of my experience and feel the need to make pro and con bullet points... ATMOSPHERE +Comfy bar stools +Chill feel +Random crowd, all ages aside from kids +Flat screens, some with the games on -One of the T.V.'s had CNN on which was airing a disturbing segment. The T.V. sound wasn't on so I'm not sure if it was even a sad story, but the visual def was...I just felt the need to mention this as it was a bizarre part of my experience DRINKS: +Good enough beer selection +Delish chocolate martini -The drink menu is basically all vodka drinks...would've liked to seen more of a variety. Vodka is usually not my friend -The pinot grigio I had was no bueno FOOD: +Boyfriend claims that the beef skewer app was delish and like a fellow yelper also thought the sauce was not needed. This could've been a meal with the bed of rice they were served over +Onion ring app was good as well. Wish the sauce was a little spicier but that's just my preference. +Portions were generous -I ordered the mussels and linguine with the "white" sauce for my dinner. Sauce was really just an odd butter mixture with a funky taste. Wouldn't recommend it, maybe try the "red" sauce instead SERVICE: +When we first got there, our server was friendly and attentive, and after changing shifts the new ones were as well +The guy bartender that ended up taking care of us for the night was attentive and friendly...and cute, bonus. -During the shift change we were neglected for quite a while and sat there with our app dishes in front of us waiting for our order to be taken and dishes to be cleared --The bartenders all chomped their gum. I feel as though I should take a star away this drives me so crazy! One of my biggest pet peeves and I couldn't even understand what one of them was trying to say to me. RANDOM POINTS: +Taxi stand right outside the entrance +Clean bathroom -Not that close to the T -Who doesn't have a website these days? OVERALL: Although I liked my app and drink, and am sure that there's better items on the large menu than the mussels, and service without the gum and shift change might have been superb, I just can't bring myself to give it 4 stars. Especially not with the competition around them. Would/will I go back? Of course. I think I would def be more impressed on another visit, seems like a good enough place.
(3)Jen S.
I Will Pay A $20 Cover To Go To This Bar When Pigs Fly, And Then When One Of The Flying Pigs Lands And Bitch-Slaps Me. Until then, don't count on ever seeing me hand over a $20 to get in this door. I'm going to take this out on Shenannigan's, because I cant review three bars all at once, but apparently on Sunday the Playwright and Boston Beerworks in Southie were also charging $20 covers. Here's a thought - about one trillion people would go buy beers at your establishments if you wouldnt try to jack 20 bucks off of us to get in. I know, you can only fit so many people in, so why not make the extra money. But I have another idea - why not NOT be douchebags? Great question. I especially have a problem with this because of how much we all needed to pee at the parade. Obviously we were drinking beers standing on the street, so after a few of those the need to pee was somewhere between "if I wasn't 26 I would shamelessly piss myself" and "nobody knows me in Southie, who cares if I piss myself." Ideally, I could have just walked into Shenannigan's across the street, peed, and then I'd be writing a review that was like "Oh man, Shenannigans is f*cking awesome, their bathrooms are so nice and I just love thier decor." Okay, whatever, I would never write anything like that, but you get my point. But no. $20 bucks to hang out inside and drink, $20 bucks to pee. Let me make myself clear - I would gladly pee on the shoes of the dude taking the 20s before I gave him the 20. I kinda still want to. Anyway, instead of going to Shenannigans, my friends and I went to a strangers home, used their bathroom and then hung out at their party drinking their beer. I think they loved it. Don't pay a cover to go to a bar in Southie unless Whitey Bulger is there holding a gun to your head.
(2)Jorge F.
One of my favorites in southie. Good food and rarely over crowded. The beef teriyaki skewers are my favorite appitizer. The fish tacos are huge and a little sloppy but very tasty. Steak tips were ok.
(4)Robyn R.
This place is a great spot for Southie - not your traditional Irish pub, but more of an upbeat spot with live reggeeon Fridays and good drinks. There is always a line later on the weekends, but I must say - it was my 2nd time here and I was def impressed! The crowd is pretty decent... Staff friendly, too.
(4)Alex V.
Good pub food... staff is as rude as it gets... rude and lazy.
(1)bex g.
usually the last spot of the night, but always a good time. friendly waitstaff, good prices, karaoke (!) and fun crowd. always important, they have clean bathrooms -- but beware the hand dryers...they *could* blow your skin right off.
(3)Ashley M.
irish pub meets retro sports bar... food's not too bad either. its always been pleasantly crowded (week days and weekends) when i've gone - but not so crowded you're waiting outside.
(3)Tyler C.
This place is hard to figure out. I have been in here on days when the atmosphere is good, and on days when the atmosphere is downright horrible. It seems with this place if you time it just right it's a good place to stop into for some drinks and food. The food here is good. I had a daily special here once of spicy shrimp gumbo and it was fantastic, but nothing else comes to mind to brag about on their full menu. Their tap choices are actually not bad, and the bar is big enough so usually you don't get squeezed off the bar while trying to order. Every other time I am in here though something always goes array, and it always has to do with the other people who show up to this place. Once the scantly dressed Miller Lite Girls showed up and every meat head in the place became uber frat boy and annoying. The Party Trolley also shows up quite often to dump off a bunch of black out drunks onto the scene, which is always a good time as well. The sad part is this would probably be at least a 4 star establishment if it wasn't located in Southie and the people inside weren't so annoying sometimes.
(3)Marie F.
On 1st visit, food was good but waitress was horrible. On 2nd visit 4/7/13, got same bad waitress & food was just ok. Ordered burger & steak tips. Waitress never came back after food was served to make sure was cooked ok. Was given empty bottle of ketchup. The place was not busy. When i was able to locate waitress she was just sitting down at a table. Its too bad. Cute place but wont go back.
(1)Mike H.
Good place to watch a game and enjoy a beer. Tons of flat screens so you won't miss any of the action. The Cajun chicken sandwich is good but the roll it is on dissolves while you are eating it. Burgers and aps are also good. Bar is fun. There is ussually a band playing on Friday or Saturday night and Karaoke on Thursdays. I shall return.
(4)Doug R.
WOW- i have lived next to this bar for over two years now and have also been on yelp for just as long and i have no excuse whatsoever for not writing a review. it has been a quite and adventure for myself and shananers... when i first moved over there i would have said this bar was a two, i thought the best thing about it was the changing lights in the ceiling. i wasn't a big fan of the menu and it was a little to quite. since then they have opened the back patio! amazing, that's all i have to say about that. they a constantly running beer specials and they have quite the selection on draft. not mention they were one of the first to have Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka available. Billie M's and my excitement for this find that we drank the whole bottle in one night. no lie. the bartenders there are great, friendly and personable. if you bump into them on the street, you may end up having a small conversation. Believe me this happens more to me and than some would like to admit. but I'm OK with it. karaoke on Thursdays is hit or miss. sometimes there is a line and you cant even get near the joint and sometimes its low key, i prefer the low key but i am always up for dealing with a crowd. if you don't like the crowd head next door to its sister bar the CLOCK TAVERN. The one thing i wish they had more of was live entertainment. they usually have something going on Friday and Saturday. but sometimes its just a DJ. a little more live music never hurt anyone. just saying. Oh sweet Shenannigans, how you brighten my week up my week, 2-3 nights at a time!
(4)Susan K.
Don't come here and expect to finish giving your order to your waiter. He has better things to do. Came here with a group of six (family). Sat on the patio in the afternoon. Must have been a leper colony based on the way our waiter treated us. Four people in our group had given him our order and when the fifth wasn't fast as lightning to give hers he simply walked away. No "Do you need another minute?" or even asking the sixth member of our party what she would have liked. Just walked away. And nevermind trying to get oh, lets say, a refill of water on a hot Saturday. In the end we just got desserts which are actually made at the bakery across the street, so I can't speak for the food. Our waiter acted as if he had to make the cakes from scratch in his own kitchen. Anyone know if constantly rolling your eyes is indicative of a nervous tic or maybe a brain tumor? Either way, he should see a doctor. Or maybe a therapist. I have never seen such an attitude in someone who works essentially for tips, so I figured him for a manager. Asked the hostess on the way out and she said he was a server. The hostesses I should add are very nice and must be overworked apologizing for service. This is definitely a gentrified Southie bar and I'm sad to say I'd rather take my chances in the old Southie bars than visit this sorry excuse for a business again. I won't pay someone to treat me like trash.
(1)Dan C.
A fourteen year old English chick probably best summed up the disparity between what one is and what one pretends to be best, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose [b]y any other name would smell as sweet." However the corollary also hold's true--it doesn't matter what you call yourself, if you're a bull but call yourself a cow, now matter how hard I tug, I'm not getting out any milk. What does this have to do with Shenannigans, you ask? Well, Shenannigans doesn't allow shenannigans. Similarly, shenannigans is actually spelled shenanigans.
(1)Ashla D.
I recently moved to Southie from Beacon Hill...and live right around the corner from Shenannigans...so my roomie and I decided to check it out. We've only been on weeknights--once just for drinks and once for dinner. The first time we were greeted by a very friendly bartender. The bar was pretty busy on the night we went and we were having trouble finding 2 spots together at the bar--and the bartender came out of his way and finagled 2 seats for us--and then was very tentative all night! Second time --food was mediocre..and service also! Our server wasnt horrible, but he may have only said three words to us all night. Decor is decent--and the resto was pretty clean! There was a mixed crowd between the young professionals, probably new to the area like ourselves and the older 40+ regulars... The Sox were also playing one of the times we went--and if you like hearing the commentators--this would be a great bar for you--they had the tv up and music off--and there were also plenty of flat screens around... We'll be back for drinks for sure--and maybe just stick to the apps!
(3)Billie M.
So it's still a three, but now it's a HIGH three instead of a low three. Why? Back patio. 10 tables outside, under shadowy lattice work strung with hanging plants. NEVER a wait, and finally (!) a waitress with some pizzazz. I'm slowly coming around to you Shenannigan's. Just give me a little more time.
(3)Tom W.
We visit Shennanigans on a regular basis, more for the food than drinking, and always leave by the time the band strikes up. The environment is very nice, clean and comfortable, sometimes we just eat at the bar, or take a raised table which are well spaced with some elbow room. The menu is long and varied. We particularly like the Shennanign's Chicken which is their take on Pasta Carbonara. The portions are large - my significant other and I usually split one Chicken serving between us and leave both well-fed. We find this a nice place for a couple to enjoy a quiet , well prepared meal, but we are usually going out the door as the band tunes up and young singles begin to fill the bar. we always can find nearby parking on Broadway.
(4)Jennifer K.
Cute little place for a beer and a snack down the street from our apartment. Food is classic bar food and the prices are decent; there are a lot of interesting drinks to try on their website. The place was clean and modern and the staff was friendly. TVs around the place to watch sports but not obnoxious enough to prevent conversation with others. Found out there's Reggae night on Fridays - looks like we'll head back one of those nights!
(4)South B.
Great place to eat. Nice waitres, amazing food--recommend steak tips, country fried chicken and chicken fiesta salad. Can always count on Shenanigans for good food and quick service. On a a side note; it'd be nice to have a band play other than the reggae for once..
(5)Brian B.
Love this place. And, I'm not even Irish. Shalom, and welcome to South Boston, you mashugina. No, you won't find Matzo Balls or Latkes, but you will find what I consider to be the best non-Jewish, pub food around (is there Jewish pub food?). What do I mean? I mean good, honest American, errr, Irish, food, that's what I mean. Steak tips, curry, wraps - and get this - fresh salads and traditional Irish breakfasts, etc. And, all of it is fresh and very flavorful. I'm actually tempted to say that you can find some of the best noshes in Southie here. Yup. That's right. I'm kvelling because the menu is so varied, so consistently good, and so affordable. Also, the place is clean with a contemporary look - from the floors to the bar to the bathrooms. Also, every experience with the staff here has been fantastic. They're a bunch of mensches. They're comprised of about 143% Irish goys, and they're great. Always a smile. Always willing to share a story. Matter of fact, when I pop in with my little boy, the staff takes him for a walk around the entire place, and plays with him if it's not too busy. Free babysitting!!!!!!!!!! I can't gush enough. This place is so good for bar food and pleasant conversation (the music can get a little loud late). I mean, we spend so much time here that my wife practically gave birth at the table by one of the sliding, wide open windows while watching the World Cup (great place to catch a game - lots of flat screens and it's never standing room only). Seriously. We were counting contractions over Smithwicks (at least I was). Hours later, my boy popped out with an Irish brogue.
(4)Katia M.
Shenannigan's food is pretty good, and it's a good after-work spot, but as a late night bar it doesn't do much for me. Bartenders go either way -- super nice or kind of not. Karaoke nights are fun. The deco is nice and the bathrooms are clean and there's supposedly a patio out back (?!?). In the evenings, they crank up the tunes WAY too loud, and it's impossibly trying to listen to your friends, let alone the fellow with an accent who's trying to chat with you. But hey, rarely is there ever not a place to sit. "Whats the name of that restaurant you like with all the goofy sh*t on the walls and the mozzarella sticks?" This isn't *that* Shenannigans, but I'm still going to pistol-whip you if you say that word again;)
(3)Kate M.
This is my bar of choice if going out in Southie. If you don't want the meat market atmosphere of the Beer Garden and Playwright, take yourself to Shenannigan's. It is a more mature crowd without all the flim flam of trying to get a piece of ass. The staff is friendly and real...lovely Irish accents. Drinks are strong and the Cajun chicken sandwich is honestly the BEST chicken sandwich I have ever had. Good place to watch a ball game, as well.
(4)Kate L.
I've only eaten here a few times, but the food has consistently been good. The service has been decent, but sometimes indifferent. But this review is really about...their veggie burger. Literally, I wait for Fridays during Lent so I can order it, guilt free!! It's certainly not a "health food"...I'm pretty sure it's deep fried and served on a buttered bun. It comes with sauteed mushrooms and onions. It's so good, you definitely don't need ketchup for it (and it oddly comes with salsa, which I've never used on it)... Also, I'm pretty sure the inside is filled with crack. Or something like it. There is NO other plausible reason why a veggie burger should be this good. You can see hunks of carrots in it. It's not a grain-based burger. In fact, I have no idea what it is made with. I don't care. it's that good. I've turned other people on to the veggie burger deliciousness. AND, I get it with white rice, just to add to the fat-kid effect. I don't even want to know how much butter and salt they put in their plain white rice to make it taste so good, but MAN! I take it back to my office and close the office door so that no one sees me shoving this down my gullet...it's not pretty. But is IS awesome!
(4)Romulo R.
While this may be a good neighborhood bar to go watch a game, etc, you may want to behave and keep any shenannigan's outside. This seems to be the kind of bar where people go to quietly eat their lunch, if that's your thing. Shenannigans are certainly not appreciated. although the staff was nice for the most part.
(2)Meg M.
Its been a while since I've updated my Shenanigans review so I decided after my last delicious trip in for lunch that I would hit it up. Stopped in here with the boy while I did my laundry next door to Baileys. While I've moved to the Fort Point side of Southie now, I still hop in my car to Shenanigans pretty often. The service is always great. I really have never had one bad experience service wise at any time. I have gone in on Saturday nights as much as I have stopped in for a cure to my hangover on a Sunday afternoon. The bartenders are quick, friendly and know how to mix a drink. The food? Its actually really friggin good. I swear! Not good as in "good for pub food" good... good as in genuinely delicious. Their burgers are juicy and piled high with cheese and irish bacon (just the way I like it). If a menu offers irish bacon on a burger, it pretty much has already won my heart. They run great daily specials and their brunch/breakfast is wonderful too. Good run at the Irish breakfast too. SO if you were like me, abusing Shenanigans the way I abuse my right as a woman to change my mind, my clothes and my hair color... think again. Stop in on an off day and see what you're missing!
(5)Josh P.
Their food is great. I especially like the clam chowder, fish and chips, and Shepard's Pie. The staff is pleasant (and some are actually from Ireland). Their beer selection is good as well.
(4)Tiffany Q.
As a South Boston newbie and now resident my boyfriend and I quickly scouted out the neighborhood bars and restaurants. We were quickly drawn into Shenannigan's honestly because it was close and looked busy. We knew nothing about it. But now we are hooked. We both eat there on a regular basis and anytime we have friends in town that is one of the local spots we hit up. They have great food that is reasonably priced. I can't say that I've tried many things on the menu because the first time I went in and had the TACO SALAD with the Chipotle dressing I was hooked. I've only ventured off once and ordered the Southwestern burger which was awesome with the salsa on it. My boyfriend has ordered something different everytime we've gone in from the ribs which he loved to the nightly specials. The atmosphere is great and they offer entertainment several times during the week.
(5)M M.
My personal fav. home town joint. Not over crowded, love the food-steak tips are by far the best and caesar salads are awesome!
(4)susan t.
Good neighborhood bar for all ages. Very nice on a warm night to sit in the open front with friends, a beer, and a plate of nachos or a quesadilla to share. Not dirty like the Beer Garden and not as loud and yuppied as Playwright. Friendly waitstaff.
(4)L. O.
Shenannigans has become our new local since we've moved from the east side of Southie over to the west and honestly, I couldn't be happier with the change. Great place to grab food, drinks and get some quality time catching up -the food is very good for pub food - much better than the east b'way pub that had been our local for the last few years. Staff is really friendly and I've not had an issue with the bartenders as is noted by a few other yelpers. I do agree that after a certain hour it gets quite frat-ish and that's generally our cue to move outside Southie for the rest of our evening, but for very reasonably priced food and a great place to start off a night, Shenannigans always serves us well.
(5)Southie G.
This is place is a good spot for drinks after work. Friendly Staff...pretty standard pub place.
(3)christina c.
Its close to the apt so we go here every few weeks. I end up getting their veggie burgers, no bun and for my side a salad with the spicy dressing on the side. The veggie burger is actually really good with sauteed mushrooms and onions and cheese oh my! SP gets the spicy chicken pasta dish and he likes it. Late night its a little to loud for us with a DJ it becomes more like a club but on nice sunny days in the summer we go and get beer and sit on the back patio. Over all not bad for a quick dinner out.
(3)T B.
I love the food here! I work 5 min away and we make a point to get here once a week even if it means going out the brutal cold because the great food and warm atmosphere are worth it. Best dish on the menu...Shenannigans chicken pasta! Give it a try it won't disappoint. Also they have a parking lot and street parking too.
(5)Alison H.
Since writing my last review, I've gone Vegetarian and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by Shenanigans' veggie burger. It almost looks like a real burger, not a frozen one I can make myself. I get it without mushrooms but you can get it loaded with cheese, onions and mushrooms. It seems like it's hand packed. Good stuff! Also love their Caesar salad. Unrelated to the food: I dig that there's a Reggae band there quite frequently on Friday nights. Drinking the beverage of one island while listening to the music of another. Yeah mon!
(4)Mindy M.
If you like water down drinks, and horrble service by bitchy bartenders than this is your place.
(1)Bonnie M.
I have become a somewhat regular rather quickly here. We always sit at the bar and receive wonderful service! They knew us after only visiting one time! My glass is never neglected and the food so far has been great! (The steak tips were super, and large portions so you have lunch for the next day!) I can't say its the best for mingling, but a great place to hang out with friends, and hey mingle with the bartenders! I will continue to be a regular!
(4)Doug W.
While I've never been a huge fan of the atmosphere at this place for a night out destination, I was pleasantly surprised when I stopped in for lunch with my roommate a few weeks back. The burger that I had here was actually the best I've eaten in Southie. If you're thinking that sounds like a backhanded compliment, it is, but I would still happily come back here to eat again, which is more than I can say about some of the other pub food options in the area (yes, I'm looking at you Playwright). The burger was perfectly cooked, juicy, and topped with just the right amount of melted cheddar and mushrooms. Add in reasonable prices and a decent beer selection and you've made a believer out of me. I'll be back.
(3)Meghan C.
The weekends, specifically Friday, Shenannigan's is jam-packed and it's almost impossible to get a drink. But, it's a nice bar, with a good atmosphere. Food-wise, I haven't been disappointed with anything I have ordered. The food is hot and fresh and makes me want to come back. Especially on a nice day, sitting by the window..there's nothing better. I would recommend this place to anyone. Great food, great company...that's all you need.
(4)Shelley G.
Food, beer and atmosphere is good... but if you get Dominic as your waiter, you may want to say "thanks, but no thanks" and head for the door. Ireland's version of Eminem is rude, slow, and must be independently wealthy because it's obvious he is not interested in getting a good tip.
(3)Deb K.
Shenanigan's: every time I hear the word all I can think of is crap on the walls, liter of cola, and a bar of soap in coffee. The actual bar in Southie had none of these. Actually it was really classy looking with nice dcor, a huge bar in the middle, and extremely attentive bartenders. I didn't try the food, but the bartender was quick to give me a sample when I asked about a White Ale I had never seen before, and the beers were cold and nicely poured. A little out of my way, and a lot like the bars on this side of the channel, so I may not make it back there due to its location.
(3)Don G.
this is the best restaurant in south boston, got the best chicken broc and ziti, many different brews and always changing for the seasonal brews. the staff is always friendly and refilling or asking if i need another beer before glass is empty. is actually a 6 star but doesnt go that high
(5)Johnny K.
I believe that this has the best food for a bar in Southie! They have a good beer selection and always has something going on. Whenever I feel indecisive about food, I always turn to this place because they are consistently good. Bring back the taco salad. I swear if you try it you will like it as i do!
(4)Jen R.
Shenannigans was recently remodeled inside. It is now upscale and modern with booths and high and low top tables. The food is fair to good. The waitstaff are friendly. The chicken, ziti and brocolli is particularly good.
(3)Kelly M.
This is a great local spot in Southie. Large U shaped bar with attentive staff. Great food - pot pie, nachos, any special dish!
(4)Christine S.
The food at this Irish pub is so underrated. In fact, it's one of my favorite places to grab a casual bite to eat. Our favorite things on the menu are the Beef Skewers - yummy, tender, with a little kick, and the delicious salads. Sure a salad with grilled chicken seems easy, but I have had so many in Boston with dry, almost inedible meat. The salads at Shenanigans are HUGE and the grilled chicken is warm and juicy and a very generous portion. Their balsamic vin is a mild white balsamic that is just to die for. My favorite is the apple and goat cheese salad - try it - you won't be sorry. Best night for dinner is Wednesdays for pub trivia. Great date night!
(4)Emily G.
Dear Shenannigans, If you do not allow such actions in your establishment, you might consider changing your name, or at least putting a "No" in front of it. Love, Emily G. and the rest of Red Scare 2010.
(2)Mary M.
I stopped in here for a bite and a beer before meeting some friends for an evening of joviality. The bartender, Rob, was quite friendly and let me sample one of the draft beer selections before I made my decision and was more than happy to answer any question I might have had about the menu. I was only seeking an appetizer, and I chose the beef teriyaki skewers, which were quite delish. They came out served on a bed of rice (done just the way I like it - a bit sticky) with some chopped tomato for garnish and a serving of peanut sauce, which was also quite tasty, even though the beef did not need any additional seasoning - it was wonderful just as it was served. Overall, I liked the place very much, nice atmosphere, very clean, when I arrived, it was pretty quiet, but it was starting to fill up by the time I left. I would definitely be open to returning to Shenannigans for an entire meal.
(4)Special O.
Worst in the league. If you want to stand around a bar and wait for the bartenders to come to you, try Shenannigan's. You will lose your buzz rather quickly - trust me. Oh and.....no dancing. Bouncers get mad. When the DJ is blasting music and you are trying to dance, they tell you to cut it out and sit down. They also have flat, warm beers. The drinks are weak. Trust me on this one. If you're in the Southie area, stay away from Shenannigan's.
(1)Aditi R.
I haven't frequented Southie much at all. But the couple of times I've been it's involved this particular place and if anything, it's a good place to be acquainted with Southie. The bar is fun in general. They have different nights. Thursday is Karaoke nights and Fridays/Saturdays they have a DJ spinning various music and taking requests (though you may have to fight with him to play your song of choice at times). The best part about this place however are the bartenders and how nice and efficient they are. Right from the start they pay attention to you and no matter how full the bar may be make their way around and never give you the need or the attitude that comes with a busy bar. The crowd here is a mix of age groups, but generally one that is always interesting. I haven't tried their food so I can't write about that much, but as far as drinks and bartenders and atmosphere goes, I do enjoy this place. If I find myself in Southie, this will definitely be a place I come again and again.
(4)Mary S.
HUGE portions, excellent taste and an up-scale pub feel--a great find in South Boston. I recommend the Shenannigan's chicken sandwich--so crisp, warm and delicious (plus it has BACON!) It's served along side a bed of fried-to-perfection french fries. My friend had the Shepard's pie which she found equally amazing and enough food for three!
(4)Kaka-Q S.
Favorite pub in SoBo. Fantastic Irish pub food - try the pan fried steak and mashed potatoes or fish & chips - and great apps for games. Salads too - chicken fiesta salad with home made chipotle dressing. Yum. They have flat screens everywhere, a back patio, extremely clean everything, and lots and lots of beers on tap. The waitresses are friendly and fast and remember your drink orders. It's always a great place to grab a bite on a week night or catch a game.
(5)Jackie D.
Here's the SITUATION: Came here with the boyfriend after work on a Friday, 5:00-ish, sat at the bar, didn't leave until 9:00-ish (four hours? yes, we were surprised too!). It was empty when we got there and full when we left. I've also been here before for just drinks. I have random thoughts of my experience and feel the need to make pro and con bullet points... ATMOSPHERE +Comfy bar stools +Chill feel +Random crowd, all ages aside from kids +Flat screens, some with the games on -One of the T.V.'s had CNN on which was airing a disturbing segment. The T.V. sound wasn't on so I'm not sure if it was even a sad story, but the visual def was...I just felt the need to mention this as it was a bizarre part of my experience DRINKS: +Good enough beer selection +Delish chocolate martini -The drink menu is basically all vodka drinks...would've liked to seen more of a variety. Vodka is usually not my friend -The pinot grigio I had was no bueno FOOD: +Boyfriend claims that the beef skewer app was delish and like a fellow yelper also thought the sauce was not needed. This could've been a meal with the bed of rice they were served over +Onion ring app was good as well. Wish the sauce was a little spicier but that's just my preference. +Portions were generous -I ordered the mussels and linguine with the "white" sauce for my dinner. Sauce was really just an odd butter mixture with a funky taste. Wouldn't recommend it, maybe try the "red" sauce instead SERVICE: +When we first got there, our server was friendly and attentive, and after changing shifts the new ones were as well +The guy bartender that ended up taking care of us for the night was attentive and friendly...and cute, bonus. -During the shift change we were neglected for quite a while and sat there with our app dishes in front of us waiting for our order to be taken and dishes to be cleared --The bartenders all chomped their gum. I feel as though I should take a star away this drives me so crazy! One of my biggest pet peeves and I couldn't even understand what one of them was trying to say to me. RANDOM POINTS: +Taxi stand right outside the entrance +Clean bathroom -Not that close to the T -Who doesn't have a website these days? OVERALL: Although I liked my app and drink, and am sure that there's better items on the large menu than the mussels, and service without the gum and shift change might have been superb, I just can't bring myself to give it 4 stars. Especially not with the competition around them. Would/will I go back? Of course. I think I would def be more impressed on another visit, seems like a good enough place.
(3)Southie R.
I'll say it now: Best food in Southie. Not even a question. Better than the Beer Garden. Better than the Playwright. I love the food, and they give you a ton of it. I usually come with regulars, so the service is top notch. The prices are very decent (compared to other parts of Boston). On Wednesday's, they do Trivia, which I'm not into, but some are.
(4)Jen S.
I Will Pay A $20 Cover To Go To This Bar When Pigs Fly, And Then When One Of The Flying Pigs Lands And Bitch-Slaps Me. Until then, don't count on ever seeing me hand over a $20 to get in this door. I'm going to take this out on Shenannigan's, because I cant review three bars all at once, but apparently on Sunday the Playwright and Boston Beerworks in Southie were also charging $20 covers. Here's a thought - about one trillion people would go buy beers at your establishments if you wouldnt try to jack 20 bucks off of us to get in. I know, you can only fit so many people in, so why not make the extra money. But I have another idea - why not NOT be douchebags? Great question. I especially have a problem with this because of how much we all needed to pee at the parade. Obviously we were drinking beers standing on the street, so after a few of those the need to pee was somewhere between "if I wasn't 26 I would shamelessly piss myself" and "nobody knows me in Southie, who cares if I piss myself." Ideally, I could have just walked into Shenannigan's across the street, peed, and then I'd be writing a review that was like "Oh man, Shenannigans is f*cking awesome, their bathrooms are so nice and I just love thier decor." Okay, whatever, I would never write anything like that, but you get my point. But no. $20 bucks to hang out inside and drink, $20 bucks to pee. Let me make myself clear - I would gladly pee on the shoes of the dude taking the 20s before I gave him the 20. I kinda still want to. Anyway, instead of going to Shenannigans, my friends and I went to a strangers home, used their bathroom and then hung out at their party drinking their beer. I think they loved it. Don't pay a cover to go to a bar in Southie unless Whitey Bulger is there holding a gun to your head.
(2)Jorge F.
One of my favorites in southie. Good food and rarely over crowded. The beef teriyaki skewers are my favorite appitizer. The fish tacos are huge and a little sloppy but very tasty. Steak tips were ok.
(4)Robyn R.
This place is a great spot for Southie - not your traditional Irish pub, but more of an upbeat spot with live reggeeon Fridays and good drinks. There is always a line later on the weekends, but I must say - it was my 2nd time here and I was def impressed! The crowd is pretty decent... Staff friendly, too.
(4)Alex V.
Good pub food... staff is as rude as it gets... rude and lazy.
(1)bex g.
usually the last spot of the night, but always a good time. friendly waitstaff, good prices, karaoke (!) and fun crowd. always important, they have clean bathrooms -- but beware the hand dryers...they *could* blow your skin right off.
(3)Ashley M.
irish pub meets retro sports bar... food's not too bad either. its always been pleasantly crowded (week days and weekends) when i've gone - but not so crowded you're waiting outside.
(3)Tyler C.
This place is hard to figure out. I have been in here on days when the atmosphere is good, and on days when the atmosphere is downright horrible. It seems with this place if you time it just right it's a good place to stop into for some drinks and food. The food here is good. I had a daily special here once of spicy shrimp gumbo and it was fantastic, but nothing else comes to mind to brag about on their full menu. Their tap choices are actually not bad, and the bar is big enough so usually you don't get squeezed off the bar while trying to order. Every other time I am in here though something always goes array, and it always has to do with the other people who show up to this place. Once the scantly dressed Miller Lite Girls showed up and every meat head in the place became uber frat boy and annoying. The Party Trolley also shows up quite often to dump off a bunch of black out drunks onto the scene, which is always a good time as well. The sad part is this would probably be at least a 4 star establishment if it wasn't located in Southie and the people inside weren't so annoying sometimes.
(3)Marie F.
On 1st visit, food was good but waitress was horrible. On 2nd visit 4/7/13, got same bad waitress & food was just ok. Ordered burger & steak tips. Waitress never came back after food was served to make sure was cooked ok. Was given empty bottle of ketchup. The place was not busy. When i was able to locate waitress she was just sitting down at a table. Its too bad. Cute place but wont go back.
(1)Mike H.
Good place to watch a game and enjoy a beer. Tons of flat screens so you won't miss any of the action. The Cajun chicken sandwich is good but the roll it is on dissolves while you are eating it. Burgers and aps are also good. Bar is fun. There is ussually a band playing on Friday or Saturday night and Karaoke on Thursdays. I shall return.
(4)Doug R.
WOW- i have lived next to this bar for over two years now and have also been on yelp for just as long and i have no excuse whatsoever for not writing a review. it has been a quite and adventure for myself and shananers... when i first moved over there i would have said this bar was a two, i thought the best thing about it was the changing lights in the ceiling. i wasn't a big fan of the menu and it was a little to quite. since then they have opened the back patio! amazing, that's all i have to say about that. they a constantly running beer specials and they have quite the selection on draft. not mention they were one of the first to have Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka available. Billie M's and my excitement for this find that we drank the whole bottle in one night. no lie. the bartenders there are great, friendly and personable. if you bump into them on the street, you may end up having a small conversation. Believe me this happens more to me and than some would like to admit. but I'm OK with it. karaoke on Thursdays is hit or miss. sometimes there is a line and you cant even get near the joint and sometimes its low key, i prefer the low key but i am always up for dealing with a crowd. if you don't like the crowd head next door to its sister bar the CLOCK TAVERN. The one thing i wish they had more of was live entertainment. they usually have something going on Friday and Saturday. but sometimes its just a DJ. a little more live music never hurt anyone. just saying. Oh sweet Shenannigans, how you brighten my week up my week, 2-3 nights at a time!
(4)Susan K.
Don't come here and expect to finish giving your order to your waiter. He has better things to do. Came here with a group of six (family). Sat on the patio in the afternoon. Must have been a leper colony based on the way our waiter treated us. Four people in our group had given him our order and when the fifth wasn't fast as lightning to give hers he simply walked away. No "Do you need another minute?" or even asking the sixth member of our party what she would have liked. Just walked away. And nevermind trying to get oh, lets say, a refill of water on a hot Saturday. In the end we just got desserts which are actually made at the bakery across the street, so I can't speak for the food. Our waiter acted as if he had to make the cakes from scratch in his own kitchen. Anyone know if constantly rolling your eyes is indicative of a nervous tic or maybe a brain tumor? Either way, he should see a doctor. Or maybe a therapist. I have never seen such an attitude in someone who works essentially for tips, so I figured him for a manager. Asked the hostess on the way out and she said he was a server. The hostesses I should add are very nice and must be overworked apologizing for service. This is definitely a gentrified Southie bar and I'm sad to say I'd rather take my chances in the old Southie bars than visit this sorry excuse for a business again. I won't pay someone to treat me like trash.
(1)Dan C.
A fourteen year old English chick probably best summed up the disparity between what one is and what one pretends to be best, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose [b]y any other name would smell as sweet." However the corollary also hold's true--it doesn't matter what you call yourself, if you're a bull but call yourself a cow, now matter how hard I tug, I'm not getting out any milk. What does this have to do with Shenannigans, you ask? Well, Shenannigans doesn't allow shenannigans. Similarly, shenannigans is actually spelled shenanigans.
(1)Ashla D.
I recently moved to Southie from Beacon Hill...and live right around the corner from Shenannigans...so my roomie and I decided to check it out. We've only been on weeknights--once just for drinks and once for dinner. The first time we were greeted by a very friendly bartender. The bar was pretty busy on the night we went and we were having trouble finding 2 spots together at the bar--and the bartender came out of his way and finagled 2 seats for us--and then was very tentative all night! Second time --food was mediocre..and service also! Our server wasnt horrible, but he may have only said three words to us all night. Decor is decent--and the resto was pretty clean! There was a mixed crowd between the young professionals, probably new to the area like ourselves and the older 40+ regulars... The Sox were also playing one of the times we went--and if you like hearing the commentators--this would be a great bar for you--they had the tv up and music off--and there were also plenty of flat screens around... We'll be back for drinks for sure--and maybe just stick to the apps!
(3)Billie M.
So it's still a three, but now it's a HIGH three instead of a low three. Why? Back patio. 10 tables outside, under shadowy lattice work strung with hanging plants. NEVER a wait, and finally (!) a waitress with some pizzazz. I'm slowly coming around to you Shenannigan's. Just give me a little more time.
(3)Tom W.
We visit Shennanigans on a regular basis, more for the food than drinking, and always leave by the time the band strikes up. The environment is very nice, clean and comfortable, sometimes we just eat at the bar, or take a raised table which are well spaced with some elbow room. The menu is long and varied. We particularly like the Shennanign's Chicken which is their take on Pasta Carbonara. The portions are large - my significant other and I usually split one Chicken serving between us and leave both well-fed. We find this a nice place for a couple to enjoy a quiet , well prepared meal, but we are usually going out the door as the band tunes up and young singles begin to fill the bar. we always can find nearby parking on Broadway.
(4)T B.
I love the food here! I work 5 min away and we make a point to get here once a week even if it means going out the brutal cold because the great food and warm atmosphere are worth it. Best dish on the menu...Shenannigans chicken pasta! Give it a try it won't disappoint. Also they have a parking lot and street parking too.
(5)Alison H.
Since writing my last review, I've gone Vegetarian and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by Shenanigans' veggie burger. It almost looks like a real burger, not a frozen one I can make myself. I get it without mushrooms but you can get it loaded with cheese, onions and mushrooms. It seems like it's hand packed. Good stuff! Also love their Caesar salad. Unrelated to the food: I dig that there's a Reggae band there quite frequently on Friday nights. Drinking the beverage of one island while listening to the music of another. Yeah mon!
(4)Mindy M.
If you like water down drinks, and horrble service by bitchy bartenders than this is your place.
(1)Doug W.
While I've never been a huge fan of the atmosphere at this place for a night out destination, I was pleasantly surprised when I stopped in for lunch with my roommate a few weeks back. The burger that I had here was actually the best I've eaten in Southie. If you're thinking that sounds like a backhanded compliment, it is, but I would still happily come back here to eat again, which is more than I can say about some of the other pub food options in the area (yes, I'm looking at you Playwright). The burger was perfectly cooked, juicy, and topped with just the right amount of melted cheddar and mushrooms. Add in reasonable prices and a decent beer selection and you've made a believer out of me. I'll be back.
(3)Meghan C.
The weekends, specifically Friday, Shenannigan's is jam-packed and it's almost impossible to get a drink. But, it's a nice bar, with a good atmosphere. Food-wise, I haven't been disappointed with anything I have ordered. The food is hot and fresh and makes me want to come back. Especially on a nice day, sitting by the window..there's nothing better. I would recommend this place to anyone. Great food, great company...that's all you need.
(4)Shelley G.
Food, beer and atmosphere is good... but if you get Dominic as your waiter, you may want to say "thanks, but no thanks" and head for the door. Ireland's version of Eminem is rude, slow, and must be independently wealthy because it's obvious he is not interested in getting a good tip.
(3)Deb K.
Shenanigan's: every time I hear the word all I can think of is crap on the walls, liter of cola, and a bar of soap in coffee. The actual bar in Southie had none of these. Actually it was really classy looking with nice dcor, a huge bar in the middle, and extremely attentive bartenders. I didn't try the food, but the bartender was quick to give me a sample when I asked about a White Ale I had never seen before, and the beers were cold and nicely poured. A little out of my way, and a lot like the bars on this side of the channel, so I may not make it back there due to its location.
(3)Don G.
this is the best restaurant in south boston, got the best chicken broc and ziti, many different brews and always changing for the seasonal brews. the staff is always friendly and refilling or asking if i need another beer before glass is empty. is actually a 6 star but doesnt go that high
(5)Johnny K.
I believe that this has the best food for a bar in Southie! They have a good beer selection and always has something going on. Whenever I feel indecisive about food, I always turn to this place because they are consistently good. Bring back the taco salad. I swear if you try it you will like it as i do!
(4)Jen R.
Shenannigans was recently remodeled inside. It is now upscale and modern with booths and high and low top tables. The food is fair to good. The waitstaff are friendly. The chicken, ziti and brocolli is particularly good.
(3)Jennifer A.
I had a margarita and it was delicious! The stuffed mushrooms were awesome too, but most of all the service was spot on . Our bartender , Carolanne ( I think) was very accommodating. We will definitely be coming back.
(4)Ashley N.
I really like this bar in Southie. Good atmosphere and good food. I love their chilli. It's really good. Try it! I come here to watch some football games and it's great and loud and fun to be in and around people (although anywhere is). The waitress was very nice! Service was good. The next thing to try on my list is their veggie burger which I hear is one of the best ones!
(4)Anne S.
I would give 10 stars if I could. Best food. Best drinks. Best service....in Southie. It's essentially our second home and Erin, Julie, Louise, Carol Ann, Marie, Brendan, Dominic, Tony and Joey make us feel that way everytime :)
(5)Jerry T.
Great drinks, ok food. The food was a bit bland for my taste, but the beer on tap was cold and fresh! All and all, not the worst meal ever.
(3)Emily L.
Bartenders and waitstaff are great! Their nachos and burgers are yummy. Tv's everywhere if you want to watch a game. I do wish they had authentic irish coffees though. Still trying to find thee place for that.
(4)Ryan W.
I give it four just because the food is amazing have yet to have a bad meal, chicken pot pie and Shepards pie unreal. The only downside is the red headed Irish waiter the guys an absolute miserable douchebag...bartenders are great to
(3)Stacy M.
My fiancé and I were staying in Boston for a long weekend and our host recommended this place. We went for lunch and had buffalo chicken pizza and garlic stuffed mushrooms - both were AWESOME! We sat at the bar and the bartender was super friendly and attentive. Later that night we tried going to a restaurant down the road, but after waiting an hour for a table we left and went back to Shenanigans. This time we had the sweet chili calamari and surf and turf (steak tips and shrimp). We both agreed the shrimp would have been much better if it wasn't fried, but the steak tips and calamari were so delicious, we didn't really mind the so-so shrimp. Definitely worth checking out if you are in the area.
(5)Dawn E.
Where is my 2010ish review for Shenanigans??? I, too, was part of a bar crawl crowd that was kicked out for shenanigans at shenanigans once upon a time. I don't think any of the other reviewers actually defined these shenanigans, but I remember them well. It was STOP 2 on the bar crawl, which means nobody was drunk. We were just telling stories and taking selifes and that was a about it. Sure, maybe an hour later people were getting "iced" (if you dont' know don't ask) and shots a plenty were had. The crowd ran wild. Way way way way way after leaving Shenanigans. That review, left me with one star. Recently, however, I had lunch at Shenanigans with coworkers. The ham sandwich special would have been mounds better were it served on the sour dough bread it was alleged to come with, however, I was starving so I ate the rye. The beer selections is good. The fries are crispy. For work lunch: solid choice. For bar crawls: skip ahead to the next place.
(3)Connor E.
I remember when this place was an old school restaurant on one side and a dive bar on the other. It's come a long way since then. The value for what we got was superb. I took my mother out to dinner here and we had a beer, martini, an app, and two dinners. Tab, $50. There are few restaurants that offer comfort food anymore. Just what you need after a rough day.
(4)Scotty C.
Friends and I were looking for a casual place to grab a bite to eat before meeting friends in Seaport for drinks. We weren't looking for anything fancy so my buddy suggested we go here because their food is always solid. It was fairly early on a weekday so we were one of the first sets of patrons to arrive. As the name suggests, the atmosphere is very irish pub-ish. A huge U shaped bar commands the room with some scattered tables off to the sides. This is the type of place you saddle up to the bar. The draught selection was impressive offering Irish import favorites to local brews from down the road. The true standout surprisingly wasn't the beer though, it was the food. It's simple bar food mixed with some traditional Irish dishes and the three of us were impressed. One had a burger, one the steak tips, where as I opted for the Shepard's Pie. Hands down the best Shepard's Pie I've had to date. The gravy was life changing and had a good mix of meat and veggies. Over the top was a thick layer of mashed potatoes whipped to perfection and then put back under the broiler to give the whole dish a lite crispy crust. This dish is an absolute must for any visit.
(4)Kayabba L.
I haven't decided what was worse the service or the Lobster Roll Sliders. The lobster roll description should have read diced celery with minced lobster meat. To be fair the celery wasn't diced big at all I just want to give you a better idea of the size of the lobster meat. Since I'm being fair I'll also say that 2 out of 6 sliders did have extremely small pieces of cut up tail. I'm also not a fan of lobster drowned in mayo however when it is so dry you begin timing your waitress in need of a drink to wash it down it says a lot. Onto the service or should I say lack of. After being served our meals the next time we had contact with our waitress was about 15 minutes after we were finished and asked the bar tender if someone would bring our checks. I noticed our waitress begrudgingly pulling herself away from her lunch. I'm assuming she wasn't eating lobster rolls.
(2)Angela S.
Great place for food and/or drinks. I'll come here often for some after work beverages and apps. It's conveniently located on West Broadway so easy it's a quick stop off of the #9 bus or approx. 10 min walk from Broadway Station. They have a daily specials menu that usually has some great options that always taste great! Weekends- I'd much rather head here than somewhere like Stats or Lincoln.. Aka where everyone who just discovered Southie between the ages of 22-30 are. Plenty of TV's around and usually plenty of seating. Great place to go for dinner or with a group of friends for a game. Reasonably priced, too. Overall, no complaints about this place!
(5)Laura F.
This place could be amazing if the service wasn't horrible all the time. I live close so I frequent shenanigans often. Reggae night is fun. Their food is great but service is painfully slow and no one is friendly.
(3)Dane M.
So many wacky shenanigans occur at this fine establishment!! Make sure you keep your head on a swivel or you could suffer a sports injury!
(4)Leah R.
Came here after a work event with a big group on the recommendation of a colleague, and definitely was not disappointed (even though I was skeptical about the name of the place). It took us forever to decide on food as it was a bit loud in the restaurant and there are so many good choices on the menu to choose from, but our waitress Kate was very attentive and patient- even when we asked for 6 separate checks for expense account purposes. I got the buffalo chicken nachos as my meal which were top-notch, but my co-worker that ordered the beef skewers won the lottery for the night. They were the most tender and perfectly cooked skewers I have ever had. Food and service = 5 stars Acoustics = 3 stars
(4)Barry W.
The service was horrible. Although, they seated us quickly and at a requested booth, the wait staff continued to pass our table as if we were invisible for over 10 minutes. I had to yell out for service. WTH! The guy who was waiting on all the tables in our area sent over another girl and continued to ignore us. This isn't a welcoming establishment, unless, maybe for locals. I should have left. Instead I put my feet up and forced them to serve me. The food was ok - not great, not bad.
(1)Jason M.
Nothing here impressed me that much; it was fine. It's nice inside. They have a lot of HDTVs. There's a patio out back. The bartenders are pretty. The mediocre reggae band played their renditions of Ace of Base's "Don't Turn Around" and Phil Collins's "Another Day in Paradise." You can't make that last sentence up. It must be true then, right? Give the stars to the bartenders though. Even though this place was hopelessly crowded by 11PM, no one in our party waited particularly long to be attended to. Also, the prices weren't bad for the big city. Two well drinks and two ciders on tap for $23 on a Friday Night. You could do worse, for sure. For those of you looking to meet women [self not included], I did notice a good ratio of ladies to gents, most of whom were quite attractive by my standards. My friend hit one of them; she looked like Alison Brie from Mad Men... if that gives you a good idea. So it's a pretty good hangout spot. Close to the T and reasonably priced.
(3)Ann M.
I'm editing this review because I came here for lunch with a co worker and our food was delicious ... We sat at the bar and our bartender was very nice and attentive ! It makes a difference!
(4)Brian B.
Love this place. And, I'm not even Irish. Shalom, and welcome to South Boston, you mashugina. No, you won't find Matzo Balls or Latkes, but you will find what I consider to be the best non-Jewish, pub food around (is there Jewish pub food?). What do I mean? I mean good, honest American, errr, Irish, food, that's what I mean. Steak tips, curry, wraps - and get this - fresh salads and traditional Irish breakfasts, etc. And, all of it is fresh and very flavorful. I'm actually tempted to say that you can find some of the best noshes in Southie here. Yup. That's right. I'm kvelling because the menu is so varied, so consistently good, and so affordable. Also, the place is clean with a contemporary look - from the floors to the bar to the bathrooms. Also, every experience with the staff here has been fantastic. They're a bunch of mensches. They're comprised of about 143% Irish goys, and they're great. Always a smile. Always willing to share a story. Matter of fact, when I pop in with my little boy, the staff takes him for a walk around the entire place, and plays with him if it's not too busy. Free babysitting!!!!!!!!!! I can't gush enough. This place is so good for bar food and pleasant conversation (the music can get a little loud late). I mean, we spend so much time here that my wife practically gave birth at the table by one of the sliding, wide open windows while watching the World Cup (great place to catch a game - lots of flat screens and it's never standing room only). Seriously. We were counting contractions over Smithwicks (at least I was). Hours later, my boy popped out with an Irish brogue.
(4)Katia M.
Shenannigan's food is pretty good, and it's a good after-work spot, but as a late night bar it doesn't do much for me. Bartenders go either way -- super nice or kind of not. Karaoke nights are fun. The deco is nice and the bathrooms are clean and there's supposedly a patio out back (?!?). In the evenings, they crank up the tunes WAY too loud, and it's impossibly trying to listen to your friends, let alone the fellow with an accent who's trying to chat with you. But hey, rarely is there ever not a place to sit. "Whats the name of that restaurant you like with all the goofy sh*t on the walls and the mozzarella sticks?" This isn't *that* Shenannigans, but I'm still going to pistol-whip you if you say that word again;)
(3)Kate M.
This is my bar of choice if going out in Southie. If you don't want the meat market atmosphere of the Beer Garden and Playwright, take yourself to Shenannigan's. It is a more mature crowd without all the flim flam of trying to get a piece of ass. The staff is friendly and real...lovely Irish accents. Drinks are strong and the Cajun chicken sandwich is honestly the BEST chicken sandwich I have ever had. Good place to watch a ball game, as well.
(4)Kate L.
I've only eaten here a few times, but the food has consistently been good. The service has been decent, but sometimes indifferent. But this review is really about...their veggie burger. Literally, I wait for Fridays during Lent so I can order it, guilt free!! It's certainly not a "health food"...I'm pretty sure it's deep fried and served on a buttered bun. It comes with sauteed mushrooms and onions. It's so good, you definitely don't need ketchup for it (and it oddly comes with salsa, which I've never used on it)... Also, I'm pretty sure the inside is filled with crack. Or something like it. There is NO other plausible reason why a veggie burger should be this good. You can see hunks of carrots in it. It's not a grain-based burger. In fact, I have no idea what it is made with. I don't care. it's that good. I've turned other people on to the veggie burger deliciousness. AND, I get it with white rice, just to add to the fat-kid effect. I don't even want to know how much butter and salt they put in their plain white rice to make it taste so good, but MAN! I take it back to my office and close the office door so that no one sees me shoving this down my gullet...it's not pretty. But is IS awesome!
(4)Romulo R.
While this may be a good neighborhood bar to go watch a game, etc, you may want to behave and keep any shenannigan's outside. This seems to be the kind of bar where people go to quietly eat their lunch, if that's your thing. Shenannigans are certainly not appreciated. although the staff was nice for the most part.
(2)Meg M.
Its been a while since I've updated my Shenanigans review so I decided after my last delicious trip in for lunch that I would hit it up. Stopped in here with the boy while I did my laundry next door to Baileys. While I've moved to the Fort Point side of Southie now, I still hop in my car to Shenanigans pretty often. The service is always great. I really have never had one bad experience service wise at any time. I have gone in on Saturday nights as much as I have stopped in for a cure to my hangover on a Sunday afternoon. The bartenders are quick, friendly and know how to mix a drink. The food? Its actually really friggin good. I swear! Not good as in "good for pub food" good... good as in genuinely delicious. Their burgers are juicy and piled high with cheese and irish bacon (just the way I like it). If a menu offers irish bacon on a burger, it pretty much has already won my heart. They run great daily specials and their brunch/breakfast is wonderful too. Good run at the Irish breakfast too. SO if you were like me, abusing Shenanigans the way I abuse my right as a woman to change my mind, my clothes and my hair color... think again. Stop in on an off day and see what you're missing!
(5)Josh P.
Their food is great. I especially like the clam chowder, fish and chips, and Shepard's Pie. The staff is pleasant (and some are actually from Ireland). Their beer selection is good as well.
(4)Tiffany Q.
As a South Boston newbie and now resident my boyfriend and I quickly scouted out the neighborhood bars and restaurants. We were quickly drawn into Shenannigan's honestly because it was close and looked busy. We knew nothing about it. But now we are hooked. We both eat there on a regular basis and anytime we have friends in town that is one of the local spots we hit up. They have great food that is reasonably priced. I can't say that I've tried many things on the menu because the first time I went in and had the TACO SALAD with the Chipotle dressing I was hooked. I've only ventured off once and ordered the Southwestern burger which was awesome with the salsa on it. My boyfriend has ordered something different everytime we've gone in from the ribs which he loved to the nightly specials. The atmosphere is great and they offer entertainment several times during the week.
(5)M M.
My personal fav. home town joint. Not over crowded, love the food-steak tips are by far the best and caesar salads are awesome!
(4)susan t.
Good neighborhood bar for all ages. Very nice on a warm night to sit in the open front with friends, a beer, and a plate of nachos or a quesadilla to share. Not dirty like the Beer Garden and not as loud and yuppied as Playwright. Friendly waitstaff.
(4)L. O.
Shenannigans has become our new local since we've moved from the east side of Southie over to the west and honestly, I couldn't be happier with the change. Great place to grab food, drinks and get some quality time catching up -the food is very good for pub food - much better than the east b'way pub that had been our local for the last few years. Staff is really friendly and I've not had an issue with the bartenders as is noted by a few other yelpers. I do agree that after a certain hour it gets quite frat-ish and that's generally our cue to move outside Southie for the rest of our evening, but for very reasonably priced food and a great place to start off a night, Shenannigans always serves us well.
(5)Southie G.
This is place is a good spot for drinks after work. Friendly Staff...pretty standard pub place.
(3)christina c.
Its close to the apt so we go here every few weeks. I end up getting their veggie burgers, no bun and for my side a salad with the spicy dressing on the side. The veggie burger is actually really good with sauteed mushrooms and onions and cheese oh my! SP gets the spicy chicken pasta dish and he likes it. Late night its a little to loud for us with a DJ it becomes more like a club but on nice sunny days in the summer we go and get beer and sit on the back patio. Over all not bad for a quick dinner out.
(3)Jennifer K.
Cute little place for a beer and a snack down the street from our apartment. Food is classic bar food and the prices are decent; there are a lot of interesting drinks to try on their website. The place was clean and modern and the staff was friendly. TVs around the place to watch sports but not obnoxious enough to prevent conversation with others. Found out there's Reggae night on Fridays - looks like we'll head back one of those nights!
(4)South B.
Great place to eat. Nice waitres, amazing food--recommend steak tips, country fried chicken and chicken fiesta salad. Can always count on Shenanigans for good food and quick service. On a a side note; it'd be nice to have a band play other than the reggae for once..
(5)Julie B.
Last weekend I suggested coming here for lunch solely so I could say the classic Super Troopers line: "I swear to God I'm going to pistol whip the next guy who says Shenannigans." Not really. Truthfully I just moved to Southie and wanted to check out some of the places closest to my new digs. My friends and I got prime seats right next to a big open window on quite the beautiful day. Can't really beat that. I ordered one of the sandwich specials -- grilled chicken, swiss, acocado, and chiptole mayo (?). There was SO much food on this sandwich. Look at the picture, I think they put an entire avocado on top -- I'm not complaining. The fries were decent and my friend's salad looked awesome, for a salad that is. They also have a cute little outside area that makes me wish it was July. I'm sure I'll be back for some hangover food!
(4)David S.
Love this place. They always make you feel welcome, and the food is better than average pub fare. Love the steak tips, turkey tips, fish & chips, and beef stew. Great beer selection, and generous cocktails. Lots of TVs for sports, and the music is always at a level where you can carry on a conversation. Perfect for a casual night out. You'll be happy.
(4)Sam A.
The best pub food in south boston! The whole menu is incredible but the buffalo chicken is the best in the area.
(5)Allie H.
I went here for lunch on a Saturday. I had an amazing Fish Sandwich that I would certainly want again!! Everyone I was with loved the food as well The service though was not the best. It took forever to be waited on, then get drinks, forget for our friend who ordered a beer. When you can see the bar it is tough to justify why it is taking so long. Our server was not on the floor much and did not seem interested in making sure we had the best experience possible. Their food is great but just don't expect to be in and out of there quickly or wowed by their service
(3)Alexander R.
HORRENDOUS SERVICE! I used to be a "regular" here, only because I was new to Southie and didn't know better. I would go in there a couple times a week - sometimes for lunch, sometimes at night for drinks with friends. The staff was NEVER POLITE. They'd never smile or ask how I was....and I WAS a "regular". I spent lots of money there and always tipped well...sometimes, begrudgingly....then came the tab mix-up of 2012. Not only did my friend and I pay our tab, WITH CASH, but we gave the (new) server about 40% tip. Well, next time i stopped in, I was treated like a villian. Again and again. I finally went in one slow afternoon to talk to the bartender on that day, the same one that was tending bar the day I was in. Long story short, she didn't believe me. She thinks I walked out on my tab, which I've NEVER done in my life. I've been in once or twice since and it's the same old stuff. Rude, rude, rude. I honestly think they actually make it a point to look stressed and busier than they really are! I've worked in the restaurant/bar/service industry for almost 20 years and I've never seen anything like it. The food and drinks are painfully average. But the SERVICE IS AS BAD AS IT GETS. I'm all set with this place. Go to the Lincoln, or Junction, or Stats, or Telegraph Hill, or the Franklin....
(1)Megan M.
We went there for lunch as we were traveling here from Ohio for a conference. The food was great however the service was awful! We ordered 3 salads and it took almost 45-55 minutes just to even get food. It took us probably 15 minutes to get waters. Really? We then wanted to get our checks as we needed to get back to the conference and asked for separate checks as we needed them for itemized receipts for work. The waitress actually rolled her eyes and said "you never specified at the beginning that you wanted that." Ok understandable, we are from out of state, but no need to be rude. I would go there for food but just know that it may take awhile...
(2)Kevin C.
Very discouraged. Pretty regular customer. Went there today late afternoon. Mashed potatoes so salty could not eat them. Green beans and carrots which used to be great we're overlooked and way over salted. NY Strip asked for med and got well done full of grisel (sp). Not sure I will be back anytime soon.
(2)Local G.
I love this place for several reasons ... 1) you hardly ever find the same db frat boys here that will wait in line at Lincoln not even a block away 2) food is consistent, reasonably priced and quick (don't bother with the nachos though - they are boring) and 3) lots of tvs 4)it's one of the few places left with some Southie flare. The manager or host has an awful attitude but for some reason I like the grumpy bastard.
(4)Jen H.
No shenanigans Allowed at Shenannigan's!!!!! Boo hisssssss.
(2)Cathryn D.
Would give this place negative stars if possible! Never have I been so disrespected in my life!! Rudest employees I have ever dealt with and will NEVER be going back to this place. Was asked to meet here for a friends birthday last weekend. She wanted to see the reggae band, which we had heard was very good. I got to the place at around 930 and 3 of my friends were already there. When I sat down my friends had informed me that the waitress came over when they got there and told them that she wasn't going to serve them drinks because she wanted to leave when her shift ended (I thought that seemed a little rude but it didn't bother me and I was fine with ordering from the bar). We had begun a conversation amongst ourselves as we waited for our birthday guest and the rest of our friends to arrive. The band was setting up and there were some people in and around the bar and sitting at tables but it definitely wasn't crowded - there were still quite a few empty tables. I had probably been here for about 5 minutes when a man (who we later found out was named Dominic - probably a manager, I know he is not the owner because we looked that up after) came over and rudely told us the waitress had left for the night and we needed to order our drinks at the bar...before even being able to answer him he hurried away. Maybe a minute or two later a woman came by and told us the same exact thing. We told her we knew that and that we were just waiting for the bday girl and rest of our friends to get there. About 30 seconds later Dominic comes back and tells us that if we aren't ordering drinks we need to leave. At this point I'm so pissed at about how rude they are being that I don't even want to buy a drink at this point - mind you we probably would have spent hundreds of dollars over the course of the night buying drinks because we had a a few more people coming to meet us. My friends and I begin to discuss if we should leave or not because we're already feeling disrespected and upset. Then Dominic comes back (he probably did about one lap around the bar since he had been there before - because it hadn't even been a whole minute yet) and demand we need to leave and that we are not allowed to hang out there. At this point the band still setting up, there are still empty tables at the bar, and it's not even 10PM yet. We try to explain that we are waiting for our friends and he just says "No, get out, you need to leave, you can't hang out here." The only people that were nice to us were the bouncers who began talking to us when we were leaving, we told them we were waiting for our friend who's bday it was and he said he would talk to the manager and figure things out but we didn't even want to stay at that point because of how rude everyone else in there was, so we left. Not much to say about the food or drinks since we didn't even get to experience it, but the service is absolutely TERRIBLE and I will NEVER be going back to this place EVER. In hindsight, we probably should have ordered drinks instead of hanging around for a half hour but I never knew it was a rule that you had to drink at a bar, and we were GOING to order drinks once the rest of our friends got there. If the waitstaff let us explain that instead of rudely demanding us to order drinks or leave then maybe the situation would have turned out differently. But instead, leaving here, I was pissed off and felt extremely disrespected.
(1)Laura J.
I went to Shenanigan's last Friday and had a beer, appetizer, and entree. The appetizer was the fish tacos which was delicious and the entree was the grilled salmon. Everything was delicious. The grilled salmon was fresh and had a creamy sauce. The service was fast and Just perfect for a friday night!
(5)Linda E.
How about you guys leave the kitchen open after 9pm if you are open until 2am? Went here with Elizabeth D. after a Yelp event to get a drink at the bar. I got a Landshark which I loved and she got a Blue Moon with an orange slice. The bartender was a bit quick to cash us out even though we were just hanging out, that was a bit weird. We were able to look at the menu, which looked to be ok, but a bit expensive, good place for beer, the Blue Moon was only $4.75. I wouldn't go here for late night food since it's non existent!
(3)Ren X.
SUPER CHEAP DRINKS coming from new york, im used to all cocktails to be at least 10 dollars. theirs is only like 6.5-7 dollars. this place is great! crowded on a friday nite.
(4)Lauren L.
The only reason this place is getting 2 stars is because the food was ok. Not great, but decent. The service was absolutely terrible. I was in on a slow Sunday night and it seemed like the staff was mad we stopped in. We were hoping to watch football and they did switch one TV to the game we requested. However, the bartenders made us feel like we were inconveniencing them when we asked for drinks. One of the bartenders boyfriends was sitting next to me and would make rude comments under his breath anytime we would cheer for our team. The only people the bartenders wanted to be paying attention to were the other people working in the bar or their significant others. This made for a really poor experience and I will definitely not be returning here.
(2)Nina H.
OK so I only have one visit to critique and it was on the St. Patrick's Day parade day. Yeah , $20 cover charge but seriously, if you expected something cheaper or no cover on parade day in Southie you're either from Mars or just turned 21 and this is your first day in a drinking establishment. Anywho... I thought the bouncers and waitstaff and bar backs did a great job this day. Cash only bar on this day which they have to do or sink in the red tape... I brought a fist full of cash and I gladly paid the cover and $6 Bud Light drafts and I had a blast, it was a great day. Only thing that bummed me out is that I momentarily was told I had to wait in line again after stepping outside to view the parade for a few minutes, thankfully the other bouncer found mercy on me and let me back in. :)
(4)Christina Z.
This is EXACTLY what i never knew I always wanted #heartheartheart Facts: It is is Southie; the space is GORGEOUS and clean; they serve up a mean shipyard pumpkin with sugar and spice and everything nice, and the crowd is deliciously Southie-Student-Yuppie hybrid. I couldn't ask for more. I'm dying to go back. The music was great, they had always sunny on the telly, the bartenders were friendly but didn't harass you. I could totally see this as my favorite haunt. Haven't been this in love with a bar (and felt like I belonged) since the Mission Bar in Mission Hill.
(5)Barbara J.
The stars they get are for the food alone. The steak tips and turkey tips are DELICIOUS. I used to come here at least once a week for dinner and once a month with my coworkers for an early happy hour. We had half days so we were typically there around 2:30 on a Friday. Not a busy time but still get the absolute SNUB. I'm talking a group of 10-12 people all drinking more than one drink, with about half staying for dinner. I'm talking a hefty bill with people accommodating tips for our large party size. We're a rowdy bunch and had made this our place for over a year. But the past few times we've been we've gotten nothing but rudeness and cold shoulders. Bad bad bad service and acting like how dare we bring a large group into a dead restaurant at 2:30 on a Friday? We've made Telegraph Hill our new spot. Awesome drinks, food, and they servers actually talk to you, make suggestions, and want you to come back.
(2)May N.
Cute place for a drink in good weather - they open up the front windows and there's a small patio in the back. It's not too crazy or busy on a weekday afternoon so didn't experience the usual "hate outsider" Southie attitude. Enjoyed a $3 alcoholic tea (bottled) and a blueberry beer (draft). Service was good, checked in on us throughout the afternoon, but didn't constantly hover. Several big screen tv's throughout the place so I bet it'd be fun to watch a game.
(3)Mandi R.
Keeping in mind this is a local joint, really love this place. Have yet to have one bad meal here (from apps, to salads to entrees). Ive actually chosen to go here on dates over more "fancy" restaurants because the food is that good. Two words: spinage dip. Super reasonable (if not underpriced) meals. Friendly staff. All the patrons seem to be enjoying themselves too. Fun laid back atmosphere. You can order a draft beer or martini and not feel put of place.
(4)Cait O.
I just left Shenanigans for my fathers birthday. We had a party of 6 and were looking for something affordable and reliable. Shenanigans is always a guaranteed GREAT meal and a good time! I ordered the Cajun Haddock special and it was great! Our bill for 6 came to less than we expected and the service was much more than we expected!! There is also a reggae band on Fridays at 9 that is THE BEST!!!
(5)Katherine D.
4 stars because the food is just so good. Don't ever come on a Friday or Saturday for a night out, but come by for food and leave satisfied. Country fried chicken is great, the blackened chicken pasta is delicious, and all of the fried apps are worth a try.
(4)Sarah C.
Head over to Shenannigans on Friday nights for live reggae - yeppers REGGAE! It's a amazingly random combination and yet fabulous at the same time. Townie Southie boys all dressed up in their red soxes attire, popped collars and perfectly white sneakers swaying to the music of Jamaica. Plus the reggae band is amazing. I could watch the keyboardist play all night and pretty sure I laughed out loud when the lead singer pulled out a joint during the drum solo and took a hit - now that's what I call reggae. Food here is above average for a pub. Good burgers, huge salads and all the bar food munchy apps you could want. The beer selection is what's great - tons of beers on tap and plenty of bartenders to get you a cold one. Ladies - on the weekends you're in luck. If you're on the prowl for a Boston bred Southie man the odds are in your favor here - it's about 3-1 men. ohh ya!
(4)Tom K.
I really don't like this place. I've been here 3 times over the last 1.5 or 2 years or so and hope to never be back. In my 3 visits, I've never had anything stand out. There are quite a few reviews here that rave about one dish or another but I, at best, have found them all to be forgettable or, at worse, have had them make me or my friends ill. Its just not worth it. And the service is terrible too. The bartender does a good job of not seeing you, whether you're trying to order some food, get another drink, or trying to get the check so you can get the heck out of there, its almost impossible to get anything done in a reasonable amount of time. With so many options on Broadway and surrounding area, I'd avoid this place and keep walking to somewhere that can get it right.
(1)Dino D.
I really enjoyed it, I was expecting the usual pub food but was pleasantly surprised. Had the steak and blue cheese salad, stuffed mushrooms, and a lobster or shrimp (I forget) mac and cheese. All were delicious, the service was okay, but the food is the reason I want to go back.
(4)R A.
I enjoy Shenannigans. Food is really good!!! I enjoy the ambiance and decor. The band on Friday night was awesome. I'd definitely stop in again for dinner/lunch or to grab a beer. I was a little disappointed that they didn't have the NFL ticket. Of course they have the Pats game on, but my friend was hoping to see another game. Overall great neighborhood spot.
(4)Courtney B.
Good food. Great service. The place was packed, but our server still managed to bring all our food out on time. Mac and cheese is to die for. Definitely recommend it!
(4)Bonnie M.
I have become a somewhat regular rather quickly here. We always sit at the bar and receive wonderful service! They knew us after only visiting one time! My glass is never neglected and the food so far has been great! (The steak tips were super, and large portions so you have lunch for the next day!) I can't say its the best for mingling, but a great place to hang out with friends, and hey mingle with the bartenders! I will continue to be a regular!
(4)Lauren L.
Shenannigan's on West Broadway is one of my favorite by far bars/restaurants in South Boston, we are "regulars" there at the bar. Parking is free on side of building. HUGE +. The food is always consistent and the chef has been working there for 10 years. The salads are HUGE and always fresh. I highly recommend the Turkey Tips that are $9.99, they are delicious! In the Summer, there's a small outdoor quiet patio. HARD TO FIND IN SOUTHIE. The managers are always friendly. Bartenders: "Val" who is from Ireland works on Thursdays. She always greets us by our names and knows exactly what we want every single time we go! Great personality! "Lauren" who works at this bar full time is a doll! She knows how to handle a busy crowd and makes a GREAT bloody mary. LOVE HER! "Brendan" who works on Saturdays is hysterical. He always makes us laugh and makes the best drinks. Thanks Shenannigan's!
(5)Krys A.
No Shenannigan's Allowed at Shenannigan's!!!!! Meh. The 1st time I did the bar crawl here they said we were too loud and people were trying to eat lunch. 2nd time here,... we were too loud and people were trying to eat their lunch. 3rd time... welp, there wont be a 3rd time for the Red Scare. Though I did enjoy one of the bartenders who was quite pleasant he was very happy to take pictures for us :) Don't let the name fool you. Shenannigan's... Ha!
(2)alison j.
I am taking away one star because the bartenders seemed to have gotten worse. I went in here TWICE in the last month on a Friday night only to stare at the bartenders for 20 minutes, be ignored, get annoyed and go next door. There were 3 bartenders. The bar is not that big. Now why would I come here twice in a month if that's what happened to me the first time? The Friday night reggae band is awesome. I might just have to start sneaking in nips or something so I can have a drink while I listen to them.
(1)Sara M.
This is a chill bar ideal for having lunch or an after-work beer. The food is quite good and portions are generous. I especially recommend their salads which are always HUGE and fresh. On a nice day they can slide open the large windows in the front of the building and let in some fresh air. Also of note, they have large flatscreen tvs around the restaurant so you can eat lunch and watch the world cup ;) I would not recommend this bar to people looking for a super energetic, loud, young scene. It's just not that kind of place. However, it is clean, reasonably priced, has nice staff, serves good food, and is a great spot to catch up with a friend.
(4)Sally J.
Just moved to the area and went to dinner with my Mom and brother. I thought Shenannigan's was just a fun place to drink; however, I was pleasantly surprised by my food and experience. It is obviously not fine dining but is excellent bar food. I ordered the buffalo chicken mac and cheese and boy was that a huge, cheesy, and hearty meal! Much better than the recently opened Lincoln restaurant across the street. Also the chili is tasty and heart-warming.
(5)Julie S.
One of my favorite places to go in Southie- but only during the week! On weekends, the vibe in here is really weird. The people are local Southie people who get completely dressed up for a night at a casual bar (they often look like they are going clubbing). On weeknights, the place is great. I can usually find a seat at the bar, and the bartenders are very friendly. It is the kind of place where other people in the bar will make small talk with you. Additionally, it's not gourmet but as far as bar food- it blows Playwright and Beer Garden away. The onion rings are phenomenol, many of the sandwhiches are huge and delicious, and the main courses aren't half bad either.
(4)Kim S.
Teriyaki beef sticks were amazing!! Had the Philly cheese steak that was great but a little dry but still worth eating. Great atmosphere!
(4)Krista S.
This bar was filled with men on Friday night. Someone must have put out the word for all the attractive late 20s early 30s men to show up at Shenannigans and the forgot to invite the ladies. It was around a 8:1 males to female ratio! The reggae band seemed a bit out of place for the clientele but I loved it! I'll be going back and bringing all my single gals.
(4)Carly R.
I always go here for lunch on Fridays when I have doctor's appointments in the area. So that's the context. Great food for a pub environment, though I rarely get more than a cup of chowder. I really like the vibe and the other people who frequent the spot during daytime (think older locals who are very vibrant and friendly.) It was a breath of fresh air to go there today, after seeing, to my horror, the Starbucks and high priced residential building being constructed by Broadway station, and feel like the place was still dominated by down to earth Southie types, construction workers on lunch break etc... who never lack a smile or conversation starter (love how people were talking across the room to each other from several tables away.) It's clearly a spot that people are regulars and recognize other regulars. It's a nice touch that they have appealing specials; too many casual pubs don't even bother mixing it up to keep steady clientele entertained with new options. I haven't been out there just to hang at night since 2007, so I can only speak to the daytime vibe, which is super comforting, especially on this chilly Winter day.
(4)Erika K.
Been here a few times and am always very pleased. The service is nice and really friendly and the food is delicious! First of all food, I mean come on food always comes first! The buffalo chicken quesadillas are really good and creamy the Onion rings come with a fantastic sauce that I suggest you keep and use on everything! The shepard pie is well words can't describe Chicken Pot Pie is alright too sweet for my savory desires Potatoe Skins good Drinks! Reasonably priced and really generously poured. LOVE THAT! Atmosphere. perfect for what you want on different days of the week. Early dinner... soft lighting quiet music and calm Lat night ... great music lots of people great reggae band on friday TRIVIA! Wednesday night ... and they have fun prizes full of alcohol nothing better. You should go here if in the south end.
(5)