Laarv just realized that she reviewed the Skellig in Waltham referencing her many times at the Burren without ever posting a review for the Burren! Laarv likes the Burren a lot. Her companion has come here many times to grab pints of Guinness in a cozy/cave-like friendly atmosphere for years. There is often live music and the back room can get packed with Tufts students looking to dance to 80's cover bands.
(4)
Nicole G.
Saw Sean Tyrrel play here recently. Amazing show and very good food.
(4)
Erin M.
I first came here a few weeks ago with a friend. Much to the waitress's chagrin we grabbed a table simply because the bar was packed even though we were just grabbing a drink but at the time there was no one waiting for a table for food service so we did not see a huge problem with it. Although we did end up ordering onion rings (amazing, by the way) despite having just eaten dinner elsewhere the service was still rather cold and we were kicked out of the table after a while. It was still a fairly good experience for my first time at the Burren with the great Irish music playing and non-overwhelming crowd. The second time I went to the Burren, which really gets the place to four stars, was New Year's Day after my friends and I absolutely refused to wait an hour for Johnny D's brunch around 1 pm. Off we wandered through our home turf of Davis Square and remembered The Burren. Sadly, the doors were locked even though we tried and tried to get them open. After a minute, they opened and an adorably accented young man tells us that they were not open yet and would start serving food in about 15 minutes but he would let us in then to let us get out of the cold. SCORE! The nine of us walked in and had the whole place to ourselves for at least half an hour, if not more. Service was fairly attentive considering the few staff members there were still cleaning up and settling things from New Year's Eve, and the food was very good (not amazing, but it was all definitely fresh). I had vegetable soup, which was all liquid and definitely suspect looking but yummy so I won't complain, and a honey ham & cheddar sandwich. Everyone enjoyed the environment and what they ordered. We could not believe how long we had the place to ourselves and that we did not have to wait all that long to get anything. However, I ordered soup and somehow could never convey to the waiter/bartender when I wanted it cleared. It was not that much of a nuisance though. Just for that kindness and experience alone I would come back but combined with the friendliness of the crowd (not the service) from my first visit (the people sitting next to my friend and I wanted to "make friends" with people in a bar since they never had before...it was endearing) I know I want to make the trip.
(4)
Diana G.
This place seems like a pretty average Irish pub. I don't know about the food, but the Guinness is pretty good. Friendly vibes all around. Also, saw a GREAT cover band in the back room - they really had the crowd rockin wow! Other than that, there was really nothing that left an impression on me. I don't think I'd do out of my way to go back there, but if I happened to be thirsty wandering around in Davis Square, I might consider it. We'll see..
(3)
Stacy B.
I'm going to be honest: I come here to drink massive quantities of beer, and get hit on by Tufts Dental Students - that's all. Beer is sometimes fresh, but always does the trick. The food leaves far too much to be desired, but will also do the trick in a pinch. And the decor is something that I've never really had a chance to explore, seeing that it's usually so dark in there, that I can't even see my hand in front of my face. Uh oh, are those Tufts Dental Students hitting on me, or lecherous monsters from the deep? Meh. I'll still go back.
(2)
Jamie S.
I arrived on a Saturday night at 9:20pm to beat the cover charge, which begins at 9:30. The bouncers charged me anyway, informing me that it in fact starts at "9:15...ish". When I suggested that they would claim it started five minutes before whatever time I might have gotten there, I got a snicker in response. Impressive. Strike one. At the bar, I ordered Jack Daniels, neat. It was $6 -- no big deal, except that what I got was no more than an ounce of whiskey. Fantastic. After observing a few mixed drinks being poured, I discovered mixed drinks were the only way to go here. Apparently if you like your alcohol sans fruit, ice, and a straw, you're SOL at the Burren. Strike two. After waiting an hour for the band to set up as the crowd filled in a bit, I hoped that maybe the music would liven up the experience. Sadly, my last hope was dashed as the band led off with Uncle Kracker's "Follow Me." I cut my losses and left immediately. So to recap... I paid a cover to some douchey bouncers for the opportunity to get ripped off at the bar and listen to an Uncle Kracker cover band. Can't wait to do it again.
(1)
Kate S.
Good food, good drinks, good company, good atmosphere. Try the Irish breakfast on weekends, or the Irish music during the week. If you want a good time that NEVER fails, go to Open Mic on Tuesday nights, hosted by Hugh McGowan.
(4)
Meg M.
Whatta ya do when you have to kill time before seeing a bunch of mostly naked girls dance around on stage at the Burlesque Christmas Spectacular... The Slutcracker? Well... considering it was about 3.5 degrees outside with winds that were blowing in your face, the Burren was close enough to the theatre to be worth a shot. I'm solidly a fan. It was cozy and it wasnt too crowded for a Friday night either. A couple was leaving as my date and I arrived so we even got a seat at the bar. The bartenders are cute and have adorable Irish accents and I didnt even mind when one of the taps broke and sprayed beer all over the bar in front of me. I cant say much for the food because we opted to wait it out for Redbones after the show, but the drinks were strong and the bar was warm and I was seated with my date happily drinking a Jameson and ginger ale not 5 minutes after we walked in. I dont hang out in Davis too often, but next time I do.. I'll probably stop in.
(4)
Caitlin C.
My friends frequent this place often has they love the lie music on the weekends and the $3 PBR cans. I can most of te time do without going here but the crowd is reasonable and the band can be hit or miss.
(3)
Rob D.
My motto is try anything twice... well, I've tried this place four or five times now and still don't care for it. I will admit they typically have a rocking band that will make for a good time. But the only way you will truly enjoy this place is to go with a group of your friends and just rock out together. GUYS - this bar is always mantastic so expect heavy competition and few options. GIRLS - go here if you are looking to be hit on and danced on. The ratio is always in your favor here and the wolves will be on the hunt. You can avoid some of this by staying up at the front bar, but where is the fun in that?
(2)
Rebecca K.
I perennially want to like the Burren more than I actually do. Alas, it just doesn't seem to happen. I *do* enjoy the music. You can usually count on a pleasant cover band to be playing. And for decent live music, I've never found the cover to be unreasonable. The beer selection is also a plus. And reasonably priced. However, the food selection is less than impressive. I feel like every time I've been here, I scour the menu, wanting to be inspired to order something and never really getting there. I generally end up feeling like I'm settling ordering something rather than actually getting something that I want. Although the fish and chips is pretty good. So, it's a good place to come for some live music and a good time. But I'll go elsewhere for dinner.
(3)
Kitia G.
The Burren is a great place for a good beer and great live music. One of my favorite hangout spots.
(5)
Alyson G.
Heard there was a cover band playing here, and once I checked out the set list wasn't about to miss it! Cute Irish Pub that's much bigger than I imagined...two rooms with different music even. Loved the little tucked in booth in the back room, definitely want to sit there sometime... and the Irish music in the front. Fun place to meet up with friends, have a drink, and dance and sing all night long...well until close! Glad I met up with a friend on my way here since there were a bunch of bouncers standing in front of some door that had a hallway leading to nowhere and I probably would have walked right by. But I get lost ALL THE TIME! Oh, and this review is for a pub, not a restaurant. I'm Irish, so I know Irish food is usually overcooked and bland. But I don't go to an Irish bar to eat.
(4)
Peg P.
I am a big fan of the Burren. I I like the atmosphere and the Irish-American feel. The menu has a nice selection of traditional Irish foods as well as standard pub food. I have had no problems ordering vegetarian meals at The Burren, they have a few options that are all very good. I think The Burren pours a really nice pint of Guinness. They have good selection of drinks , and I have found the bartenders to be really efficient and friendly. The Burren is a great place for live music. They have a huge front bar area and then a back room where bands play every weekend. There is also another bar located in the back room. The Burren is a bar that tends to get pretty crowded, so getting there early is a good idea, especially if you have a big group. I have had small gatherings at The Burren and have been able to use the back room area. The Burren has a nice St. Patrick's Day celebration (if you can even get in!!) All in all, a great place for food, beer, and live music with Friends.
(4)
Nikki I.
Plenty of space and plenty of beers for a great night out.
(4)
Curtis E.
So, I guess I go here for a different reason then the other reviews I've seen. To have a damn good time. Go on friday or saturday night, bring friends, go to the back room and be ready to sing like crazy. Generally its a cover band playing, and you know what thats exactly what you need. They play all the songs you know, and once you've got a few in you the dancing and singing starts. The bar in the back tends to move faster than the one out front, as all the people who believe they are too cool are out there sitting around, when the raging party is in the back. This bar is a top pick for my friends and I when we want to go somewhere we know we can enjoy and unwind on the weekend. And isn't that what its all about? A good time?
(4)
Corynne O.
If you're looking for a drink in a pub, this is not a bad option. My biggest problems with this place were (1) the service (2) the food. I went in for some pub fare on a weeknight with a friend, when the place was practically empty. We were seated in a room that was empty when we arrived. The waitress stared us down (not a single smile) while she waited for us to decide what beer we wanted within 15 seconds of sitting down. Once we'd ordered, the food came in a reasonable time but my burger was way over done and came with fries instead of the steamed veggies I'd requested. The last straw was when I finished my beer one bite into my burger, yet our waitress did not return until I was done with my meal. She seemed pissed off when I declined another beer. Maybe if she'd returned earlier I would've had one. There are so many other great bars and pubs in the Davis area. This one will remain my last choice.
(2)
Brittany H.
Finally got around to trying the Burren this weekend! The food was mediocre/overpriced and the service left something to be desired. While we were seated right away, our waitress was inattentive and seemed like she just wanted us to eat and get out. I ordered a small caesar salad to start, which was actually pretty good. But the beef stew that followed was bland, watery and uninteresting. The shepherd's pie was okay. A friend had the fish and chips which he said was very good, but another friend tried the scallop caprese salad, which was laughable. The scallops were teeny tiny and seemed like more of an afterthought on top of greens and tomato slices. To be fair, he said the fresh mozzarella was good. After the waitress forgot part of our order, we were happy to leave after a really unsatisfying meal. I wouldn't visit the Burren again when I could just go to Redbones down the street.
(2)
Jenna P.
Definitely not. I don't like Irish music, it's depressing to me and can't dance to it. It's dark and gloomy in here and makes me sleepy. Too crowded in back room. Bad Bon Jovi cover band (I don't like Bon Jovi anyways). $5 cover is ridiculous for how gross it is in here.
(1)
Andrew R.
The Burren is an okay bar at best. They have okay beer, but bad food, and worse service. I've had eyes rolled at me every time I go there. Really boring burgers, acceptable fries. I haven't tried any of their more "Irish" dishes; maybe they're good, but I won't be going back to check anytime soon. They don't have any amazing deals, they charge too much for cover, it frequently gets overcrowded... Basically, I can't see any reason to go here. Just hit up Underbones at Redbones instead.
(2)
Lou P.
Always quite crowded Music in back, hip in front Bring your fiddle for sessions The Burren is interesting. It's really two different bars, both very busy. There's a stage for live music in the back, and you're more likely to find lip gloss and hair gel back that-a-way. In the front, you're likely to find a fiddle and guitar session played out to unremarkable 20-somethings. The food is a decent mix of traditional Irish and standard bar fare. The thick cut fried were delicious, and our food arrived quickly. The last time there a co-diner's meal came out incorrectly, and was fixed within 5 minutes, a clear attention to patrons which was appreciated. The beer selection is decent (20 or so on tap), but the absence of Murphys in such an "Irish Bar" was notable. In the front bar, there are always a ton of people hanging out, which can make it difficult to get a drink if you're not at a table. Forget getting a seat at the bar unless you arrive early in a very small group (read: 2). It's sometimes an issue if you don't plan ahead. Points deducted for the complete lack of attention paid to table guests who had a tab at the bar instead of the table and the crush of people at the bar
(3)
Gwen F.
No, no, no. There are several qualities that warrant a decent review, but the Burren jumped on the failboat with the first drink I ordered. They watered down my martini. That's it, game over, sorry, but the princess is in another castle. I actually watched them add water. To some of us, the martini is a sacred thing. I call foul!
(1)
Brian Z.
One of my favorites and makes the trip to Davis worthwhile. *They should ease up on the Irish music in the front though.
(4)
Drew H.
Dark, loud, and crowded I guess it distracts you from looking at your plate
(2)
Anna P.
Okay, my last experience at the Burren was so bad that I have to dock them a star. I'm fairly forgiving of slow service on weekend nights at a bar, but on a quiet weekday, there's no excuse for vigorously ignoring our table. The dinner prices have gone way up since the last time I was here. My friend had a tomato mozzarella salad that was possibly the saddest thing I've ever seen. We also didn't think the mozzarella was fresh - not bad, just not worth $8.75. The bread that came with my soup was cold, and tasted more like wheat bread than the "Irish brown bread" advertised. I have had good nights at this bar - but it's a shame that this one night kinda killed it for me. Sorry, Burren.
(2)
Ryan C.
Good beer on tap. I'm a huge Smithwick's and Newcastle fan. The atmosphere is pretty dark. It is very much an Irish pub. Live music is there most nights. The back room can be fun. As for the crowd, it tends to be late 20's, early 30's, but every now and then Tufts jams this place up with the college crowd on random Thursdays, which is pretty fun if you're into that kind of thing.
(3)
Erica F.
Having just moved to a new town, you can often be blinded by your first love. You can't tell whether it's good or if there's better out there because it's all you know. Well, The Burren was my first love and after testing out the other fish in the sea, I still love the Burren!! I was actually still looking for an apartment and had an hour to kill between appointments and found myself at The Burren. It was a beautiful day out and would have felt bad taking up the four top outside so I parked it at the bar. Being as there were only 3 people at the bar, myself included, the bartender struck up a lovely little conversation. He was very helpful and informative about the area and Boston and it was hard to tear myself away. A month has passed, I now live steps from the Burren and I enjoy my time there under any circumstance. Some bars you love on a Thursday afternoon but by Saturday night you hate it. I love the Burren at all times. It gets packed in pretty tight on Friday and Saturday nights. Every night, there is almost always someone playing music once the sun goes down, and often enough there are people playing not only in the front of the bar but also in the back bar as well. It's the place my boyfriend and I decided to trek out to and stick it out for the 'Blizard of 2010' along with a ton of other maniacs and it was a blast!
(4)
H S.
Fantastic Irish bar in Davis Square. I came here for St. Paddy's and there were violinists, cheap beer, and a good staff. Did not even mind when I spilled beer on myself and made fun of their leprechaun dolls behind the bar. Also liked that they didn't judge me for being wasted at 2 p.m.
(4)
Jim B.
I like your bar. I've played the open mic for a long time. Don't DEEP FRY everything on your breakfast menu. I may as well hit up MuckDonalds. You could be so good (you have black pudding, don't sacrifice it to the God of hell frier). TRY and be somewhat authentic other than having a few ugly Irish(ish) chicks working there.
(3)
Stephen O.
This is the Saturday lunchtime review, everyone still wearing soccer gear from the morning's game, did change the cleats to flip-flops though. (If you do the BSSC thing, Union Street in Newton also a good after-sports stop.) Good selection of beers (Anchor Steam, nice), hearty breakfast sandwiches with fried eggs and pork product, good staff, being able to get all the lads round a couple of tables and enjoy the craic.
(4)
Amanda G.
I love this cozy comforting bar with your typical Irish crowd and 'tenders. Solid beer selection, but simplicity is where it's at. Try for the corner tables up front. I love the old wood pub decor and feel. Def could meet someone here - people are lookin...even on tues night! Music is either great or fine. Apparently there is an Irish dance class too!
(4)
John P.
The only downside: a little loud at peak hours. I never know whether to expect a jig and reel band in the corner or some dude-bros from Everett covering Bon Jovi on the stage in the back. I would not go here to have a serious heart to heart conversation with my one and only darling. After that, nothing but upside. One of the best Guinness I've had domestically. Hearty pub grub - no chicken caesar wraps on the menu here, just beefy sandwiches and salty steak fries.
(4)
Erica S.
Good beer. Shitty food. Cover charge. A plethora of college dudes in white hats and North Face fleece vests (or equivalent). Cover bands. Lots and lots of cover bands. Overrated.
(2)
Rue B.
PERFECT Guinness pours. Hearty Irish stew and fish and chips, with fantastically affordable lunch prices. Good, but not great, food. Calming, warm atmosphere - a homey semi-dive with friendly staff. Must come back later at night for some traditional Irish music!
(4)
Matt S.
As an American-Irishman who has entirely quit drinking (after many a year the issues began to take their toll), the Burren is going to be a place that I actually miss. I've only gone there once with friends, but the Guinness flowed free and the Irish Folk music was amazing. The atmosphere is great, and on the Friday night we went it was hopping but not filled with Bud-Light swilling college kids, which was a major reason to enjoy it. The appetizers were delicious and rib-sticking, and as stated - I downed many a shot of whiskey with a Guinness back and all to the beautiful sound of the old country.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner, Late Night Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Loud Music : Live 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 : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Laarv F.
Laarv just realized that she reviewed the Skellig in Waltham referencing her many times at the Burren without ever posting a review for the Burren! Laarv likes the Burren a lot. Her companion has come here many times to grab pints of Guinness in a cozy/cave-like friendly atmosphere for years. There is often live music and the back room can get packed with Tufts students looking to dance to 80's cover bands.
(4)Nicole G.
Saw Sean Tyrrel play here recently. Amazing show and very good food.
(4)Erin M.
I first came here a few weeks ago with a friend. Much to the waitress's chagrin we grabbed a table simply because the bar was packed even though we were just grabbing a drink but at the time there was no one waiting for a table for food service so we did not see a huge problem with it. Although we did end up ordering onion rings (amazing, by the way) despite having just eaten dinner elsewhere the service was still rather cold and we were kicked out of the table after a while. It was still a fairly good experience for my first time at the Burren with the great Irish music playing and non-overwhelming crowd. The second time I went to the Burren, which really gets the place to four stars, was New Year's Day after my friends and I absolutely refused to wait an hour for Johnny D's brunch around 1 pm. Off we wandered through our home turf of Davis Square and remembered The Burren. Sadly, the doors were locked even though we tried and tried to get them open. After a minute, they opened and an adorably accented young man tells us that they were not open yet and would start serving food in about 15 minutes but he would let us in then to let us get out of the cold. SCORE! The nine of us walked in and had the whole place to ourselves for at least half an hour, if not more. Service was fairly attentive considering the few staff members there were still cleaning up and settling things from New Year's Eve, and the food was very good (not amazing, but it was all definitely fresh). I had vegetable soup, which was all liquid and definitely suspect looking but yummy so I won't complain, and a honey ham & cheddar sandwich. Everyone enjoyed the environment and what they ordered. We could not believe how long we had the place to ourselves and that we did not have to wait all that long to get anything. However, I ordered soup and somehow could never convey to the waiter/bartender when I wanted it cleared. It was not that much of a nuisance though. Just for that kindness and experience alone I would come back but combined with the friendliness of the crowd (not the service) from my first visit (the people sitting next to my friend and I wanted to "make friends" with people in a bar since they never had before...it was endearing) I know I want to make the trip.
(4)Diana G.
This place seems like a pretty average Irish pub. I don't know about the food, but the Guinness is pretty good. Friendly vibes all around. Also, saw a GREAT cover band in the back room - they really had the crowd rockin wow! Other than that, there was really nothing that left an impression on me. I don't think I'd do out of my way to go back there, but if I happened to be thirsty wandering around in Davis Square, I might consider it. We'll see..
(3)Stacy B.
I'm going to be honest: I come here to drink massive quantities of beer, and get hit on by Tufts Dental Students - that's all. Beer is sometimes fresh, but always does the trick. The food leaves far too much to be desired, but will also do the trick in a pinch. And the decor is something that I've never really had a chance to explore, seeing that it's usually so dark in there, that I can't even see my hand in front of my face. Uh oh, are those Tufts Dental Students hitting on me, or lecherous monsters from the deep? Meh. I'll still go back.
(2)Jamie S.
I arrived on a Saturday night at 9:20pm to beat the cover charge, which begins at 9:30. The bouncers charged me anyway, informing me that it in fact starts at "9:15...ish". When I suggested that they would claim it started five minutes before whatever time I might have gotten there, I got a snicker in response. Impressive. Strike one. At the bar, I ordered Jack Daniels, neat. It was $6 -- no big deal, except that what I got was no more than an ounce of whiskey. Fantastic. After observing a few mixed drinks being poured, I discovered mixed drinks were the only way to go here. Apparently if you like your alcohol sans fruit, ice, and a straw, you're SOL at the Burren. Strike two. After waiting an hour for the band to set up as the crowd filled in a bit, I hoped that maybe the music would liven up the experience. Sadly, my last hope was dashed as the band led off with Uncle Kracker's "Follow Me." I cut my losses and left immediately. So to recap... I paid a cover to some douchey bouncers for the opportunity to get ripped off at the bar and listen to an Uncle Kracker cover band. Can't wait to do it again.
(1)Kate S.
Good food, good drinks, good company, good atmosphere. Try the Irish breakfast on weekends, or the Irish music during the week. If you want a good time that NEVER fails, go to Open Mic on Tuesday nights, hosted by Hugh McGowan.
(4)Meg M.
Whatta ya do when you have to kill time before seeing a bunch of mostly naked girls dance around on stage at the Burlesque Christmas Spectacular... The Slutcracker? Well... considering it was about 3.5 degrees outside with winds that were blowing in your face, the Burren was close enough to the theatre to be worth a shot. I'm solidly a fan. It was cozy and it wasnt too crowded for a Friday night either. A couple was leaving as my date and I arrived so we even got a seat at the bar. The bartenders are cute and have adorable Irish accents and I didnt even mind when one of the taps broke and sprayed beer all over the bar in front of me. I cant say much for the food because we opted to wait it out for Redbones after the show, but the drinks were strong and the bar was warm and I was seated with my date happily drinking a Jameson and ginger ale not 5 minutes after we walked in. I dont hang out in Davis too often, but next time I do.. I'll probably stop in.
(4)Caitlin C.
My friends frequent this place often has they love the lie music on the weekends and the $3 PBR cans. I can most of te time do without going here but the crowd is reasonable and the band can be hit or miss.
(3)Rob D.
My motto is try anything twice... well, I've tried this place four or five times now and still don't care for it. I will admit they typically have a rocking band that will make for a good time. But the only way you will truly enjoy this place is to go with a group of your friends and just rock out together. GUYS - this bar is always mantastic so expect heavy competition and few options. GIRLS - go here if you are looking to be hit on and danced on. The ratio is always in your favor here and the wolves will be on the hunt. You can avoid some of this by staying up at the front bar, but where is the fun in that?
(2)Rebecca K.
I perennially want to like the Burren more than I actually do. Alas, it just doesn't seem to happen. I *do* enjoy the music. You can usually count on a pleasant cover band to be playing. And for decent live music, I've never found the cover to be unreasonable. The beer selection is also a plus. And reasonably priced. However, the food selection is less than impressive. I feel like every time I've been here, I scour the menu, wanting to be inspired to order something and never really getting there. I generally end up feeling like I'm settling ordering something rather than actually getting something that I want. Although the fish and chips is pretty good. So, it's a good place to come for some live music and a good time. But I'll go elsewhere for dinner.
(3)Kitia G.
The Burren is a great place for a good beer and great live music. One of my favorite hangout spots.
(5)Alyson G.
Heard there was a cover band playing here, and once I checked out the set list wasn't about to miss it! Cute Irish Pub that's much bigger than I imagined...two rooms with different music even. Loved the little tucked in booth in the back room, definitely want to sit there sometime... and the Irish music in the front. Fun place to meet up with friends, have a drink, and dance and sing all night long...well until close! Glad I met up with a friend on my way here since there were a bunch of bouncers standing in front of some door that had a hallway leading to nowhere and I probably would have walked right by. But I get lost ALL THE TIME! Oh, and this review is for a pub, not a restaurant. I'm Irish, so I know Irish food is usually overcooked and bland. But I don't go to an Irish bar to eat.
(4)Peg P.
I am a big fan of the Burren. I I like the atmosphere and the Irish-American feel. The menu has a nice selection of traditional Irish foods as well as standard pub food. I have had no problems ordering vegetarian meals at The Burren, they have a few options that are all very good. I think The Burren pours a really nice pint of Guinness. They have good selection of drinks , and I have found the bartenders to be really efficient and friendly. The Burren is a great place for live music. They have a huge front bar area and then a back room where bands play every weekend. There is also another bar located in the back room. The Burren is a bar that tends to get pretty crowded, so getting there early is a good idea, especially if you have a big group. I have had small gatherings at The Burren and have been able to use the back room area. The Burren has a nice St. Patrick's Day celebration (if you can even get in!!) All in all, a great place for food, beer, and live music with Friends.
(4)Nikki I.
Plenty of space and plenty of beers for a great night out.
(4)Curtis E.
So, I guess I go here for a different reason then the other reviews I've seen. To have a damn good time. Go on friday or saturday night, bring friends, go to the back room and be ready to sing like crazy. Generally its a cover band playing, and you know what thats exactly what you need. They play all the songs you know, and once you've got a few in you the dancing and singing starts. The bar in the back tends to move faster than the one out front, as all the people who believe they are too cool are out there sitting around, when the raging party is in the back. This bar is a top pick for my friends and I when we want to go somewhere we know we can enjoy and unwind on the weekend. And isn't that what its all about? A good time?
(4)Corynne O.
If you're looking for a drink in a pub, this is not a bad option. My biggest problems with this place were (1) the service (2) the food. I went in for some pub fare on a weeknight with a friend, when the place was practically empty. We were seated in a room that was empty when we arrived. The waitress stared us down (not a single smile) while she waited for us to decide what beer we wanted within 15 seconds of sitting down. Once we'd ordered, the food came in a reasonable time but my burger was way over done and came with fries instead of the steamed veggies I'd requested. The last straw was when I finished my beer one bite into my burger, yet our waitress did not return until I was done with my meal. She seemed pissed off when I declined another beer. Maybe if she'd returned earlier I would've had one. There are so many other great bars and pubs in the Davis area. This one will remain my last choice.
(2)Brittany H.
Finally got around to trying the Burren this weekend! The food was mediocre/overpriced and the service left something to be desired. While we were seated right away, our waitress was inattentive and seemed like she just wanted us to eat and get out. I ordered a small caesar salad to start, which was actually pretty good. But the beef stew that followed was bland, watery and uninteresting. The shepherd's pie was okay. A friend had the fish and chips which he said was very good, but another friend tried the scallop caprese salad, which was laughable. The scallops were teeny tiny and seemed like more of an afterthought on top of greens and tomato slices. To be fair, he said the fresh mozzarella was good. After the waitress forgot part of our order, we were happy to leave after a really unsatisfying meal. I wouldn't visit the Burren again when I could just go to Redbones down the street.
(2)Jenna P.
Definitely not. I don't like Irish music, it's depressing to me and can't dance to it. It's dark and gloomy in here and makes me sleepy. Too crowded in back room. Bad Bon Jovi cover band (I don't like Bon Jovi anyways). $5 cover is ridiculous for how gross it is in here.
(1)Andrew R.
The Burren is an okay bar at best. They have okay beer, but bad food, and worse service. I've had eyes rolled at me every time I go there. Really boring burgers, acceptable fries. I haven't tried any of their more "Irish" dishes; maybe they're good, but I won't be going back to check anytime soon. They don't have any amazing deals, they charge too much for cover, it frequently gets overcrowded... Basically, I can't see any reason to go here. Just hit up Underbones at Redbones instead.
(2)Lou P.
Always quite crowded Music in back, hip in front Bring your fiddle for sessions The Burren is interesting. It's really two different bars, both very busy. There's a stage for live music in the back, and you're more likely to find lip gloss and hair gel back that-a-way. In the front, you're likely to find a fiddle and guitar session played out to unremarkable 20-somethings. The food is a decent mix of traditional Irish and standard bar fare. The thick cut fried were delicious, and our food arrived quickly. The last time there a co-diner's meal came out incorrectly, and was fixed within 5 minutes, a clear attention to patrons which was appreciated. The beer selection is decent (20 or so on tap), but the absence of Murphys in such an "Irish Bar" was notable. In the front bar, there are always a ton of people hanging out, which can make it difficult to get a drink if you're not at a table. Forget getting a seat at the bar unless you arrive early in a very small group (read: 2). It's sometimes an issue if you don't plan ahead. Points deducted for the complete lack of attention paid to table guests who had a tab at the bar instead of the table and the crush of people at the bar
(3)Gwen F.
No, no, no. There are several qualities that warrant a decent review, but the Burren jumped on the failboat with the first drink I ordered. They watered down my martini. That's it, game over, sorry, but the princess is in another castle. I actually watched them add water. To some of us, the martini is a sacred thing. I call foul!
(1)Brian Z.
One of my favorites and makes the trip to Davis worthwhile. *They should ease up on the Irish music in the front though.
(4)Drew H.
Dark, loud, and crowded I guess it distracts you from looking at your plate
(2)Anna P.
Okay, my last experience at the Burren was so bad that I have to dock them a star. I'm fairly forgiving of slow service on weekend nights at a bar, but on a quiet weekday, there's no excuse for vigorously ignoring our table. The dinner prices have gone way up since the last time I was here. My friend had a tomato mozzarella salad that was possibly the saddest thing I've ever seen. We also didn't think the mozzarella was fresh - not bad, just not worth $8.75. The bread that came with my soup was cold, and tasted more like wheat bread than the "Irish brown bread" advertised. I have had good nights at this bar - but it's a shame that this one night kinda killed it for me. Sorry, Burren.
(2)Ryan C.
Good beer on tap. I'm a huge Smithwick's and Newcastle fan. The atmosphere is pretty dark. It is very much an Irish pub. Live music is there most nights. The back room can be fun. As for the crowd, it tends to be late 20's, early 30's, but every now and then Tufts jams this place up with the college crowd on random Thursdays, which is pretty fun if you're into that kind of thing.
(3)Erica F.
Having just moved to a new town, you can often be blinded by your first love. You can't tell whether it's good or if there's better out there because it's all you know. Well, The Burren was my first love and after testing out the other fish in the sea, I still love the Burren!! I was actually still looking for an apartment and had an hour to kill between appointments and found myself at The Burren. It was a beautiful day out and would have felt bad taking up the four top outside so I parked it at the bar. Being as there were only 3 people at the bar, myself included, the bartender struck up a lovely little conversation. He was very helpful and informative about the area and Boston and it was hard to tear myself away. A month has passed, I now live steps from the Burren and I enjoy my time there under any circumstance. Some bars you love on a Thursday afternoon but by Saturday night you hate it. I love the Burren at all times. It gets packed in pretty tight on Friday and Saturday nights. Every night, there is almost always someone playing music once the sun goes down, and often enough there are people playing not only in the front of the bar but also in the back bar as well. It's the place my boyfriend and I decided to trek out to and stick it out for the 'Blizard of 2010' along with a ton of other maniacs and it was a blast!
(4)H S.
Fantastic Irish bar in Davis Square. I came here for St. Paddy's and there were violinists, cheap beer, and a good staff. Did not even mind when I spilled beer on myself and made fun of their leprechaun dolls behind the bar. Also liked that they didn't judge me for being wasted at 2 p.m.
(4)Jim B.
I like your bar. I've played the open mic for a long time. Don't DEEP FRY everything on your breakfast menu. I may as well hit up MuckDonalds. You could be so good (you have black pudding, don't sacrifice it to the God of hell frier). TRY and be somewhat authentic other than having a few ugly Irish(ish) chicks working there.
(3)Stephen O.
This is the Saturday lunchtime review, everyone still wearing soccer gear from the morning's game, did change the cleats to flip-flops though. (If you do the BSSC thing, Union Street in Newton also a good after-sports stop.) Good selection of beers (Anchor Steam, nice), hearty breakfast sandwiches with fried eggs and pork product, good staff, being able to get all the lads round a couple of tables and enjoy the craic.
(4)Amanda G.
I love this cozy comforting bar with your typical Irish crowd and 'tenders. Solid beer selection, but simplicity is where it's at. Try for the corner tables up front. I love the old wood pub decor and feel. Def could meet someone here - people are lookin...even on tues night! Music is either great or fine. Apparently there is an Irish dance class too!
(4)John P.
The only downside: a little loud at peak hours. I never know whether to expect a jig and reel band in the corner or some dude-bros from Everett covering Bon Jovi on the stage in the back. I would not go here to have a serious heart to heart conversation with my one and only darling. After that, nothing but upside. One of the best Guinness I've had domestically. Hearty pub grub - no chicken caesar wraps on the menu here, just beefy sandwiches and salty steak fries.
(4)Erica S.
Good beer. Shitty food. Cover charge. A plethora of college dudes in white hats and North Face fleece vests (or equivalent). Cover bands. Lots and lots of cover bands. Overrated.
(2)Rue B.
PERFECT Guinness pours. Hearty Irish stew and fish and chips, with fantastically affordable lunch prices. Good, but not great, food. Calming, warm atmosphere - a homey semi-dive with friendly staff. Must come back later at night for some traditional Irish music!
(4)Matt S.
As an American-Irishman who has entirely quit drinking (after many a year the issues began to take their toll), the Burren is going to be a place that I actually miss. I've only gone there once with friends, but the Guinness flowed free and the Irish Folk music was amazing. The atmosphere is great, and on the Friday night we went it was hopping but not filled with Bud-Light swilling college kids, which was a major reason to enjoy it. The appetizers were delicious and rib-sticking, and as stated - I downed many a shot of whiskey with a Guinness back and all to the beautiful sound of the old country.
(4)