Deep Ellum

Went to Deep Ellum with a coworker who can't walk down the street without seeing someone he knows. He knew the owner, natch. Him knowing the owner made the experience better, I'm sure. But I think this place is at least 3 Stars for the menu and beer selection alone. Although it's kind of out of the way in Allston, at least for me who doesn't live in the hood (and never will, blech!) (sorry I'm not sorry Allston-ers), it was certainly worth the trek down Cambridge Street. Once inside, the place was quite crowded, which is usually a good sign. The long bar was full of twenty and thirtysomethings, and the back door was open to--what's that I see?--SUNLIGHT. Glorious sunlight was pouring through the open door. We asked to sit outside, and we amazed to find a beautiful split-level deck in the back with a dozen or so tables. This is truly a gem of a find in Allston. My coworker, an avid Manhattan drinker and boozebag in general (Hi Koj), was delighted to find ten variations of his signature drink on the cocktail menu. The rest of the beverage assortment followed suit--unique and original cocktails, twists on old favorites and, of course, a sprawling beer list to drool over. I enjoy french fries as much as another Canadian-blooded American (WHAT ABOOT IT) and was thrilled when we chose two of the four types of fries on their menu to start--Chili & Pepper Jack, and Truffled Gorgonzola. Let's just say--OMFGYUM. I had a special that involved pasta (bare with me--that night was a while ago and also involved a Kings of Leon concert and about 13 beers), and my boss went for the burger. We also took a big bite out of the beer menu, trying several brews a piece. We left happy and wishing we lived in Allston. Whoops. I mean-- We left happy and wishing Deep Ellum lived Downtown. Pros: Amazing patio/great beer selection Cons: Out of the way in Allston more

Deep Ellum can be crowded, noisy, and a little hot. It can be ridiculously hard to get a seat but this bar is so amazing that its worth putting up with all that nonsense. This spot is for those who like great craft beers, as they have a large selection of porters, stouts, ales, and lagers. The cocktail menu is well thought out; this is not the place to get yourself a frilly girl cosmo. I highly recommend the Plymouth Sloe Gin Fizz or the Summer in Sao Paolo. The bartenders take great pride in their mixology skills so feel free to let them mix you something special. You won?t be disappointed. The menu is the perfect size and features a great variety. The burgers are phenomenal and I can?t say enough about the Fries 4 Ways appetizer . Hand cut fries topped with your choice of parmesan, chili & pepper jack, truffles & gorgonzola, or malt vinegar & fleur de sel. The mussels are not to be missed as well. Lastly, there is a fantastic little back deck hidden in the rear of the building. Its removed enough from the street that you forget you?re only steps off of Brighton Ave. Definitely worth a trip to Allston even if you don?t live nearby. A perfect spot to spend a warm spring evening with friends. Pros: cozy deck, strong cocktails, yummy food Cons: small, crowded more

The best bar in Allston. Pros: outstanding service Cons: ??? more

Deep Ellum is a great break from all the awful frat boy bars in the area. Great music, an eclectic crowd (well, it's nearly all college kids, but for college kids it's eclectic) a pretty good selection of beers (for all budgets) and a really nice staff. Music that isn't top 40 rap! Pros: nice selection, cool atmosphere Cons: can get really busy and loud more

Bartenders are incredibly helpful, will pretty much make any drink you want, also will give excellent suggestions if you tell them what mood you're in. Founded by some of the guys from Bukowski's in Cambridge. They obviously take great pride in the alcohol they serve, but don't treat you like an idiot. Pros: Bartenders, plenty of seats, beer selection Cons: Not on the T (but not far by bus or cab), music is a little too loud more