Three bean chili - thick, hearty, lots of beans, not spicy, not sweet, not much of a taste but I do love my beans. Tater tots with chipotle mayo - there was a nice hint of spice from the chipotle mayo and the tots were very crispy. I'm hoping that I'm right about it being fresh because it was falling apart from the fork! I ended up using my fingers to eat them. Woodchuck cider - it's beer. All beers are fatty to me. There seems to be an abundant amount of seats and it was half full during lunch time so I could only imagine how crowded it gets during night time. read more

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I pass through Boston a lot for work. I make it a point to visit a new restaurant/bar every time. First, I check out the Yelp reviews to set my expectations. I note and analyze the good and the bad reviews. I am a "dive bar" connoisseur. It takes ONE thing to make a dive bar "rise" or "dive" : the Service. Being a "dive bar" doesn't mean having "divey" service. Unfortunately, tonight, I didn't get the service that would have kept me there beyond ONE beer. I wanted to try their food- even though the main focus seems to be tater tots. I got a beer quickly. There were two bartenders. Both just appeared somber. One left for a brief while. I got close to empty on the beer. Nobody came by and asked if I wanted to order food. They seemed like they were not wanting to even be there. I don't like having to work. I'd rather be independently wealthy and do other things too! But when i face the public- my boss expects me to help my own paycheck by at least appearing like I'm "OK" and giving the appearance that i would like to see the customer enjoy being there. Now, the place has a "schtick" - it IS known for it's unique quirky/eclectic theme and so forth. But that doesn't let people off the hook for doing a good job. I got tired of being ignored, watching somber faces - and it wasn't busy. They seemed like they were at some work camp vs trying to earn a tip on your experience. I left a tip anyway. I know it's a dive bar. But grimace (if you can't force a smile) once in a while or say "welcome" one time. I was nice, maybe reflect that back? IDK. I went across the street and had a much better warm experience at the same price. So, I'm sorry to say- not coming back. Maybe they didn't like me because only locals are welcome? Now- on to the review for the place I did find that earned more stars.... read more

Two of the rudest bartenders I've ever encountered. Spend your money elsewhere. Obviously your mileage may carry you in a different direction. Made an account on yelp just to post this review. read more

Wonderful, But Pricey Bukowski's is a dive, but in a good way. I love their beer selection but it is really overpriced, especially when compared to other places in Back Bay for this type of place. People complaining about that need to understand that you are going to have to pay decent money for some of the harder to find selection. Their food is also surprisingly good, definitely better than what you would suspect when you walk in. When we are in Boston, it has become our standard late night stop before heading back to our hotel. Thanks read more

My husband and I live locally, and we both pass this bar on our daily work commute. A few times, we have met up here on our way home. No complaints on the beer list. The food is as tasty as traditional bar food goes, bar has a cozy atmosphere, toss that all in with a convenient location and we totally saw it to be a "go-to spot". However, because of the staff, it will not receive any praise, recommendations, or our business. Half is super rude and ignore you and the other half is great. There's one bartender in particular that has caused us to stay away; He was always quick and short, wouldn't tend to our table even though the place would literally be empty. The final straw was when one night I got violently ill after this bartender took our order. It was a late one, maybe an hour or so before the kitchen closed and the food tasted like menthol. If anyone works in the restaurant industry, or knows anyone that does, ask what would make food taste like menthol; The answer is the "simple green" cleaner that is used to clean for industrial purposes. Needless to say, this place has left a bad taste in my mouth, no pun intended. read more

Stalwart Genuine Unapologetic I frequented Bukowski's (and I really do mean FREQUENTed it) from about '99-'04, but returned just this week after a long layoff - and found it comfortable and familiar as ever. What you see is what you get at Bukowski's - you're here for beers not cocktails, a meal closer to comfort food than fine dining, and a no-nonsense escape from the rest of Copley. Remember who the joint's named after. Sound good? Great. I wouldn't call the beer selection huge (lots of places can find 50 taps of standard BS), but because it's well-curated and rotates very well, it's what you're looking for if you want legit quality of choice. Many local options, and a good pull of cans, bottles, and bombers from further afield. I agree with other reviewers that the food does deliver - not gourmet cuisine, but tasty, well-prepared, and good-sized portions. There's no accounting for taste, but the music is fitting for the environment - I'd describe most of what I've heard as a range of proto-punk through moody modern metal. Cash only, and bathrooms are up front, Holmes. Enjoy. read more

A good divey bar that seems really tied to regulars. Having been to dinners in the area on numerous occasions, I'm surprised I've never even noticed this spot. While walking towards the prudential and looking for bars still open past midnight (Boston.....) we stumbled upon Bukowski Tavern. Pretty unassuming, beer and wine only, and cash only, we enjoyed our stop here. We had one beer each and shared the kenmore tots, which were very good (tater tots, cheese, chipotle mayo, bacon, and scallions). They have incentives such as their mug club (drink 170 beers in 180 days and get your mug hanging from the bar) for regulars. Don't know if I will be back, but it is a good place to know is there when in search of a beer and bite to eat at the end of the night. read more

Bukowski Tavern - Kenmore tots - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Great dive bar... That said the bartenders were somewhat friendly because I sat next to the food window where they were almost forced to hear my comments and talk to Me. Otherwise they seemed more interested in whatever thy wanted to discuss and less concerned with the customers. I was there on a less busy night. The food, though it had good reviews online, was kinda bleh. The fries were good and some of the beer selection was great. read more

Was staying in the hotel across the street. Hit up this small bar after we got to town. Cold beers and good vibes here. I recommend the burgers! We got a couple to-go and after a long day of travel, they hit the spot. I made the mistake and got chips instead of fries. Don't do the same, get the fries, they are yum!! read more

Low quality environment, service, and food. Obnoxious staff... I'm not sure how this place stays open too because it's quite expensive Hot dog with mustard looks like throw up, and the chicken bomb tasted like it was on stale wonder bread. read more

Greatest bartenders and best beer selection Yelp wants me to say more but that pretty much sums it up read more

Bukowski Tavern - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Very very bad place to go after a night in Boston. I first thought the place was fine, I can overlook the rodents and the roaches walking around. But one thing I don't tolerate is fighting. A little fat bald man was yelling at a big muscly guy to fight him. I am happy the big guy walked away laughing at the little fat guy. The little fat guy kept carrying on afterwards, may have been the owner but his ego, was disgusting. Screaming profanities, and calling people sexual slurs is not cool, so happy to hear that you don't like gay people, I will never go back. read more

Damnit, I wish I had a place like this in Stamford. Loud as hell, small but with a large bar and a number of small tables to sit at. Great beer list, filled with lots of stuff that is local and regional. Prices are reasonable but keep in mind it is C A S H O N L Y ! ! ! The food is delightfully trashy and bad for you. We enjoyed the tots, which were very poutine adjacent (put some gravy on it guys!) and I also had the steak bomb, which was tasty as heck. The service was super nice and attentive - we were obviously out of towners, but that didn't matter, we were treated very well, like we were from around here. I just want to give the entire bar and everyone in it a big hug for treating us so well. We'll be back for sure the next time we're in Boston. read more

Good local casual hangout kind of spot with reasonable prices and a very decent cheeseburger

This place used to be fun. The tall bartender on Thursday night (3/24) was simply miserable. He resented sharing the selections...and, seemingly, joy, in general. He lost of a bunch of sales from people who fled his terrible aura. Too cool for school, I guess. read more

Was in Boston for a visit last Summer. I had read about this place, but was skeptical when I got there and realized it was in a parking garage. There is a massive advertisement hanging on the side of the garage directing people to the bar. Tourist trap, I thought. On our way back from the Red Sox game, we reluctantly stopped in, and it in fact is the furthest thing from a tourist trap you could get. Place is a classic dive. There were a few groups in there, most of whom seemed to know the place well. They have an awesome beer selection, both local and some really hard-to-find imports. The two guys tending the bar were friendly enough, and we appreciated their thick accents. This place feels like Boston. It's worth a shot if you're nearby! read more

Come to Bukowski Tavern because god damnit you're a California beach bum looking for a bone dry cider and your state is not doing a substantial job providing it. The cider list alone is enough to count on two hands. Lesbian? You're in luck! leave Tinder in your pocket because they'll be plenty of matches around you. Take a look at the Wikipedia entry for Charles Bukowski if a more explicit rendition of the bar atmosphere is needed. Some old twat a couple Reviews down gave this place a 1 star because of 'loud' music, this is after stating that one of his past times is finding dive bars in cities. Ladies and gentlemen one of Einstein's grandchildren is among us... 5 stars because it appears the owner/manager Jeannie H. actually gives a flying f$#@ and responds to her customers here on Yelp. read more

Horrible first impression. Sat down and encountered the rudest server ever. Left immediately!

Awesome little bar with fun atmosphere. A place I'd hang out on a regular basis. Must try the cheese poutine tots, the buffalo chicken balls and the chicken bomb sandwich. OMG I will crave these foods when I get back to KC. Waiter and bartender super nice and efficient. read more

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How do you call yourself a dive bar if your beer prices are the same as everyone elses? I obviously had no clue they only served beer or else I wouldn't have come here, i was craving a mixed drink, like a tequila sunrise, and i was explaining to the bartender what's in it to make their job easier he was a bit dickish and said he had NONE of the ingredients. OK, OK, dude, alright. I'll order a beer. Service just kinda sucked, took a while to acknowledge our presence. I love dive bars but i didn't like this one, nope. Ordered from the specials menu a chicken sandwich, it was tasty but small. read more

I walked in with two friends. We sat down and were told promptly we were allowed to have one drink and then leave by the rude short haired girl bartender. We were polite and not drunk or disrespectful. We got up and left even after she took our order. Whomever owns this place should train their employees. Get out of the service industry if you're not able to provide at least semi-decent service. What we witnessed last night was a sad joke. read more

"Gay bar with a literary theme" -- I don't know why that would be a 1 star, Joe! Awesome selection of craft beer. Friendly bartenders & cozy atmosphere. read more

Bukowski Tavern - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Stopped in to have a beer and a burger. The bartender, Rachel, was very rude and standoffish from the start. I ordered the motz sticks that takes like feta cheese and a burger. The burger was super small and the bacon was undercooked. I didn't eat more than two bites in fear of getting sick from eating their food. It was completely disgusting, I expressed my concern to Rachel and she just gave me a huge attitude and was one of the worst bartenders I've ever met. Don't ever go here if you wanna be treated with dignity and respect or eat good food without the risk of getting sick. read more

Went for a quick drink as bar is right next hotel I stayed at. Was 5 or so. Two customers at bar. Bartender was busy chatting with one of customers. Sat down and waited. Nothing. He did not move an inch. Waited five minutes or so and left. read more

Absolutely the best beer bar in Boston. "Gay bar with a literary theme" is accurate & why you should love it. Ask Yoanna for the story behind that review sometime. Oh, and don't order a fucking Bud Light, they don't have it. read more

Not a bad place, but I get the sense it gets by more on former reputation than current offerings. For one thing, for a place that consistently gets mentioned as a great place for beer in Boston... umm, seriously up your game. There are many places offering both larger and better curated tap lists in this city (Tip Tap Room, Meadhall, to name a couple). For another, the cash-only with the extortionist ATM in the lobby... come on... The peanut butter burger with bacon is not bad, but it would be better if instead of serving it up with lettuce, tomato and a pickle they served it up with a fat slice of Visalia or Walla Walla sweet onion. Service was good. read more

Love this place - great dive bar - good beer selection, attentive staff, simple pub menu, baseball on the tv and the clash playing. Who could ask for more? read more

I was staying at the Sheraton Boston, just down the street from this place. We were in town to see Paul McCartney at Fenway and had a little difficulty trying to finding a place serving food late. Great beer list and food LATE! Perfect for after shows at Fenway. Try the tater tots and chicken tenders. You won't be disappointed. Friendly attentive staff. Being a Buchowski fan, I appreciated the vibe and decor. read more

Great beer selection, but we ordered the Mac and cheese bites, one of the daily specials, and we got six tiny bites for $8!!!! Very disappointed. I feel decieved and taken advantage of read more

Bukowski Tavern - Mac and cheese bites ($7.95) - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I've always been a sucker for the type of bar where I can plant my ass on a stool, chat with the bartenders and the dude next to me, and while away five or six hours drinking interesting beers. For that, Bukowski's certainly delivers. For the most part the food is an excellent example of greasy bar food. My favorites include the white trash cheese dip, the steak bomb (covered in the aforementioned delicious dip), and really any of the burgers, which arrive cooked to specification. Mac and cheese was delicious, but cold, so I've shied away from ordering it again. I also tried the infamous peanut butter burger; while it was tastier than I'd have guessed, I thought the PB overpowered the other delicious burger flavors, so I probably won't order it again. The beer list is glorious and features most of your favorite beers and another three dozen you haven't tried yet. I've been working on my entry into the Dead Author's Club, which has forced me to explore previously unknown beer sensations with mixed results. I've become fond of rye beers and Scotch ales, and curse the day the smoked beer hit my lips (like lox in a glass, I tell ya). I'm not quite halfway through my quest, so I've got some return visits scheduled to Buk's. I'm looking forward to when I win my mug and can more intensely focus on the rotating draft beers. Bukowski's is cash-only, which is not my favorite, but I appreciate their clarity about it. They must have sixteen signs letting patrons know. My favorite time to hang out at Bukowski's is in the late afternoon/early evening, before it gets crowded. Late nights on Friday and Saturday are a bit of a zoo and completely change the laid back vibe, in my opinion. I also find the bartenders like to crank the music when the bar gets crowded, and I'm just not fond of such loud music. Yes, I'm 700 years old. Oddly enough, if I've been working on my beer list for a few hours already, I sometimes don't notice the loud music. read more

Bukowski Tavern - Ladies' room light - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Upfront warning: CASH ONLY 2nd Upfront warning: Must be 21 to enter (even just for food and at all hours) And that's pretty much the only thing I considered docking a star for. But this place is fantastic and has become my go-to bar in the greater Back Bay area. First off, big shout out to the staff here. I think first timers here might be put off by the super casual attitude and the fact they don't sugar coat things but they're all really awesome and very personable, especially to the regulars (of which, there are a ton). However, if you're standing around, attempt to order a Bud Light, and then try to start a tab with a credit card, they're probably going to give an answer you don't like. The beer list here is amazing. Between the new (summer-2011) larger, cleaner, less intrusive tap lines/ well and the extensive bottle selection, there is easily something for anyone that loves good microbrews and beers in general. The food here is surprisingly good as well. The menu fits the bar very well, with hot dogs (the special dog of the week is almost always worth trying), burgers (seriously, get the peanut butter burger with bacon. seriously. do it!), and the housemade white trash cheese dip (omg more please!) they have the basics down pretty well. But they'll also surprise you with some tasty salads, mac and cheese, and pasta. So basically here's what you get. If you don't mind paying cash, if you can avoid the inevitable smell of the bathroom, and if you can get past the sometimes shockingly frankness of the staff, this place is a fantastic place to meet up with some friends, order a bunch of pub food and delicious beers, and just kick back and enjoy. read more

Bukowski Tavern - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Worst bar experience EVER. Judging by the great reviews of this place, I am disappointed that I feel more compelled than ever to write such a bad review, but quite honestly...it's the most justified review ever. After eating at sushi at nearby Haru, I took my Australian friend (new to America) to this bar. This was the first time I had stepped foot in this place without having read any reviews. Before I tell this story, I want to clarify that I am beyond open minded in terms of new spots, as some of the best bars I've been to are truly holes in the wall. We walked in and saw that it was definitely a seedy dive bar. No issue there. We sat down at the bar and saw that there was a wide selection of beer on tap; most of which we had never seen before. AWESOME. I proceeded to ask the bartender what his recommendation would be given that we had never seen many of these beers before, and instead of giving us a rundown or being helpful, he was quite rude and basically handed us a beer menu and told us to look at that. The menu consisted of beer names but no information on the beer or where it came from. Despite being a beer bar that clearly specializes in unique beers, he was rude in the delivery of everything he said. Despite this, I thought... No biggie. I then got a bit specific and said that I enjoyed wheat beer the most and asked him which one he would recommend. He reluctantly stated which ones were wheat beer and I then chose one. I noticed the hilarious menu which had swears all over it and spoke to my friend about how hilariously awesome this bar was and even took a picture and shared it on Facebook. Being extremely laidback and open to that stuff, I laughed and thought "this bar is amazing" I spent an hour or at the bar buying a couple rounds and catching up with my friend. Another bartender then walked by the taps and noticed one of them open and flowing. Right after hearing her say that and before heading to the bathroom, my cheeky Australian friend joked and blamed it on me. The bartender we initially spoke with heard his joke and then proceeded to accuse me and literally yell at me. As a professional who has better things to do than randomly open up a tap just to mess with a bartender, I was totally shocked that the guy was accusing me and making a big fuss. I swore up and down that I didn't touch the damn thing but he then proceeded to call me a liar. I literally thought this guy must have been kidding and joking with me because it was beyond odd that I'd be treated like this anywhere as a customer who kept ordering and was keeping quiet. I asked him if he was joking (genuinely couldn't believe his treatment) and he said he was serious and continued to accuse me. I told my friend who was pretty damn shocked himself but seeing as he's from Australia, he told me that all bartenders treat their patrons like shit. (Then again, those guys don't depend on a 20% tip) I sat in awe wondering why this bartender was such a jerkoff but decided not to let it ruin my night. I continued to talk with my friend for another half hour and after the situation blew over (or so I thought), I then nicely said "hey dude, just to clear the air, I really didn't do that." The bartender then proceeded to call me a liar yet again and angrily yelled and said "Your friend even admitted it! You're a freaking liar!" I literally was blown away. Again, what the hell? I am far past my college days and although a minor thing, I've never once in my life been treated like this by any bartender, waitress or restaurant employee period. This guy was legit pissed off and verbally attacked me with accusations over a dumb mistake he made. Then the macho door guy walks in and naturally takes the bartenders side upon hearing 2% of the conversation and proceeds to tell me to just get out of there without hearing anything. I do not cause issues at any establishment I go to, nor do I argue with anyone... I walked out of there absolutely bewildered and angered. It's beyond me that any bar (regardless to whether or not they pride themselves on being "bad ass" and different from another), would treat anyone like that; particularly someone who is in there quietly chatting with a friend. Again, I have never in my life been outright treated like crap at a bar. Perhaps during my colleges days, a bartender called me out on being too drunk or something but this time I was absolutely accused for something so ridiculous and was treated like garbage. The way this guy said these things and operated there, was outright nasty. He's clearly angry at life. I would never recommend this bar to anyone. Again, the beer selection is amazing but what good is it when you have a horrendous bartender who treats you like a dog? No one should have to be treated like that. read more

ZOMG!! I went to Buk's for lunch last Saturday for the first time in weeks. It was my diet "cheat" day, meaning I could have whatever I wanted, but I had no idea what I wanted to eat. Nicole, who was working the bar at the time recommended the hot dog special, which had peanut butter and sliced pickles on it. That's right. A grilled HOT DOG WITH PEANUT BUTTER AND PICKLES. I think it was called "The Pregnant Lady Special" or something. I was going to pass on it, and NO, I'm not pregnant. But Nicole had a certain sparkle in her eye, and was like, "That guy over there was skeptical, and he thinks it's great." I thought, "What the hell . . . you only live once". So I ordered it. It was one of the best things I EVER ATE IN MY LIFE, and I'd do it again! I really wanted a second one, but decided to drink more beers instead. The end. read more

Dive bar tucked away off Dalton St with amazing food and tons of drink options. Small wait staff so we were there for a while, but this didn't bother us too much. We ordered the buffalo chicken balls and tots .. UMM . YES.. All I have to say.. Also, I had the quesadilla and it was pretty basic but good! read more

Bukowski Tavern - Buffalo Chicken Balls - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Bukowski Tavern was exactly what I was looking for in Boston. Between their extensive draft list with plenty of local options and their endless selection of bottles (ask to join the beer club, they have 130+ beers), this dive bar was perfect for getting out of the cold and sampling some of Massachusetts' finest brews. I'm sure they rotate their draft list, but here's an idea of what we had this past weekend: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/7bq2nCYCPuvI5o2GCFRAeg?select=F1Z84DMJQrlfF9fuXc8AVQ Tried the Pretty Things Jack D'Or and the Oskar Blues G'knight at the recommendation of the bartender. Oskar Blues was a little hoppy, but a little fruity with a medium body. Pretty Things is a hefty beer despite its lighter coloring, but was also a good choice. ~$6 a pop for a draft (some of the pints are standard size, some are 12oz, but I'm a slow beer drinker so I prefer smaller sizes so things don't get warm anyway). My friend had the Haverhill and the bottle special Cambridge Brewing Company Triple Threat. Bartender was informative about the beer selection, friendly, and chill. Whatever bar food they were making in the back (I highly suspect wings, and I definitely saw some sort of rib), smelled amazing in the way only good pub fare can. For those of you who are indecisive, Bukowski has a wheel you can spin for your drink selection. The only drawback is that this place is cash only. Also, total surprise to find out after visiting: Bukowski's made it to Draft magazine's top 100 beer bars in America! What a lucky pick! http://draftmag.com/features/americas-100-best-beer-bars-2012/#northeast read more

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Love this Bukowski, bittersweetly a hefty handful moreso than its Inman Square brother. The tight quarters and clunky seating are easily overlooked once you realize Buk's, by nature, is a gnarly snug - rough, crass (with copious fuckery peppered through the menu) and intentionally unruly. My go-to meal: the Chili Cheese Mad Dog ($9) served atop a buttered, toasted bun (akin to sister legend, The Lower Depths), smothered with melted cheese and loaded with vegan bean chili. Like the Frank Tank I am, a second dog for $3 is a must. Like beer? They has it. Lots of it, with a bottle and can list that rivals any in the radius and a stellar set of rotating taps. And if you're a serious fiend, maybe you can grab a stein when a current member of the Dead Authors mug club kicks the bucket. No nonsense, loud as a punk-fueled jet engine and cash only. A real breath of plaid fresh off Boylston. read more

Solid bar food. I liked the dive bar-ish vibe. Friendly and fast service.

This is a great dive bars spot for back bay. It has a great atmosphere and is cozy. I have been here a couple times already and it is always crowded but have been able to find a seat. read more

A hobby of mine is when I go to a city I try to find the "best dive bar"....oxymoronic some say, but I travel a lot and this is fun for me. So, I happened to have a stay in Boston and right near my hotel was Bukowski. Not a fan. Read the reviews before I went so I expected more. Too loud. Terrible music - unless, of course you like head-banging/acid rock/punk/loud indiscernible noise. OK beer list - not the "extensive" I read before I went. Cash only; beer & wine only and a limited food menu. Most annoying was the beer price list. $9 for a beer is high but when you pay with a ten and a quarter is returned as change it makes you wonder - in this case I re-read the fine print and discovered it "did not include taxes and whatever." OK. My next beer - same selection as my first - which I purchased with a $20 returned me $9....not the $10.25 I expected. No wonder they have cash only....must be raking it in on their math errors! ;-) This place must survive on reputation but I don't get it. Again, not a fan. read more

I like brooding poets. I like bars named after said brooding poets too. Especially someone like Charles Bukowski, once described as an 'uninhibited bachelor, utterly free'. Hmmm... what will I find here, a gaggle of commitment-phobe literary laureates who come out for the sole purpose of enjoying a fine beer in a dark pub? Well, not exactly. But Bukowski's definitely has something special going on. You might not know it, judging by their shoulder-to-shoulder location with the overpass. The vibe is a bit Cambridge scholar with horn-rimmed glasses, part hipster and decidedly divey. It's long and narrow, mostly decorated with Dead Poets Society-style mugs and their 99 bottles of beer along the wall. The beer list includes some obscure picks, and quite a few of the high-alcohol content brews. The music is straight off of someone's plugged-in iPod and they have much better music taste than me, so I was pleased to say the least. Beers are ice-cold and I mean ICE--Bukowski's actually keeps their bottles in an ultra-chilled state by storing them in ice-filled wooden troughs. Pretty awesome. And so was the lovely bartender. Cash only my friends. read more

Bukowski Tavern - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts