Food is awesome the risotto is perfect. Great service and great food. Have to go back to try the seafood options

Normally I will abstain from a review if my thoughts are mostly in line with the existing posts, however this time I've got to disagree with the 4.5 stars that this dive holds. Perhaps dinner or happy hour is stellar, but I'm writing with Sunday brunch as my experience... I ordered the Irish Breakfast and a Bloody Mary, my +1 had the crab cakes Benedict. The Bloody was fine, as expected. About 40 minutes into sitting there and a lack of attention from any staff, our food came out. The Benedict was gray in color and the sauce was broken. The potatoes were fries beyond recognition. My Irish Breakfast was the saddest rendition I've had of this "Sunday Standby." The sausage was overcooked and the pudding was burned to a crisp. The egg was oily and overcooked and the bacon was limp on one end and burned on the other. The beans were ice cold. I'm sure this place is great, perhaps I caught it on an off day/time, but the food was soulless and sad. I think the guy sipping a Guinness at the end of the bar had the right idea... read more

Great local spot with limited menu but what is there is so good. The staff is always friendly and efficient. The schnitzel is my favorite and the cauliflower appy is great. read more

Porter is our go-to neighborhood gastro-pub, and it never disappoints. Always good food, great cocktails, and fun atmosphere!

My favorite local spot for dinner. My husband and I always leave here in a better mood than when we came in. The bartenders are friendly and always have good selections. Nice cozy atmosphere with really great neighborhood vibe. read more

The place is a small intimate lounge-y bar-type atmosphere. It is kept pretty dark inside, and the contrast to the outside (if you glance toward the entrance storefront) is a shock to the eyes. I might suggest some sort of screening / shades to buffer that transition out a little. Service was slow, took about 40 mins for the food to arrive. Once it arrived, though, it was very tasty. The burger was the best I've eaten in a long time. The Fish and chips entree was very tasty, although I wasn't a big fan of their cole slaw, and they didn't offer any options for substituting it out for some other "side" ahead of time. Servers weren't the brightest, though they were nice and offered an appetizer on the house after taking so long to serve our food. Beer selection is pretty good, with some interesting craft offerings. I'd probably go back, but I'm not raving to everyone I know about the place. read more

Porter cafe is deserving of every accolade. The best thing dish on the menu is apparently anything you order. I've lived close by for a year and often struggled to find this type of atmosphere and convenience. It's only now that I live so far away that my friends introduce us. Loved the curry dish they served, but on the second visit found that it was no longer on the menu. Instead, I had some of their beautifully prepared potroast. The portions are so satisfying, do yourself a favor. read more

Cant believe I haven't reviewed here yet. GET. THE. SCHNITZEL. Period. Even if you're not a schnitzel person... get it. It is amazing. Actually, everything I've had here is. It's a small, friendly place with amazing food and I love coming here. read more

Been here twice in the past month, and I'm so disappointed that it took me years of living nearby and driving past to stop in. What. A. Place. The food is amazing. No other word does it justice. Buffalo cauliflower? Why, yes! Dollar oysters on Sunday nights? Yes, please! Respectable selection of excellent beers and high end cocktails? Better use an Uber! Friendly service that maintains contact but gives you space? No rush, but I can leave when I want! Parking may be slightly difficult, but certainly shouldn't be prohibitive for such a wonderful establishment. Yummy yummy yummy! read more

Delicious fish and chips! Great atmosphere and friendly helpful bartender! Open late on Sunday (kitchen & bar) so that's helpful for a traveler. Really great bar selection and made the perfect Cosmopolitan. read more

Porter Cafe - Fish and chips & cosmo! - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

After recently moving to west Roxbury, we decided to try Porter Cafe one Saturday night. Great service, lively atmosphere, and fantastic drinks. Our bartender Conor turned our great night into an exceptional one. read more

Awesome little pub with a terrific feel to it. On a Friday night early is better since by 7:30 the place was SRO. They have an impressive selection of beers on tap and in bottles. I loved the food. Fried pickles are not the wimpy thin things you get at barbecue places but instead are a full quarter slices with a great jalapeno dipping sauce. Salt cod crostini is a hot pan of whipped potato and salt code with crostini on the slide. Once it cooled I would have licked the pan if my wife was not sitting next to me keeping me in line. Mac and Cheese is different; made with beer, golden cheddar and a pinch of cayenne. Again a killer dish. The staff are friendly and efficient working a mile a minute to meet the rush on a Friday night. Parking is a bit of a challenge but manageable. Great spot. read more

This place is boss, man! It's just a little thing (as someone's aunt my say about someone else's daughter)! I've been a couple times now, and it has not disappointed! It has become more popular, I will say, though! AND HOW! The food I've had here has been great. The fried pickles are actually really good and not just huhuhu-novelty-"we're eating friend pickles, huhuhuhu!" BS. Their steak frite was really interesting. It had a unique spice that I want to say was tarragon, but I could be wrong. But it worked really well, whatever the fuck it was! Also, the atmosphere has always been nice. Romantically-dimmed lights and chill early-to-mid-00's indie tunes (Shins, Strokes, Modest Mouse, etc) and reasonably laid back, but very prompt and helpful service. They also have a decent beer selection as well and oysters! I'll be going back. I just wish it was in Rozzie Square, but whatever the fuck, it's not that far any goddamned how! read more

Yes its me, the intrepid internet dater once again on the hunt for good food, yummy beers, and awkward pauses in stilted conversations about deforestation of the amazon jungle. Yeah that whole thing with me and Chateau Norwood didn't work out...turns out some people just want to "have fun" and this really means in guy speak "let's just have sex and not talk about where this is going and please do not discuss potential feelings and if you do have feelings also please don't discuss them" Sigh Its mostly for the beer. Otherwise, parking is on-street and therefore crap, I drove around the block for well over fifteen minutes the night I met up with someone for drinks...the awkward conversation flowed....er....well didn't flow, but the beer selection certainly did. Anyway where was i...oh yes beer! The place is tiny, I guess i should expect it by now but i grew up in the suburbs and Im just not used to all these mini sized places and their single stall matchbox sized bathrooms to go with...god forbid you are like me and once a beer is had must remove yourself to said stall within an hour and someone is already in there...well cross your legs and wait like everyone else Anyway, beers are good, i had the chicken which was pretty standard but i do really love chicken. look out all you commitment-phobes, i'n back on the market :D read more

A classy bar with great beer and wine, super atmosphere and a chef that knows what he is doing - the food is freakin good. A gem. Going to be tough to keep my seat at the end of the bar. read more

This place is a real gem. My wife and I agree that it's very similar to Matt Murphy's in Brookline Village (size, layout, vibe), but the lack of awesome bunny paintings on the wall is more than made up for by the excellent beer list and menu. She had grilled scallops over pea and bacon risotto (sadly being taken off the menu because the chef doesn't like to make it, apparently) which was beautiful. I had the grilled chicken which was also perfect and juicy. Added to our shortlist of default date night destinations, fer sure. read more

Stopped in here with friends for an impromptu late night supper after an evening of wine tasting. The French fries are DELISH!! The grilled fish tacos on The other hand are .........bland, boring.......tasteless! The cabbage added is just plain, the fish unseasoned, and it's topped with a red sauce that manages to be both spicy and tasteless at the same time. Never thought I'd need to put salt and pepper on a taco! The lime wedges were the DRIEST fruit I've ever seen! I guess it's my fault for expecting a local corner pub to make good fish tacos! Maybe they are Exeter at steak or traditional food......May give them a second chance? read more

I've been to Porter Cafe several times now and it seems to grow on me each time. From the outside, the restaurant looks like a tidy men's style bar. There are dark decorations and you may assume also dark beers and deep voices in grumbling conversation. There are however many different drink options, the whole back side of the menu. Many different beers, several different ciders, and a variety of wines. Hoorah! The food options vary from interesting salads, fried cauliflower, fish tacos, and roasted chickens and fish. They also have a great burger that's hard to resist. We had to talk ourselves out of ordering just 3 burgers the other day so we'd look like we have some breadth. I think that Porter Cafe has a tiny bit of a limited menu, but they knock those out of the park. It might be hard to do everything fantastically so the smaller menu might be a good choice. The only thing I wish they had was a cider on tap instead of only bottled. We live close and it's one of our definite go to spots on a random weeknight that we want to spice up. Btw, they definitely fill up, so earlier is better. read more

Dude, this place is perfect for this neighborhood. It's a gastropub, with a really strong beer and wine selection and food for everyone. The dinner menu is very classy and medium priced, but they also have great burgers and starters if you want to spend less -- I had the mussel starter for dinner last night and it was plenty of food. We actually learned of this place when a waitress at Bella Luna told us that Porter Cafe has the best burgers around - as she was serving the Boyf a burger. And though Bella Luna is great, Porter definitely does have the best burgers around. There are also two small tables out front for outdoor dining, and the decor is very cozy and pulled-together - a really great date spot. read more

Cute little pub! I was surprised at how good the food here is. Every visit we try something new, and it is always delicious. The mussels, bacon mac and cheese, the cheese plater, etc, etc. The place is cozy and the staff always so friendly. This place is a hidden gem! read more

This was the best meal I've had in a long time, and definitely one of the best I've ever had. Everyone was so nice too. I came with my parents and 101-year-old grandma, and the host was so accommodating and found my grandma a seat as soon as possible so she wouldn't have to stand too long while we waited. We started with the fried pickles, fish tacos and the goat cheese and beet salad. The pickles were great (my grandma couldn't stop eating them), as were the fish tacos. But the salad was delicious! Really fresh and the dressing was deliciously tart. My mom and I split the burger and the cod. Both were fantastic. Best french fries I've had in a while too. My only gripe would be that I wish they said that the cod had nuts raisins in the sauce. My dad also had the cod (which he loved) and my grandmother had the fried fish po' boy, which she devoured (and she normally doesn't eat much). We were so impressed with the meal that we were excited to see their dessert menu, but alas, they don't serve dessert. Can't wait to go back! read more

What an unexpected treat! Between the beer list, the food and the hip interior, I was most pleased. I really can't believe it's in West Roxbury. I mean, I don't go to West Roxbury like...ever. But I'm glad I did. A Pretty Things Beer, some delicious fried pickles and good company is all I need. OH and make sure you get the pierogies too. They are out of this world. So, in closing, this neighborhood is very lucky to have such a delicious joint. Why couldn't you guys come to JP? read more

Gosh, I just love this place. The only thing I'd say I wish were different is that it is quite small, so it can feel a little claustrophobic. Sometimes it feels like you're having a conversation with the table next to you. But if that doesn't bother you (and don't let it), you're in for a spectacular experience. First of all, I've never been disappointed with the food. They have some staples on the menu and also seem to vary their menu seasonally, which is fun. The menu isn't huge but that allows the chef to make spectacular dishes. Def. get the Brussels sprouts - a honey Siracha sauce that is just a perfect combination. I love Brussesl sprouts and often order them at restaurants and this is one of my favorite varieties. The last time I was here, my partner ordered the vegetarian risotto and holy cow, was it good. Risotto is hard to get right, but this was perfect. Creamy, filling, the rice was soft but with the perfect "bite", the perfect firmness. I've ordered the fried pork sandwich a couple of times now and I love it. I thought it seemed like a strange thing at first - I don't think I'd ever had fried pork in this way, but it is good. The pork is perfectly cooked, but the best part is the pickled veg on top. So good. I or a dining companion has also ordered the mussels (a meal in themselves), the fish tacos (good, but not my favorite thing), and the burger (basic in a good way, really flavorful). Drinks are also fantastic. I'm def. a cocktail kind of person and a St. Germaine freak, and they make great cocktails. I love the St. Germain Royale and my partner loves the Ginger Smash. For the quality and atmosphere, I think Porter Cafe has great prices. I think there are several places in W. Roxbury or Roslindale or JP where everything is similar but the prices are solidly higher. Also, the service has always been excellent. Despite the fact that it can get pretty busy, I've always had the perfect amt. of attention, not too much, not too little. The food comes out quickly every time. It's street parking but if you're willing to go down a block or two, park on a side street, it's not that hard to find parking. Oh, one other great, newer thing, is that apparently Porter Cafe bought what used to be Upper Crust two storefronts down and opened a cool pizza shop called The Parlour. When I went on a Friday night, it was going to be a 20-30 minute wait (fine by me at that time of day), and there's not a lot of space to just wait around or even space at the bar. So we were able to go to the Parlour and sit at the bar (a small space) and order a drink, which was handy. Now, Parlour only has beer and wine and you have to finish the drink before you head back to Porter Cafe, you can't bring it with you. Plus, the pizza looked and smelled amazing, so you might want to change your mind and stay put, but it def. made me want to go back really soon to try the pizza. All in all, Porter Cafe is probably my favorite restaurant in all of West Roxbury. read more

My husband and I went there for dinner. I ordered their special...the rigatoni bolognese and my husband ordered the half chicken. Both dishes were very good and well cooked. Drinks were also good- they had a nice looking cocktail menu. I just had a beer, hubby had a Dark and Stormy. Service was quick and pleasant. We asked our waitress if they had a kids menu and she said there is no written one. However, the kitchen can make grilled cheese sandwiches, plain pasta, Mac and cheese, and chicken fingers. We'll definitely be back...maybe bring the kids with us next time! read more

Unbelievable beer menu, great specials, friendly service. If you're in west Roxbury and looking for a nice place to eat, highly recommend this. However, get here early if you're trying to eat. They don't have a ton of space so the wait can get long very quickly. But the kitchen is open late, so it's a great late night dinner spot too! Highly recommend the Veal Bolognese read more

A real feel good place. Always feel welcome, the food is consistent and and the beer selection is quite good. Never heard a bad word and we all appreciate their commitment to good service. read more

Wonderful beer selection. Great food. Great service. Wonderful cocktails. Knowledgeable staff. If it was easier to park and wasn't so long to wait, I'd give it 5 stars. This is a great option, especially for the area. Reminds me a lot of Deep Ellum. read more

I loved it here! The bacon cheeseburger (double patty) and fish and chips were both delicious. Although the inside is small, we got seats at the bar within 5 minutes on a Saturday night. There was a lot to choose from off the craft beer menu and the bartender was really friendly and made us feel as home. There is street parking as well as a parking lot at the school next door. I will definitely be going back! read more

So the wife & I finally walked over to Porter Cafe for the full dining experience. Our first visit was simply to check out the new pub in town and have a quick beer. Well loved it and will be coming to Porters many times to come. Small in size (only about 40 seats including the bar) Porters has a very cozy feel to it, dark wood & red walls, soft light and candles gives the room a warm cozy feel. I would not recommend Porters if you are traveling with a large group to dine or with little kids. The beer list is fantastic, about 14 great and certainly some unique beers on draught and a great bottle & can selection as well; I'm guessing around 40 in total. Through the night I put back a few, my first beer was a 16oz can of Sixpoint Bengali Tiger IPA, very tasty. Followed by a draught pint of Harpoon 100bbl Series, a Radeberger German Pils draught and after my meal finished off the night with a 12oz bottle of Kentucky Bourbon Ale...YUM! All beers are VERY moderately priced, a perfectly poured Guinness is only $5.50. As for the food we started with the Fried Pickle appetizer, addicting and very tasty with a great dipping sauce. We ordered the Burger and Scallops to share for our dinner. The burger was absolutely huge, cooked to perfection, juicy and tasty & accompanied with fantastic fries. The Scallops were AMAZING! Served in a giant bowl over a sweet-pea risotto, the scallops pan-seared perfectly just melted in your mouth and the risotto added fantastic flavor to the entire entrée. Porters is a great addition to the neighborhood and you will find us there time and time again. read more

I agree with everything that has been said thus far. Great beer selection, very very good award winning burgers, friendly knowledgeable staff. Had the burger and the bar-tender recommended pairing the "smutty nose" porter. A good recommendation. The only advise I would have for this place is to not have the bun overwhelm the burger. The bun is the opening act not the main event. I thought in this case it was too big and overwhelmed the taste of an excellent burger. Overall a very nice place and if I lived around there, I'd go all the time. read more

wait staff is attentive, best burgers around and mixed drinks are fantastic. Been here several times (love to support local small business) and never had a bad meal Small place so get there early if you get annoyed with waiting for a table read more

Exactly what Roslindale/West Roxbury needed - a good pub with excellent food and an incredible beer list. We've already been here twice and I can't wait to go back. Food is upscale comfort food - burgers, shrimp po' boy, friend pickles were all excellent but the real star is the beer list. Plenty to choose from with at least 15 on tap and lots more in cans/bottles -- includes some nice/hard to find selections. Nice atmosphere - cozy with a nice bar + flat screen TVs. Very limited outdoor seating (2 small tables) - rumor is they wanted to build a bigger patio and couldn't get the permit, but still nice to have an outdoor seating option. I'll be back again and again - great spot and nice addition to the Roslindale/West Roxbury dining scene. read more

Porter Cafe has been on my list for a few weeks now. I finally got the chance to try this past weekend. It can get pretty busy in here with the small number of seats so I'd either come a bit early or be prepared to wait at the bar. The food was fantastic. Our group ordered the empanadas, which were some of the best I've tasted. It was like a taco + regular empanada had a beautiful, delicious baby. I also ordered the bacon cheeseburger, which was mouthwateringly good. Or maybe that was because of the drinks? Nope, definitely amazing. It just melted in your mouth and the portion was huge, so I had leftovers for later (who am I kidding? totally ate it when I got home). They apparently rotate the dishes here as the menu is quite small so there's a lot of seasonal items that come and go, which is a nice addition. read more

Bump. Ventured in last night and had the fish tacos as a snack. Very tasty and again, their beer selection is top notch. read more

The burger here always satisfies and then some. Great food, drinks, and staff. Definitely a local favorite.

Great little spot for a drink or a meal. The menus changes occasionally but the panko chicken and the fish and chips are my favorites. They do a good steak and chicken cordon bleu are also great options. The bartender is very friendly and does a great job. The only problem is very limited seating. I could never imagine going with a group bigger than four. read more

Ate at Porter Cafe tonight after a long day. I had the seasonal risotto with shrimp and bacon. It was really delicious. My husband had the scampi, which he liked (but he preferred mine). Service was quick and friendly. It's a little pricey, but seems the norm for the neighborhood. Space is tight--probably best for groups no bigger than 3. read more

Beer selection good. Nice place to hang out. read more

Porter Cafe - Ale and a candle. - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

Small but cozy neighborhood pub in Westie. I've had this place bookmarked for awhile and I'm glad I finally got the chance to try it. Came here on Monday with two of my friends. We were immediately seated. Dana, our waitress, was really attentive and efficient (only waitress there). We ordered the special for the day, which was a pork taco ($2/each). Believe it or not, this was probably one of the best tacos I've had. Full of flavor and not shy on the cilantro (love cilantro!!). I got the Rigatoni with Pork & Beef Bolognese ($17). Simple, hearty and the definition of comfort food. Our food and drinks came out quickly and Dana checked in frequently. Honestly, I would add Porter to a local favorite of mine and will be back soon! read more

Porter Cafe - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

Great neighborhood place. Nothing like a craft beer and their super delicious burger. We tend not to eat in West Roxbury, but this place is a little gem. Oh, and if they have the Shepard's Pie on special--get it! Delicious, comforting and filling--I literally cannot eat it anywhere else. Prices are good and the staff make you feel welcome. read more