Mr. Dooley's

An Irish pub that's not a theme park
Noteworthy for: Musicians perform regularly on weekends playing traditional and reinterpreted Irish music. In fact, the pub is so popular with local artists that spontaneous sessions may occur.

Tipple of choice: Locals claim that Dooley's pulls one of the best pints of Guinness in the city.
Tucked amid the hustle of the financial district, Mr. Dooley's provides haven for those in need of an expertly poured pint and a friendly chat with the barkeep. The intimacy is heightened by warm lemony lights and wood floors that creak just a little as you step across. And in keeping with its old-fashioned charm, there are no TVs blaring over the mahogany bar – the better for you to enjoy your bartender's wit and the live musical performances.

There are plenty of Irish-themed bars in Boston, but Dooley's is the rare one that attracts natives and artists from the Old Country who are seeking a bit of home in a strange new land.