The Middle East

Restaurant, nightclub, and nexus for musical talent
Noteworthy for: Though the restaurant's offerings are tasty enough with plenty of vegetarian options, the Middle East's claim to fame lies in its powerhouse live music venues.

For devotees of indie rock and underground hip hop, the Middle East reigns supreme as Boston's ultimate music club. Some of its many famous performers include The White Stripes, TV on the Radio, Modest Mouse, and the Silver Jews, as well as indie hip hop acts such as Masta Killah, Jedi Mind Tricks, and Killah Priest.
With cheap drinks, sticky floors, wannabe music critics, and a legion of fans, the Downstairs space - a 575-capacity room - buzzes with excitement. The crowds are typically rabid fans of whichever band is playing, promising an energy that's infectious and hard to replicate in a larger, fancier venue.

The Middle East also features the Upstairs, another concert space; Zuzu, a restaurant and bar with live music on many nights; and The Corner, a restaurant and bar with belly dancing, Lebanese musicians, and other acts.