From a Back Bay staple to a Fort Point lounge tailored to your tastes, these locations offer exceptional summer cocktails.
PHOTO BY CARLY GOMEZ/UNSPLASH
City Bar
With two locations in Back Bay and Seaport, this outstanding spot boasts a prime mix of chic and modern beverages suitable for any cocktail connoisseur. For those seeking a bright, bubbly cocktail, the blood orange cosmo—made with vodka, orange juice and blood orange puree—will surely do the trick. Likewise, the bar offers more traditional options, such as the French 75, a concoction consisting of gin, lemon and Champagne. 65 Exeter St., 617.933.4800, citybarboston.com
Back Bay Social Club
Situated in Back Bay, this bilevel bistro retains an Old World aura for the 21st century sophisticate. Don’t miss an impressive array of tempting spirits—from the Rosemary’s Bebé, (Aperol, rosemary simple syrup, lemon and prosecco) to the vibrant Wake Up Call (reposado tequila, espresso, lime and grenadine). We love the venue’s impressive selection of small plates, ranging from chipotle lime glazed wings to charcuterie boards. 867 Boylston St., 617.247.3200, backbaysocial.com
Drink
Owned by award-winning restaurateur Barbara Lynch, this cocktail bar blends Prohibitionera distillery techniques with contemporary innovation. The cocktail menu offers classic favorites, such as the Maximillian Affair, crafted with tequila, lemon, elder flower liqueur and sweet vermouth. However, Drink’s claim to fame is its bespoke creations: Tell one of the mixologists your personal preferences, and wait for the cocktail perfection to follow. 348 Congress St., 617.695.1806, drinkfortpoint.com
Trifecta
Nestled in the lobby of the Four Seasons One Dalton Street Boston, Trifecta features creative cocktails and light bites for a day of peak relaxation. With inventive drink names, the spirits menu offers endless possibilities. Whether indulging in the Looking Glass, a whimsical mix of lemon gin, Ketel One, Galliano, dry vermouth and black lemon bitters, or the Strawberry Milk Punch, a balmy blend of vanilla vodka, strawberries, lemon and sweetened condensed milk, this is the perfect spot to hide away for a summer afternoon or evening. 1 Dalton St., 617.936.4877, fourseasons.com/trifecta
PHOTO BY PORIATE HOSPITALITY/UNSPLASH
Lookout Rooftop and Bar
This rooftop locale provides excellent service, sips and quick bites in the sky-high splendor of The Envoy Hotel. Designed with intimate seating sections surrounded by glowing fire pits, the Lookout provides housemade cocktails along with an impressive wine selection. For those seeking a light summertime refresher, try the Garden Spritz, made with Chandon Champagne, macerated oranges and seasonal herbs. Also, the Peach Pit After Dark—a combination of Van Gogh peach vodka and pink lemonade—is another prime pick. 70 Sleeper St., 617.530.1538, theenvoyhotel.com/dining
Fool’s Errand
Swathed in electric blue lighting and crystal chandeliers, this destination is an elegant lounge for repose and casual conversation. From the floral Painted Lady cocktail to the refined III Repute sip, each libation flaunts a subtle air of refined luxury, thanks to Tiffani Faison, owner and Top Chef alum. Weekend guests also will love the venue’s popup wine shop. 1337 Boylston St., foolserrandboston.com
Hojoko Boston
Anything but ordinary, this rock ’n’ roll tavern honors the culture of Japanese nightlife through izakaya, a tradition founded on communal dining and drinking. Summer favorites include the bright Tokyo Tea drink, crafted with tequila, lemon, bittered midori and green tea. Appetizers not to miss include the karaage fried chicken and the pork and shrimp potstickers, accompanied by a spicy miso dipping sauce. 1271 Boylston St., 617.670.0507, hojokoboston.com
Photography by: Carly Gomez/Unsplash; Poriate Hospitality/Unsplash
