The Somerville nightlife scene is diverse, unique and, in my opinion, underrated. I think that what’s great about the nightlife scene in the metro area is how each neighborhood has a different feel when you go out at night to eat or drink. The South End has fantastic (and fantastically expensive) food, wealthy & beautiful people with a sometimes ‘scenester’ vibe. Parts of JP and Allston/Brighton have the indie/punk thing going on. JP & Cambridge have the young, intellectual, progressive crowd. There’s Faneuil Hall...moving on. And then there’s always the quintessential ‘dive bar’….

In this post, I’ll try to give you a spot or two where you can experience all of those things, right here in Somerville. And it’s my contention, having spent every year after turning 21 in Boston, that the nightlife in Somerville compares favorably with neighborhoods all around Boston.

Start @ the Bottom

I have to say, I love a good dive bar. For me, the REALLY diverse crowds that come together in Boston dive bars are the best part. The next time you head to a dive bar, ask yourself the following question: Under what other circumstances could this many people, from this many walks of life, come together to drink, dance and laugh?.

In Somerville, I think we have one of the finest. Razzy’s is on Somerville Ave, between Porter & Union. And its three blocks from my apartment. Nancy and Diane are co-owners and bartenders, and lots of fun. The drink prices are out of control: Pitchers for $7, drafts of quality (and local!!!) beer for less than $4. My personal favorites are the infused vodkas. On the rocks, it’s a sweet, summery cocktail that costs you $5 for a full rocks glass. The flavors taste EXACTLY like their names suggest: Chocolate Covered Cherry, Pineapple Cherry and their best seller, Apple Pie.

One other thing: If you go to Razzy’s on your birthday they give you a free drink token. In my circle they aren’t turned in, but saved and there’s talk about making necklaces and other accessories with them.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Sligo Pub in this section, but you probably already know about Sligo. One sidenote: Sligo punch is both delicious and dangerous.

On the High End

I wonder how many people will think I’m crazy to compare the South End to Somerville. A good friend of mine was a bartender at a hot spot there, so I got to know the scene a bit. Here’s the thing: if you want fine dining, great bartenders, delicious cocktails and cool atmosphere you do not have to leave Somerville.

If you want some of the best food around, we have you covered. Gargoyles on the Square offers tremendous seasonal cuisine in Davis Square. Right next door, Out of the Blue has delicious seafood and a friendly and accommodating staff. The Independent has great food and a chill atmosphere (with LOTS of parking). And the prices are significantly lower than some neighboring fine dining establishments.

If it’s an upscale cocktail you’re after, you can stay at Gargoyles for great bartending and friendly staff. Right across the street, you can check out the coolest interior design in Somerville at Diva Lounge. If you haven’t seen the white bubble room, it’s a must!

Somerville can be punk too

Ok, so JP and Allston/Brighton seem to have the scene covered when it comes to indie rock, black too-tight jeans and funk hairstyles, but Somerville has a lot goin’ on as well. I never got into these social circles, though I know some who have, and it seems like the culture centers around music, in rough-around-the-edges establishments.

PA’s Lounge and the Abby Lounge both offer a grungy, forthright musical experience almost every night. If you’re in that scene, you probably already knew. If you’re not, you probably don’t care. But hey, it’s nice to know we’re representing anyway right?

Music Music Music

Every night of the week, you could go to any number of spots in Somerville to catch a great show. Sponsoring Member (and host of the Somerville Local First Launch Party) Johnny D’s has been bringing in acts from around the country for the last 40 years and is an amazing place to watch a show. And they know what they’re doing; you gotta love the soundboard in the middle of the dining room.

Another less known spot is newly remodeled Precinct (formerly Toast). The acoustics of the back room are tremendous, it’s right next to the Independent, and if you have a chance, catch the Seamonsters and Jesse Dee (a super talented artist and acquaintance of mine).

There are more, but I’m starting to ramble….

There are many more cool spots that deserve a mention: The Thirsty Scholar, Highland Kitchen, the delicious sangria and tapas of Dali, PJ Ryans and their open windows, China Delight for super cheap tropical cocktails, and many more that I’m forgetting to mention. My first request to the readers of this blog: Post your own favorites!!!

Locally Yours,

Joe G.