J.J. Foley's Cafe

"Generations of regulars have found a home at the bar at J.J. Foley’s, which has maintained its status as a cornerstone of the South End for over 100 years. Squeeze in and pair a pint of Guinness with Mr. Foley’s favorite — a juicy sirloin burger layered with bacon, caramelized onions, mushrooms, cheddar cheese, and topped with a fried egg." - Erika Adams

"A map of Boston’s best Irish bars would be incomplete without J.J. Foley’s Cafe. It’s been around for well over a century, and it’s the South End’s best option for solid pub grub — we always like the tots. The bartenders also wear white shirts with ties tucked into the space between the middle buttons, and if you visit more than a few times, they’ll likely remember your order." - Tanya Edwards, Terrence Doyle

"When you walk into J.J. Foley’s you not only feel that you are in an authentic Irish pub, but you get a real sense of the history of post-modern Boston. Family-owned and operated since 1909, this place has had it's share of stories. While you can certainly grab good pub-style food in the dining room, the real attraction here is the classic, barstool-free pre-prohibition bar serving pints and mixed drinks until 2am daily. It's an intentionally old-fashioned place run on "a lot of hard work and prayers." Certainly not fussy, it's a refreshing throwback to a time before the neighborhood was overrun by luxury condos and organic grocery stores." - Adam&Co.

"A South End institution, JJ Foley's has been around since 1909. It is the oldest continuously family-owned pub in the city. During Prohibition, the pub reportedly fronted as a shoe store." - Erika Adams, Katie Chudy

"A neighborhood pub open since 1909, known for its no-frills atmosphere, great food, and a beautiful wooden bar that predates prohibition. It served as an inspiration for the Smiths' vision for Thistle & Leek." - Terrence Doyle