M.J. O'Connor's

Had dinner here before a Sunday show and was pleasantly surprised by how good the food was. We started with a cup of chowder—and I can see why it’s award-winning. I ordered the pulled pork special, which was very tasty, and the fries were perfectly crisp on the outside. Finished with a rich chocolate cake for dessert. Our waiter was attentive but seemed a bit overwhelmed—perhaps they were short-staffed that evening. Noticed quite a few Irish tourists enjoying the weekend, which added some lively energy to the place. Overall, great food—I’d definitely eat here again.

I tried the hall of fame clam chowder and poutine appetizer, and my order was to-go. The chowder wasn’t as hearty as I hoped in terms of clam chunks, etc. It was a bit lacking on deep flavor profile as well. I wouldn’t call it hall of fame. And the poutine wasn’t worth $17 any day of the week. The short ribs were good but hash browns and scallions and cheese don’t add enough taste to justify their price. I sampled both before I left my parking spot to ensure I had a taste in mind before the drive cooled the food.

Stopped into M.J. O'Connor's unplanned. I figured, why not try someplace new? This place is very clean. There were not a lot of people dining in the dining area. More people were dining at the bar. The bar had a large selection from what I could see. The burger I had was one of the best burgers I have ever had. It was cooked to a perfect medium and had excellent flavor. The hot honey flat bread pizza also was delicious. Both meals were the right serving size. Not so much that you walk away stuffed, and you don't walk away hungry either. The only slight takeaway on my rating was the server. He was friendly but he stayed away, not checking on us until the meal was almost gone. Then he waited nearly 15 minutes to bring the check to the table. I think he was trying to be polite and give us time but it was too much time so we just sat there waiting.

Went with my American friend and sat at the bar. Put my food order in as starving but my friend was still deciding. She decided. 20 mins or so passed before she got her order in as the bartender wasn’t really paying attention. I checked he had mine already but he’d waited for hers so he hadn’t run mine through yet. I was a bit surprised because if I wanted to wait to order, why would I order? Anyway, food came. Mine still came a good 15 minutes before hers, so not sure what happened there. Once I got my food, my friend still waited a while even though she’d only ordered a salad compared to my chicken strips and chips so not sure what the point of waiting was. We were served drinks too and then the bartender came back to ask if we wanted another drink after we’d finished eating. No one checked the food was okay. I said no and my friend ordered another cocktail but it never came. About half an hour later the bartender asked again if we wanted anything else, forgetting she’d asked for another cocktail, so this time she just said water and we asked for the bill. Considering that we sat at the bar, we didn’t really get attended to in a timely manner. We were sat trying to make eye contact and get him back over which most times went amiss. It was a little bit busy but there were still plenty of tables as most people were just popping in for a drink. I didn’t enjoy the food baskets as the chicken was a bit tough to cut and the gridding didn’t help. Salt got all over the table from where it fell through the cracks. The TVs were on, showing some sports or other too so it was pretty noisy in there. Probably wouldn’t go back again. The food was fairly expensive for what they were which is why my friend had trouble choosing. You could get a lot more for your money elsewhere, and much better service too. The food itself was enjoyable but not hot, and I had to go out of my way to ask for some mayonnaise and seasoning. I asked the woman who delivered my food if I could have some salt and mayo and she just said “ask him” as in ask the bartender, then walked off. Usually these things are asked, if you’d like any sauces etc, when the food is delivered. So I felt like customer service really fell through again and again. Additionally, the bartender literally had to leave the entire bar unattended to then go to the kitchen to get salt and mayonnaise. So whatever system they have going on really doesn’t work. Like at that time, the counter was up and everything. Anyone could’ve walked in and poured themself a pint. I was shocked. I also got halfway through eating and wanted more sauce but didn’t ask because I didn’t want to tick anyone else off. Even when we entered the pub (through what I now assume are the back doors) and it was all empty, there was a member of staff stood who saw four of us waiting and never said anything. So we spent a good ten mins standing there chatting amongst ourselves because the three people I’d walked in with didn’t really know they could just go and find a seat even after I’d suggested it. And the member of staff saw us, knew we were there, stood adjacent to us the whole time doing whatever, and never spoke up or said hello. It just seemed pretty rude and out of touch with normal customer service to not even greet customers that walk in or help them if they’re just stood right by the doorway clearly waiting for something. Edit to add: after looking through other reviews, every negative review is replied to with the exact same wording whether someone is complaining about rude/hostile interactions with staff or MICE. 100% would not go again. Very in-genuine and impersonal and don’t seem to actually care much about actions or making it up to customers.

Came in on a Wednesday night. Bartender was friendly and quickly to be of service. Ordered a cup of the chowder and the bangers and mash. The chowder was awesome and definitely not just boasting at the recognition it had earned and my only regret was not ordering a bowl. This was a great choice and I was sad to see it gone so soon. The bangers and mash was also great and a solid choice. I think some additional gravy would have been good to go with the sausage and mash potatoes but I was happy to have gone with this option! For my first time in Boston I dont regret going here and would recommend this to others!

The Guinness Onion Soup was fantastic! Large portion of delicious fish with the fish & chips order. Chicken pot pie was good. Would go there again.

Stopped in on a Tuesday evening with 4 guests around 9:15 PM, and the place was packed! Luckily, found a table and seated within minutes. Classic Irish pub interior/feel with a slightly more unique menu. Service was decent - they seemed understaffed, though our waitress was serving as quickly as she could. ▪︎ Corned Beef & Cabbage Egg Rolls - loved these! ▪︎ Clam Chowder - very good! ▪︎ Side of Fries - decent ▪︎ Cosmo Cocktail - didn't enjoy Overall, would recommend for a casual meal/drink - be prepared for a crowd.

We split the quesadilla and it was more than enough for the two of us. It was delicious, and the drinks were equally good.

Great service, really tasty food. Had the beef stew and it was piping hot and hearty, welcome on a bitter cold evening. Beer specials. Lively ambiance. I'm a fan.

Staying at the Hilton Park Plaza and wanted to find a nearby place to eat that wasn't gonna break the bank like the rest of the restaurants in this area. This place was decent. Their New England clam chowder was awesome, I wish I got a full bowl. My burger was dry and mediocre, but the fries were good. I was sad that the only Irish choices on the menu was beef stew, Ruben's and I guess Guinness... it otherwise was just an American bar with an Irish name. Service was fine. Bar had a bunch of TVs. Not much else to it.

Staying at the Hilton and wanted an informal meal. Found this place on Yelp. My partner and I had a nice meal tonight. Started with clam chowder and the soup of the day (French onion soup). Both were delicious. The menu says the clam chowder won three awards and I believe it. Thick, creamy and lots of clam. The onion soup had a nice amount of cheese and a tasty, slightly sweet broth that was really good. For entrees, we had the salmon with vegis and rice (subbing mashed potatoes for the rice) and the fish and chips. The salmon was a very healthy portion of tasty salmon with a light glaze. The mashed potatoes were "real" (not boxed) and the vegis were well prepared. The vegis were Brussels sprouts (a restaurant substitution for broccoli that they were out of) - they could have used a little seasoning (even just salt and pepper). The portion of fish in the fish and chips was HUGE. The breading was not too thick and the fish had a nice crunch. The fish came with a healthy portion of fries and a small cup of cole slaw, which was fine. The tartar sauce was good; the cocktail sauce could have used a bit more bite. Honestly, the soups were so rich and filling that my partner and I left a lot of our entrees on the table. The food was so good that we both were disappointed, but we're staying in a hotel, so no way to preserve leftovers. The server was friendly and efficient. The restaurant is an Irish pub (I had a Guinness) and decor-wise, it has an Irish pub vibe. The music playing throughout the place is fun rock-type. Very enjoyable. One odd thing: when we arrived and asked for a table, the greeter said he didn't have any tables, but he would find some place for us. He showed us to a table and then left. We looked around, and every table in the room was empty. We thought that perhaps a large group was coming soon, but we enjoyed our meal and, during our time there, maybe two tables got filled and the rest remained empty. It was just weird.

I had the French onion soup and it was delicious. My only complaint is that the bowl wasn't big enough! I should've gotten two! lol I also had the pastrami on rye. It was a big portion and served with fries. Fries were hot and perfectly cooked. The bread was fresh and yummy. Large serving of pastrami. The service was fast and friendly. It was a little loud for me, but maybe because it was happy hour. I can't wait to be in Boston again, to return for more soup and to try out a different entree.

Staying in Boston, I wanted to make sure I took advantage of the Irish bars. MJ's did not disappoint. My colleague got the grilled cheese with clam chowder, while I stuck with the fish and chips. We were there for lunch, it wasn't too busy and the food was prompt and fresh. Maybe it's because I live a desert normally but damn was that good fish. The portion was generous and everything was well fried, nothing soggy. My colleague enjoyed her lunch as well! If you're unsure or maybe worried about the vibe, I promise MJ's delivers.

We were in Boston to see the Blue Man group and made a reservation here for lunch, as it's within walking distance of the Charles Playhouse. I don't think a reservation was needed because we were only one of two groups that were there, however, they just about rolled out the red carpet for us. They knew exactly who we were when we entered, every staff member saying hello as we made our way to our seats. Our waiter was kind, charismatic and charming. We started with sweet thai chili wings that were crunchy, yet still moist on the inside. My southwest salad had a whole chicken breast atop it. It was quite filling. Having a little one with me, I always appreciate when a kids menu is an option. He was happy with his buttered pasta and I was happy not to spend a fortune on a bigger dish that he would likely only take a few bites of anyways. The food wasn't gourmet, but it was definitely tasty. The location was convenient and the setting was perfect for a family.

The restaurant is located in the Westin hotel right next to Laugh Boston. We made reservations the day before and were able to get a table for 2 at 6pm. We were a little late because we had trouble finding parking in the area since we're not familiar with the Seaport District. The server wasn't overly friendly but he was efficient and was very competent. We had the Chowder Fries to start and they sound questionable but taste delicious! It's kinda like a poutine but different. Same vibes. We loved it and would definitely get it again. The baked Mac & cheese was nothing to write home about but pretty decent. I was a little confused why the harvest salad had mango in it but it was still good. The cider vinaigrette was lovely. Overall, if I was in the area, I'd come here again. The prices were decent considering some of the surrounding restaurants. I wasn't blown away but I had a good meal and service was surprisingly quick.

Two nights in a row, this time to enjoy their great food. Did not want to walk far in the misty rain. Always a great crowd at the bar. Awesome service. Soups are hearty. Burgers are stunning. Entree's are not diet-worthy

Came for a lunch with coworkers. The food was bland, fries under cooked, most of us did not finish our plates as the food just wasn't good. The server saw the large party and was trying way too hard for a tip.

Good spot to catch sports, I got the cool as a cucumber gin drink and the flavor tasted fairly watered down. Their Nashville hot chicken sandwich wasn't bad, flavor was alright though it wasn't really spicy at all. Overall good place to chill to watch a game but wouldn't come for the food or drink on their own.

Nice place, but the bar service was terrible. Not attentive, engaging or pleasant - staff standing there as patrons wait for service...time to clean house and get people who want to work.

It was strange when we came in being led to what seemed the back, but there are actually 2 entrances. It is very busy for a Tuesday night, but it is the city, so maybe that's normal. Service was slow to order, but food came out hot, fresh, and quicker than giving our order! Our server was nice, but it's slammed and probably hard to come back to check in. The fish and chips was a large, meaty, flaky fish with crispy yet not greasy batter. The fries were good, but the fish is the show stopper. The Guinness Onion soup was wonderful! If you don't like onions, you will still like this. If you didn't actually see the onions, you wouldn't know they were there. I love French onion soup, but this was better. The corned beef and cabbage egg rolls were also extremely tasty. The are full sized egg rolls cut in half (I wish they weren't because I can't eat all of them. They could use more corned beef, but the taste inside and the crunch outside was great. It is very loud, but it is a bar. Definitely a great first stop on our Boston trip!

I have always liked this place in the past but had a bad experience last night. They advertise that Friday nights they are open until 2am. I showed up at 1am and the girl at the bar says, "I am closed, go to the bar in the back". I went to the bar and the back and the guy says, "I am closed, go up front." I did, and the girl tells me, "I don't even have a drawer open, we can't help you." A bit of a crowd still there but I guess when the employees want to go home early, they just close up and go. If you are not open until 2am, don't advertise you are open until 2am.

Beef stew is WAY OVERPRICED!!! It's broth with potatoes and fatty meat. Disappointed in an Irish bar to serve this. Great service though!

This place was great, we stopped after looking all over for something to eat. The kids were exhausted and very hungry when we arrived. Several of the children in our party were quite worked up. Instead of getting upset about it, the sweetest waitress walked up to our table and asked if the kids wanted to help her pour and serve our water. The kids responded so well and it really turned our day around and made our lunch so enjoyable. The place was very quiet at the time but very relaxed and inviting. We had corned beef and cabbage egg rolls, which were great. My wife and I shared the fish and chips which were some of the best I've ever had. Such a large piece of fish and so nicely battered and crispy! We had several drinks including elderflower aperol spritz, and Irish whiskey. We would definitely go again.

What a disaster of a place. Horrible food and service. We ordered loaded fries which came without the bacon, you know, the "loaded" part. When we asked our server about it, he said they are still cooking the bacon and he'll bring it as soon as it's ready, I guess, so we could sprinkle it on whatever is left of our cold cheesy fries. IKEA style. My caesar salad came practically without any dressing. I asked the server for extra dressing. She said "in a minute" and never came back. I asked our other server for some dressing. He never came back either. After some 40 minutes, I sent the salad, still without dressing, back. The server said he'll take it off the bill. When the bill came with the salad, he said it's b/c I ate half of it, which was not true (and the nerve on that guy!). Then he blamed everything on how busy they were when they hardly had any customers. Generally, staff were rude and disrespectful. I went to talk to the manager who talked to me while loudly chewing gum. His entire demeanor was screaming IDGF. They took fries and salad off but refused to take off 20% gratuity. Poetic justice came as we exited this tourist trap. Six guys were about to enter but one of them asked us if the food was good. Needless to say, we told them the truth and they thanked us, turned around and left. Instant Karma! If you care about what you're eating, avoid this place at all costs. Because they don't care about what they are cooking.

this place was EVERYTHING we were looking for post-marathon. It's huge- we actually got confused considering it goes through the entire block. it was jam-packed full of people but the hostess was so friendly and helped us find chairs and get a table when it was our turn. Out waiter was quick and efficient and friendly and our food came out so quickly! and love the special marathon menu. food was better than I was expecting for a pub. We will absolutely be back!

Soooo yummy and the drinks were delicious! Great service. One of the glasses shattered on the table when we did a cheers (it was normal nothing crazy) and they were so helpful and apologetic. The chicken tenders were absolute perfection

Staying next door at the Park Plaza and came over for lunch and a few beers. The bartender was attentive and cool, the prices were reasonable and the food was decent.

We stopped in here after a pop up thunderstorm had us cold, wet and needing a cocktail to warm our spirits, and body. This place fit the bill perfectly. The staff was super friendly and attentive. The cocktails were great and the recommended beer really hit the spot. Great pup like atmosphere.

Great food and service. The Buffalo chicken tater tots were delicious. The waiter was very helpful and friendly. It's a nice relaxing ambiance.

Good portions for the price. The Irish stew and fish were all good. Even the cheese steak had excellent flavor, would recommend if you were in the area.

So this place is LOUD! Maybe I'm just getting old! We just ordered dessert and coffee. So I don't know if Irish people have a different definition than Italian people for what a chocolate cake is... But we ordered the chocolate cake, and it was some kind of a tart. And it was basically raw. The description did not say it came with ice cream, and it did come with ice cream. It was supposed to have heath bar crunch on the top, which it did not. Then we ordered the bread pudding, which was a bread brick! So we were beyond disappointed. We didn't get any main courses, so I have no idea what their dinner menu is like. But their dessert menu was not at all what I expected.

It was very convenient to the Hilton Boston Park Plaza hotel where I was staying. They have the best Fish and Chips EVER! I experienced a wonderful lively atmosphere with good service. My visit hit the spot for any weary travelers.

Reached out ahead of time to see if 6 people could get a table for drinks between 5:30-6pm. They said sure. We arrive and the guy rudely tells us he won't seat us and there isn't a spot at the bar but we can stand "since everyone else." There were plenty of empty tables. I wanted to walk out right then. The price of a high noon was more than nyc which is saying something. Only 1 bartender for a packed bar.

Hostess was friendly upon entering - there were 10 of us with no reservation - but we were seated quickly- service wasn't bad - but nothing memorable either - everyone felt food was ok - drinks on point tho - place is big with a large bar area

Stopped in for an afternoon cocktail and food. Lively spot (a lot of people there from a nearby convention), service was slow (especially the food coming out of the kitchen) but the bartender was a lot of fun and made a really excellent Negroni. The Guinness onion soup was delicious!

Came for a Michigan/ Ohio state game, they were not letting anyone in even though there was plenty of room in the bar. Apparently, there are new owners or managers. What a shame. Don't waste your time!!! So sad.,.

Somebody said this a dive bar. Not a dive bar. $10 for a miller lite. I know it's Boston, but come on....i don't want to buy the diesel for your yacht.

Cool place but the hostess was extremely rude! Busy night but no need to be rude to the guests! I was trying to find a seat at the bar and the there were two available and there was a space where a chair could be added...the hostess said NO the chair could not be moved and it's not like they had people trying to sit down and have dinner at the regular tables. There was no line, no people trying to enter to be seated ... Very UNSAT! It was a female with dark shoulder length hair...just terrible dry attitude! I came here for my friends birthday and that's the only reason why I had to stay but this is the first and LAST time I ever step foot in this place!

Food-ok Service-no issues Seated quickly-yup BUT There was a MOUSE running across the dining room. Our table was not the only one to see it either. The lackluster response from the restaurant staff was not very encouraging. I was prepared to make a stink about it, but my wife just wanted to leave. Won't be going back. Too bad cuz the chowder fries were amazing.

Fish and chips were very bland. We had to make multiple requests from all the staff before we got ranch that we ordered with our food. We currently have been sitting at table with empty glasses and waiting for a bill to pay for a long time.

Needed some late food and this was delicious. Fast service. Curry chicken salad hit the spot. Too loud for me that's typical bar vibe.

We had a reservation and were seated right away. Chowder was delicious! We also had the pretzels. Yum! I really liked my salad. The Arugula was very fresh! Our waiter forgot our drinks, but he was pretty busy. Nothing to get upset about. The manager came and introduced himself and asked us how we were doing. I appreciate that!!

I enjoyed the reuben and their French fries are so good! They seem to have a nice stocked bar. I only got beers but I saw folks order some cocktails.

We walked aways from the conference center to find somewhere less crowded. On wednesday at 7 it was maybe a quarter full. There were 4 of us and easily got a table. We had cod, chicken and fish and chips and all enjoyed. The tap list was smaller for a pub but had local apa and ipa i enjoyed. Service was pretty good.

I almost let the negative reviews stop me from going here but I'm glad I didn't! Very friendly and quick service conveniently located right under the Boston Park Plaza. I had the fish and chips which was amazing and split the macaroni and cheese with my fiancé which was also great. He said his burger was just okay however and wish he had also gotten the fish and chips. Overall, we would definitely go here again if staying in Boston.

Brunch exceeded our expectations! Everything was delicious and the service was good. Their clam chowder is a must get.

Recently visited the back bay location. Ambiance, service and clam chowder were good, however we were very disappointed in the rest of the food. The chicken blat sandwich was soggy, soft pretzel was sticks and the cheese sauce was very liquidy, and the grilled cheese is just mozzarella did not see any basil in it nor did I taste any.

Went to visit my daughter who's in the law program at New England Law in Boston. This sweet Irish pub is one of two in Boston. The decor is dark wood and low lighting. We didn't have cocktails, just water. The server was very upbeat and attentive. I had the tuna melt which was excellent. My daughter had the Mac n Cheese with grilled chicken. Both entrees were great. I must say that their fries were delicious!! Definitely a place to check out when in the Boston area for great food!

Food was good. Chicken wings. Waitress was very nice at first then I don't know what happened. But she don't have to worry about me giving her my order no more. I hope she felt better as the day went on.

Ambiance is that of depression in a well lit hospital ward, where "a pint of half-in-half" brings one an Arnold Palmer lemon tea, with scoffs of Bostonian gruff stupidity from the bar tender (hint: this isn't a pub) insisting only Black &Tans are served here. Sad. Enjoy your water, as waitstaff will neglect to refill such a common libation. Fish & Chips, however, was on point for its price.

We flew out of California a few days ago and have already visited this place twice! An authentic Irish pub, this place offers ambiance and a great beer selection. Sofia is awesome, sweet, and attentive! The recipe for the fish tacos could benefit from an upgrade, though! Being from California, our tacos are vastly different! The tots are fantastic, though! Anyways, awesome job!

After-work wind down and dinner with colleagues and friends, we were here at around 7pm and stuck around until past 10pm. Service was good from our waitress who kept bringing us drinks. I had the mac & cheese with short rib. The dish itself was delicious but the crunchy stuff they put on top ruined the texture. As well, the short rib was dry. I'd not have this again. My first drink was a black and tan. I would expect better of an Irish-styled pub in Boston of all places. There was no clear delineation between the Smithwicks and the Guinness. Almost blended together, I stuck with regular Smithwicks for the rest of the night.

Go here. Get the chowder and the chicken tenders. Enjoy yourself. Bonus points if you are lucky enough to meet Mike from Galway behind the bar.

Best hospitality I've ever seen. Very kind and welcoming. Great service. Really enjoyed being there.

WOW! I'm a Boston native, but relocated to the Midwest. I was in town with some friends and we were looking for a bite. We walked into a door that was in the 'closed' part of the restaurant. There were plenty of signs telling us to walk through the restaurant to the "open" side. We stood at the hostess stand for less than 30 seconds until a hostess greeted us. We saw a corner open at the bar that could accommodate our party of three, and we love bar seating so we asked the hostess if we could sit there and she was very welcoming to that. We get comfy and the bartender Megan was more than happy to offer us food and drink menus, as well as answer our questions about their specials, and make alterations to fit our needs. Our drinks were phenomenal! We ordered 2 beef stews and a Buffalo chicken flatbread; all very tasty!!! Megan went above and beyond for us! They were clearly VERY understaffed, but the entire staff worked so hard you could hardly tell! Megan was going over something with us when a couple walked in. I mentioned to her that behind her back a couple had walked in, she greeted them within 2 minutes saying "I'm so sorry I'll be with you in one second". She then headed straight over, and they left immediately and abruptly while insulting Megan. Completely uncalled for. Megan took it and kept apologizing, while being verbally accosted her, she was clearly shaken by their rudeness. They missed out on great food, great service, all for a good price. We tipped Megan very well because of the abuse we saw her endure and she ran out after us, in tears thanking us. DO NOT MISS THIS PLACE! Ask for Megan, and you'll be happier than a clam! She's kind, fun, informative, and so much more!

Just arrived in Boston on vacation. Stayed at the Boston Park Plaza. First in Boston and walked outside the hotel and found this establishment. Super busy around 7pm. Don't regret waiting for a table. My husband had the chef special Chicken with a mushroom gravy, garlic mashed potatoes and tender broccoli. I had their famous clam chowder and crispy chicken tenders with honey mustard dipping sauce. All I can say is food was AMAZING. Only complaint is the wait time.

So I've been here twice. I'd give 5 stars on my first visit because the fish and chips and the Caesar were amazing. I'd like to give about 20 stars for the second because I tried something different and it just wasn't good. I felt so bad making a complaint to the bartender but he asked and I explained. He 100% made things right and got me something else. The way it was handled was so professional and he displayed pure customer service. I truly believe I just got a one off bad experience from the kitchen and it was handled great. I'll definitely be back again for the food and atmosphere. Great clean place with great employees.