The Brahmin Bar / Lounge / Restaurant

Back Bay, Boston –

Maybe the only place in town with both crystal chandeliers and tater tots, The Brahmin is an elegant 20s-style speakeasy with one foot firmly planted in modern day.

Named for the wealthy, politically prominent families of neighboring Beacon Hill – the illustrious “Boston Brahmins” – this shabby chic bar is a jumble of high and low culture, appealing to mellow young professionals, society types, and preppy post-grads looking for an upscale night out.

The narrow brick and cream-colored main room, with its plush leather booths, sparkling chandeliers, antique books, and flowing curtains draped over mottled glass windows, gives off an aura of old world sophistication. But a soundtrack of 80s rock and one-hit wonders, as well as a dinner menu of sharable bar snacks like fried pickles and messy ribs, foster a casual vibe.

On weeknights, the copper bar in the center of the room is usually surrounded by groups of friends in trendy duds sipping classic cocktails, while special occasions are celebrated in the oft-rented Silhouette Room.

Come Fridays, however, the atmosphere gets much rowdier, as flirty singles in button-downs and tight skirts flock to the smaller downstairs level where a live DJ plays loud Top 40, house, and R&B and craft cocktails and conversation are swapped out in favor of bottled beer and a little dancing.

Simultaneously suave and bawdy, The Brahmin provides a manor-like locale for laid-back urbanites to drink like heirs or party like commoners.