Common Ground

Allston / Brighton, Boston –

Student-friendly Allston may be packed with all-too-similar “bar and grill” venues, but Common Ground stands out from the herd with its unique and extensive beer list, solid food, convivial neighborhood bar vibe, and a slightly older and more upscale clientele.

The crisp cream-colored walls and dark wood trim, combined with the wood tables and bamboo place settings, give the bar’s modern, open layout a nice sense of stylish coziness perfect for the casual groups of young professionals and post-grads from the Lower Allston area who gather to sample regional microbrews like Harpoon, Dogfish Head, and Smuttynose, while singles and couples line the bar to chat or watch Boston sports teams on the venue’s multiple TVs.

A dining room provides plenty of space for larger groups to linger over dinner or drinks, while those looking for more intimate conversations can usually find a spot at one of the small raised tables or step outside to the laid-back beer garden and smoking patio out back.

Located near the popular and student-heavy Harvard/Commonwealth intersection, Common Ground has no trouble attracting lively crowds on the weekend, although weeknights see plenty of action too as events like trivia and occasional 90s-themed dance parties keep the vibe fun and upbeat.