Best of Boston

2004 Best Pool Hall

Flat Top Johnny’s

There are some places where you feel cooler just by walking in. Such is the case with this funky pool hall, which sets the right mood with red-felt tables, an alternative-music soundtrack and Roy Lichtenstein-esque mural on one wall. The crowd seems to consist of Cambridge’s hipper denizens who have taken time off from the art studio or recording hall to rack a few. It’s a fresh change from the meat-market pool halls downtown. The only downside: Pool tables here are a bit close for comfort—though depending on who’s at the next table, that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

One Kendall Square, Building 200, Cambridge, 617-494-9565, flattopjohnnys.com/