Best of Boston

2005 Best Irish Restaurant

Matt Murphy’s

“Pub food” used to be a euphemism for bad food. But over the past decade, old-country publicans have transformed their bars into trendy “gastro-pubs.” Matt Murphy’s in Brookline Village is a prime example, offering solid gare prepared with an artist’s flair that’s a world away from the mess of nacho-platter bars. Highlights include roast duck and newspaper-wrapped fish and chips, with rustic touches like homemade ketchup or soda bread served with a slab of butter.

14 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-232-0188, mattmurphyspub.com/