Anchovies
The chicken "parm" is terrific, the drinks are huge, the prices can't be beat, and the serving staff couldn't be friendlier. When Mary, the waitress, raps your salad dressing options, it's virtual poetry. 433 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA .
Club d'Elf
The sound of the future is here. The band's deeply hypnotic trance-grooves combine jazz, world, and electronica. Bass wizard Mike Rivard, percussionist Jerry Leake, sampler Jere Faison, and driving drummers J. Hilt and Erik Kerr preside over the jams, or "ceremonies." The group performs as a hodgepodge ensemble that changes from show to show; past guests have included John Medeski, Mark Sandman, and members of Either/ Orchestra. They usually perform at Lizard Lounge.
Tacos El Charro
There is a little bit of Mexico at this pinata-filled spot near Jackson Square. Despite the bright lights and the warm sangria, Tacos El Charro is worth it for the flavorful Mexican food and the hip, campy mariachi band. As the band kicks into high gear, dig into a dense bean-and-meat-filled flour tortilla and smile. 349 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, MA .
Vics Boathouse at Victoria Station
Serene by day, sultry by night, and boasting tantalizing harbor views, Vic's hosts an endless cavalcade of events (open-mike nights, karaoke, and dancing), fueled by an expansive beer list—Pretty Things, Alchemist, and Saison Dupont, to name a few—and a creative cocktail menu. To cool down after heating up the dance floor, go for a refreshing Aperol Cucumber Fizz, sipped slowly on the patio or dock. 86 Wharf St., Salem, MA 1970, victoriasstationsalem.com.
A multiple tie: Dogzilla, Beware the Haberdash, Tommy's Darkling Thrush, Billy Caucasian & the Lack of Soul Band
Doyle's Café
Even though they've pushed out some walls and expanded, this is still the bar that best mirrors its diverse, high-energy neighborhood. 3484 Washington St., Jamaica Plain, MA .
The Zulus
They called themselves Wild Kingdom until Mutual of Omaha told them to change their name or face a lawsuit. They tried the Gospel Birds, but Patty LaBelle's publishing company, the Gospel Birds, called and said that that name had been taken. Finally, they came up with the Zulus, and now, three years later, WFNX and WBCN are playing their frenzied, electric songs like "Never Again," "Too Much," and "Got It."
Blue Star Lounge
Out of the way, like any good roadhouse. Rte. 1, Saugus, MA .
The Channel
Smart booking policy for live music, and an on-the-water location. 25 Necco St., Boston, MA .
Neiman-Marcus
Tucked away on the mezzanine, with a terrific view of the first floor and just enough privacy for a tête-à-tête. Copley Place, Boston, MA .
Division Sixteen
But make that lower Manhattan. 955 Boylston St., Boston, MA .
Sevens
Downscale ambience in an upscale neighborhood. Drop in for beer on your way to the Parkman House for supper. 77 Charles St., Boston, MA .
Corazón del Mar
When we walked through the door and spied the ceviche and raw bar, we were infatuated. When we climbed the staircase and saw the packed, boisterous tequila bar, we were besotted. But once we took a sip of the hibiscus margarita laced with fresh lime and chili salt, it was a full-on love affair. It may not be the scene-iest spot on the island (that would be the Pearl), nor the most debaucherous (the Chicken Box). But Corazón's good looks and charming vibe have completely stolen our hearts. 215 Water St., Nantucket, MA 2554, corazonnantucket.com.
Offshore Ale Company
Oak Bluffs is the antithesis of the Jersey Shore, so why do most of its bar options seem so well suited for "gym, tan, laundry"? Escape to the Offshore Ale Company for its rotating selection of unique house-made brews, like the Flying Monkey, a Belgian-style ale aged in chardonnay barrels. The kind of bar that allows—nay, encourages—patrons to toss peanut shells onto the floor, it's sure to become your favorite stomping ground. 30 Kennebec Ave., Oak Bluffs, MA 2557, offshoreale.com.
The Beachcomber
Whoever said you can't please all the people all the time clearly hasn't been to the Beachcomber. Awesome views and beach access? Check. Long list of cocktails and heavy-pouring bartenders? Got 'em. Live music? Yup. As far as we can tell, the only thing missing is a cot in the corner — so we never have to leave. 1120 Cahoon Hollow Rd., Wellfleet, MA 2667, thebeachcomber.com.