The place in Allston for beer and cocktail snobs. They have cask-pulled ale, 22 beers on tap (over 100 in bottles), and skilled bartenders. Bar food includes the usual … hot dogs, pretzels, and schnitzel, but they also have serious meals like prime rib and Moroccan lamb shank.
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An Allston vegan's dream come true, Grasshopper serves incredibly fresh Asian vegan fare. It's a favorite for Boston-area vegans and nonvegans alike, with specialties … like coconut curry "chicken" and the popular No Name, a dish of battered gluten in a sweet and sour sauce.
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One of Allston's coolest music venues, Great Scott draws a large young hipster crowd for local bands and great outdoor seating. The place used to be a major frat-boy … hangout, but it got a major makeover a few years ago. Smaller than many venues in the city, Great Scott can get really packed, but the crowds are usually incredibly fun.
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Formerly the sketchy dive bar El Phoenix Room, Harry's is now a great spot for a cheap beer and pub grub. Barely any of the menu items creep over $10, and there's always … a $2 beer special. However, unlike most Boston bars with cheap deals, Harry's isn't a total hole; it's become a popular neighborhood hangout.
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Along with Great Scott, Harper's Ferry is one of Allston's top places for live music. The space has three bars, a pool table, video games, and a tribute/cover band that … has garnered quite the following. When they aren't playing, Harper's books both local and touring bands and sometimes holds dance parties.
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Herrell's, the renowned ice cream maker, has a small cafe in Allston that hosts eclectic live music acts; serves breakfast, ice cream, and coffee concoctions; and offers … free wifi. It's a great hangout for students and emerging musicians.
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A cool record shop and tattoo parlor in one, Re: Generation is a favorite with hipsters and punks across Allston. The shop sells a wide array of hardcore and punk records … and buys your old ones on consignment. Their tattoo artists are some of Allston's best, and you can check out their portfolios on the website.
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Neighborhood fave Junkyard Dogs serves over 20 different types of hot dogs, from the classic junkyard dog (tomatoes, pickles, pepperoncini, and mustard) to the Texas … ranger (cheddar, bacon, and barbecue sauce). They also serve excellent chicken sandwiches, subs, and sides like baked beans and chili fries. It's one of the best spots in Allston for a completely unhealthy pig-out.
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This large Allston thrift store has some pretty incredible finds, from old furniture and books to vintage dresses, vests from the 1980s, and old leather purses. There are … no dressing rooms, but it's a small price to pay for such cheap and original stuff.
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