45 Union Street
Boston, MA 02108
*Disclaimer: We were not paid for this review. All opinions are our own and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Bell in Hand claims the title of America's oldest pub, having been established in 1795. Located in the heart of Boston near the historic North End neighborhood, Bell in Hand is the perfect lunch stop after hours on your feet exploring some of the country's most famous historical sights.
Fresh New England seafood, a lively sports vibe, and the best people watching downtown await you on the Freedom Trail's best food stop. A visit to Bell in Hand perfectly compliments any day out in Boston as the historical charm of the tavern is just as impressive as its' menu. I am not a huge fan of pubs, but I really enjoyed the food and ambiance here. Plus, it's so convenient to the trail that you can pop right in for a nice break along the way!
Bell in Hand tavern offers everything you would look for on a great Boston style pub menu. There are so many great choices here, particularly if you are a seafood lover. First off, the clam chowder is amazing. If you really want to treat yourself, order the Fisherman's Combo: a giant platter of all sorts of fried seafood goodies including calamari, haddock, shrimp, and French fries. Mike and I both demolished the entire app.
As far as entrees go, I enjoyed the Baked Haddock which was served alongside comforting mashed potatoes.
Other choices include burgers and sandwiches, Chicken Quesadilla, Lobster Grilled Cheese, Eggplant Parmesan and classic New England favorites like Lobster Roll, Lobster Macaroni and Cheese, Fish and Chips, and Crab Cakes. Basically there is a bit of something for everyone even vegetarians with a veggie burger and lots of salads on the lineup. Next time, I would love to try the Mediterranean plate tzatziki, hummus, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese served with naan bread: it sounds delicious!
Service is friendly and non-rushed, despite the crazy tourist crowds during the more hectic summer season.
The ambiance at Bell in Hand is charming and historical, exactly what you expect at a touristy downtown Boston restaurant. As Bell in Hand is located in a prime tourist region, it's the perfect place for people watching. There are large windows to gaze out while enjoying your meal. And you can always bet on catching a Patriots or Red Sox game as Bostonians are devoted to their hometown teams. As a long time Patriots fan, I was not disappointed with the lively gameday vibe.
Bell in Hand is the perfect touristy lunch destination after a few miles exploring the sights along the Freedom Trail. It is conveniently located right on the route, so need to drive/walk any further. After all that exhausting walking, you will probably be in the mood for some good comfort food and Bell in Hand definitely delivers in that department. Add in an authentic Boston vibe and great people watching, and there is no better choice to compliment your day out exploring this wonderful city. I would definitely return, especially to enjoy the Fisherman's Platter again.
