While
Wirth’s
is certainly not “tucked away” or “hidden”, if you
only come to Boston to visit the city’s amazing historic colonial sites
you would easily miss it. And believe me that would be a
shame. For
Jacob Wirth’s is not only a slice of genuine Boston history, it may
just be one of the best beer joints you will ever discover.
Jacob Wirth was a Prussian immigrant who came
to Boston in the mid
19th century. He opened a saloon in 1868 and it has stood in the
same
spot since he moved it across the street in 1878. The restaurant
became known for terrific German-influenced food and as a home for
great draught beer. With a gorgeous mahogany bar and sawdust on
the
floor, Jacob Wirth’s became the place to be for not only the rich and
famous, but for Bostonians just looking for a fine beer.
Jacob
Wirth’s is now a monument to the man who
built it. His name
is nothing short of legendary within Boston’s drinking lexicon, and the
tavern he left behind is a sanctuary to that legend. It is not
the
quaint, dimly lit publick house many expect to find in New
England. It
bares more of a resemblance to western saloons than traditional seaside
taverns of the North Atlantic coast. Wirth’s is bright and
ebullient.
The open kitchen adds the clatter of pots and pans to the ongoing
symphony of laughter and conversation. You will find great
comfort
food, a seemingly endless selection of beer, and an always welcoming
hospitality.
The saw dust may be gone, but like any great
drinking
establishment, you can always find some old-time regulars waxing poetic
about their favorite pub. You will quickly learn that unlike many
of
Boston’s taverns, Jacob Wirth’s has changed very little of the years,
which I suppose is why they keep coming back decade after
decade. And
why they keep suggesting it to the weary traveler in search of Boston’s
best beer bars.
|
|
|
|
A fine and varied selection of beers
|
|
