Best Beer-Buying Spots In Cambridge

If you're looking to buy beer in Cambridge, Massachusetts, you're in luck! The city is home to several great options, ranging from liquor stores to bars and restaurants. For those seeking a unique drinking experience, Cambridge offers a range of themed bars, including a Cold War-themed spot and a Soviet-themed bar, both known for their cheap beer. For a more relaxed vibe, there are also dive bars and diners, such as Charlie's Kitchen, known for its retro-cool atmosphere and beer garden. Cambridge Wine & Spirits and Cambridge Spirits also offer a curated selection of beers, while Ball Square Fine Wines provides delivery and curbside pickup.

Cambridge Wine & Spirits

The store offers a wide range of beer options, from classic favourites to craft beers and unique imports. Whether you're a fan of light lagers or prefer robust stouts, Cambridge Wine & Spirits has something for everyone. Their curated selection features local and international brands, ensuring that customers can explore different flavours and discover new favourites. The knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist and provide recommendations, ensuring an enjoyable shopping experience.

In addition to beer, Cambridge Wine & Spirits offers an extensive collection of wines and spirits. The wine section showcases an array of reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines from renowned vineyards around the world. Whether you're a connoisseur or a novice, their diverse wine selection will surely delight your palate. The spirits section is equally impressive, featuring an assortment of liquors, including vodka, whiskey, tequila, and gin. Whether you're crafting cocktails or savouring neat pours, their spirit options will elevate your drinking experience.

Whether you're a beer enthusiast, a wine connoisseur, or a spirit lover, Cambridge Wine & Spirits is the go-to destination in Cambridge, MA. With its diverse selection, knowledgeable staff, and customer-centric approach, the store has solidified its reputation as a leading beverage retailer in the area. So, whether you're hosting a party or simply unwinding after a long day, let Cambridge Wine & Spirits be your trusted partner in elevating your drinking experiences.

Soviet-themed bars

Cambridge, Massachusetts, is home to a number of Soviet-themed bars. One of the most well-known is the People's Republik, a Russian Communist-themed bar nestled on the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Lee Street in Mid-Cambridge. The exterior of the bar is striking, with blood-red walls streaked with lines of yellow and black, serving as canvases for huge murals. The interior decor is just as cheeky, with a giant grey combat boot above the bar area, a black-and-white portrait of Lenin, and an alcohol-themed edition of Da Vinci's Last Supper featuring the bar's owner and staff. The food and drinks are eclectic and pricey, with offerings such as classic Philly cheesesteaks, mushroom banh mi sandwiches, and Communist cocktails like the "Green Bastard" and the "Bloody Trotsky".

The People's Republik was a beloved fixture in Cambridge, known for its strong sense of community. It first opened its doors in the late 1990s and quickly became a popular neighbourhood bar. However, the bar faced some controversy due to its name, which was considered offensive to some. Despite this, it became an iconic establishment, even making an appearance in the 2008 film "21". Unfortunately, the People's Republik closed its doors permanently in December 2020, leaving patrons mourning the loss of a unique and beloved establishment.

Following the closure of the People's Republik, its general manager, L. Patrick Gallivan, opened a new bar called the New Republik in Inman Square. The New Republik is considered the second generation of the iconic neighbourhood bar and remains thematically true to its predecessor. Communist soldiers gesture to patrons from Soviet-themed posters, and the deep red walls continue the Soviet-themed decor. The New Republik aims to foster the same sense of community that made the People's Republik so special, offering a welcoming space for locals to gather and socialise.

Another Soviet-themed bar in Cambridge is the KGB Bar in the East Village. While this bar is known for its kitschy take on the Soviet era, it has recently halted the sale of Russian-branded liquor due to the escalation of Russia's attacks on Ukraine. Instead, the bar now offers Ukrainian brands and plans to host readings and music events to provide resources and support for Ukrainians.

Bowling alleys

If you're looking for bowling alleys that serve beer in Cambridge, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, it's important to note that there are bowling alleys in both Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Cambridge, UK. I have provided information on both locations below.

Cambridge, Massachusetts

In Cambridge, Massachusetts, there are several bowling alleys that offer a range of amenities and experiences. One popular option is Sacco's Bowl Haven in Somerville, which offers candlepin bowling and is known for its great pizza and beer list. However, it is worth noting that the wait for a lane can be long. Another bowling alley in the area is Kings, which has a location in Assembly Row and offers other games and good food, similar to the Kings Bowl chain. Additionally, there used to be a Lanes & Games location by Alewife, but it has closed.

Cambridge, UK

Although I couldn't find specific bowling alleys in Cambridge, UK, that serve beer, there are reportedly 41 ten-pin bowling alleys in the area. These bowling alleys cater to different age groups and offer various facilities, making them great attractions for families and class trips.

General Information

When visiting bowling alleys, it is common to find unique features, interesting histories, and special events or tournaments. Some bowling alleys also offer coaching sessions for beginners, and leagues with a more relaxed atmosphere for casual players. It's worth noting that most bowling alleys have standardized lane conditions and policies against pets.

BYOB restaurants

If you're looking for BYOB restaurants in Cambridge, Massachusetts, there are a few options to consider. While it can be challenging to find restaurants that allow you to bring your own drinks, some establishments in the Boston area, including Cambridge, have adopted this policy since 2017. Note that only beer and wine are typically permitted, and some restaurants may charge a corkage fee.

One popular choice is Cafe Mangal in Wellesley, a short drive from Cambridge, which offers a fusion of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features dishes like lamb with Medjool dates, Turkish kebab, and Mediterranean-style duck breast. Cafe Rossetti's, located in Winthrop near Logan Airport, is another Italian option with a BYOB policy. Pair your favourite wine or beer with their fresh pasta, steak, pork, or seafood dishes.

In Brookline, Dok Bua Thai Kitchen offers spice-laden Thai cuisine and is conveniently located near a liquor store. Their menu includes steamed pork dumplings, chicken and shrimp pad Thai, and various Thai desserts. Knight Moves, also in Brookline, is a unique option for gamers, offering a range of board games and allowing patrons to bring their own beer or wine while they play.

Closer to Cambridge, users have recommended Thanh Binh, Bibimbap House, and Taj Tandoori as potential BYOB options. Zhonghua Traditional Snacks, a Chinese dumpling restaurant, and Tradizioni, a pizzeria, are also said to be BYOB-friendly. It's always a good idea to call ahead and confirm, as policies may change, and some restaurants may require special permits or charge corkage fees.

Online

If you're looking to buy beer online in Cambridge, Massachusetts, there are several options available to you. City Liquors Cambridge offers an extensive range of top-quality beers, wines, and liquors. Their website provides weekly updates on new specials and top picks at competitive prices, ensuring you can find the best deals on beverages like craft beer, vintage wines, and premium vodka.

For those who appreciate a good craft beer, City Liquors Cambridge offers a versatile collection, including popular and hard-to-find bottles. You can even enjoy discounts on select items, such as the Lamplighter Birds of a Feather IPA, which is currently available at a discounted price of $16.45. They also have a variety of other drinks, like the Broadbent Vinho Verde Rosé for $9.99 and the Summer Water Rose for $16.99.

If you're specifically interested in exploring the local craft beer scene, reviews suggest that Cambridge Wine & Spirits and Cambridge Spirits are worth considering. Cambridge Wine & Spirits, located on Alewife Brook Parkway, offers everyday free delivery for orders over $250, making it a convenient option for stocking up on beverages. Meanwhile, Cambridge Spirits on Broad Canal Way provides SMS discounts and an app for easy ordering, ensuring you can get your favourite drinks at a discounted price.

Cardullo's, a shop in Cambridge, is also mentioned in a review as having a wide range of products, including alcohol and rare candies, as well as a highly-rated sandwich section. While not exclusively an online option, their offering of various products and quick service might make it a convenient choice for those looking to purchase beer and other items simultaneously.

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