backbar

This is such a great out of the way place right in Union Square.  It is connected to Journeyman.

It can get a bit loud, but it is fun energy, creative seating.  They offer a couple of thoughtful wines by the glass and some food to nibble on.

I like that this place clearly put a lot of thought into creating a customer experience that is set apart from other recent craft cocktail bars in the area (Saloon, Drink, Brick & Mortar, etc.). Instead of your standard counter & bar stools surrounded by empty space or a few tables for those lucky enough to grab them, Backbar has cozy little nooks of booths and low stools so that just about everyone in the place can sit. If you're standing, it's probably because you're waiting for a seat to open up. The drinks are delicious and innovative with specials that rotate daily. You can also e-mail the bar to make a reservation on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights with the option to order a custom punch bowl (great option for group celebrations).

I REALLY like backbar.  Here's why:
1) It's like Saloon, except it hasn't been discovered by all the people yet.
2) It's in Union Sq, which I think will prevent it from getting so god-awfully busy like Saloon.
3) It's a casual stroll from my house (about 1.5 miles)...but there's also street parking in the neighborhood for Somerville residents and metered parking in front of the Independent.
4) The bartenders are excellent.  I asked for a bourbon-based drink, and they brought me a cocktail that is normally made with scotch...so they coated the glass with scotch so that I'd get the smokey smell, but made the drink with bourbon so that it would actually be delicious.  ;-)  It was great!
5) They have interesting food items on the menu.

Cons
1) Currently my one major con was that I ordered the veggie platter with my drinks because I was trying to be relatively healthy.... so I was expecting some veggies, maybe some olives, maybe an interesting dip... and I got sort of a melon salad and a carrot panna cotta.  Panna cotta isn't that healthy, guys.  It was kind of disappointing and I didn't finish it.  The pig & fig dip was delicious, although slightly overpowering if it was something I'd ordered just for myself.  Probably better to share among 2-3 people so you have a little taste and aren't just pounding fig paste.
2) The tables are sort of an awkward height at the back of the bar... you have the long bench, but some of the tables are REALLY low and you don't really know how to sit... can I lean forward and put my elbows on the table?  I don't know, that looks/feels uncomfortable, too....

Overall, I realllllly like backbar.  I think it's classy, fun for small groups (like a girl's night or a date), and the bartenders are nice and want you to have a good experience.  Keep in mind--it's a little pricey.  My date and I each had 2 drinks and shared 2 appetizers and spent about $80.