We stopped in here on a Thursday night. A fun, low key cover band was playing hits from bands such as The Outfield and The Cure. There was definitely a good vibe in the bar. It was crowded, but not ridiculously overfilled. We were able to order our beers and easily find a vacant table.
I love the look and ambiance of the bar.
Taps were pretty good. There was harpoon IPA, SAMs brick red, green monsta IPA from wachusett brewing, goose ale, and quite a few more. We ordered the green dragon home brew (summer ale). Â Three of those beers cost 17 bucks. The beers were disappointing. I felt Iike the Green Dragon Summer Ale was Coors Light in disguise.
Other than the bad beer choice (my fault, not theirs...although it was their brew) , we had a fun time. This is a good bar for tourists, but I could also see locals hanging out here too.
I honestly wasn't sure I was going to like Green Dragon. It's a weird mix between regulars and tourists, but that seemed okay.
I went on a Thursday night and the crowd wasn't overwhelming, which is a big plus. The music wasn't overly ear-thumping loud, so I'm already a big fan.
Service was meh. Took quite a while to get served and my order wasn't exactly right-but the bartender had already walked away by the time I noticed. Prices were reasonable for downtown Boston though!
Not a bad joint, but not overly exciting, so three stars.
We ended up in this bar twice on our recent trip to Boston, so we must've liked it well enough. Â The first night was a pretty busy Sunday as they had a decent live band playing covers that don't suck (Coldplay and Peter Bjorn & John, to name a couple). Â The second time was a weekday afternoon while we were following the Freedom Trail through the city.
Being the "birthplace of the revolution", it's only fitting that I review Green Dragon on the birthday of our nation. Â With just some pretty simple research (Yelp reviews, wikipedia), however, it's pretty easy to learn that this isn't the original site of the Green Dragon that our forefathers frequented. Â But it's nice to pretend. Â On our second visit, a tourist actually stuck his head in, snapped a photo, and walked back out. Â If he would have done his due diligence, he probably should have just enjoyed a beer here.
They do have some decent beers on tap. Â I enjoyed the Green Monsta IPA from Wachusett. Â Skip the clam chowder. Â It seemed housemade, but I think it had been sitting for a bit too long. Â Service was friendly on both of our visits.
I stopped in this evening for a burger which was excellent. Nice bakery roll and the onion rings were wicked good. Â Great atmosphere & live music while I was there. Good selection of draught beer and ale. They have daily specials also. Right on the Freedom Trail with folks in period costume dropping in for a drink. There was a British Grenadier at the bar when I was there. Really relaxed atmosphere. Good mix of locals and tourists.
Review Source:I really liked  the Green Dragon Tavern. I know it's touristy, but my boyfriend and I were tourists as well as huge fans of pubs, and this one looked pretty authentic and the menu looked good.
We went around 7 for dinner, and were seated within minutes - something that definitely surprised both of us. Our server came over quickly for our drink orders (they have a lot of great beers on draft - try out new ones!) and brought our drinks back just as quick.
While we were trying to figure out what we wanted, the table next to us received a plate of the curry fries that looked phenomenal. BF and I debated getting a plate to share (though let's face it - neither of us are good at sharing our food, especially something that looked so delicious) - but decided to ask if we could substitute our fries a small order of curry fries (doesn't hurt to ask, right?). I settled on the fish and chips and he ordered one of the burgers, and our waitress said she couldn't make that substitution for us, but WOULD bring a dish of the curry sauce for us to dip our fries in. We had multiple (way too many) beers, and the service was very quick.
My fish and chips was absolutely perfect - the fish was perfectly cooked and fried, and the addition of the curry sauce to the fries was out of this world. My boyfriend wasn't in love with his burger, unfortunately - especially after seeing the amazing looking lobster rolls delivered to the table next to us, but he said it was edible and he would still go back to the Green Dragon for another meal (though this time he would definitely get the lobster roll).
We stayed fairly late, and there was a band that was actually really good. I usually hate cover bands, but this band had talent and covered a huge variety of songs from all time periods (seriously - think Sinatra to Chris Brown and everywhere in between). It was a lot of fun and a very relaxed atmosphere. We'll definitely give it another shot during our next trip!
Ok, I know this place is a tourist destination, and what can I say, I am a tourist in Boston. Â So, I figured why not?
We stopped in for a drink after a long day of touring.  We ended up seating ourselves for drinks which was fine.  But the waitress  had the worst attitude.  She was unfriendly and looked very unhappy to be there.  Fine, I thought, she is having a bad day.  I asked her a few questions about the beer on tap, and got one word answers.  Ok...I ordered a bottle.  My girlfriend ordered sangria.  She came back with the drinks quickly, and proceeded to spill the red sangria all over me and my wallet.  There was no apology.  Instead she just threw napkins at me and walked away. Â
Now to be fair, we did not try the food, which looked and smelled like solid bar fare. Â And, I am well aware this review is based on the actions of one person, which is not necessarily fair, but when you work for a place you represent it. So smile.
Suck it Britain! This is where the Sons of Liberty met to plan the revolution! It's history, which is awesome that the business (more or less) is still here. We had great service, stopped in for a beer.
If you didn't know the significance behind it, it would be like any old pub with beer and bar food. I think they may have live music as well.
I'm not enthused. We sat at the bar on a quite Saturday afternoon and although they have a nice variety of flavored vodkas and a few guys in 1700's outfits running around, there is not much by way of friendliness or service. Also, this isn't at all the history Green Dragon. The original bar was torn down 200 years ago, and this one was rebuilt fairly recently in a different location. How is this history? The oldest bar in American, Bell in Hand, is right across this street. We'll check that out next, I think.
Review Source:Supposedly this place is old. Woopty-Do! When I got off of the train thing they have in Boston (is it a subway?), it was one of the first places that my friends and I saw. They had beer, which was the most important. Second, they had food.
Entered with the hope of food, beer, and the ability to watch some March Madness. Green Dragon provided it all. Our waitress was off the boat Irish (maybe Scottish) with a thick accent. We all ordered the clam chowder ($5). Thick and chunky just like how I love my women...
My buddy ordered the Redcoat wings ($8) which were decent and typical bar wings. Nothing that knocked your socks off, but good enough to quench the thirst of wings. I ordered the Fishermans Sandwich ($12) which is a fish sandwich basically on a really nice roll. It was actually a very good sandwich that I would definitely order again, especially for the price. Filled me up. My buddies ordered a burger ($9) and Steak Bomb Wrap ($13) with both being satisfied and full.
The problem came next when the band started playing. Hate live music when I'm trying to enjoy some beer, basketball, and friends.
Other than the band in the corner, Green Dragon filled our needs. They offered quite a few different beers on draft as well, which was nice. The place isn't something to run home about, but it's also not something to write to the owner telling him how much the place sucked. 3 stars. Dead middle.
Quit moaning. This is history. Or as much history as possible when the original place around the corner was torn down and they've just given the same name to this place instead. Because that's how it works in America. "This is George Washington's original axe, though we've replaced the head twice and the handle three times." But hey, this is the place (more or less) where the original Sons of Liberty met to organize the resistance to British rule. Paul Revere sat here (more or less) and drank beers while they conspired against King George.
Every so often, one of the locals who is dressed up in Colonial garb came in for a beer after their work day ended. Kinda weird seeing them checking their Blackberry for email. Does it buzz twice if it's by sea and once if it's by land? I should have asked. I'm sure no one's thought of that before.
So what did I do? I sat here and drank a beer. I also had an excellent lobster roll (did they have those back in 1770?) while I contemplated revolution. I decided against it.
The place was a bit loud and bordering on rowdy, even with the local tourist trade coming in. The door kept slamming but at least the entry way kept the freezing draft at bay.
Service was decent and the beer was cold and the food was great. I have only the one complaint about the crowds.
Found this place using my Find Craft Beer app. They had Harpoon, Boston Lager and Sam Adams Seasonal on tap, but nothing special. Also, the sign outside "Headquarters of the Revolution" leads you to believe that it's an historic bar. In reality, the Green Dragon which served as a meeting place for the Sons of Liberty was located elsewhere and the building was destroyed in the mid 19th century. The current Green Dragon wasn't opened until the nineties and shares nothing but a name with the historic pub. The dates for each proprietor are written above the bar, along with "building razed" and something about "relocating" or "reopening" 140 years later. But they got me in the door with a drink in hand before I realized this, so I guess the plan worked.
I was there last Thursday. There was live music, as there seemed to be at several bars in the area, but it was loud and not very good. The men's bathroom smelled like someone had emptied their bowels on the floor, but I didn't go inside the stall to investigate. I just held my breath and did the needful in the urinal.
I'll be in Boston several more times this year, but I'll be looking for a different watering hole. For a more authentic historical experience, pop over to the Warren Tavern in Charlestown.
1. This is a magnet for tourists, but if you go during off peak times and days, it's a good spot.
2. The tables by the window are priceless for tourist-watching, even during off peak times.
3. Good beer list; rather long menu.
4. Friendly service, but said service really gets bogged down during peak times.
5. If you love running into a gaggle of redcoats or Ben Franklin every so often, this is the spot for you!
I really liked this restaurant. I went there around dinner time on a random weekday and I was really impressed. The lobster roll was to die for but honestly, I'd go back just for a plateful of their buns. They were so good and fresh. Everyone in my party enjoyed the food and the atmosphere and service was very friendly. I have no complaints, other than the fact that when we went their beer delivery apparently was having problems so they were out of a few of their draft beers but I won't hold it against them.
Review Source:It would be rather cool if this were actually the historic Green Dragon Tavern that was "Headquarters of the American Revolution." However, that was on Union Street and was demolished in 1854. It's not clear whether there's any actual connection to that Tavern and this one, other than its laying claim to the earlier pub's name and reputation.
Is this another case, as with Samuel Adams Beer (founded in 1984 and having no direct connection at all with the beer-brewing revolutionary), where somebody's taking possession of a famous name and its customers erroneously think that it's the real thing?
For a guy who loves hole in the wall joints, this place is perfect. Â The entrance, while 300 yards from home, is cobble stone and has the feel of old Ireland. Â Once inside, its unpretentious, friendly and just not overdone which makes me feel right at home. Â The staff don't dote on you on you but take care of all your needs. Â A good place to blend in and meet locals. Â Also a good place from which to wander back home to the north end without incident. Â A weekly visit for sure. Â Haven't made it there for food yet.
Review Source:I don't know why it has bad reviews. We're here on vacation and got a discount thru Go Boston. We arrived about 730 and within an hour it was standing room only. The waitress was on top of things and my glass was never empty. Had the Paul Revere burger and it was ok.
The only thing keeping it from 5 is the noise. It's an old building so VERY loud. There were a lot of drunk people screaming their heads off so loud I couldn't talk to my wife across the table.
Was a little early for the 10pm comedy show at Improv Asylum, so based on a recommendation by an employee we stopped by the Green Dragon Inn. Â Although a little disappointed they didn't have Shipyard's pumpkin ale (it's out of season anyway), it was quickly dismissed as the raw oysters and selection of beer were more than ample, with the price being very reasonable. Â The waitress was very nice and attentive, the place was very cozy and overall it was a great experience. Â If I'm ever in Boston, I know where to stop for beer and oysters.
Review Source:A must stop when in the Quincy Market/Faneuil Hall area of Boston. Â Amazing bit of history. Â Read the plaques on the wall, check out some of the antiques, and have a pint of Sam Adams while you are at it, just for fun.
Great service. Â Always packed. Â The food is fine but nothing to write home about. Â Certainly well worth the stop.
If Ben Franklin can drink here, I think I can too.
This is a small but nice little bar in a very old Boston Building. I went on a Friday night and enjoyed the band and crowd. Nothing to rave about, but it's a pretty cool vibe inside and in a great area. I was annoyed there was a cover, but apparently that's the norm and not the exception.
I think that I've been avoiding giving a review for the Green Dragon because it is my favorite Thursday night bar in all of Boston (heavy statement, I know) and do not want it to taint it with a review that will not suffice to its utter awesomeness.
That being said...
Having gone to the Green Dragon on Thursdays for some years now, the band, staff and building is just an extension of my Thursday routine. Tucked away from the madness that can be Union Street, this bar offers everything from superb music to that 'Murrica feeling you just need every once in a while.
The Spitting Vinnies are the band staple on Thursdays and will play the "greats" from Johnny Cash, Doobie Brothers, Hootie to Tom Petty and everywhere in between. You'll never be disappointed when they are playing and even on those blistery, New England winter nights, you can grab a winter warmer at the bar and sit back and relax.
The bartenders are friendly and the crowd is always a mix of Union Street spillovers and the slightly older crowd that knew about the magic of this place long before my friends and I did. This often means some amusement on top of the already great atmosphere.
The food is slightly better than "bar food" and I would highly recommend any of the burgers. the cocktails are normally a little strong, but after walking into this place you will most likely only crave an American brewed lager or an Irish hard cider.
I've had amazing times at this bar, including after LSAT studying and just posting up at the bar with a hot chocolate, a bachelorette party, St. Patrick's Day and a million more memories.
The Green Dragon is by far, the perfect spot to grab a pint with your friends and enjoy your Thursday night.
Alright, alright. You're a historical land mark along the Freedom trail. You sell some kind a beer that you can't get through out the country, or even in most places in Boston. (As I'm not a beer drinker, I was only half listening to this little factoid.) But Green Dragon? You leave a lot to be desired.
While eating a rather late lunch, in a rather empty place, your service was as slow as molasses. It should NOT take 2.5 hours for a burger and a wrap. I know I said I needed more time to make a decision, but a half an hour? Sheesh!
Next time- I'll just take a picture out front and keep strolling.
The only reason we stumbled into this pub in the touristy area was because of the history and the fact that it had a decently-priced lobster roll advertised on the sandwich board out front.
As a bit of a history buff, I was in awe of the fact that the original members of Congress ate and drank there, and the pub's role in the Revolutionary War and Boston Tea Party. As a fan of food and good service, the incredibly tasty-looking lobster roll was sub par and practically flavourless, and our waitress may have picked the wrong day job with the attitude of a wet sock. The only saving grace was the Boston Cream Pie.
Come for the history, have a piece of pie and say bye-bye.
This is a review for afternoon, early evening, weekday dinner patrons.
Green Dragon Tavern is a little rustic, historical pub tucked away amongst lots of other bars.
The food is pretty good. Specifically, I like the chips and curry and beef stew.
However... Here's the kicker: The service is consistently horrible. I don't think anyone has ever been near the door to greet customers. The closest thing they have to a hostess is the wooden solider standing outside. Everyone just stands aimlessly at the entrance wondering where to go. We have walked out after waiting 10 minutes for someone to notice us. Be prepared to flag your waitress down for literally everything. I've never sat at the bar- that might be a better experience. The regular bartender always seems nice and attentive.
I'm giving this place 3 stars because I simply know what I'm getting myself in to when I come here. If you're looking for something reallllly laid back and aren't in any kind of rush, then it may not hurt to grab a drink, or maybe linger over a meal. It's best to go during warm days, when you can grab one of two tables that are placed directly next to the windows (they only seat two people). They're perfect for people-watching. Just a heads up that the con to sitting here are all the pictures you'll inevitably be in because of that damn wooden solider. Every tourist in the city wants a picture with this dude!
It's also worth noting that almost every time I've been here I see more historical reenactors dressed up in colonial garb than anywhere else in Boston. I think everyone and anyone who is a Boston tour guide goes here to drink. This is certainly an interesting addition to the cliental.
Come with low expectations and take the Tavern for what it's worth and you'll have a decent time.
This place is awful. I had not been to the Green Dragon in 8 years, but was pulled into by some random girl I met at another bar.
A former roommate of mine used to come to this place after he got cut off at other bars. Â That is typical of most of the people that go here, a bunch of drunks.
The Green Dragon has history and I am pretty sure you can see it on the floor. This place is dirty, smells like puke and is filled with unattractive people.
They do have live music with no cover. So, if you enjoy really bad live music, you might like this place.
I find it so hard to review bars because if I had a good time, I likely don't remember much about it. This is definitely the case with the Green Dragon.
Things I Do Remember: cheapish drinks, crowded in a good way, cheap or no cover, no line, responsive bartenders (they are responsible for Things I Don't Remember), and a great cover band that was better than any DJ or jukebox.
Things I Don't Remember: how bad the well vodka was (pretty bad, judging by how I felt the next morning), the other people in the crowd, the bathroom situation, or....pretty much anything else.
All in all, I had fun, I danced, I sang, I got drunk, and didn't spend a boatload of money...and really, what else can you ask for in a bar?
This is a great historical place to eat and have a drink. The OLDEST OLDEST tavern where Paul Revere and many other historical figures would come and discuss what they had to discuss. The history alone gives it 5 stars.
We had the Sheppards Pie and Shrimp/Lobster pasta. I would skip the pasta. It was a scam because there was like no lobster in it. The Sheppards pie was the best I've had. They also have a special drink with real cranberries floating atop. I love that drink! They also had a whole Main Lobster 1 1/4 lbs for only $14!!! Can't wait to come back to Boston and drink and dine here again!
As a resident of the North End with a BSC@DTX membership and a penchant for shortcuts down cobbled alleys, The Green Dragon muscles its way into my daily life by way of the wooden soldier statue out front and the incessant need of every touristy man, woman and child passing by to be illustriously photographed with him.
PSA: Do your 'bows fly low? Do they catch me on the go? Do you blindly stagger to and fro' -- as you photograph your beau? Yes, you. I dislike you GREATLY.
Anywho, upon occasion, I have subjected myself to this historic hellhole of a dive bar out of convenience and lack of desire to walk very far or wait very long for a table (read: extreme laziness). According to the menus, this place was established in 1654 and it doesn't look a day over 356 years old - or a day under for that matter.
I suppose if you were up for a mediocre lunch with the spirit of John Hancock or in the spirit of Paul Revere (1 if it's canned, 2 if it's salty) - this might not be such a terrible place to dine. However, if you're local and seeking to avoid a shoddy meal at a wobbly table, go elsewhere.
Freedoms I would have liked to enjoy @ TGD: A Freedom Trail Landmark:
1. The right to a glass of water
2. The right to warm food
3. The right to less batter and more fish
4. The right to not-so-soggy fries
5. The right to feel like my table was stable
I'll go with 3 stars since it's probable that I'm missing out on the requisite TT nostalgic swell of emotion; or possibly that's the feeling I'm mistaking as nausea?