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Boston Top Shelf Review: Russell House Tavern

Russell House
(credit: russellhousecambridge.com)

14 JFK Street (Brattle Street)
Cambridge, MA  02138
(617) 500-3055
www.russellhousecambridge.com    

Where would Paul Revere stop off for a drink on his glorious ride if it was held tonight? The Russell House Tavern is that stop off.  The tavern serves up a list of beverages and cocktails as hearty and extensive as the tavern's name sake past. 

Nestled in the heart of Harvard Square, this bar has an extensive collection of scotch, bourbon and cordials.  This is the drink aficionado's choice for old school classics with a bite. 

Ingredients are simple including Allspice Dram, Ginger Beer and Angostura.  The bar staff wants to make you a "Man's" cocktail with some history to it.  They are stern but with some real class ingrained into their extensive skills. 

The wine list is subtle and focuses on native West Coast selections from California and Washington.  Beer selections are also offered with some substance to it.  There are Cask, Cider, cork and cage options and large 22 ounce bottles.  Even the ales in this place seem historic revolution hailing from NY, VT, PA and MA. 

The rustic essence of a New England Inn twisted with a modern clubhouse feel inside, you will sink into the buttoned leather booths and bar stools.  The crowd consists of intellectuals from the Ivy League, tourists in the know and surrounding town regulars. 

So, if you are doing a late night ride and need to fuel up, stop here (just not too late; they close at midnight).  You will end up spreading the word.

Shawn Sixx is a producer for CBS Radio Boston's WZLX. He is also a contributing writer for AMP Magazine and Ryan's Smashing Life.
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