Durty Nelly's image

Durty Nelly's

Bar Pub

Cozy, 2-story Irish pub offering draft beer, bar fare & regular live music amid traditional decor. People often mention bartender, Boston, great, good, drinks, friendly, service, Great, dive, drink,


Address

108 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109

Website

www.durtynellysboston.com

Contact

(617) 742-2090

Price rating

$ $$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.00 (397 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 11 AM to 2 AM
  • Friday: 11 AM to 2 AM
  • Saturday: 11 AM to 2 AM
  • Sunday: (Easter), 11 AM to 2 AM, Hours might differ
  • Monday: 11 AM to 2 AM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM to 2 AM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM to 2 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: bartender (23) Boston (23) great (18) good (17) drinks (15) friendly (14) service (13) Great (13) dive (12) drink (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 1/5 Emily Z. 2 years ago on Google
    My sister and I went to this bar upon recommendation. If I could give it a 0/5 I would. I am a server and my sister is a bartender. So we know about the service industry. Here, there was a shortage of everything, but mostly respect. We got to the bar, ordered and received our drinks. At the moment in which we decided to go to the restroom, there were no other women in the bar so we saw best that we accompany each other. While we were in the restroom, a group of boys arrived at the bar. Once we returned to our seats the bartender told us that we couldn’t go into the restroom together (understandable for men, not so much for women). But we apologized and assured the bartender that we just wouldn’t use the restroom again. Then, one of the boys at the bar threw ice at my sister. The bartender did nothing, let him stay. Another patron was the one to say something to the guy that threw the ice. Again, the bartender saw everything. My sister and I decided to leave. It is NOT okay to treat women or ANYONE like this. When I called the establishment my call was answered by the same bartender who claimed he had already “spoken” to these boys, and immediately hung up on me - and didn’t answer the other times I called to discuss this issue. I can’t believe that people still act like this and I truly can’t fathom the fact that nothing was addressed in that moment. This entire experience was absolutely disappointing and disgusting.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Sam F. 1 year ago on Google
    Waited 45 minutes on St paddy's day for this lol. Couldn't have been more than 20 people. And got kicked out of the halfway interesting upstairs bc we bought a drink downstairs. They tried to embarass us by stopping the music and telling all 10 of us to leave. Very confusing experience. Not worth the $8 buds
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 John M. 2 years ago on Google
    Came for a pint. Left before getting to order. Bartender sitting outside the bar talking with friends. Greeted is when we came in. But simply side up and continued his conversation with his buddies. After a movie and a half of waiting for him to walk to us, we left. Not to mention two tattered, torn, faded Irish flags out front should have been a warning
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jaclyn B. 2 years ago on Google
    We were looking for a comfortable place to have a few drinks (running away from the touristy crowded spots on the other side of the block) and this place looked welcoming. Came in and was mildly shocked and pleased at how small this place was. Bartender wasn't anything special, but we got our drinks, and he was pleasant. Is wasn't loud or quiet, it was perfect. One of the regulars was wearing a shirt I thought was cool, so we ended up having a great conversation about the origins of the ethnicities in Boston and what his favorite places were. Incredibly great dude. Will come here again.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Talie D. 1 year ago on Google
    Really actually great bar. Lovely music, nice setting and we thought the bar maid Roisin was lovely but when it came to paying she got all weird and kicked off about us splitting the payment. We were happy to take our time but she kicked off and then overcharged me. When I called out the overcharge she huffed and puffed and gave me my refund via cash (minus the tax already paid....) Avoid if you're a tourist
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Gus M. 4 years ago on Google
    2 shots of Jameson and a can of Molson for $22.75!!?? Boston Weak.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Mia J. 2 years ago on Google
    Well, I tried to go here. The door was open but the bouncer was blocking it. I asked, “can we come in here?” and he said, “it’s a door isn’t it?” and I thought he was joking and being cheeky but he was being completely rude. He asked for my ID then turned around and ignored me. So I left. Not sure what his problem was or why he didn’t want my money but that was a terrible experience.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Tiffiny C. 4 years ago on Google
    This establishment is a complete joke. Ruined my evening in Boston. They hate tourists. They over charged us immensely. I couldn't believe it. Those 5 star reviews must come from locals only. Massholes!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Karen B. 1 year ago on Google
    Horrible service! Read previous reviews. Not uncommon pattern. A great Boston dive bar?? Doesn’t mean you get to bad service with a $$ price. Keep walking! Trust the reviews.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Tony S. 4 years ago on Google
    Rude employees, in particular the door man who refused to allow us sit in the only available space because his phone was charging there. We eventually got a corner and used a stool for a table, he had a problem with this too as "he didn't feel like cleaning it up later" one of the rudest employees I have ever met. The bar itself is great and music was great but your rude employees create and hostile environment that ruins the experience
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 sue b. 4 years ago on Google
    We went to this bar while visiting home in Vermont for Thanksgiving. The bartender was standoffish, this was our first sign this wasn't going to be a good fit for us.. we all (4 of us) ordered the same drink, vodka and cranberry... The cranberry juice tasted moldy and there was no vodka in it... We asked for a menu and was told the kitchen was closed..this was on a Monday night at 4pm...we decided to leave and I asked how much we owed..he said 43.00$ I then asked how much were our drinks and he said somewhere Around 9 or 10$..he wasn't sure... We left and would not recommend this place to anyone..Over priced, under served, and poor service!! Dirty Nelly's holds up to its name!!!!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lee C. 10 months ago on Google
    Rule number 1: If a dive bar is packed with customers go find another place. I was in Boston for first time and so glad we stumbled upon Durty Nelly’s. It was the only place in my two day stay where I wasn’t treated like a tourist. Rule number 2: If you have special service requirements stay away from Nelly’s they sniff you out like a rat. Rule number 3: If you are a normal human not uptight about the disinterested expression on your bartender’s face or other little unnecessary perks you’re gonna love this place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Stacy F. 4 years ago on Google
    Came in for a drink after dinner on Hanover and was turned away. Rude staff. Go elsewhere.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tim R. 4 years ago on Google
    Authentic Boston bar. No tourists. Sports. Surly bartender. Cold drinks on a cold day. My new favorite.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 philip s. 4 years ago on Google
    Tourists are not welcome. No passport, no drinks even if we are both 29 and 30. We are both Canadien and our wallet was full of Canadien ID… not enough.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sabrina T. 2 years ago on Google
    This small little bar is a great place to get a Guinness and a good story from a local. The staff was quick and friendly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Nicole B. 4 years ago on Google
    Bouncer was incredibly rude. Don’t carry our Canadian passports with us and was not allowed in with drivers license.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Jessica P. 2 years ago on Google
    Cute bar. Staff was not friendly. Friends and I came for a few drinks but the bartender told us they didn't want us there and told us to leave. We left because we are adults and didn't want to make a scene, none of us were drunk or rude, it was the most ridiculous experience. Don't plan on returning soon. Keep your expectations for staff low.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 levi c. 1 year ago on Google
    Came here on New Years, what an incredible crew working. Vibes were great, very cozy. Staff is incredible & hard working. Whoever the bouncers/bartenders were seriously deserve a big thank you. You guys rock!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris S. 1 year ago on Google
    4 days visiting Boston and this was the only bar we visited more than once. My guy bartending, Porphyrius, was awesome. He did a great job making us feel at home and on a day like July 4th where it could get rowdy, kept the patrons in check. Really enjoyed our visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Halim S. 3 years ago on Google
    Always great service, friendly people , love the drinks . 🔥🔥🔥
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Alexandra J. 5 years ago on Google
    Don't get a double shot. Absolute rip. Tourists from Britain... won't come back
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Will R. 4 years ago on Google
    Love this place. Can be low key or pretty raucous (especially if there is a hockey game). The staff and regulars are super friendly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joseph D. 5 years ago on Google
    A personal favourite and a must anytime I'm in Boston. Guinness is by far the best in Boston. The bar staff are always friendly and up for a chat or join you for a pint. Location is great with good clientele and passing trade. However don't expect too much in the way of food but if you've come for food you're in the wrong bar. Needs more dinosaurs.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J B. 6 years ago on Google
    Yesterday, a friend and I traveled about 90 minutes for a trip to a consulate office. After we were done we happened to park in front of Durty Nelly's. I suggested we pop in Nelly's for a quick beer. I was met with protests because it was a little early, but eventually she caved. I'm glad we went in. We were met with a smiling face by bartender Graham (or perhaps, Graeme). He had everything one needs to be an awesome barkeep. He was funny, smart, fast, filled with knowledge about local lore, suggestions about nearby places and just an overall nice guy. I hope he actually sees this review because he had as much fun with us as we did with him. I kept eyeing him trying to not giggle at our antics. Thanks Graham! We'll be back. Oh, and the beer was good. His suggestion :)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joshua P. 5 years ago on Google
    Stumbled upon Durty Nelly's seven years ago and keep coming back. Very relaxed atmosphere right in Haymarket. Can grab some fresh fruit with a beer while chatting with the friendly staff.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kris H. 2 years ago on Google
    Simple, casual, and straight forward. I love a good old tavern with no bells and whistles, just good music, good drinks, good laughs. Will be back

  • 5/5 E L. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is definitely one of the most pleasant place in the neighborhood. Every time I go there I am greatly pleased. They hold their high standard service and the topmost level of dishes they give. You definitely will enjoy this this place. Very recommended.

  • 5/5 Ben S. 2 years ago on Google
    Great bar off the beaten path. Bartender was great! 11/1/21

  • 1/5 Devin S. 2 years ago on Google
    Never written a review in my life but had to change it to let the bartender know how much of a **** he is. Been in 3x and always miserable for no reason like he’s looking to start a fight. Such is life when you’re an alcoholic and can’t stop drinking on the job.

  • 5/5 Jeremiah R. 2 years ago on Google
    Great little spot, obviously it's right after covid and will be busier later as we all start to get out more. But me and my family ate dinner with Great attentive service on the deck. Absolutely a great night! Good drinks, great food!

  • 5/5 Hana L. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely loved Chris and Sean, such a pleasure. If you’re looking for a dive bar that reminds you of home, this is the one. If you’re FD or PD make sure to bring a patch, this is the only one we’ve found that places them. Great service and good crowd.

  • 1/5 Adam 6 months ago on Google
    Came in and bartender asked how we were doing and I said a little drunk and having a good time, starting conversation. He turned us away and said go rain on someone else’s parade 😂, we were all sober, guy just had a bone to pick. Clown

  • 1/5 Brent B. 1 year ago on Google
    I went to Durty Nelly’s with some coworkers to experience an authentic Boston dive bar. The only thing authentic about the place was how incredibly rude the staff was. My coworker was denied entry because she couldn’t find her ID. She’s 39!!! We even showed them her birthday on Facebook and they didn’t care. I will forever take my business elsewhere. Nothing is worse than being shown that level of disrespect. Forever and always anyone who asks… “f.d.n’s”

  • 5/5 Mark C. 2 years ago on Google
    Came all the way from Seattle to return to Durty Nellies. Great bartender, Chris. Very entertaining - Kevin and Kim were a hot. We will be back!

  • 4/5 Rick C. 1 year ago on Google
    Great bar. Stoped by at perfect time. Not fancy but got the job done! Thanks, hope to see you again.

  • 5/5 Chad M. 1 year ago on Google
    Best hole in the wall there is in Boston. If you’re able to write a paragraph on a Google review, you have ill motives. If you want the bartenders to be nice, don’t be rude. Great people and atmosphere.

  • 1/5 Juliana P. 1 year ago on Google
    It’s a very small place to have drinks and uncomfortable. No food offered, only alcoholic beverages. There are two floors and it’s like in a building with apartments around. Staff seems nice but second floor bartender seems like he doesn’t want to be there so he’s annoyed when you don’t know what to order, ask him about it or talk to him. My husband and I had only a drink and left right away. Off atmosphere.

  • 5/5 sean w. 1 year ago on Google
    Wednesdays, Colm O'Brien with the live Irish folk music. Well worth the visit, and Colm's been playing there for years and years now. Otherwise, it's just a small dive bar with the coolest back entry in Boston. Nestled by the North End

  • 5/5 Samantha A. 1 year ago on Google
    Hands down the best bar in Boston!! Good beers, good vibes, good tunes, better bartender. If you’re a fan of finding the local watering hole in each city, this is your spot! Will be a staple every time we come to Boston.

  • 1/5 Julie 1 year ago on Google
    I absolutely hate leaving a negative review but I have to. My friend and I were visiting Boston from Florida on Halloween weekend and we popped into this place because they looked like they had a good crowd and it looked the the perfect hole in the wall. We approached the bar and received nothing but attitude. They were not interested in serving us at all. In fact they literally said to us that they were too busy. We got the feeling that they only cater to the locals. Upon seeing the other reviews I think we were right. If you are an out of towner don't bother with this place. RUDE!!

  • 5/5 Gretchen C. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice “dive bar”. It’s clean comfortable staff and locals are friendly. The bartender was attentive and a pleasure to chat with. I would have no problem stopping by with friends or when I’m traveling solo.

  • 5/5 Tanner T. 1 year ago on Google
    Solid dive bar! Staff was friendly and crowd was good when we were there. Didn't check out the other level, but It seems the crowd that hangs out here is fun to be around.

  • 5/5 shari s. 1 year ago on Google
    Small, smells like old beer, 80's music, "Porfirius" was a wonderful bartender. Love the place.

  • 4/5 Sarah O. 6 months ago on Google
    My experience at this bar was absolutely phenomenal. The atmosphere is trendy and vibrant, creating the perfect environment for a night of fun. The bartenders are not only skilled but also personable, adding to the overall enjoyment. The drink menu is a masterpiece, offering a diverse range of options that showcase creativity and expertise. Each cocktail is a work of art, and the flavors are exceptional. The bar's commitment to providing an exceptional experience is evident in every aspect. I left with a smile on my face and a strong desire to return for more fantastic drinks.

  • 5/5 Lydia R. 5 months ago on Google
    One of the best places we went to for a drink whilst in Boston. Cheapest prices we found as well! The bartender was friendly and they have outdoor seating which was tucked away off of the busy street. Really enjoyed this bar.

  • 1/5 Steve 7 months ago on Google
    These people have not grown out of high school. When I turned in my résumé, asking to be a bartender for five times it was the exact same thing. Saying how they’re not hiring and how one of the other bars that they own is hiring I would have any of my resumes and applications there. It was literally the same thing. After interviews and applications and not getting a job I started to get flustered and wanted to know why I didn’t get the job. I contacted the district manager Stewart asking why I didn’t get the job no response so I went into the other bar Hennessey’s asking why I didn’t get the job and what I can do to be better. I was not being arrogant or anything I was just wanting to know why so I can improve myself and be better at it if there was something I did wrong. The next day I went back to this bar and one of the bartenders there confronted me acting like I was a narcissistic person and that what I did and said was arrogant and rude and that I was weird trying to get information and they said that everyone around here knows everyone and my response was so this is high school? They got flustered with me and said that I am not allowed back and when asking for a glass of water before leaving the guy said they don't serve that here while pointing the exit saying to leave and my response was good I don’t need to go to a bar full of high school drama. I will not return any of these bars, and I also do not live in Boston anymore and I’m glad I don’t. I went to New York and have had way better results. They don't call these people Mass holes for nothing.

  • 5/5 Sydney H. 4 years ago on Google
    The perfect no-frills dive bar. Always come here after work, before and after games at the garden, and a pit stop on nights out. Love all the bartenders too!

  • 5/5 Eileen O. 4 years ago on Google
    Best dive bar. Where everybody knows your name.

  • 5/5 randall s. 4 years ago on Google
    awesome local Irish bar right on the waterfront. great drinks, homey atmosphere, great bar service, and good people.

  • 5/5 Ridge V. 4 years ago on Google
    This site is my preferable place. Of all restaurants I know I prefere it most. I always suggests to my friends to go to visit this restaurant. everytime I want to go to a special dinner, this place comes right away to my head. superb and many types of food and a rich cuisine.well mannered crew, and agreeable ambience. In addition to that, the tariff is decent. I praise this spot with great pleasure.

  • 5/5 Kyle S. 5 years ago on Google
    Great place. Love the bartender and people. Good times

  • 5/5 Mike D. 3 years ago on Google
    Great off the beaten path bar

  • 1/5 Sarah J. 4 years ago on Google
    This used to be a really awesome place with friendly bar staff, but I’m not sure when that changed. Visited recently after not having been down town in a while and it’s pretty sad and a little bit embarrassing how it’s changed.

  • 5/5 Maria L. 3 years ago on Google
    A very nice and cozy Irish bar with friendly service and moderately priced drinks. Love local IPA on tap! Would love to come back for more.

  • 5/5 David S. 3 years ago on Google
    The best dive bar. I always have fun there

  • 1/5 Richard C. 3 years ago on Google
    Good local spot but if you're not a local they make you buy food to drink when nobody else does

  • 1/5 Shivam M. 3 years ago on Google
    Visited the bar and asked If I can take a seat, the man just said “hmm” and looked at me angrily. Sat at the bar and asked for a drink, nobody from the bar area responded. I thought they are serving other customers. Asked if I can get the menu, I was asked to wait and the bartender stood on the other corner of the bar for 10 minutes even when he was free. He literally cleaned the same spot twice and stood there. I’m not sure if it was because of my race or what, but extremely strange behaviour. Had to leave.

  • 5/5 mary b. 3 years ago on Google
    Great service!! Very small and personable place! Love their logo!

  • 5/5 sean m. 3 years ago on Google
    Best dive bar in Boston.

  • 5/5 Shelley R. 3 years ago on Google
    Best little dive bar in Boston. This year the garden patio outback is amazing. Let's hope they have it again next year.

  • 4/5 Liana W. 3 years ago on Google
    It was great

  • 5/5 Eduardo G. 3 years ago on Google
    The menu and service were above my expectations. We really loved the environment of this restaurant. Fantastic spot to take the family out for lunch.

  • 5/5 Joseph M. 4 years ago on Google
    Smallest pub ever

  • 5/5 Trey 2 years ago on Google
    Great bar. Was visiting from Florida with my cousin. The bartender was top notch. And the locals were all very friendly. Wonderful, laid back vibe. I recommend this to anyone visiting Boston.

  • 5/5 Bob C. 4 years ago on Google
    I felt like I was in the one in Ireland.

  • 5/5 Mickel M. 4 years ago on Google
    From what my friends said the next morning, I really enjoyed this bar.

  • 5/5 Chris J. 4 years ago on Google
    Perfect spot to sit and sip. Great warm local vibe.

  • 5/5 Brent W. 4 years ago on Google
    Don’t miss this place

  • 5/5 Stephen J. 4 years ago on Google
    I love this place. Come here, drink, be merry.

  • 3/5 Lauren R. 4 years ago on Google
    I was in the area and didn't want to spend a lot of money on lunch. I picked out Dirty Kelly's because of the very reasonable menu listed on their website. I walked over and discovered that they had a truncated menu with 4 of the 8 things listed online (didn't find out why, but confirmed that there weren't additional options). They didn't have wings on this menu which is what I wanted so I left.

  • 5/5 James G. 4 years ago on Google
    Love it. Great spot for locals in an area which is usually a sea of tourists

  • 5/5 MaryAnn S. 4 years ago on Google
    Best bar out of the historic bunch in this area. Small, authentic, friendly. Good beer, awesome atmosphere.

  • 5/5 David C. 4 years ago on Google
    Classic Boston Irish pub! Come on a Saturday and watch the Haymarket crowds!

  • 5/5 Paul L. 4 years ago on Google
    Really fun spot!

  • 5/5 Amy H. 4 years ago on Google
    Loved it.

  • 2/5 Jesse Y. 4 years ago on Google
    Taken. Overpriced if that was even the actual price Not rude but not friendly either

  • 5/5 Cynthia M. 5 years ago on Google
    We LOVE this place a must visit if your in Boston

  • 5/5 LeeAnna M. 2 years ago on Google
    Our second time in Boston and our second time at Durty Nelly’s. Exactly what you expect from an Irish pub. Good drinks, good convos, no fuss. We also enjoyed live Irish musician this time. He plays every Wednesday night.


Call (617) 742-2090 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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