304-306 Washington St, Brighton; (617) 789-4100 The Green Briar has become a major part of Boston’s strong Irish community. The food here, like so many pubs, is terrific; the bar, with its wide selection of Irish beers (including Murphy’s Stout and Woodpecker Cider), is neatly partitioned from the restaurant area.
Lunch is quite reasonably priced, and though many dinner entrees go well above ten dollars, there are still plenty of cheaper options. The best bargains of all are found on Monday through Wednesday evenings, when a two-for-one special is offered at just $10.95. Patrons have a choice of four or five dishes, such as barbecued baby back ribs, teriyaki beef, or broiled schrod.
There are lots of appetizers, from fried zucchini and mushrooms ($3.95) to individual pizzas ($4.95) with your choice of toppings. Burgers start at just $3.95 for a thick half-pounder on a bulkie roll with lettuce, tomato, pickle, and steak fries. Other luncheon and dinner specials are offered every weekday, plus an all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch from 10:30 to 2:30 for a reasonable $6.95.
This is a good time to mention that the Green Briar is home to a weekly open jam session on traditional Irish instruments. A good crowd gathers each Monday to bow the fiddle, or just listen in, from about 9 p.m. on. Unlike bands at many Irish bars, this music is not amplified, just simple and spellbinding. Late in the evening, the pub even brings out complimentary sandwiches for all. It makes for one of Mine’s favorite entertainment options.
Live music can also be heard at the Green Briar on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from 9 PM. to 1 AM. featuring many of Boston’s best Irish bands. The cover charge is $2-$5. Be sure to pick up a copy of The Local here, a free monthly magazine devoted to Irish music and the Boston pub scene. Open for dinner til 10 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.
