130 Brighton Ave. Allston; (617) 254-1331
Consistently voted one of the city’s best beer joints by every survey in creation, the Sunset does indeed offer an astounding selection of some 400 different brews over 75 of which are on tap. As you might guess, this includes some pretty far-fetched varieties, from France’s Jade Farmhouse organic beer to Old Crustacian Barley Ale from Oregon. Not all of these are cheap, of course; but there are plenty of special deals from week to week. And, as a friend of Mine’s raves, they also have beer literally by the yard, in special arm-length glasses.
Given the brisk booze business, you can expect reasonable prices on meals. The menu is nearly as varied as the beer list; you can go all night on apps, like homemade chili ($3.25) or a half-rack of barbecued ribs ($5.95). Or, go for a full meal, like North End Tortellini ($9.95) with chicken and mushrooms. A half-pound Hawaii Five-O burger comes topped with pineapple, mozzarella, and grilled ham for $5.50, one of a dozen such creations.
There are all kinds of salads and sandwiches, too, from a Shrimp and Tuna Barge to a classic Fluffernutter. Basil pesto chicken on a baguette is $6.50, served with curly fries. Larger, more serious entrees steaks, seafood, fajitas rise above Mine’s $10 limit, but are certainly filling.
It all happens in a lively, bustling atmosphere, neon brewery signs blazing through the dim lighting; the walls are covered from floor to ceiling with beer-related paraphernalia, the music cooks, and the place is usually crowded. Food is served until 1 am. nightly, making the Sunset a popular stop after the clubs.
