Olde Magoun’s Saloon

Description

Stepping into Olde Magoun’s Saloon feels a bit like entering your favorite uncle’s living room if your uncle happened to have a killer draft list and a penchant for sports and Irish charm. This spot has a way of making you instantly comfortable—at least that’s how I felt my first time there, waiting for a table while taking in the warmth of the dark wood and the friendly banter bouncing around the bar. Whatever corner of the world you’re coming from, this pub gives off major “you belong here” energy. There’s a curious blend of old-school Irish touches and contemporary American comfort that doesn’t feel overdone.

People rave about the craft beer and whiskey selection, but honestly, it’s the little things that stand out for me. The staff is brisk (some would call it “fast service,” I call it “gracious herding”), the sports are always on, and, unless you’re allergic to fun, the trivia nights can get surprisingly competitive. The menu is “diverse” in a way that doesn’t try too hard; it ranges from Irish sausages and bangers to wings so saucy you’ll need an extra napkin (trust me). The pub knows how to do comfort food right, dishing out everything from brunch classics to hearty late-night snacks. And if you ask for recommendations, someone’s always got an opinion—sometimes more than you bargained for. If you like people-watching, grab a booth and let the world stroll by.

Don’t come expecting pristine, silent white-linen dining. The vibe’s cozy, kind of trendy, but very much alive—especially when a game is on or someone starts up with live music. They’re super accommodating when it comes to accessibility, too. It’s the sort of place college students, friendly regulars, and newcomers can all have a good laugh over a pint. Whether you’re dining solo and watching the world go by, or rolling in with a group of friends, you won’t stick out like a sore thumb. And anyway, it’s hard not to feel a sense of camaraderie once you’ve shared a round of tall drinks with strangers-turned-friends.

Of course, not every plate is a masterpiece, and sometimes the crowd can get overwhelming. But I’d rather a spot with a little lively imperfection than a sterile chain any day. There’s enough good (and sometimes great) reviews and cheerful faces to tip the scales—most regulars are quick to forgive a wait or the occasional off night, especially if there’s a good trivia session or local band cranking out tunes. In a town where options abound, Olde Magoun’s keeps you coming back, mostly because what you see is what you get: strong pours, hearty meals, and a good time you don’t have to dress up for.

Key Features

• Expansive Craft Beer and Spirits Selection: If you’re a hophead or whiskey buff, this place is a bit of a playground—rotating taps, local brews, and a surprisingly deep whiskey list
• Diverse Pub Menu: Classic comfort food meets creative daily specials; brunch eggs benedict one minute, authentic Guinness beef stew the next
• Fast, Friendly Service: Staff who know how to hustle without rushing you out the door (bonus points for actually remembering your drink)
• Multiple TVs for Sports: I’ll admit I’ve watched playoff games on every screen here—no bad seat, no bad angle, just passionate fans and lively cheers
• Trivia and Live Events: Regular trivia nights fill up quick, and live performances bring a fun twist—not your typical bar band, either
• Accessibility for All: Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restroom (I’ve noticed how much this means to families and friends with mobility needs!)
• Late-Night Eats: Kitchen stays open late, perfect for post-event cravings and spontaneous food runs after midnight
• Bar Onsite: Central bar space where you can pull up a stool solo or with friends and strike up an unexpected conversation
• Accepts Multiple Payment Options: Credit/debit cards and NFC mobile payments, because who carries a wad of cash these days?
• Family-Friendly Accommodations: High-chairs and laid-back brunches—my cousin brought three toddlers and it went better than expected!
• Popular with Locals and Visitors: You’ll see everything from college students grabbing a pint to families in a booth—diverse crowd, zero pretension

Best Time to Visit

If you ask me (and you’re here, so I’ll assume you do), hitting up Olde Magoun’s Saloon at brunch time is a game-changer, especially on weekends. There’s this electric morning-after buzz in the air—think eggs benedict, boozy coffee, and laughter from the trivia crowd who maybe didn’t make it home the night before. For sports fans, game nights (especially playoff season) are a gold mine, but you’ll want to arrive early to stake out a prime spot. Weekday lunches tend to be quieter and a bit underrated—ideal for solo adventures or hunkering down with a burger when you need a midday escape.

Now, I have a slight obsession with autumn in New England, and the pub takes on a special charm when there’s a chill in the air and the city’s putting on its leaf-peeping show. Winter evenings are cozy as heck, especially with live music or a trivia battle lighting up the bar. Avoid Saturday late nights if big crowds aren’t your thing—the saloon can get raucous (read: lively, sometimes shoulder-to-shoulder), which for some is half the fun and for others is cue for a quieter dinner midweek.

Final pro tip? Trivia nights! The rivalry is fierce, the trash talk is lighthearted, and the drinks seem to flow just a little bit quicker.

How to Get There

Getting yourself to Olde Magoun’s is easy, but parking can be a little tricky if you’re not up for a mild round-the-block hunt. There’s paid parking on the street and a nearby lot if you’re patient (or very lucky). My go-to move: public transit. If you’re hopping off the T (that’s subway for out-of-towners), you’re looking at a short walk—nothing to fret about even if you’re not striding out in your best walking shoes. Or just call a rideshare and save the hassle; dropping right at the door leaves you ready to dive straight into a pint.

Cyclists, don’t worry: there’s somewhere to stash your wheels. And if you’re pushing a stroller or need accessible entry, the saloon’s got you covered with ramps and wide doorways—plus, the staff are usually quick to lend a hand if you need it.

Somerville locals wander in on foot, and honestly, that’s the best way to discover little neighborhood corners you might miss if you’re driving. Come winter, watch out for icy sidewalks—this is Boston-area weather, after all.

Tips for Visiting

1. Go off-peak for a more laid-back vibe. I know the place can be bustling during games and weekends, but weekday afternoons or later evening hours are seriously underrated. You get friendlier service, roomier tables, and a chance to chat with the bartenders about beer (they’ll give you the low-down on what’s new on tap).

2. Try the daily or weekly specials. Repeat visitors told me about the rotation of creative dishes, and they weren’t joking—one week you’re munching on Irish boxty, the next it’s a New England chowder showdown. The classics are great, but the specials often steal the show.

3. Don’t sleep on trivia nights or live music. Even if you’re flying solo, it’s easy to jump in and find a team or just cheer from the sidelines. If you’re hoping to snag a table for trivia, show up early—folks are not shy about camping out for the best seats.

4. Parking can eat up your patience. If you’re driving in, bring some quarters (old school, I know) for metered spots, but consider parking apps or a rideshare for a smoother landing—less time searching, more time sipping.

5. Bring the whole crew, or go it alone. I’ve visited solo and with groups, and the saloon never makes you feel out of place either way. There’s a welcoming energy whether you’re at the bar, tucking into a meal at a high-top, or wrangling the kids through brunch.

6. Let loose, but mind your manners. The crowd skews friendly—be ready for sports talk, new pals, and maybe a little friendly rivalry over a Guinness pour or Sunday football call.

7. Ask about beer flights. If

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