Best of Boston

Located in a former whaling captain’s house, this bistro’s bar earns top honors for versatility. Begin with the aptly named “startini” (citrus vodka, Cointreau, lime juice, pomegranate, and prosecco) or another creative cocktail. The singlemalt scotch and bourbon selections are impressive, while wines by the glass cover a lot of terroir in price, varietal, and geography. Then there’s the atmosphere, always lively without being obnoxious: Guests can choose between a seat at the bar, a banquette, or the porch, although the Adirondack chairs on the lawn beckon on balmy nights.