Two Boston speakeasies named among North America’s best bars for 2026
Boston is serving up some seriously good cocktails, according to a ranking of best bars on the continent.
On Tuesday, North America's 50 Best Bars 2026 revealed the extended list of bars ranked at No. 51-100 . The extended list was the result of the votes cast by the voting Academy, which comprises more than 300 independent cocktail experts, renowned bartenders, educators and drinks writers from across the region.
The two Boston speakeasies that made the final cut were The Wig Shop (No. 86) in Downtown and Hecate (No. 88) in Back Bay.
Those looking to get a cocktail should not be deterred by the mannequin heads staring out of The Wig Shop's front window. The speakeasy, located at 27 Temple Place, is a full-fledged bar with swigs, sips and snacks.
"The Wig Shop may have served a former life as a spot for hair pieces and costumes for more than 50 years, but it received a new lease of life as a hidden, fun-fueled speakeasy in 2023," 50 Best wrote of the bar. "Expect glitzy interiors and a joyfully exuberant food and drink offering."
The 21-plus establishment offers its own takes on classic cocktails, such as the Rise n' Grind (Bacardi, rum, Borghetti Cold Brew, cinnamon-dem whipped cream) and Easy-Bake Coven (Glendalough Gin, butternut coconut orgeat, passion fruit lime, falernum, cilantro and Thai chili oil).
The Wig Shop is first-come, first-served and is open daily from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
The Nightmarch cocktail from Hecate in Boston, Massachusetts.Birch Thomas
Named after the Greek goddess, Hecate is located underneath Krasi in Back Bay. The bar's menu was crafted by beverage director Lou Charbonneau, who drew inspiration from spice markets and his international travels.
"Housing just 24 seats, the speakeasy leans into all things mystical through a fantastical drinks list delivered with theatrical presentations that feel fitting to its surrounds," 50 Best wrote of Hecate.
The bar's menu changes twice a year and is currently on Volume 5. The most popular cocktail on the menu is Snake Oil, which is made with Harridan vodka, gin, eucalyptus, buckwheat, cedar smoke and tobacco bitters.
In addition to making the extended 50 Best list, Hecate has been recognized among the "World 50 Best Discovery Bars" and the "Top 500 Bars" globally.
Hecate is also first-come, first-served and can be found in Public Alley 443 in Back Bay. The speakeasy is open 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
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