Try It: Neighborhood Hangouts

14 Harvard St, Brookline Village, MA 02445 (map)

Don't worry, you haven't had too much Irish whiskey: Those are, indeed, gigantic bunnies painted all over the walls. And there's plenty more to love at Brookline Village's beloved Irish pub, including a hearty fish and chips (charmingly wrapped in today's newspaper) and a dizzying performance lineup including open mic, quiz night and jazz sextets. Musicians squeeze in the snug stage, somehow.

433 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA 02116 (map)

The South End is an embarrassment of gastronomic riches. However, when townies need a break from the brasserie-tapas-lounge crawl, this quirky, gay-friendly, yet divey, Italian joint heals what ails you. Homey pasta and pizza, fist-sized meatballs and the inexplicably tasty "Italian nachos" meet a late-night bar crowd, stilettos dangling from the ceiling and a charming dose of taxidermy.

378 Centre St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 (map)

What this Jamaica Plain pub lacks in size, it makes up for in authenticity and a gregarious effusion of local, creative, beer-fueled energy. If you're looking for TVs or pinball machines, look elsewhere: The bar and its regulars are diversion enough (OK, plus the mesmerizing fish tank). Get a perfectly poured stout, chat up friends and kick back to a live Irish session. Pub meets pup with a dog-friendly policy.

738 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139 (map)

One part Central square denizens, one part gaming (golf games and pinball machines that haven't budged in decades), and one gloriously greasy burger: Thus is the Cantab. The unabashedly dark bar is a notoriously hidden gem for live acts of all ilk--blues, jazz, funk, bluegrass, singer-songerwriter. Dip downstairs for poetry slams and bohemian acts. Luxuriate in the anachronistically laidback vibe.

247 Elm St, Somerville, MA 02144 (map)

Think of the Burren as the quintessential Irish pub among all the Irish pubs of Somerville. Note the regulars pinting it up at noon, enormous platters of shepherd's pie and rashers for those who dare and live musicians who jam through lushly arranged Irish ditties. It makes no apologies for channeling the energy of Eire.