When you first approach the building that houses this subterranean restaurant, it’s easy to mistake it for any other South End apartment complex. Only a brass sign adhered to the brick wall and the presence of a doorman hint that there is more to this place than meets the eye. You’d never guess that, concealed inside, is one of the coolest eateries in Boston.
Wink & Nod draws inspiration from the 1920s, specifically the speakeasy.
Google Maps That’s the origin of the establishment’s name and, once you descend underground, the décor reflects the atmosphere of the Roaring Twenties.
The interior features pressed tin ceiling, moody hues, and dark nooks - perfect for a romantic date.
FourSquare/John L.
Prohibition-era drinkers would have lost their minds for a bar like this one, not to mention the menu of craft cocktails prepared by mixologists.
Tripadvisor/management
Cocktails start at $12 and all the cordials, juices, and infusions here are made on-site and from scratch.
Facebook/Wink & Nod Indulge in a Heat Miser, which combines Vida Mezcal (an organic, hand-crafted, twice distilled liquor) with sweet orgeat syrup, balanced by mole bitters and seared Padron pepper.
The Heat Miser is one of the seasonal cocktails - there are only three permanent drinks on the menu.
Facebook/Wink & Nod This includes the $15 Thank God It’s Islay featuring chocolate notes and a drink for $100 called the Billionaire Bijou! The latter uses Nolet’s Reserve gin, which gains its high value through the abundant use of saffron.
Like your cocktails fun and funky? Then stop by for Tiki Time on Mondays.
Facebook/Wink & Nod
Scotch aficionados are welcome to join the Scotch Club here, which provides access to tastings and special, Scotch-themed events.
Facebook/Wink & Nod
You’ll want to offset your alcohol with some food.
Facebook/Wink & Nod
The culinary incubator program at Wink & Nod sets it apart from other restaurants. This means that rising chefs take over the kitchen for a six-month tenure before moving on.
Facebook/Wink & Nod
In the past, Wink & Nod has been an Indonesian restaurant.
Facebook/Wink & Nod
Currently, Chef Aaron Lhamon is in charge, preparing tapas from Spain and the Basque Country.
FourSquare/Lea V.
Despite the continually-changing menu, the standard of the food and beautiful plating endures.
Facebook/Wink & Nod
Wink & Nod proves that, when it comes to restaurants, windows are an overrated amenity! This underground space offers all the style and sophistication you could wish for.
Google Maps
That’s the origin of the establishment’s name and, once you descend underground, the décor reflects the atmosphere of the Roaring Twenties.
FourSquare/John L.
Tripadvisor/management
Facebook/Wink & Nod
Indulge in a Heat Miser, which combines Vida Mezcal (an organic, hand-crafted, twice distilled liquor) with sweet orgeat syrup, balanced by mole bitters and seared Padron pepper.
This includes the $15 Thank God It’s Islay featuring chocolate notes and a drink for $100 called the Billionaire Bijou! The latter uses Nolet’s Reserve gin, which gains its high value through the abundant use of saffron.
FourSquare/Lea V.
Head to 3 Appleton Street in Boston to see for yourself or learn more about Wink & Nod here. (Reservations recommended.)
If you’re a fan of speakeasy-inspired spots, be sure to check out Carrie Nation as well.
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