As the name implies, Boston’s Seaport district was once filled with docks crowded with ships from around the world. Today, the Seaport is bustling with some of the city’s best places to eat, drink, and hangout, whether you’re a local Bostonian or a visitor. It’s a transformation worthy of a toast, and Cisco Brewers’ popup Beer Garden was the place to raise your glass this summer and fall.
The Nantucket-based brewery, winery, and distillery brought its island vibe to the Seaport, transforming a parking area on Seaport Boulevard into a lively music and party venue. “Many of the guests who visit us in Nantucket are from Boston, so we wanted to take a slice of what we do on island and bring it here,” explains Cisco CEO Jay Harman.
A diverse mix of tourists, Seaport residents, and other Bostonians gathered for refreshments from August through early October — beach-beer season to Cisco’s own ACKtoberfest, in other words. “It was like a getaway in the middle of Seaport,” said Tori Neville, Cisco’s marketing manager.
“We really liked the community aspect of the Seaport,” Neville continued. “The whole brand is about inclusivity, and Seaport’s atmosphere resonates with our image. We want you to bring your kids, we don’t care if you’re pushing a stroller, or if you bring your dog.”
If you missed the Cisco popup, don’t worry: you can still catch Cisco at special events around the neighborhood, like the family friendly Zoo & Brew event in November. Sea Green, a public park in the heart of the Seaport, hosts Cisco and other local businesses for a day of outdoor fall fun. Parents can sip on local craft brews, while kids will have a chance to pet goats and other furry animals at the onsite petting zoo. Live music, food vendors and a DJ all make this a great way to enjoy New England autumn vibes.
The Seaport is also home to several notable restaurants in a variety of cuisines. For trattoria-inspired Italian fare, head to Tuscan Kitchen. For tacos and burritos, try Scorpion Bar, a Mexican-style cantina with a seemingly endless selection of tequilas. Fried chicken lovers will appreciate the newly opened Fuku, a casual offshoot of David Chang’s beloved Momofuku fleet of restaurants. And for your chocolate, cheese and wine cravings, head to the newly opened second location of Cambridge’s renowned Cardullo’s Gourmet Shoppe on Seaport Boulevard.
In addition to all the great dining options, Seaport Boulevard also has plenty of great shopping, with stores ranging from local brands to national outposts, offering something for everyone.
Neville, who moved from Nantucket to Boston earlier this year, says she has barely scratched the surface of what’s available to see, drink, dine, and shop. “The Seaport has everything to offer in one neighborhood,” she says. Check out the calendar of events happening at the Boston Seaport to see for yourself why this neighborhood is your next favorite hangout.
