Two Massachusetts 'Speakeasies' Named Among World's Best Bars

The hidden cocktail lounges in Boston are recognized for their unique themes and high-quality drinks.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:37pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph shot through condensation or rain-streaked glass, composed of soft, warm pools of light and color that evoke the moody, intimate atmosphere of a hidden speakeasy-style bar.The recognition of two Massachusetts speakeasies as among the best bars in the world highlights the state's thriving cocktail culture and enduring legacy of exceptional drinking establishments.Boston Today

Two speakeasy-style bars located in Boston, Massachusetts have been named among the best bars in the world by The World's 50 Best, a prestigious global ranking organization. The Wig Shop, hidden behind a nondescript entrance, and Hecate, a dimly-lit lounge beneath a Greek restaurant, were recognized for their creative cocktails, atmospheric settings, and dedication to the speakeasy tradition.

Why it matters

Massachusetts has a long history of renowned bars and taverns dating back to the state's founding, and the inclusion of these two modern speakeasies on a global list showcases the state's continued reputation for exceptional drinking establishments. The recognition also highlights the growing popularity of the speakeasy concept, where bars create an exclusive, hidden ambiance to evoke the spirit of Prohibition-era drinking culture.

The details

The Wig Shop, located on Temple Place in downtown Boston, was ranked 86th on the list. The bar is hidden behind a former wig shop and only has a neon 'wigs' sign as its marker. Hecate, ranked 88th, is located beneath the Greek restaurant Krasi on Gloucester Street. Guests must walk down an alley to find the dimly-lit, mystically-themed bar and lounge. Both establishments are known for their high-quality cocktails and unique, immersive experiences that pay homage to the speakeasy tradition.

  • The World's 50 Best released its list of the top 100 bars in the world in 2023.

The players

The World's 50 Best

A British-based media organization that publishes global rankings of the best restaurants and bars.

The Wig Shop

A hidden speakeasy-style bar located on Temple Place in Boston, Massachusetts that was ranked 86th on The World's 50 Best list of top bars.

Hecate

A dimly-lit, mystically-themed speakeasy-style bar located beneath the Greek restaurant Krasi on Gloucester Street in Boston, Massachusetts that was ranked 88th on The World's 50 Best list of top bars.

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The takeaway

The recognition of these two Boston speakeasies on a prestigious global list of the world's best bars underscores Massachusetts' enduring legacy as a hub for exceptional drinking establishments. Even as tastes and trends evolve, the state's bars continue to innovate and captivate both local and international audiences with their unique concepts, high-quality cocktails, and immersive experiences.