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Best of Boston: Nightlife Part of the Places of a Lifetime series from Traveler magazine

Expert recommendations of the best clubs, bars, and other after-dark venues.

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Wally’s Café
Serving up hot jazz 365 nights a year; a real locals’ place. “Unless you know about it, you could walk right on by.”—Marie Morris, author, Frommer’s Boston. A venerable institution in the Boston jazz scene. 427 Massachusetts Avenue; tel. +1 617 424 1408. www.wallyscafe.com

The Beehive
“Menu presents an array of casual, gypsy fare reflective of Mediterranean, American, and Middle Eastern cuisines, as well as vintage cocktails and an eclectic and extensive wine list.”—Jill Epstein, publisher, www.wheretoeatboston.com. Live music seven days a week; two-level layout leaves room for intimate conversations. 541 Tremont Street; tel. +1 617 423 0069. www.beehiveboston.com

RumBa—Rum & Champagne Bar
“Check out the hidden Champagne bar.”—Jill Epstein. In the lobby of the sparkly, new InterContinental hotel on Boston’s newly thriving Fort Point Channel; bar showcases Boston’s rich history in the rum trade with an extensive collection of vintage and fine rums attractively displayed. 510 Atlantic Avenue; tel. +1 617 747 1000. www.intercontinentalboston.com/html/dining.asp

Excelsior
“A sleek and sexy bar perfect for wine and cocktails paired with a true food aficionado’s cafe menu—don’t miss the lobster pizza.”—Jill Epstein. Have a seat in the stylish dark leather seats and try one of the unusual cocktail combinations cooked up by the bartenders; across from the Public Garden. 272 Boylston Street; tel. +1 617 426 7878. www.excelsiorrestaurant.com

Kings Lanes, Lounge, and Billiards
“High-tech bowling with a retro lounge; very popular with the young working crowd.”—Dave Andelman, chief executive officer, The Phantom Gourmet. Eight vintage Brunswick Gold Crown billiard tables and 16 AMF bowling lanes. Retire to the DeVille Lounge for post-game analysis and a cocktail. 10 Scotia Street; tel. +1 617 266 BOWL (2695). www.backbaykings.com

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