Step back in time at Wink & Nod, a new South End speakeasy-style cocktail lounge. Located at 3 Appleton St., the dimly lit spot features drinks inspired by the Prohibition era—although we doubt you would have found a bright green cocktail served in a fish-shaped vessel in the 1920s.

Between the Celtic music, the authentic décor, and the accented staff, M.J. O’Connor’s in the Park Plaza Hotel corners the market on Irish pubs in downtown Boston. The bartenders are welcoming, friendly, and according to their manager, “convincing” — a helpful trait when their GM concocts a new drink recipe to test on trusting and loyal customers.