
While some say you “can’t repeat the past,” a new bar in Boston inspired by “The Great Gatsby” does the opposite by embodying the essence of 1920s speakeasies while specializing in modern mixology.
89 Charles, an underground bar tucked away in Beacon Hill, opened on Saturday, Sept. 20.
The space pulls from the elegance of the “Gatsby” era with an interior rooted in Art Deco design. Signature elements include antique brass, dark blue walls and vintage accents.

89 Charles features a 12-seat bar and 30-seat lounge where diners can sip on contemporary cocktails. Standout options include the Melon Baller — a light and refreshing tequila drink with midori, lime, elderflower, togarashi and soda — and the Charles St Espresso — made with Plantation Cut & Dry, espresso, cacao and topped with a fluffy whipped coconut cream.
The cocktails are also accompanied by a select menu of elevated small plates, such as Foie Gras Bratwurst, Hamachi Crudo and Beef Tartar.

“Our goal was to build an intimate bar, with a heavy emphasis on the art of cocktail making, that feels like it’s been a fabric of the neighborhood forever,” owner Gennaro Riccio said in a press release. “With our unwavering focus on the development of the cocktail program and the overall lounge experience, we accomplished just that.”
89 Charles is located at the same address as its name, down the stairs to the left side of the entrance to Elegant Findings Antiques.
While the bar takes walk-ins, reservations are encouraged. 89 Charles is open from 5 p.m. to midnight Tuesday through Saturday.
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