Conor Byrne

Narrow bars like the Conor Byrne Pub remind me of train cars. I love walking through the door and having the entire scene stretch out before me. The elaborate bar made of dark wood, the big brick wall, the tiny little stage in the corner, the 14-foot-high ceilings, the portrait of James Joyce on the wall. It touts itself as an Irish pub, which, in essence, it is. But in the past few years, Conor Byrne has played a pivotal role in the North End's roots scene. Goateed pickers in fleece and flannel play alongside recent new-grass converts (those who discovered bluegrass via Jerry Garcia and David Grisman). The bluegrass jam is no more, but the other six nights a week, you can expect to come to the 'Byrne to catch local and touring folk, bluegrass and country artists. On weekends, there's usually a cover charge, and word to the wise: when Conor Byrne holds a Dolly Parton cover night, get there early.

• Cuisine(s): Deli, European, Irish, Sandwiches

  Hours: Daily 3pm-2am

• Entertainment: Live Entertainment

  Alcohol: Pitchers