6 Back Bay Eateries for Book Fest Goers to Visit This Weekend

Simple fare, pints and low-key vibe at Bukowski Tavern

By Naomi Kooker

Anyone who loves literature, a good read or is an aspiring author ought to attend The Boston Book Festival on Saturday, October 27 in Copley Square. It’s free and full of renowned authors holding seminars, panels and workshops in and around the Back Bay. The day kicks off with “Writer Idol” - a chance for the beginning of your manuscript to get read aloud, judged and possibly picked up by an agency - at Old South Church (10:15 AM), and wraps up with keynote speaker and renowned short story writer Richard Ford (6 PM at Old South Church). It's free and open to the public. Click here for the details.

To refuel during and decompress afterward, we’ve got our picks of six hot spots. At Oak Long Bar + Kitchen, you'll be able to pull up a seat at the beautiful copper bar, sip a fine wine and enjoy a flatbread for the cost of dinner elsewhere. Sorellina, another elegant Italian, is a hot spot for drinks and some refined Italian eats at the bar (617-412-4600). We fancy short-story writers will like the Salty Pig around the corner on Dartmouth Street (617-536-6200) for its mid-priced fare of charcuterie and concise list of craft beers.

For Jack Kerouac types, you’ve got two watering holes from which to choose - the casual Globe Bar & Café  (617-778-6993) on Boylston Street for basic decor and affordable eats and Bukowski Tavern (617-437-9999), across the street from the Sheraton. It’s a bit of a walk, but a gem with the perfect vibe to get down with some literary speak. And for a late night spot, hit the small-plates and classic cocktail club and restaurant Storyville (617-236-1134).