Allston Brighton, Boston

Allston Brighton is the place to be in Boston if you like people watching, great ethnic food, and hanging with the many thousands of college students that attend Boston area universities and colleges.

Allston Brighton is referred to as the student village, but also has a large group of Vietnamese and Russian immigrants. With the glut of college kids roaming the streets you’d expect there to be several coffee shops and bars. Allston Brighton does not disappoint as it features some of the best bars and clubs in Boston. One of the best places to enjoy live music ranging from indie rock to hip hop is Great Scott. This club has won several awards and is one of my all time favorites.

If you’re looking for some good eats you’ll find a wide variety of great ethnic and American food suited for any budget. From Spikes Junkyard Dogs to Jasmine Bistro you’ll find something that will satisfy your appetite.

Close to Harvard University, the Allston/Brighton area is a lively cross section of students, young professionals, Russian and South American immigrants. Apartment buildings consist of traditional architecture while the area is a vibrant mix of ethnic restaurants, good watering holes, and youthful atmosphere. A section of the neighborhood is largely single-family housing and consists of lovely Victorian architecture and is known as South Allston. Bordering on the Charles River and convenient to downtown Boston as well as universities, this area manages to incorporate Boston history with a modern lifestyle all making for one of the most interesting areas of the city.