Johnnie's On The Side

Upscale eatery and lounge sits not too far from the Garden, caters to neighbors and sports fans alike.

by Gerrish Lopez

Boston sports memorabilia adorns the walls, while lots of leather and brass create a classy yet comfortable atmosphere. Sports fans crowd the bar anytime there's a game down the street at the Garden. Incorporating a diverse mix of influences, the dinner menu includes fritto misto, arancini, pan-roasted lobster, and lamb rack with whiskey drippings. Lunchtime diners enjoy a selection of hot sandwiches (steak panini, pressed eggplant) and entrees (fish and chips, lasagna). Specialty drinks include concoctions such as the Vin Mariani (grape vodka, Muscat wine, guarana) and the Naked I (vanilla vodka, white chocolate and raspberry liqueurs, crème de cacao).