Seemor
Olde Magoun's SaloonB+Worth Trying
518 Medford St, Somerville, MA 02145
· Irish pub, American restaurant, Bar
· 4.6/5 Google (1072 reviews)
Takeout
A lively neighborhood pub with standout wings, strong beer program, and hearty pub-grub; service can wobble during events and trivia.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Olde Magoun's Saloon delivers solid neighborhood pub dining with strong food quality—particularly exceptional wings and hearty mains—paired with a thoughtful beer program and genuine community loyalty. However, quality variation during peak times and service reliability issues during trivia nights and big games prevent grade A-grade territory. It's a reliable local favorite that excels in its niche rather than a destination establishment.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling, with TVs and projectors lighting up during big matches and trivia nights. Bartenders are often friendly and quick, and the beer list earns real affection. One diner summed it up: "Best wings I have had in ages—huge and perfectly crisp." Crowds swell for events, so the vibe tilts lively neighborhood hub rather than quiet pub. The cooking skews hearty and familiar with global detours—think schnitzel, poutine, steak tips, and a Reuben that fans call a must. The culinary approach leans elevated pub comfort with occasional international accents; not showy, but confident. Wings, nachos, and beef-forward mains carry the day, while the beer program, including occasional cask offerings, adds serious draw for enthusiasts. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly staples like burgers, tenders, mac and cheese, and fries. That said, the room can be loud during games, and picky eaters should stick to the simpler side of the menu. Brunch items like corned beef hash and breakfast poutine are approachable, but expect a sports-first setting on weekend mornings.
At a Glance
- Best-in-class wings with crisp texture and solid sauces
- Deep and thoughtful beer list with occasional cask
- Hearty portions and fair value for quality
- Service slows and attitudes fray during trivia and big games
- Noise and crowding at peak sports times
What Sets It Apart
- serious_wing_program
- rotating_cask_ales
- seasonal_oktoberfest_menu
What People Love
- Crispy, meaty wings that deliver
- A beer program with gems and cask finds
- Comfort dishes that satisfy without pretense
- Neighborhood energy with regulars and supporters
Points of Concern
- Service inconsistency during trivia and major games; expect waits and occasional curt interactions
- Noise can be high; not ideal for quiet conversation during events
- Mixed feedback on Reuben consistency and burger doneness
- Review patterns show typical bar-venue variance with busy-night slowdowns rather than systemic issues
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$40-55 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start shareable: Linda’s Nachos ($18) or wings ($16).
- Go hearty: Steak Tips ($28) or Schnitzel ($22).
- Brunch: Corned Beef Hash ($17) if you like robust flavors.
Perfect For
- Watching a big match with great wings and beer
- Casual weeknight burgers and poutine
- Group hangouts and trivia lovers
- Solo bar meal with attentive beer guidance
Location Insights
Area: Lively neighborhood hub in Magoun Square drawing locals for games, trivia, and casual meals.
Safety: Generally safe, busy during events and evenings with steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Near residential streets, small shops, and other casual eateries; paid lot behind nearby CVS noted.
SomervilleSomerville is a lively, diverse city just northwest of Boston, known for its strong community vibe, creative culture, and growing food scene. The dining environment is eclectic, featuring a mix of casual eateries, innovative restaurants, and ethnic cuisine, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking authentic and trendy dining experiences.
Winter HillWinter Hill is a residential area within Somerville characterized by a mix of older homes and new developments. It offers a quieter, more neighborhood-focused dining scene with local cafes and family-run restaurants, reflecting a community-oriented atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday12:00–01:00
Saturday10:00–01:00
Sunday10:00–23:00
Available: Takeout
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