One of the few “sophisticated” nightspots in this part of town, Wonder Bar beckons to an upscale crowd with its sleek wooden decor and a yuppified menu. It may boast some of the best live jazz in Boston, but the customers are here for another reason: the chance to check out other attractive, well-dressed twentysomethings. Drink prices start at $5 and only climb higher; waits are common. Bring a second form of ID—they card hard. Sandwiches ($8), salads ($6-9), and appetizers like baked brie ($7) and chicken satay ($8) are available until closing. Live music on Su-M starting at 8pm. No sneakers or hats. Cover W and F $5. AE, D, MC, V. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

As reviewed in Stuff at Night, Monday, March 12th, 2007: The latest in Allston’s retail research, LAB Boston is an experiment in what its owners call “culture-fusing”: a phenomenon they achieve by stocking music, clothing, and collectible toys that appeal to a variety of clienteles. Tunes run the gamut — CDs, vinyl, and digital formats — for electronic-music lovers, and LAB carries urban vinyl toys by Hong Kong’s Toy2R and Germany’s Rockaway Bear, plus apparel from labels like To Die For, Dissizit!, Hellz Bellz, and the store’s own limited-edition line, Limited Apparel Brand. As for the space itself, LAB looks more science class than showroom. Its all-white interior and stainless-steel furniture — on wheels to make room for in-store art shows and music performances — make the room the perfect blank slate on which to showcase LAB’s imaginative inventory.

A nightclub that beats with the heart of Allston itself, Harper's Ferry is a high-energy arena for the excellent music of local and national bands alike. Live shows happen seven nights a week at this club, which is small enough for an up-close and intense experience, but large enough for dancing (or for gathering in groups and nodding your heads). The decor is Spartan and the vibe is cool; there's even an old school photo booth in the back for shooting photos of you and your friends. Located in the center of Allston's action, Harper's Ferry is convenient to other bars and restaurants, including Redneck's which is open after the bars close. Host of the local Battle of the Blues annual competition, Harper's Ferry always gets the best blues acts in Boston (Heavy Metal Horns, Luther “Guitar Junior” Johnson, The Movers). National acts often stop by, including Bo Diddly and B.B. King, who (according to the owners) hails Harper's as his favorite blues venue in the area. With 3 bars, 4 pool tables, 3 dart boards, and 1 cozy stage, the interior is spacious, but the sound is good and loud throughout. The menu features standard greasy bar food ($3-9) and a healthy supply of beers on tap. Friday and Saturday bring the big bands and a slightly older crowd, while on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday the bar is a major player in the vibrant BC and BU college bar scene. Cover starting at 8pm, $5-12. Neat casual (no tank tops). Shows begin at 9:30 pm, doors at 8pm. For the most up-to-date schedule of events, check their website or call the concert line number.
This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.