Boston Baijiu Bar Pop-Up Hosts Regular Tastings at Somerville’s Backbar

Any regular at Backbar in Somerville’s Union Square has probably noticed a tiny closet while waiting in line to get in. This former storage space has gone through a makeover: Featuring a proper bar counter, a wall full of whimsical-looking bottles, vintage Kung Fu movie posters illuminated by string lights, and traditional Chinese tchotchkes, this closet has become Greater Boston’s first dedicated baijiu (pronounced “bye-Joe”) bar, hosting tastings every Thursday night.

Zack Perl

Behind the counter is Nick Lappen, the bartender who gave the closet a new life….