‘Exactly what you would think’

Free popcorn? Cheap drinks? Lots of fun games? Razzy’s is your go-to dive bar

  Holy crap, Razzy’s, where have you been hiding? Though the term “dive bar” is hackneyed, it fits this funky Somerville atmosphere like a cheap, but oddly well-made, suit. You’ll wonder if you’ve entered your parents’ rumpus room, replete with a smiling mom-type bartender, stacks of board games, and blaring televisions and tunes dueling for your attention.

When we asked for advice about some of the platters on the menu, another amiable bartender uttered what would become the motto of our evening. “It’s exactly what you would think,” he said. Since they fry nearly every food item — seemingly in the same oil  — it all tastes like greasy carnival fare. While my pal’s double dog and fries hit the hunger spot, I preferred to stick with the never-ending popcorn bowl. Like magic, it never went empty all night long.

 Your pockets won’t go empty either, not with these prices. Depending on how much razzle dazzle you’re prepared to flash, you can fill up with a $12 pitcher of any draft, except Molson Canadian which will run you a cool $8. With individual brews offered in a 16- or 23-ounce pour, Razzy’s has all your bases covered. Their softball team, who were there tossing them back post game, clearly seemed to think so.

Despite the flaming maraschino hue, their chocolate cherry infused vodka was the sweetest surprise of the night. Though the Leaping Lizard, a mix of Midori, Malibu, and God only knows what else, was a syrupy sipper we might’ve done without.

The Thursday we made the scene, their back room resembled a trivia sweatshop. Eager teams were packed in like sardines. Karaoke draws a similarly enthusiastic and active crowd on weekends.  

I awoke the morning after our visit with popcorn kernels stuck in my teeth and my contacts still in my sleepy eyes. I consider that both an occupational hazard and sign of a truly kickass night.
                                   
Razzy’s
585 Somerville Ave., Somerville
MBTA: Red Line to Porter Square
617-623-9784
www.myspace.com/razzys