The Wig Shop Hits Top 100 on Continental Rankings

The Wig Shop, an intimate cocktail bar in Boston's Downtown Crossing neighborhood, has earned a spot on North America's 50 Best Bars list at No. 86 for 2026, marking a significant achievement for the city's cocktail scene.

The bar, helmed by Spirits Director Oscar Simoza, is one of three venues now represented by Mona Creative in partnership with restaurateurs Babak Bina and Andy Cartin. The portfolio includes jm Curley, a gastropub that opened in 2011, and Bogie's Place, a hidden steakhouse accessible through jm Curley's unmarked door.

Recognition for Beverage Leadership

Simoza, a semifinalist in the James Beard Foundation's "Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service" category, has shaped The Wig Shop's distinctive program. Located in a former wig shop, the bar blends theatrical nostalgia with contemporary cocktail technique.

The current menu draws inspiration from childhood toys and collectibles. Signature drinks include the Rock Em' Sock Em' Robots, made with Suyo Quebranta pisco, strawberry-infused tequila, palm sugar, and grapefruit, and Bop It!, a milk punch made with Campari-infused green grapes, goat cheese, and honey.

Wine Director Nader Asgari-Tari, a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist for "Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service," oversees the program at Bogie's Place.

The Broader Portfolio

jm Curley has established itself as a neighborhood destination since opening in 2011, known for its Curley Burger—a custom chuck and ribeye blend with caramelized onions, white cheddar, housemade Russian dressing, and pickles. The gastropub has earned "Best Burger" and "Best High-Brow Burger" honors from Boston Magazine.

Executive Chef Luis Fayad leads the culinary program across all three venues, blending his South American heritage, Southern upbringing, and classical training.

Bina, who has been active in Boston's dining scene for over three decades, was named "Restaurateur of the Year" by the Downtown Boston Alliance in 2024. His hospitality group BCB3 received "Restaurant Group of the Year" honors from The Boston Globe in 2024.

Boston's Expanding Food Scene

The trio's emergence comes as Boston's dining landscape gains national prominence. Michelin Guide formally entered the city in late 2025, with 311 Omakase earning the city's first Michelin star and 26 Greater Boston restaurants receiving inaugural-year recognition.

All three venues are located at 20-21 Temple Place in Downtown Crossing.

Why It Matters

For operators, The Wig Shop's North America's 50 Best Bars ranking signals Boston's growing cocktail credibility and the importance of distinctive beverage leadership. The success of Bina and Cartin's multi-concept strategy—pairing an approachable gastropub with an upscale hidden supper club and acclaimed cocktail destination—demonstrates how varied concepts can anchor a neighborhood's dining culture and attract sustained attention from industry observers.

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Written by FBM Publications Editors