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Beyond the Gates: A Food Lover's Guide to the Best Restaurants in Harvard Square
Harvard Square, with its historic cobblestone streets and intellectual buzz, is a true nexus of culture, history, and academia. But beyond the ivy-covered gates lies a dynamic and sophisticated culinary scene that is one of the best in the Boston area. From legendary sushi bars and bustling oyster houses to award-winning kitchens and chic international cafes, the restaurants here offer a diverse and delicious experience for every palate. This updated guide will lead you to the must-visit dining destinations that define the vibrant flavor of Harvard Square.
1. Cafe Sushi
- The Vibe: A beloved, family-owned institution, Cafe Sushi has been satisfying Harvard Square's craving for exceptional sushi for nearly four decades. The atmosphere is intimate and authentic, a place where the focus is squarely on the quality of the fish. It's a testament to the timeless appeal of a classic neighborhood sushi bar that consistently delivers excellence.
- Must-Try Dishes: For a true taste of their craft, opt for the five-piece chef's choice sushi sampler, which showcases a variety of unique flavors and ingredients. Their seasonal specials are always a highlight, featuring delicacies like Firefly squid nigiri and creative maki rolls with eel, avocado, and cilantro.
- Pro-Tip: While the dine-in experience has evolved, their high-quality takeout and "Shoten" (shop) concept remain a local favorite. Check their website for the latest on dine-in availability and special offerings.
2. The Hourly Oyster House
- The Vibe: Situated in a historic building that once housed the first printing press in America, The Hourly Oyster House is a vibrant and welcoming seafood bar with a classic, nautical charm. With its beautiful tiled floors, bustling atmosphere, and views of the lively streets of Harvard Square, it's the perfect spot for a celebratory meal or a casual afternoon of fresh oysters and cocktails.
- Must-Try Dishes: The raw bar is the star of the show here, featuring a fantastic selection of freshly shucked local and imported oysters. Don't miss their classic lobster roll or the crispy fried calamari.
- Pro-Tip: Their weekend brunch is a local favorite, and their happy hour offers great deals on oysters and drinks, making it one of the best ways to experience this popular spot.
3. Alden & Harlow
- The Vibe: Located in a subterranean space that was once the iconic Cafe Algiers, Alden & Harlow is a modern, stylish, and award-winning restaurant that has become a cornerstone of the Cambridge dining scene. The atmosphere is cozy and comfortable, with a creative energy that perfectly matches its innovative menu.
- Must-Try Dishes: Chef Michael Scelfo is known for his bold, flavor-forward American cuisine. The "Secret Burger" is a local legend, but don't overlook creative small plates like the dressed oysters, smoked arrowhead cabbage, and charcoal-grilled duck hearts.
- Pro-Tip: Alden & Harlow is a very popular spot, so reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
4. Tatte Bakery & Café
- The Vibe: With its beautiful, Instagram-worthy interiors featuring white tile, dark wood, and stunning pastry displays, Tatte is a chic and bustling all-day cafe. With multiple locations throughout Boston, the Harvard Square outpost is always buzzing with students, locals, and visitors.
- Must-Try Dishes: While known for their incredible pastries (the nut boxes and croissants are works of art), Tatte also offers a fantastic menu of Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. Their shakshuka is a must-try, as are their beautiful and delicious tartines and salads.
- Pro-Tip: Be prepared for a line, especially during peak brunch hours. However, the line moves quickly, and the food is well worth the wait.
5. Wusong Road
- The Vibe: Nestled just outside the main square in the historic Conductor's Building, Wusong Road offers a unique and transportive dining experience. The two-story space is a vibrant blend of classic Asian American cuisine and tropical Tiki escapism, with a fun, festive, and beautifully designed interior.
- Must-Try Dishes: The menu is a creative love story between Chinese-American classics and tiki bar culture. Don't miss the coconut glaze spareribs and other inventive tiki-style bar bites. Their cocktail menu is equally impressive, featuring classic and creative tiki drinks made with high-quality spirits.
- Pro-Tip: The upstairs tiki bar is a fantastic destination in itself, offering a fun and memorable night out. Be sure to make a reservation, especially for the upstairs seating.
Bonus Mentions:
- The Longfellow Bar: Located directly above its sibling restaurant, Alden & Harlow, this stylish, two-story bar offers high-concept bar snacks and an inventive, musically-inspired cocktail and wine list.
- Pokeworks: For a quick, healthy, and delicious meal, this popular spot offers a "build-your-own" approach to the classic Hawaiian poke bowl, allowing you to customize your meal with fresh and flavorful ingredients.