Harvard Square, a bustling hub of intellectual curiosity and cultural diversity, is a foodie’s paradise. Nestled in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, this iconic neighborhood is home to a vibrant array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries that cater to every taste and craving. Whether you’re a student, professor, or simply a visitor, Harvard Square offers a culinary experience that is both authentic and unforgettable. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the best places to eat in Harvard Square, exploring everything from classic American comfort food to international cuisine and everything in between.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Starting your day off right is crucial, and Harvard Square has plenty of options to get your morning off to a delicious start. Here are some of the top breakfast and brunch spots in the area:
The Harvard Square Farmers Market
Every Saturday from May to November, the Harvard Square Farmers Market sets up shop in the heart of the neighborhood. This bustling market features a diverse array of local farmers, bakers, and artisanal food vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and baked goods. It’s the perfect place to pick up some breakfast essentials, including freshly baked pastries, artisanal bread, and locally sourced eggs.
Flowers Cafe
This cozy, family-owned cafe has been a Harvard Square staple for over 30 years. Flowers Cafe serves up classic breakfast fare, including fluffy omelets, crispy bacon, and golden-brown pancakes. Their menu is filled with creative twists, such as the “Harvard Square” omelet, which features locally sourced eggs, cheddar cheese, and a hint of maple syrup.
Crema Cafe
This popular breakfast spot is known for its creative menu, which features everything from breakfast tacos to waffle sandwiches. Their signature “Crema” dish is a must-try, featuring a crispy waffle topped with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Lunchtime Favorites
When it comes to lunch, Harvard Square has a diverse array of options to suit every taste and budget. From classic deli sandwiches to international cuisine, here are some of the top lunch spots in the area: (See Also: Where to Eat in Penzance? Coastal Delights)
Ernesto’s Cafe
This family-owned Mexican restaurant has been a Harvard Square staple for over 20 years. Ernesto’s serves up authentic, made-from-scratch Mexican cuisine, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Their menu is filled with creative options, such as the “El Jefe” burrito, which features slow-cooked carnitas, black beans, and crispy tortilla strips.
The Harvard Square Deli
This classic deli has been serving up some of the best sandwiches in Harvard Square for over 30 years. Their menu features a wide range of options, from classic club sandwiches to more adventurous options like the “Harvard Square” sandwich, which features locally sourced turkey, avocado, and sprouts.
Pho 2000
This popular Vietnamese restaurant is known for its delicious, made-from-scratch pho. Their menu features a variety of options, including traditional beef and chicken pho, as well as more adventurous options like the “Pho 2000” special, which features slow-cooked beef, rare steak, and a side of fresh herbs.
Dinner and Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Harvard Square transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination. From cozy wine bars to lively dance clubs, here are some of the top dinner and nightlife spots in the area:
The Craigie on Main
This upscale American bistro is known for its creative menu, which features everything from roasted bone marrow to pan-seared scallops. Their cocktail menu is equally impressive, with creative concoctions like the “Craigie Collins,” which features gin, lemon, and a splash of soda water. (See Also: Where to Eat in Murray Hill? Best Local Spots)
The Harvard Square Wine Bar
This cozy wine bar is a hidden gem in the heart of Harvard Square. Their menu features a wide range of wines, from classic Cabernet Sauvignon to more adventurous options like the “Harvard Square” blend, which features a mix of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Middle East
This iconic nightclub has been a Harvard Square staple for over 40 years. The Middle East features a diverse array of live music, from rock and pop to jazz and world music. Their menu is filled with creative options, including vegan and gluten-free dishes like the “Middle East” wrap, which features hummus, tabbouleh, and crispy falafel.
Snacks and Treats
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sweet treat, Harvard Square has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Here are some of the top snack and treat spots in the area:
Harvard Square Creamery
This popular ice cream shop is known for its creative flavors, including unique options like the “Harvard Square” flavor, which features a mix of vanilla, caramel, and sea salt. Their menu is filled with vegan and gluten-free options, as well as classic flavors like chocolate and strawberry. (See Also: Where to Eat Dinner in Tagaytay? Top Rated Restaurants)
Emack & Bolio’s
This beloved ice cream shop has been a Harvard Square staple for over 20 years. Emack & Bolio’s serves up creative flavors like the “Harvard Square” flavor, which features a mix of coffee, chocolate, and caramel. Their menu is filled with vegan and gluten-free options, as well as classic flavors like mint chip and rocky road.
Flour Bakery + Cafe
This popular bakery and cafe is known for its delicious pastries, sandwiches, and salads. Their menu is filled with creative options, including vegan and gluten-free dishes like the “Flour” wrap, which features hummus, tabbouleh, and crispy falafel.
