Harvard Square is a vibrant neighborhood in Cambridge, just outside downtown Boston and accessible by the T (red line). This area is home to plenty of young professionals and intellectual students (thanks to the prestigious Harvard University). As a result, there are plenty of fun bars and restaurants in this square. From casual, no-frill bars to more luxurious cocktail lounges, here are the top places to frequent for cocktails and beers.
Park
Bar, Restaurant, American, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Beer, Wine, $$$
Park is a unique New American restaurant that has the atmosphere of a living room, albeit, a fancy living room – a place where you can enjoy creative cocktails and delicious fare. It is a more elegant bar to grab dinner or a cocktail; for an appetizer, try their truffle fries served over mussels. For drinks, sip on an Old Cuban, or order a flight of their delicious mead.
Border Cafe is an inexpensive Tex-Mex and Cajun restaurant located right in Harvard Square. Their tasty chips and salsa are neverending, and they serve up some great margaritas. Order a frozen margarita in the summer, and try out their jambalaya.
Beat Brasserie is the ideal bar to go to for a fancy night out. Psychedelic art adorns the restaurant’s walls, and they serve creative fare such as earthy delight bowls and Fluke Crudo (grapefruit, sumac, and smoked almonds), as well as craft cocktails. Try out their wine on tap!
Charlie’s Kitchen is a must-visit during the summertime. Down a tiny alley, you’ll find their summer patio that is a hot nightlife spot. They have fireplaces and tables, but it can get packed, so you may need to stand. Order a draught beer or cocktail and enjoy the warmer nights here with friends.
Bar, Restaurant, American, Vegan, Vegetarian, Wine, Beer, Cocktails, $$$
Bronwyn interior | Courtesy Bronwyn
Alden & Harlow serves up artistically plated New American eats such as the Secret Burger (limited availability) and roasted coppa. The modern atmosphere makes this bar a fun place to grab a signature cocktail like the Born Again, made with bourbon, carrot, Amaro Montenegro, poblano, and ginger beer.
Russell House Tavern | Courtesy of Russell House Tavern
Russell House Tavern is a chic watering hole in the middle of Harvard Square. Sit outside on their patio or enjoy their elegant, modern décor inside. They have a fine selection of microbrews and also offer up craft cocktails – as is par in this neighborhood.
