The Thoughtful Splurge — worth every penny
The New York Times called it 'the best ice cream in the world.' People Magazine named their vanilla the best in America. I've known the Rancatore family my entire life - I worked for Mimi (Gus's sister) in high school, scooping ice cream and learning what it means to be obsessive about quality. Gus was my daughter's first babysitter. This isn't just a recommendation; Toscanini's is family. They still make everything from scratch, still source the best ingredients, still refuse to cut corners. The Burnt Caramel is legendary. The B3 (brown butter, brown sugar, brownie) is my order. Cambridge institution since 1981.
The Maitre d' Recommends
Reddit Mentions
Contact Details
899 Main St, Cambridge, MA 02139
Daily: 11:30AM-11PM
3 min walk from Central
RedCambridge has hosted Nobel laureates at nearly every establishment.
You Might Also Like
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Brooklyn-based artisan ice cream shop opened in Harvard Square. Known for rich, creative flavors using high-quality ingredients. Vegan options available. Opened Fall 2024.
Toscanini's Ice Cream - Kendall
The Kendall Square outpost of the ice cream shop that the New York Times called 'the best in the world.' Same obsessive quality, often less crowded than Central. Perfect for the biotech crowd who need a reminder that life is about more than data. The MIT students know - this has been fueling late-night problem sets for decades. People Magazine named their vanilla the best in America.
Life Alive Organic Cafe
Vibrant vegetarian cafe with organic bowls, smoothies, and fresh juices. Colorful, healthy fast-casual.
The Middle East Restaurant & Nightclub
Iconic music venue and bar with multiple stages. Live music nightly, Middle Eastern food, diverse crowd.
Further Reading
Best Restaurants in Central Square
GuideHarvard Square vs Central Square: Which Is Better?
BlogWelcome to Guide to Cambridge: What We're Building and Why
BlogEvery T Station in Cambridge: A Complete Transit Guide
BlogCambridge's Coffee Culture: Why This City Runs on Independent Roasters
Walking TourCambridge Culinary Journey
“She was my Rushmore.”
— Herman Blume, on Cambridge dining