Harvest
The audacious fusion of tradition and innovation, locally sourced and globally inspired
The Grand Experience — reservations essential
Upscale New American dining in Harvard Square since 1975. Farm-to-table menu with seasonal ingredients and extensive wine list.
The Maitre d' Recommends
The Vibe
Harvest feels like old Cambridge at its finest—the kind of place where professors have been celebrating tenure for decades and couples have marked anniversaries for generations. The refined dining room overlooks Brattle Street through floor-to-ceiling windows, while white tablecloths and attentive service speak to a commitment to classic hospitality.
Comfortable conversation level
Why It's Great
Cambridge's Original Farm-to-Table Pioneer Since 1975
Before farm-to-table was a movement, Harvest was already doing it. Since 1975, this Harvard Square institution has been sourcing from New England farms and showcasing seasonal ingredients with elegant technique. It's the restaurant that taught Cambridge to care about where food comes from.
The menu changes with the seasons, but the commitment to excellence never wavers. In spring, you'll find pea shoots and ramps; summer brings heirloom tomatoes and sweet corn; fall celebrates squash and mushrooms; winter warms with braised meats and root vegetables. Executive Chef Nick Calias treats local ingredients with the respect they deserve.
The dining room itself is a statement of refined taste. Large windows frame views of historic Brattle Street, white tablecloths gleam under soft lighting, and the service strikes that perfect balance between attentive and unobtrusive. This is old-school fine dining done right—no pretension, just consistent excellence.
Harvest has hosted generations of Harvard celebrations, from acceptance dinners to graduation feasts. The walls have witnessed proposals, promotions, and countless special moments. There's a gravitas here that newer restaurants can't manufacture—the confidence that comes from nearly five decades of making people happy.
Sunday brunch on the patio (in season) with mimosas and eggs Benedict is a Cambridge tradition. It's the meal that makes you feel like you've achieved something.
Seasonal Tasting Menu
Let the kitchen guide you through the best of New England's current harvest
Roasted Half Chicken
Simple, perfect, with seasonal accompaniments that change weekly
Butternut Squash Soup
A fall classic that defines comfort—silky, rich, and topped with toasted pepitas
Duck Breast
Perfectly rendered skin, rosy meat, with seasonal fruit compote
Why It's In Our Guide
Harvest is living history—Cambridge's original fine dining restaurant and a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement. When you need a restaurant that's reliably excellent for important occasions, Harvest never disappoints.
“Harvest is the rare restaurant that has maintained its relevance across five decades while never abandoning its core values.”
— Boston Magazine“The farm-to-table commitment here predates the term itself.”
— Eater BostonHarvard families have been celebrating here for generations. It's where you bring your parents, mark promotions, and toast important moments. The consistency is legendary—your experience today will be as good as it was 20 years ago.
Insider Tips
Weeknight dinners are more relaxed. Sunday brunch is a scene but worth the wait. The patio in summer is exceptional.
Book a week ahead for weekends. The bar welcomes walk-ins. Ask for patio seating in nice weather.
The main dining room offers the best ambiance. Window seats overlook Brattle Street and the Brattle Theatre.
Trust the seasonal specials—they're always the best expression of what the kitchen can do. The tasting menu is an excellent value for the quality.
Harvard Square parking is challenging. Use the Church Street garage or take the T to Harvard Station (5-minute walk).
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 1,537 reviews
892 reviews
Updated 2024-12
645 reviews
Updated 2024-12
Frequently Asked Questions
Smart casual is appropriate—think button-down shirts for men and nice blouses or dresses for women. You won't feel out of place in jeans if they're nice, but most diners dress up a bit for the occasion. It's the kind of place where you want to look your best.
Reddit Mentions
Contact Details
44 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA 02138
Mon-Thu: 5PM-10PM, Fri-Sat: 5PM-11PM, Sun: 10AM-2PM, 5PM-9PM
5 min walk from Harvard
RedThe academic palate demands both substance and style.
“She was my Rushmore.”
— Herman Blume, on Cambridge dining