Waypoint
From ocean to table, the freshest catch prepared with respect
The Special Occasion — dress accordingly
Chef Michael Scelfo's coastally-inspired restaurant at the gateway to Harvard Square. Sister to Alden & Harlow, Waypoint serves creative seafood with unexpected twists. The raw bar and crudo are standouts.
The Maitre d' Recommends
The Vibe
Waypoint feels like a harbor town restaurant transported to Mass Ave. Maritime touches—rope details, nautical lighting, a raw bar as the centerpiece—create an atmosphere that's simultaneously upscale and welcoming. From the same team behind Alden & Harlow, it brings that same balance of creativity and accessibility to seafood.
Comfortable conversation level
Why It's Great
Michael Scelfo's Love Letter to New England Seafood
When Michael Scelfo opened Alden & Harlow, he proved he could make Harvard Square buzz with creative American fare. With Waypoint, he turned his attention to the sea, creating a restaurant that honors New England's seafood traditions while adding his signature creative touches.
The raw bar anchors the operation. East Coast oysters arrive daily, shucked to order with the kind of care that reveals their individual terroirs. Crudo preparations showcase pristine fish with minimal intervention. The clam chowder—creamy, chunky, deeply flavored—stands as possibly the best in Cambridge.
Beyond the raw bar, the kitchen delivers coastal-inspired dishes that feel both familiar and fresh. Whole roasted fish, prepared simply, lets quality speak. Seafood pastas balance richness with restraint. The cocktail program complements with drinks that riff on maritime themes without becoming gimmicky.
The space itself tells the story. Sitting between Harvard and Central Squares, Waypoint occupies that same sweet spot as its sister restaurant—neighborhood enough to be comfortable, ambitious enough to be exciting. The same attention to hospitality that makes Alden & Harlow special carries over here.
Start with a dozen oysters and champagne at the raw bar. Move to a table for chowder and a main. End with their seasonal dessert.
Oyster Selection
Daily rotation of East Coast varieties, shucked with care
Clam Chowder
Possibly the best in Cambridge—creamy, chunky, deeply satisfying
Whole Roasted Fish
Market selection, simply prepared, perfectly executed
Lobster Bucatini
Rich, elegant pasta showcasing New England's favorite crustacean
Why It's In Our Guide
Waypoint fills a crucial niche—elevated seafood dining that respects New England traditions while adding contemporary creativity. From the same team behind Alden & Harlow, the hospitality is impeccable.
“Waypoint proves that New England seafood can be both traditional and exciting.”
— Boston Globe“The raw bar alone justifies the visit.”
— Eater BostonThe post-theater crowd from nearby venues has adopted Waypoint for late dinners. Oyster happy hour draws regulars who know their shuckers by name.
Insider Tips
Happy hour for oyster deals. Weeknight dinners are more relaxed than weekends.
Reservations recommended for dinner. Bar seating is first-come, first-served.
The raw bar offers the best view of the shucking action. Tables work better for full dinners.
Trust the raw bar—ask what's best today. The chowder is mandatory. Save room for whatever whole fish is available.
Between Harvard and Central T stops. Street parking on Mass Ave is challenging; consider the T.
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 1,599 reviews
876 reviews
Updated 2024-12
723 reviews
Updated 2024-12
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Waypoint is from chef Michael Scelfo, who also owns Alden & Harlow. Both restaurants share a commitment to creative American cooking with excellent hospitality, though Waypoint focuses specifically on seafood and coastal New England cuisine.
Reddit Mentions
Contact Details
1030 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
Tue-Thu: 5PM-10PM, Fri-Sat: 5PM-11PM, Closed Sun-Mon
3 min walk from Harvard
RedThe academic palate demands both substance and style.
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Further Reading
Best Restaurants in Harvard Square
GuideHarvard Square Student Guide: Eat, Study, Explore
GuideHarvard Square vs Central Square: Which Is Better?
BlogWelcome to Guide to Cambridge: What We're Building and Why
Blog7 Hidden Gems in Cambridge That Only Locals Know About
BlogEvery T Station in Cambridge: A Complete Transit Guide
“She was my Rushmore.”
— Herman Blume, on Cambridge dining