Where locals eat in Cambridge, Massachusetts
A common misconception about Cambridge dining: People assume Harvard Square has the best restaurants because it's famous. Locals know the opposite — Harvard Square restaurants serve tourists. The best food is in Central, Inman, and Porter, where restaurants survive on repeat customers, not foot traffic.
How locals actually choose a restaurant: First, pick the neighborhood you're already in. Then pick the cuisine. Then check if you need a reservation. Cambridge restaurants are small; the good ones fill up. Spontaneous dining works best at lunch or early dinner.
Julia Child lived on Irving Street. She would've loved our restaurant scene.
Named to multiple 'Best in America' lists, this natural wine bar between Harvard and Porter Squares serves locally sourced, vegetable-forward small plates. Intimate space with a curated selection of natural and biodynamic wines.
Full service Cuban restaurant and bar serving modern interpretations of traditional Cuban dishes. Craft cocktail program and highly curated selection of Cuban Rums. Vibrant atmosphere celebrating Cuban culture.
Serving locally sourced, globally inspired dishes, with an intimate dining room, knowledgeable friendly staff, and exquisitely crafted menu at the heart of the dinner service. Seasonal New American with international influences.
Authentic Thai cuisine with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. Family-run restaurant serving Cambridge for over 20 years with consistent quality and generous portions.
Thai craft burgers and dining between Harvard and Porter Squares. A unique fusion concept combining authentic Thai flavors with American comfort food. The Thai-spiced burgers and papaya salad are standouts.
Peruvian cuisine in North Cambridge featuring ceviche, lomo saltado, and creative cocktails with pisco. A vibrant addition to the Cambridge dining scene bringing authentic South American flavors to the neighborhood.
Join our distinguished directory of Cambridge establishments and connect with discerning diners across all eight districts.
"I saved Latin. What did you ever do?"
— Max Fischer, Rushmore Academy
Cambridge has over 120 curated restaurants spanning every cuisine. Top-rated spots include award-winning establishments in Harvard Square and Inman Square, diverse ethnic restaurants in Central Square, and innovative dining in Kendall Square. Browse our directory sorted by rating above to find the highest-rated options.