Insider's Guide: A Perfect Date in Harvard Sq.
Updated: January 12, 2008
One of Cambridge's most versatile neighborhoods, Harvard Square offers something for everyone. Here, we set up a can't-miss night, perfect for a first (or 100th) date.
On this page:Get Drunk and Dance to Crappy Music, Act Interested About Cheese, Snack Under the Stars, Sample Some Beers and Watch the Harvard Kids, Get Some Culture, The First Drink, The Meeting Spot.
Get Drunk and Dance to Crappy Music
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Hong Kong At Harvard Square
Read Reviews1236 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)
OK, it's getting late, and the Hong Kong's signature scorpion bowl is a surefire way to seal the deal. Guys like the copious amounts of booze, while girls like the little toy monkeys and umbrellas that float atop the ice. Plus, everyone there will probably be wasted, and the steady stream of "Come on Eileen" and "Living on a Prayer" will get you moving. What's not to love? TIP: With a 2am closing time on weekends, the Hong Kong calls the latest last call in Harvard Square.
Act Interested About Cheese
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Cardullo's Gourmet Shoppe
Read Reviews6 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)
Duck into this gourmet shop and show off your knowledge of French chocolates, Spanish olive oils and Indian spices. It's better than bragging about your travels, and you can treat your date to a weird British candy bar. TIP: If there's a big game on, you won't miss a minute of the action, thanks to the flat-screen TV in front.
Snack Under the Stars
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Daedalus
Read Reviews45 1/2 Mount Auburn St, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)
Less than a five minute walk from the center of Harvard Square, this neighborhood hangout remains something of an unknown, despite having one of the city's largest rooftop patios. If the weather doesn't allow for outdoor dining, the second floor's glass roof (it used to be a greenhouse) creates a starry, romantic vibe. TIP: Impress your date by sharing that in the 18th century, "Daedalus" was used to denote a classic artist or skilled craftsman.
Sample Some Beers and Watch the Harvard Kids
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John Harvard's Brew House
Read Reviews33 Dunster St, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)
Head underground and mix things up by ordering a sampler of fresh-made brews. If the conversation's lacking, grab a spot at one of the large communal tables and eavesdrop on some Harvard whiz kids discussing their molecular biology exam. TIP: Keep the party going with a pint of Friar Lawrence's Potion, coming in strong at 8.6% alcohol content.
Get Some Culture
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Brattle Theatre
Write a review40 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)
One of the country's oldest independent cinemas, the Brattle maintains an eclectic, offbeat program. Be spontaneous and just show up. You may discover a Bollywood hit or an old-school classic, but whatever it is, you'll come off looking like a first-rate culture vulture. TIP: The Brattle occasionally hosts speakers or concerts, so if your heart's set on seeing a film, be sure to check first.
The First Drink
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Grafton Street Pub & Grill
Read Reviews1230 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)
With huge floor-to-ceiling windows and a primo spot on Mass Ave., Grafton Street is the neighborhood's best spot for people-watching (small talk's always easier when you have pierced, artsy types to stare at). A pair of TVs will have the game on, and there's sturdy, upscale pub grub if either of you are peckish. TIP: Check the taps for hard-to-find brews like Leffe.
The Meeting Spot
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Mit Coop
Read Reviews1400 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)
The Square's largest bookstore is a perfect meeting spot. Just head to the cafe, grab a few magazines and wait for your date. And remember...what you read says a lot about you, so depending on who you're meeting, you may want to skip "Us Weekly" in favor of "The Atlantic Monthly." TIP: Avoid crowds by making sure there isn't a major book signing being held.
