The Thoughtful Splurge — worth every penny
Beloved Middle Eastern restaurant serving Levantine-inspired mezze and hearty entrees. Owner Mohamad El Zein's personal stamp on traditional dishes with a mostly Lebanese wine list. Now expanded to a larger Central Square location.
The Maitre d' Recommends
Reddit Mentions
Contact Details
243 Hampshire St, Cambridge, MA 02139
Mon-Thu: 5PM-9:30PM, Fri-Sat: 5PM-10:30PM, Sun: 5PM-9:30PM
10 min walk from Central
RedCambridge has hosted Nobel laureates at nearly every establishment.
You Might Also Like
The Druid
Authentic Irish pub in Cambridge's oldest wooden mercantile building. Known for perfect Guinness, excellent food, and live Irish music sessions three times weekly.
Ole Mexican Grill
Lively Inman Square Mexican restaurant with tableside guacamole, creative fare, and assorted margaritas. Local favorite for Tex-Mex comfort food and generous portions.
S&S Restaurant & Deli
Cambridge institution since 1919. Jewish-style deli serving everything from traditional Reubens to innovative entrees. Birthplace of Legal Sea Foods (1950). Three generations of the same family.
Oleana
Award-winning Mediterranean restaurant with Turkish and Arabic influences. Chef Ana Sortun's seasonal menu features creative mezze, grilled meats, and vegetarian options.
Further Reading
Best Restaurants in Inman Square
Blog7 Hidden Gems in Cambridge That Only Locals Know About
BlogCambridge's Coffee Culture: Why This City Runs on Independent Roasters
BlogCambridge Dining in 2026: Trends, New Openings, and What's Changed
Walking TourCambridge Culinary Journey
Walking TourPerfect Cambridge Weekend
“She was my Rushmore.”
— Herman Blume, on Cambridge dining