Circa 1899, the old Union Square became the new Porter Square in Cambridge, MA! The small neighborhood has retained much of its history, with a few major changes with the construction of Lesley College.
What keeps us returning to this charming neighborhood is the incredible assortment of food. Check out our recs on what to do in Porter Square and don’t be surprised if 90% are food related!
1.Bagelsaurus
New York bagels have nothing on Bagelsaurus. The lines and “sold out” sign will prove that point.
Bagelsaurus, a craft sourdough bagel bakery on Mass. Ave. in Porter Square, makes possibly the best bagels in all of Boston and Cambridge. Choose from flavors like Cheddar Garlic or a Salt Bagel and spread some of the heavenly cream cheese in flavors like their signature Honey Rosemary or classic Scallion.
1796 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140
2. Honeycomb Creamery
This women-owned ice cream shop is how to some of the best ice cream, if not the best ice cream (it’s a tough call between another Cambridge favorite, Toscanini’s)! All of their whimsical flavors like coconut zucchini and honey lavender rotate seasonally and are made with a honey base instead of sugar, adding a unique sweetness and creamy texture. Make sure to top off your creation with their honeycomb candy, honey caramel, and torched marshmallow for the perfect melding of textures.
On Tuesdays, stop by for Taco Tuesday where ice cream is stuffed into a delicious homemade waffle shell and dipped in a variety of chocolate and toppings!
1702 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
3. Dear Annie
Meet thy neighbor at this new New York Times acclaimed restaurant. Dear Annie scores an A+ in the food department, especially when it comes to their funky vegetable plates and fun take on fresh “retro tinned” seafood. The communal table also doubles the restaurant as a social spot to make some new friends in the city!
1741 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, Ma 02140
4. Porter Square Books
Bookworms will love snooping through this massive indie bookstore! It’s right off the red line, and if you take those Porter Square stairs, you’ll need to reward yourself with a rich meal and book! Porter Square Books also hosts fun book reads and signings throughout the year!
25 White St, Cambridge, MA 02140
5. Colette
We warned you there’d be a lot of food in this guide! Colette, located inside the historic Porter Square Hotel, is the sister restaurant of South End favorite, Frenchie! Find rich, delicious French fare on the menu and enjoy the stunningly chic ambiance! Don’t sleep on this yummy French Bistro! They also have a “secret garden” which is perfect for outdoor dining in the warmer months.
1924 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140