14 Best Coffee Shops in Cambridge, Massachusetts (2025 Guide)

Curio Coffee offers a delightful experience with its range of waffles and seasonal lattes, attracting customers for both their savory treats and aromatic drinks. Despite some recent changes in equipment that somewhat impacted the coffee quality, it still maintains an excellent ambiance and friendly staff who can make up for any shortcomings. The menu includes vegetarian options as well, offering variety to all diners. Curio Coffee retains its place as a favorite among locals for breakfast and casual dining experiences.

1369 Coffee House stands out with its friendly and helpful staff, offering consistently delicious beverages including honey rose cappuccino at reasonable prices for the area. Known for having a nice coffee date vibe, it's popular among locals and visitors alike who appreciate both its seasonal specials like the seasonal orange blossom fog and their high-quality cold brews such as malted cold brew. Despite occasional issues with matcha quality noted by some customers, 1369 continues to be a go-to spot for those seeking authentic coffee experiences in Central.

1369 Coffee House offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with excellent coffee. Local artists' work decorates the space, making each visit unique. The menu features fresh muffins and breakfast sandwiches available on various types of bread, along with local baked goods that are dangerously good. Outdoor seating is also available to enjoy beverages while taking in the pleasant ambiance.

Peet's Coffee stands out with its calming atmosphere and delicious offerings. The environment offers ample lighting and seating, perfect for enjoying a coffee or pastry while walking around the bustling streets of Harvard Square. Despite not being the most comfortable hangout spot, it remains highly respected for its quality products compared to nearby options. Peet’s brings warmth and comfort, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a pleasant experience with great coffee drinks in this vibrant area.

Blue Bottle Coffee is a vibrant spot within Harvard Square offering a delightful ambiance with minimalist yet well-lit decor. The café's clean and inviting space includes ample seating for studying or reading, complemented by soothing lighting that encourages comfort. It stands out not only for its quality beverages but also for the thoughtful touches like paper straws and cups to reduce waste. Despite sometimes being busy, the place manages to maintain a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for casual sipping or focused study sessions.

Jaho Coffee Roaster & Wine Bar seems to offer a warm and inviting ambiance with unique drink options that cater well to both solo sipping and social gatherings. Known for its diverse seasonal specials including the Iced Kulfi latte and Vietnamese coffee espresso martini, it provides an experience where patrons can enjoy a good cappuccino or simply read while enjoying their environment. Despite some minor issues like plastic lids and long-term youth sitting in one area affecting the overall 20-minute experience, Jaho retains its appeal for those seeking a delightful caffeine or wine fix in Cambridge.

Blank Street Coffee is known for its friendly service and customizable drinks from creative baristas. The atmosphere is immaculate with good vibes always present, making it a favorite spot in Harvard Square. Whether sipping on classic coffee or adventurous specialty drinks, patrons appreciate the quality and variety offered at this establishment. Nick and Jake stand out as particularly exceptional, enhancing the overall experience with their warm hospitality and superior brewing skills.

Pavement Coffeehouse at Harvard Square offers a decent coffee experience with light roasts and standard offerings. The location feels more fast-food styled than crafty, especially compared to other Pavement locations. With plenty of seating options across from the main entrance, it caters well to those in a hurry or waiting for friends. Despite the service being slow at times, its high price range and cozy atmosphere make it worth trying for coffee enthusiasts near Harvard Square.

Café Gato Rojo seems to be a popular spot among students, praised for its friendly baristas and lovely atmosphere perfect for work or socializing with friends. The pastries are highly appreciated, adding to the overall delightful experience. However, there have been some issues reported, such as not being able to enter sometimes and noise levels can be high, which might affect work. Despite these minor drawbacks, it remains a solid choice for students seeking affordable coffee and pastries.

Jenny's Cafe offers an inviting aesthetic with recyclable or compostable utensils and napkins that make dining enjoyable. The food is well-received, from the unique items to classic favorites, ensuring satisfaction for patrons of all tastes. Staff are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, especially with customers who might be new to the area or need assistance. Despite occasional issues like staff condescension and inaccurate cafe hours, it remains a consistently highly-rated place known for its thoughtful service, quality food, and beautiful surroundings.