Central Kitchen

Excellent intimate restaurant and bar right in central square. My group went here for a birthday party and had an excellent time. Our food was all amazing (great steak frites, lamb burger, mussels) as were the drinks (great cocktails). The service was good and the vibe inside the restaurant was really nice (dark lighting, kind of loud). Overall it was a great place to have a small bday get together and one I highly recommend.

We tried this place for the first time. It was a chilly Thursday night. We went to the upstairs floor where it’s more of a bar/lounge hangout rather than a sit down and dine in experience. We ordered: Lamb burger Grilled octopus Disco nap First and foremost, excellent drinks that you could definitely enjoy all night. The food was also ok. The lamb burger wasn’t as good as one would expect for $20. The meat didn’t have the right seasoning. The grilled octopus on the other side was much better. Service was also quick and sufficient. Overall a good first time experience.

We just had the most wonderful experience here. The food is delicious, with flavours well ballanced, drinks are creative, the atmosphere chill and elegant. But what brings everything together is the kindness and attention to detail of the wonderful staff . This place is done with love and that shines through everything they do. Looking forward to come back!

Skip this restaurant. There are better options in the Central and Harvard Square area. Last night, my partner and I visited Central Kitchen for dinner. We have come here twice before for beers at their upstairs bar, but this was the first time we chose to dine. Our first red flag should have been how empty it was on a Friday night compare to neighboring restaurants. The waitress was polite but so aloof that my partner got the wrong dish. He ordered the New England Bouillabaisse and got the mussels and fries instead. When brought to her attention, she apologized, said she could put in the right order, but it would take a long time, so my partner opted to stay with the mussels since they were already there. Both of our dishes were mildly warm. I had the sword fish, which was not a great experience. The swordfish was dry, and flavorless. The accompanying fennel was soaked in so much oil and that was all I could taste when I bit into it. The potatoes were cold and hard to chew. The meal was expensive, so I definitely expected better quality and service. This is really unfortunate because the restaurant itself is beautiful with a calm ambiance, and great location. After sharing my experience with friends, they have told me that it's a restaurant that's been there for 20 years, and is in need of renovation as it has lost its flair. I really hope food and service improves, but for now, we are staying away.

Based on about a total of 5 times here: Drinks: cocktails are great! We loved everyone we tried. Food: this is unfortunately the disappointing part. I've had the lamb burger, the seared salmon, and the moules mariniere. The first two were a disappointment (especially given their price!). Overall, I'd say the food here is not worth the money, but if you want to come for drinks then the cocktails and the cozy atmosphere are nice and worth it.