Craigie on MainTony keeps his creative edge!First visit to Craigie on Main in months - found Chef Tony's food as delicious and creative as ever. A scallop amuse bouche was worth the trip alone. Halibut was poached to velvety perfection. Service was knowledgeable, attentive, but not hovering. Appreciate not feeling rushed. Many thanks for a lovely evening.6/12/2013 12:00:00 AMBest Brunch I've ever hadThe menu is not huge but it doesn't need to be given that everything on it is amazing. They get everything right down to the last detail here. Well worth the trek to Cambridge from Quincy (and my mom said worth the trek from western mass!)6/9/2013 12:00:00 AMSpecial dinner at CarigieI went there for a special dinner with my girlfriend recently for our anniversary. The team at Craigie could not have been better in arranging a special experience.
Their handling was exquisite, from calling prior to the dinner to arrange champagne at the table upon arriving, a special tasting course which accommodating a fish-centric diet, multiple kindly visits to the table, 3 desserts, and much more! The food was of course stunning ... well worth it! We really enjoyed our time from start to finish. Thank you so much. We will definitely come again.6/8/2013 12:00:00 AMTruly Wonderful!We celebrated our anniversary here. When we arrived to the table there was a card from the restaurant with good wishes and we were served a glass of champagne, gratis. We chose the eight course tasting menu after the lovely waitress, Emily, explained how the meal would go. The courses are chosen by the kitchen with our input ie: no meat for me and no octopus for my husband.
The food was spectacular. Highlights: pasta (homemade daily), soft shell crabs, and the begnets for dessert. But it was all terrific.
The wait staff was excellent and explained each dish in detail. The bartender was particularly knowledgable about the unusual liquors he served -very few of which were the old standbys one gets at 90% of bars.
We can't wait to return!6/7/2013 12:00:00 AMjuppeats3.5starCraigie was a very nice find in the Central Square area of Cambridge. Went for brunch. Be sure to get an order of the donuts. One of my guests had the house smoked fish on a bagel and found it very tasty. Another had the pancakes and enjoyed them, but when they got a taste of the beef cheeks hash said they would definitely get that dish the next time. I had the hash made with fish and thought it was one of the best brunch dishes I'd ever had. The fire grilled bread made it extra special. Only service flaw was it took a long time and repeated requests to get iced tea, but the tea was freshly brewed so was worth the wait.6/2/2013 12:00:00 AMI arrived ten minutes earlyI arrived ten minutes early for my reservation. My friends were parking and I had to beg to get in and wait. When we were allthere it took a long time to get the menu.
The food was great and they were accomodating of my fiend's allergies to certain foods.
All in all a very pleasurale evening.
However, I found the open kitchen very loud and would request not to be seated near it next time.6/2/2013 12:00:00 AMDelicious brunch!Having lusted after the burger for a couple of years, I finally decided to go for brunch and try it out. We started with a donut, and had the burger and the beef cheek and tongue hash (and I added a spicy bloody mary). Everything was fantastic-- there is a reason the burger and hash are some of the most popular! Our server was also very attentive without being intrusive. I hope to go back and splurge for the tasting menu someday!6/2/2013 12:00:00 AMAnniversary DinnerA must for a special occasion. We enjoyed the decor and the staff were attentive and informative while being friendly and gracious.
The food was deliciously prepared and beautifly presented. We enjoyed the whole experience and would recomend to everyone ;-)6/1/2013 12:00:00 AMClose but no cigarThis restaurant comes with a reputation - an extremely good one. It is also very expensive. So with that combination, I expected this to be a sublime dining experience. And it was quite good in spots. But not sublime. The octopus appetizer was perfect and the orange blossom beignets were one of the best desserts I've ever eaten. Sounds great, but the rest of the food was just ok, and little details were missed (e.g., they serve cold bread - good bread, but cold bread). We ordered off the menu, so perhaps the chef's tasting table would have been a better choice.6/1/2013 12:00:00 AMDelicious!Incredible food. The tasting menu was great, lots of seasonal veggies and really fresh seafood. Service was only okay; our waitress was nice but she seemed "out of it" and each course took a long time to come out... Or it was just so delicious that we ate too quickly. Overall, a wonderful experience. Highlights included the tempura soft shell crab and the white asparagus ice cream. J5/31/2013 12:00:00 AMIn the top 5 restaurants inIn the top 5 restaurants in greater Boston area, maybe even the best restaurant.5/26/2013 12:00:00 AMFirst Craigie on Main ExperieinceI have heard so many good things about this place, and let me tell you, it lived up to all of the hype! The food was beyond real and the service was some of the best I have ever experienced. My BF and I each had a doughnut to start and the infamous Craigie burger. I don't typically order my burgers medium rare, but its how the chef suggests it so we went with it and were beyond surprised. The wait staff was so attentive and friendly even though the place was clearly packed and hopping, we were treated with the utmost respect and service imaginable. This place is pricey but for our anniversary we splurged a little and boy was it worth it. Couldn't be happier with my first meal at Craigie on Main!!!5/26/2013 12:00:00 AMAmazing Brunch!Wonderful service, impressive and imaginative menu items, and absolutely delicious food. The a la carte donut is mouth-watering, the brunch cocktails are the best anywhere, and the food is delectable. The owner and chef, Tony Maws, puts his personal touch on every meal and it shows. This restaurant is my all-time favorite!!5/26/2013 12:00:00 AMTasty but expensiveI've had this place recommended to me for years as a special brunch or dinner spot.. so I had to go. Ambience was lovely, service was fantastic. Only complaint was the pricetag, but everyone who's gone has loved it-- so if you're looking for a dependable, high-quality restaurant, this is a fantastic pick.5/26/2013 12:00:00 AMvery impressedI normally frequent the bar when I go. Jared has always impressed me with his attentive knowledgeable and friendly service. This time we sat at a table celebrating my wife's birthday. Food and service were excellent. Rob and a female server worked very well in harmony with each other. We had the whole chicken, I've never seen a chicken so perfectly crispy I had to take a picture, they gave us there featured sides on the house, how amazing. Must get the Craigie doughnuts! The only part of the night that was a let down was when we got home and forgot our leftovers, they were probably just holding in the back til we left and forgot. I was really looking forward to enjoying the meal again the next day, oh well I guess we'll have to go back soon5/25/2013 12:00:00 AMVery good, but priceyWe definitely enjoyed this meal... All of the dishes were good and some, particularly the grilled octopus and desserts, were exceptional. The service was perfect, with a team approach that meant someone was always there when we needed something. All that being said, we had an equally good experience at the Hungry Mother for half the price. So, we'd recommend Craigie on Main, but be prepared to pay.5/24/2013 12:00:00 AMelegant simplicityEverything about the food and service is way above average. The prices are steep, but the level of creativity, inventiveness, detail and artistry makes it worth every penny. This is a temple for foodies. The menu works better for meat-eaters, though they always have a good seafood offering, and they can whip up something vegetarian, too. The atmosphere is rustic, almost casual. Not what I expected for such a highly-rated and pricey place, but it somehow works as a kind of elegant simplicity. Noise level is more energetic than we like; that would be the only real downside.5/21/2013 12:00:00 AMWent for brunch. EverybodyWent for brunch. Everybody really enjoyed what they had. Prices are very reasonable.5/19/2013 12:00:00 AMSpecial dinner a success!I went here for a graduation dinner and enjoyed myself very much. The food was interesting and delicious. The tasting menu was exciting and an adventure for my family and I. Definitely good for a special occasion when willing to splurge. We loved the variety of cocktails and beer, including some drinks with ingredients we had never heard of. The staff was very knowledgable and friendly. The only reason I marked down on service was my waiter forgot about a cocktail I had ordered, otherwise the service was perfect. Get the civilian cocktail if you go soon!5/19/2013 12:00:00 AMBrunchBrunch at Craigie on Main is always special. Delicious food, very good service, and among the best cocktail creations in Boston. Seating can be a little tight, so small groups 3-5 people best fit the small atmosphere.5/19/2013 12:00:00 AMGreat food, for a priceMy girlfriend and I had the six course tasting, paired with wines by the glass by our server. We went in with super high expectations and overall the experience fell somewhat short. The food was absolutely delicious and memorable, two wines were good, one was great, and one was bad. The service was attentive but never annoying. I would have liked a little more description of the wines and courses as they came. Overall I'd say that description is a great night of fine dining. However, the total bill, after tip, came to around $375 for two people. That's just too much money for not the greatest meal in the history of meals. Probably won't be back unless the price drops a little, but it's worth a look for a special occasion/celebration.5/18/2013 12:00:00 AMExcellent choice for a special mealThis was our first visit to Craigie on Main and it was a delight from the food, to the drinks, to the service. We were worried about whether or not this would be the right choice for our special night out but there was no need for worry. We found everything to be top notch and look forward to another visit soon.5/18/2013 12:00:00 AM1. The appetizers are always1. The appetizers are always more inspired, more unusual and with a more harmonious combinations of flavors. The main dishes are usually less imaginative and quite varying in quantity. On this last visit, the lack of appeal of the main dishes made us order pig's head for two. It was a great disappointment both in term of the excessive amount of fat as well as the insufficient quantity. The accompaniments were at best average and uncomplimentary.
2. Excessive pricing! If Craigie on Main wants to remain a "treat" for diners, it should correct its shortcomings and start considering what brought it to this level: the "old Craigie Street Bistro". In the attempts to expand, it is sacrificing charm and the special attention to details.5/17/2013 12:00:00 AMPig's head a mild letdown this timeThe first time we ordered the pig's head, it was delicious and moist. This time, it was a bit dry in places. We first split the burger (no bun or fries, to avoid filling up) and the fried clams, which were very satisfying. Perhaps by the time we got the pig, we were not as hungry as before.
We should have also asked if we could move tables; there was a cold draft coming down on us.5/17/2013 12:00:00 AMReservation was at 8:15 forReservation was at 8:15 for 3 people and we were not seated until after 9, which was fine because they comped several rounds of drinks for us. Had the 8 course chef's creation tasting menu. Some of the the dishes were absolutely outstanding and a couple of them were just okay. Not quite as memorable an experience as my first time dining there but still one of the best in Boston none the less. Wine list was a bit eclectic for my tastes, I would advise bringing someone along who really knows there stuff as it will greatly enhance your meal.5/16/2013 12:00:00 AMPerfection from the momentPerfection from the moment we entered.
The ambience could not have been better for Mother's Day.
The service was superb even while I waited for my dauughter to arrive.
Food was creative and delicious.
Definitely a memorable bite.5/12/2013 12:00:00 AMIncrementally improved!That's saying a lot, since I thought my last visit for dinner was supremely excellent. My other and I had a phenomenal meal via the tasting menu. The desserts were superlative. Thank you.5/11/2013 12:00:00 AMOver the top delicious.We had the 8 course tasting menu... it's the best way to go because there are so many interesting items on the menu it's impossible to pick just 1 entree and appetizer. Each dish was delicious and the waitstaff were very knowledgeable about all the ingredients and preparations. We had them pair glasses of wine with each dish and it was just perfect. Also had the roasted bone marrow on toast points as an extra side -- delicious. I will go again next time I am visiting Boston... be prepared to bring your wallet.,,, it was the most expensive dinner I ever had (almost $600 for 3 people),. But it was worth it if you are a foodie. Sit on the bar side if you prefer less noise and foot traffic.5/11/2013 12:00:00 AMCraigie on MainFood was excellent and pricey. Biggest disappointment was the wine list which had no bottles at $40 or under, and was missing the relatively good value Sauvignon Blancs, Spanish tempranillos and the like. Apparently deliberate. Stick to beer.5/9/2013 12:00:00 AMFantastic way to celebrateFantastic way to celebrate birthday - tasting menu inventive and well composed, loved sashimi, pasta with tripe and duck! Great wines helpfully selected by friendly and attentive staff. Atmosphere a perfect mix of upbeat, lively yet very efficient service. Holding back one star on the food only because in a few of the dishes I thought they could have packed a bit more flavor. Overall a top experience highly recommended.5/9/2013 12:00:00 AMinterestingWe did the 6 course. if eating is an obsession and you just have to have something eclectic then Craigie is for you. Food and service really were very good. Mixings of items were very good. Wine excellent. Non-alcoholic beverages were fun too, a nice surprise. We had several new taste sensations. Wait staff attentive but not over the top. Will go back.
Next time we will order off the menu, as the multi course really was too much and maybe too rich in total.
Restaurant was abuzz, but not too loud. Interesting clientele and conversations.
Overall experience is memorable.5/8/2013 12:00:00 AMAn interesting menu, withAn interesting menu, with an extraordinary beet-flavored ice cream dessert, worth going back for!
A very nice riesling. Altogether on the pricey side, so we won't return very often.5/7/2013 12:00:00 AMSurpassed my expectations!I had heard so much about Craigie on Main, so my expectations were high, but the quality and creativity of the meal far surpassed what I imagined! We did the six course tasting menu, which is the perfect way to sample what Craigie has to offer. From the sashimi at the beginning to the desserts at the end, everything was truly fabulous, of a quality you rarely experience when dining out. The staff took wonderful care of us - we had a relaxed meal but were never left waiting too long for the next dish. Thank you, Craigie on Main, for your attention to every aspect of our dining experience.5/4/2013 12:00:00 AMDelicious, expensiveAs a graduate student, I will never be able to afford to eat here again. However, the food was fabulous, service was great.5/1/2013 12:00:00 AMGreat Food, Amazing ServiceVery hard to find such an amazing combination of stunning food and amazing service.
It's worth the travel/money to have a garunteed fantastic experience.
Our party had burgers, fancy drinks, some amazing appetizers (warm asparagus, pate) and desert (beignes) everything was superb. They seated us quickly (even though our party was incomplete) and was always attentive and helpful.5/1/2013 12:00:00 AMBest restaurant in Boston,Best restaurant in Boston, although it is in Cambridge-the best. Reserve a spot at the Chef's Counter when you go. Do not miss brunch, order one of everything. DO it.4/28/2013 12:00:00 AMI had the legendary burger...I had the legendary burger... and I have to admit this is a well-deserved one. the burger is simply delicious.
I was not so excited with the profiteroles I had for desert but overall, a great experience !4/28/2013 12:00:00 AMEasily the best meal I'veEasily the best meal I've had so far this year. A unique menu served by an incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff. Our server, Emily, was attentive and helpful at every turn. I would highly recommend Craigie on Main for anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy an exceptional dining experience.4/28/2013 12:00:00 AMThis was our fourth trip toThis was our fourth trip to Cragie on Main, and as usual we were delighted. We celebrated our son's engament. Great place to dine for foodies.4/27/2013 12:00:00 AMIf you love innovative andIf you love innovative and delicious food, this is the place to come to! Perhaps the most special aspect of this restaurant is chef's attention to all the lovely fresh vegetables used in his dishes. A true delight to anyone who values flavors and presentation. The desserts are exquisite too!4/26/2013 12:00:00 AMFabulous all around! I justFabulous all around! I just wish it were cheaper, so my friends and I could go more often :) I'd also love to know where the chef finds the great but obscure gins that are served!4/26/2013 12:00:00 AMAttention to cooking detail,Attention to cooking detail, especially in the cooking of meat, is less than what it used to be.4/25/2013 12:00:00 AMHeard it was one of the "mustHeard it was one of the "must go to" spots in Boston and it did not disappoint. We did the 6 course tasting menu and it was delicious. The service was really great and we got to meet the chef briefly and he was really friendly.4/24/2013 12:00:00 AMEverything was absolutelyEverything was absolutely amazing - from service to food!! Do not miss this dining experience!4/21/2013 12:00:00 AMMy first time here. SecondMy first time here. Second time for my. We came for brunch the weekend of the Boston bombings. Sat at the chef's table overlooking the kitchen. Very friendly, great staff and service, and the food was fabulous. Best burger ever, was my son's verdict.
thank you to the staff who fit us in as we were due to come the previous Friday.4/21/2013 12:00:00 AMA grand anniversary eveningEnjoyed this meal very much. We did the five-course tasting menu, which was very exciting -- excellent food! The wine list may have been notable (I am not a wine connoisseur) but it -- the wine, that is -- is very expensive. Our two half-bottles paired very well with our food.
It was rather noisy in the dining room the night we were there but our table was intimate enough that we could hear each other; just had trouble hearing the server once or twice when they were describing the dishes. Of course, no one at adjacent tables could overhear our conversation, so there's that!
As this was a special occasion we weren't counting the cost but would find this restaurant a bit pricey for a regular evening out.4/21/2013 12:00:00 AMBacon & Eggs w/ a Side of BonesThe ambiance of this place is kind of like if you were inviting a James Beard winning chef and equally astounding waitstaff into your own home to cook and serve you the best meal of your life. Started with the octopus, which was so incredibly tender it almost flaked like chicken when cut with a spoon. I had their "Craigie Burger" in the bar with an addition of pork belly, bacon, eggs, and a side of bone marrow. It was incredibly rich, savory, and I happily fell into a food coma as the staff gracefully wrapped up most of it for me. The pastry chef prepared a delicious chocolate marquee dessert accompanied by some of the best ice cream I've ever had... and it had beets in it! Next time I visit Cambridge, Craigie is the place I'll be eating at4/21/2013 12:00:00 AMGreat staff. Great service.Great staff. Great service. Great food. My top choice restaurant when in Boston.4/18/2013 12:00:00 AMAmazingJust Amazing! Dinner with our two adult daughters who came from out of town and it was an epicurean experience to remember.4/18/2013 12:00:00 AMThe food was excellent asThe food was excellent as usual, and I continue to be impressed by the quality of the service: staff were professional and personable. I also love the interesting cocktails.4/16/2013 12:00:00 AM