Best Pre-Theater Restaurants in Arlington

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchMexican

Regions

Boston

Neighborhoods

Back BayCambridgeDowntown CrossingSouth BostonSouth EndTheater District

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

27 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Harvest

4.5

Awesome(5345)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Cambridge

Booked 39 times today

A steady Harvard Square presence for almost 50 years, Harvest embodies the ever-evolving spirit of Cambridge and deep respect for culinary tradition. Our seasonal menus marry the innovation of contemporary cooking with a timeless respect for American culinary traditions and an emphasis on local farmers and purveyors. Our spacious bar, fireside dining, and hidden gem of a patio each offer a welcome reprieve from the fast-paced world happening just outside our doors.Serving Lunch, Dinner, and Saturday/Sunday Brunch with seating on our seasonal outdoor Garden Terrace. We highly recommend making a reservation; outside tables are available weather permitting and may be requested but cannot be reserved or guaranteed. Harvest offers Private Dining from 15 to 60 people. Sit-down lunches, dinners, and receptions are just some of the Private Functions Harvest can provide.

2. Alden and Harlow

4.6

Exceptional(4965)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Cambridge

Booked 60 times today

Located at 40 Brattle Street in Harvard Square, Alden & Harlow serves thoughtfully sourced, honest American food in a subterranean, modern and comfortable space. Replicating the style of cooking he does for family and friends in his home kitchen, Chef Michael Scelfo prepares humble, unpretentious food that honors tradition of place in its quality. It's how he connects with anyone who joins them at their table.While reservations are strongly suggested, we also save a portion of the dining room and bar for walk-ins in the event that your request cannot be accommodated. So please, come on in!Parties of more than 8, please call to make a reservation.

3. SOURCE Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(624)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Pizza Bar • Cambridge

Booked 23 times today

SOURCE is a fresh, modern approach to the local gastro pub and pizza bar. Source is an innovative dining destination featuring rustic yet refined food, and an unmatched craft and local beverage program. Utilizing local and sustainable products and only the purest ingredients, SOURCE’s mission is to embrace the root of who we are and what we consume. Owned by Restaurant veteran Daniel Roughan, SOURCE offers guests the space to enjoy delicious quality authentic Neapolitan-style pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven. In addition to pizza SOURCE will offer an assortment of small plates, entrees and homemade desserts. SOURCE will be open daily for lunch and dinner as well offering an unforgettable brunch experience both Saturdays and Sundays. Welcome home, Welcome to SOURCE.

4. Nubar

4.4

Awesome(1110)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Cambridge

Booked 1 time today

We are currently serving our breakfast buffet 7 days/wk, from 7am - 10:30am. The price is now $30/adults and $16/kids (because of the soaring price of eggs), and it includes coffee, tea, or juice. We are now serving lunch again daily, from 11am - 2pm. On Sundays, we will offer our regular lunch menu, plus a small menu of a la carte brunch items (last day for the season is Sunday June 22nd). We open for dinner at 5pm daily. The kitchen closes at 10pm daily. The bar will stay open 45 minutes after the kitchen closes on Sunday - Thursday, and on Friday and Saturday, last call is 11:45pm.Located under the glow of a Cambridge landmark and in the heart of Harvard Square, Nubar restaurant and lounge is now open at the Sheraton Commander Hotel. A chic neighborhood hangout emphasizing a comfortable bar and dining experience, Nubar restaurant serves food reflective of its surrounding neighborhood: smart, seasonal and approachable.

5. South End Buttery

4.5

Awesome(2458)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • South End

Booked 17 times today

South End Buttery is a neighborhood eat-in and take-away bakery/cafe by day and full bar/restaurant by night. The Buttery's award-winning food has a reputation for combining seasonal, local ingredients to create exceptional everyday food at everyday prices. The Buttery takes casual fine dining to new heights, with classic comfort food as well as dishes for the health and calorie conscious that pair beautifully with the affordable wine and beer selections. You'll feel like you're dining in your own home – but you won’t have to do the dishes!

A photo of Petit Robert Bistro Columbus Avenue restaurant

6. Petit Robert Bistro Columbus Avenue

4.6

Exceptional(2770)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• French • South End

Booked 39 times today

With a casual atmosphere and a classic menu, Petit Robert Bistro feels like an authentic French bistro. Established in 2005 in the South End of Boston, Petit Robert Bistro has become an institution in the neighborhood! Our patio is one of the most beautiful and comfortable places in Boston. Our Chef Chris Ipus HAS created an authentic and very interesting menu that changes every season.Bon Appetit!

7. The Berkeley

4.4

Awesome(53)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• French American • Back Bay

Booked 4 times today

The Berkeley Bistro + Bar, located in Boston's Back Bay neighborhood, serves New England classic dishes with a touch of French-bistro inspiration, crafted from the freshest local ingredients. Pair your meal with an expertly prepared cocktail or a selection from our thoughtfully curated wine list.Whether you're planning a casual gathering or a special occasion, The Berkeley provides the perfect setting. Enjoy the lively atmosphere on our Bar Side—or opt for our Dining Room side— where a refined bistro-style experience awaits.Weather permitting, The Berkeley’s outdoor terraces offer a charming al fresco setting. Please note that outdoor seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not accepted.The Berkeley is located within Hotel AKA Back Bay. Visit theberkeleyboston.com to explore seasonal menus, hours, private event options, and weekly happenings.

8. Metropolis Cafe

4.8

Exceptional(1628)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • South End

Booked 32 times today

Metropolis Café, nestled in Boston’s Historic South End with views of lively Tremont Street, combines fine dining and warm hospitality at casual prices. Our dinner menu features favorites like Rigatoni, Pan Roasted Natural Chicken with foraged mushroom crème and whipped garlic Yukon potatoes, Sriracha Glazed Brussels Sprouts served with house-made buttermilk ranch and celery salad, and our creamy Risottos. Join us for a beloved neighborhood brunch on weekends, where locals and visitors enjoy a relaxed, cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for dinner or a weekend brunch, Metropolis Café offers an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Boston’s South End.

9. The Q Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(477)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Asian • Theater District

Booked 34 times today

Take a culinary tour through Asia at The Q. This restaurant serves a mix of classic Chinese, Japanese and Mongolian hotpot in upscale, hip surrounds that include a cozy lounge. Sift through a vast menu packed with hot pot specials, sushi and savory entrees. A popular neighborhood destination, The Q is a nice pick if you're in the mood for some pan-Asian cuisine. The restaurant's spacious interior plays well to small- and medium-sized groups.

A photo of Serafina - Boston Back Bay restaurant

10. Serafina - Boston Back Bay

4.5

Awesome(613)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Back Bay

Booked 40 times today

At Serafina on Newbury Street, we bring the warmth and flavors of authentic Italian cuisine to the heart of Boston's trendiest neighborhood. Nestled in the vibrant Back Bay, just steps away from the Prudential Center and Hynes Convention Center, our restaurant is the perfect spot to indulge in comfort food with a modern twist. Whether you're craving our signature pizzas, hearty pastas, fresh salads, or succulent steaks, we have something to satisfy every palate—including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.Our inviting atmosphere is designed to make you feel right at home, whether you're enjoying a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a special celebration. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Charles River for a beautiful view or a relaxing walk—an experience that perfectly complements the Serafina dining experience. We look forward to welcoming you to our table and making your visit a memorable one!

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

M
MiraVIP
Greater Boston •26 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Food is always so good. The old favorites as well as the new menu items. Cocktails also so inventive, and always hits. Server was lovely and her recommendations were super.
More info
Alden and HarlowPrice: Moderate• American• Cambridge
•
4.6
E
ElizabethVIP
Greater Boston •26 reviews
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
Noisier than usual for lunch. We chose it to meet friends and talk, but it was difficult. Service was excellent. Burgers and salmon very good.
More info
HarvestPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Cambridge
•
4.5
L
lyla
Greater Boston •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
loved that it was quiet but not empty and really enjoyed the pizza! glad i opted for the nyc crust, would definitely recommend that.
More info
SOURCE RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Pizza Bar• Cambridge
•
4.7
D
davidVIP
Greater Boston •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jun 17, 2025
Delicious food as always. I noticed a caveat on the bill. It includes a 4% fee for the kitchen staff. That's ok, except I would think they would be paid a proper wage. That said, they only get 75% of that fee. The restaurant keeps the balance for their administrative fee to implement the 4% fee.
More info
South End ButteryPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• South End
•
4.5
W
WilburVIP
Greater Boston •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 11, 2025
Relaxing and enjoyable Mothers Day brunch. Tasty and good buffet selection. Excellent service.
More info
NubarPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Cambridge
•
4.4

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