No longer the new kid on the block in Harvard Square, Park still sets the standard for good hearty food and quality cocktails. With a carefully created club atmosphere- a collection of upholstered chairs and leather couches, curios, old prints -, Park’s concise menu – from cheese plate to meat pie – is a parade of hits, and because their friendly bartenders churn out creative cocktails (if you don’t like one on the list, just tell them what kind of thing you’re in the mood for and they’ll create it on the spot), it remains high on my list for a night out in Harvard Square.
I usually opt for one of the fish entrees paired with seasonal vegetables, but the meat pie is also a good option with ingredients that also vary by season, so be sure to ask. The back dining room can be a bit crowded, especially during dinner, so try to sit at the bar if you’re a small party- that way, you can pick the bartender’s brain about which cocktails you should have next and with the comfortable atmosphere you may want to stay for a while.
Best to get a reservation if you’re going on a Thursday – Saturday evening. Also be sure to check out weekend brunch on Saturday and Sundays.