Ok I need to break this up into sections.... Lunch: My coworkers and I love going here at lunch time. 90% of the time the service is great and fast. The food is always divine and much better than most of the other lunch places in the area. For lunch, I love the lobster roll, any of the pizzas and the french fries are amazing. Dinner: I came here for dinner for a birthday celebration with a group of girlfriends. Other than the obnoxious guy at the bar hitting on us the whole time, it was great. Our waiter was very helpful and did not make us feel pressured when we hung around for a very long time. I love the martini's and all the food that we had was great. Drinks/Bar: The bar area is very fun and relaxed. We were there on a Friday night so it was pretty busy, but we didn't have a problem getting a table. The atmosphere was nice and the people there seemed cool. The only reason that I deducted a star from HG is because when we sat at the table during the bar hours, we asked if we should go up to the bar to get our drinks (which we didn't mind doing) or if we were going to have a waitress. We were told we had a waitress, but she was extremely slow and we ended up going to the bar anyways. But I am definitely in love with this place and will continue to dine there often!
(4)
Evelyn S.
Nice service. Decent food and good drinks.
(3)
Kaitlin M.
Good local bar for me and my roommates to spend the night or stumble into late night. We've had their late night pizza a few times, and despite burning my mouth on it once, its delicious. They let us order a basket f fries right as the kitchen was closing one night too, and they were amazing. And not just because we had been drinking all night. The crowd is usually chill and fun. Top 40s music bumpin. But no one dancing It does get packed, and is kind of not sure what kind of bar it is. But its always reliable for a good time and good food, at any time. The bartenders and staff are always friendly and attentive as well.
(4)
Ali A.
I am an HG junkie - can't get enough! I've never been disappointed by the food, be it brunch, lunch, dinner or bar bites. For those later meals: One of my most favorite salads in the world is from Harvard Gardens - the Boston Bibb. Mmmmmm, I could have that every day and die a happy girl. The Pizzas are also delish and on a chilly fall/winter day, that Pumpkin Ravioli hits the spot! For those early meals: The omelets are fab. (Although you can really order anything that comes with the homefries because that is the real star of the plate.) The Pumpkin muffins come in twos are are hot out of the oven. But the best part of brunch here is that you can always get a table. No reservation, no waiting - something almost unheard of on a Sunday morning in this town. For those drinks: The bar scene is always lively and the cocktails are good. While the Dark & Stormy is no longer on the cocktail menu, order it because they make a delicious one!
(4)
John S.
Harvard Gardens works the "dimly lit funky restaurant" angle perfectly. You feel cooler when you enter, and after conversing with the friendly and attentive wait staff, you get a sense like perhaps you somehow own the place. The food is tasty and unique (lobster roll sliders, anyone), if a touch overpriced. The drinks, given the number of people at the bar, were slung often and well. This is a date place that is slightly more than casual, so hold off until date #3 to take the lucky guy or girl there.
(4)
EricaLynn J.
I've gone on Friday nights after about 9pm or so with a rather large crowd. They're usually able to handle the whole slew of us, and normally do so without fuss. Not a huge fan of the space; it's a little crowded for my taste, but then again, I'm the one who shows up with 15 people in tow, so I have no room to complain. Literally. But figuratively, too. Food is not worth the expensive price tag. I'd probably be happier if my friends chose a different place to go, but for the convenience factor, I'll remain in tow for the time being. Unless I'm hungry. Then it's a whole other story.
(3)
Adam G.
This is a nice bar to grab a drink, take in a game or get a sandwich off the menu if you're in the area. This is a good staple in a neighborhood where the options are sort of limited. In a city where inflated prices and terrible service could be lurking around any corner, this is a refreshing safe haven.
(4)
Blair H.
Here's my theory on the evolution of events which have led to the current situation at Harvard Gardens (HG). 1930- Good looking surgical resident at MGH, with well-defined facial features and English accent, fancies a pint. Finds HG suiting of his needs. Lets call him, Dr Cox. - Becomes a regular after 36hr rotations in clinic removing kidney stones with a rusty hammer. 1932- HG becomes a local hang-out for doctors. 1935- A gaggle of bachelorettes wanders through Beacon Hill and one breaks her ankle after slipping in vomit on North Grove Street, just adjacent to Cambridge Street. The Docs, having a Baywatch themed party, run out in slow motion to tend to the distressed broad. - 11 of the 13 bachelorettes wed the 6 physicians. The 12th and 13th end up together. All 13 end in divorce or mysterious disappearances. 1960s- For twenty years, physicians, gold-diggers, and cougars intermingle at HG, until... 1962- Douchebags discover HG. - Douchebags pretend to be physicians, lawyers, and pilots, attracting even more slutty women. The cycle propogates as douchebags and skanks multiply in number. - Physicians/Residents, hampered by their increasing work load and reimbursement cutbacks, leave HG. 2009- Cougars and gold-diggers still go to HG in search of docs. Instead, they are only met by douchebags pretending to be docs. To this day, HG is the place to watch Friday night fireworks as the two sexes vie for position. Fri/Sat nights are for those under 32 with waist sizes to match. For professionals in the area, lunch time is the time to go. For $15, a decent meal. For Brunch, mind the vomit around the corner, but rewards be had in the form of eggs benedict and morning cocktails.
(3)
TIM O.
This place earns extra points for a nostalgic decor and attentive service to match. The premium burger was great as a rare treat.
(4)
Peter G.
Been here twice, once for drinks and once for lunch. Service and quality of food were good. Bartender was friendly enough without being too over top as is the case in some places. My wife had the quails eggs and I had a breakfast. Both were slightly different to be genuinely interesting and tasty without being pretentious. The quails eggs were the best ever and the breakfast consisted of ample portions of good home food. We'll be back there on our next pub crawl! Well done guys!
(4)
Kim K.
I. Freaking. Love. Harvard. Gardens. Where to begin? First, this place is bustling. It's got a huge bar right up front and tables lining the walls and in the back. It's dimly lit, has huge HD TVs, and a constant buzz of noise. That all said, I find the atmosphere of this place incredibly sexy. It's just exactly what I've ever wanted in a date restaurant. One of the best appetizers I have ever had came from here: lobster roll sliders. They were creamy, the lobster was delicious (and I'm not a lobster person), and the bread was buttery and yummy. Entrees: The sandwiches are my go to here. And every one I've ever had has been exquisite. The pulled pork was smoky and delicious and the tuna melt was perfectly cooked panini style. The salads are great here, super fresh. The fries are yummy too. The service has always been awesome when I've gone, the waitstaff is a bunch of really cool folks. Anyways, just do yourself a favor and go to Harvard Gardens on your next date night, ok?
(4)
Leah M.
I like HG. It has a good atmosphere and the food is decent but I feel it is extremely over priced for what you get. A simple side salad is $8, which is pretty ridiculous if you ask me. Plus when I was there the manager (Im assuming was the manager, an older Hispanic gentleman) was extremely rude not just to me and my party but to the staff. It's the service industry, cracking a smile wouldn't kill you... just saying
(3)
Nick G.
So I don't really know what all the fuss is about. HG is a pricey bar/restaurant that that tries very hard to be something it's not. The food is mediocre at best . Service seem slow and at 10PM on a Thursday maybe it just wasn't firing on all cylinders. You can find better on Cambridge Street.
(1)
Christopher L.
Delightful brunch with the best huevos rancheros in the city! Red velvet are good for when you're in a decadent sort of mood. Lunch and dinner options are also very good and are well above the standard boston bar food.
(4)
Courtney H.
So I've been here twice now, once for a very early dinner with the fam and once for drinks on my bday before going to another bar. I enjoyed both times. It really is the most convenient bar I think to MGH, which is why I've stopped by both times really. Drinks and food aren't too pricey for the Beacon Hill area. I had the margherita pizza and it was very tasty. I also liked their mac & cheese. When I came for drinks, I just got my regular but it was good. Everything about this place screams Ok, but not awesome. If you are in the area and looking for a decent place then you should stop by. If you are looking for some awesome place to drink, maybe stop by Alibi across the street.
(3)
Deepa C.
The ever fabu Yelp book club met here last month to fair reviews. Service - good but not spectacular. Our waitress WAS patient with our group and didn't make many mistakes but had somewhat bad timing. Not a huge deal though - 12 chattering girls can prove to be a challenge to corral when all you want to do it get drink orders. The selection - LOTS of egg-based dishes, no French Toast? No Pancakes? Really? The did have sandwiches and all that, but when you meet at 11, a burger seems not quite right. That said, the salads looked amazing and the omelets were large and filling. The potatoes were not my cup of tea, but everything else seemed to love them. The atmosphere - surprisingly empty when we left around 12:30/1 on a Saturday. Other than that, it was pretty basic, tables, chairs, bar, floor. Nothing crazy, but still not boring and sparse. Will I be back? With all the other brunch places that I have yet to try, I may not be back anytime soon. That said, if I find myself int he area at brunch time and hungry, yes, I would probably stop in.
(3)
Leighann F.
Good for large groups. Not so much for Eggs Benedict. I've eaten a lot of Eggs Benedict in my adult life and this version of the dish was near the bottom of my list. The eggs were undercooked, the dill-infused Hollandaise was very watery and the English muffins were soggy. The salmon was thickly sliced and not smoked, which did not add much to the overall flavor of the dish. The potatoes, on the other were amazing and came in a giant pile on my plate! Thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned, light on the cheese and onions. I could have done without the Benedict and simply have eaten the potatoes. If you don't mind sacrificing some quality for portion size, Harvard Gardens is definitely the spot for you! I don't think one person in our entire party finished their meal!
(3)
A N.
The reason for 1 star would be the service... the place wasn't even half way full. service took forever... but even worse, we ordered an app so once my meal came i was barely hungry, took literally 2 bites and asked for it to be packed to go... so the server figured it would be ok to throw away all the french fries and the half of sandwhich with 2 bites taken out of it... ridiculous, if your that dumb ask specifically what i want packed. now i know why they dont do take out... they would throw half your meal away before packing it.
(1)
Danielle E.
So my coworkers and I USED to dine here at least once a month.. We would get together and dish as girlfriends usually do over burgers and fries...the food was pretty good--seeing as we selected very simple entrees... but the last few times we have eaten here the food was disugusting...Especially this past Thursday. We ALL order burgers, but everyone but me asked for theirs well done... note that I asked for mine to be medium. ALL of our burgers tasted like charcoal, not to mention my fries and their parm fries were soggy and overcooked. We are talking basic All-American cuisine--and they screwed it up! I could have given half a star more because he did take the 5 (burgers) out of the 7 meals ordered off of the bill but I went home hungry :(
(1)
Rick L.
My wife and I had a great dinner here. The tuna tartar was excellent(great quality tuna) and the truffle fries were amazing. The steak frite was just ok. Service was also just ok. That's why the 4 stars. Portions are a generous size.
(4)
Cleopatra P.
I braved the elements last Saturday morning to dine at Harvard Gardens with some fellow Yelpers for the monthly book club brunch. The conversation and company were impressive--the food unfortunately, not so much. I knew that something was up as soon as I opened up my menu to see nary a mention of French toast or pancakes among my brunch options. Come to think of it, there was a serious lack of simple carb-filled options for a meal which is one of the best excuses out there to carbo-load. What was really messed up was that, going by the other offerings on the menu, the basic ingredients for French toast were clearly lying around the kitchen (eggs, milk, cinnamon, bread, etc.), but there was not one meal that included my favorite brunch staple. Since I hate omelettes and most other egg-centered dishes, I decided to be lame and order a cheeseburger. Bad idea. My cheeseburger ended up being a mean, rather sad-looking affair--a small, dry, and oh-so-tasteless beef patty overwhelmed by a large, stiff bun and topped off with a perfunctory sprinkling of shredded mozzarella. The fries that came with my meal were very good, but not nearly good enough to make up for the hunk of ill-prepared and poorly-outfitted meat on my plate. Between the menu weirdness and the lackluster food, I doubt that I'll be back at Harvard Gardens on my own dime any time soon.
(2)
Katie B.
I went in to Harvard Gardens and found they have a deliciously updated menu created by a new chef. Some of the same bar-food staples remain (the Kobe Sliders are amazing) but the dinner menu has greatly improved. I had the Lemon and Sea Salt Crusted Pan Roasted Chicken with rosemary prosciutto gnocchi and caramelized cauliflower. The chef seemingly uses French cooking methods because the chicken breast was mouth wateringly tender on the inside and the skin was perfectly crisped on the outside. I was in taste bud heaven! The chef even sent over a complementary blueberry cobbler with vanilla bean ice cream for dessert... The only thing I miss very dearly from the old menu is the Edamame with Sesame oil, but with all these new treats to try, I will forget it soon enough! If it's been a while, give Harvard Gardens another try for a nice dinner out!
(4)
d f.
Had lunch here on a rainy August Monday afternoon after appointments at MGH. Service was exceptional - thanks to Jackie who was bartending/serving. The truffled mac & cheese was great and atmosphere was relaxing as there were only a few customers on this particular day and time. The cost was typical for Boston: $7 for a beer and $20 for Mac & Cheese. I enjoyed the food and conversation with other patrons and Jackie.
(4)
John E.
Very simple - the Kobe beef sliders w/ bacon infused may topped off with a quail egg is one of the best things I have ever had
(5)
Mike N.
Lots of pretentious people who really shouldn't be. Otherwise the truffle fries ahhh manifique
(3)
Jordan G.
Happening Bar, Delicious Food and Phenomenal Service, need I say more? Okay okay, apparently I do. Don't be fooled by the outer appearance of the restaurant. When me and my ladies arrived by cab, the exterior looked like a diner. But boy, were we in for a surprise. The bar was hopping and the game was on in the background. While we weren't seated promptly, the manager comped our drinks while apologizing profusely. Glad to see that they cared. The food... oh where do I start? The Tuna and the Lobster Quesadilla were delectable. I am a huge fan of the wagyu burger (SMOTHERED with onion rings) while my friends raved about the bibb salad and the pumpkin ravioli. And you must order the truffle parmesan fries. My carb-conscious friends couldn't resist seconds, thirds and fourths. All in all, the experience was great. The only reason why I didn't give the full 5 stars was due to the bar being a little too noisy and spilling into the dining area. Difficult to control since there's only a small divider between the two.
(4)
Travis K.
My wife and I had a nice dinner here. The burger was great and the Mac and cheese was outstanding.
(4)
G S.
I met a friend here for drinks last night before going out for the night. The way she described it was "There are always a lot of cute but uninteresting men here." The men here last night were not cute or interesting. A lot of short, Beacon Hill "young professionals"...no thanks. The drinks are good and the staff is friendly. It can get a bit crowded, but there's usually room to stand or sit at the bar.
(3)
Patrick C.
Harvard Gardens is close by, so my girlfriend and I went a few times when we first moved in. Three attempts resulted in disappointment. We ordered Lobster Ragoons (sounded good!) but sent them back because they were just bad. They cooked us a new batch and were very nice about it. Unfortunately, we were wrong. It wasn't that they were cooked incorrectly, by their standards; it was that Harvard Gardens makes horrible Lobster Ragoons! - If you want to drink: Go to Beacon Hill Pub, around the corner - If you want to eat: Go to The Hill Tavern, down the street - If you want to eat, then drink: Go to The Hill Tavern then Beacon Hill Pub
(1)
Christina G.
I've been here a few times. Once for brunch and twice for dinner mainly just because its close. Brunch was pretty good here, but dinner has never wowed me. The menu is not that impressive and neither is the food to be honest. I'm sure its great if you are just going out for drinks though. I like the Hill Tavern Better.
(2)
Jeff W.
I've been here a few times. Brunch, Lunch, and most recently drinks and a few appetizers. Food was decent - may not win awards, but I won't complain. What gives this place the 4 stars are the bar tenders. Attentive, Friendly, and Honest. What else could you ask for? Cheers to this place --- I'll be back for sure!
(4)
Michelle L.
A great bar for casual drinks and apps. Especially great if you aren't really in the mood to go out, but can't imagine sitting at home. Harvard Gardens has seating for dinner and standing room for drinking bar-side. Nothing better than that.
(3)
Purvi R.
A good place to meet up with people given its proximity to the train station and MGH. Went here on a weeknight once and met up with a friend and some of her MGH colleagues. I actually was surprised - the interior looked a lot nicer than I had expected - I don't know what I was expecting and why, but I somehow thought it'd be more like Hill Tavern or even just a step up from the BHP. Anyways, we passed a couple of appitizers - in particular note was the grilled naan and onions and chutney. Random but pretty good. For dinner, I had the ravioli - warning - it is VERY rich. I might almost suggest asking to go easy on the sauce, as it is very buttery. It was good, but not sure I would order it again. Friends at the table were sharing some pizzas and they were also delicious - but definitely shareable! One menu item that was memorable was the fries. Great stand-alone snackability. The other thing that surprised me (less after I saw the interior of the place) was price. Somewhat pricey for some items, but they have such a wide range, it's possible to get out of there without emptying your wallet. Just choose wisely. Would I come here again? I don't think I would be opposed but I might eat beforehand. Fun atmosphere, yes, but don't see myself getting overly excited to go there.
(3)
Adam M.
We had a fantastic brunch and a great overall experience. The food was unique and tasty; even the breakfast potatos were excellent. The selections included some very healthful options. We were in a rush to get to a Bruins game; they got us in and out in 45 minutes, no problem. Service was friendly and attentive. I'm amazed that such a happening nighttime spot would do such a great job with brunch.
(5)
angela g.
I had a decent time here last night. We went for dinner and drinks. I liked the cozy lighting and modern environment. From the outside, i was expecting something divier. Sat down around 9:30 and left just before cosing. The drink list is interesting, but i found that everything i tried lacked the proper amount of alcohol. 2 out of 3 of us had great meals, I had the seared tuna salad and grilled asparagus. YUM. i could eat some right now. However, my fiance had the mac and cheese. What a disappointment, as one reviewer said previously, tasted like heavy cream was poured onto soggy noddles and topped with bread crumbs. bummer. the waitress while she seemed disinterested in any of our antics, was pretty reliable and kept the booze flowing. the only complaint i have is the high percentage of douche bags that seem to fill this place. but hey i can forgive that. i would be back.
(4)
Leys B.
Always great service. But, what happened to the duck spring rolls? Everything you have had to replace them so far has not lived up to those! And now you have changed the menu again - less fries and no pizza! Don't change what your regulars like just to make a buck :( The fries are half what they used to be and no cone!!
(2)
Patrick K.
I would say that this place would be great for any single person looking to hook up with the opposite sex. Its packed to the rim and just feels like a sardine can. I went there for dinner and the food was surprising good but the atmosphere was brutal for dinner. If a bar is what you want its a viable option but DO NOT go in for dinner! You will regret it and feel over clothed if you are a lady.
(2)
Lauren D.
A good, good friend took me to Harvard Gardens twice. Once for lunch and once for brunch. Both meals were delicious. The restaurant has a great ambiance - dim lighting, and a great music selection. The TVs at the bar usually showing whatever game is on at the moment. For lunch I had the Grilled Chicken with Fresh Mozzarella, Thick Tomato, Smoked Bacon & Basil Pesto Mayo (so yummy!), and for brunch I had an Omelet which was the special - smoked tomato, bacon, and cheese. Alongside the omelet were arguably some of the best home fries I have ever had in my life. I'm still waiting to go back just to have those again. The orange juice was freshly squeezed, and even the coffee was good. Between the delicious food, the nice, relaxing atmosphere, good music being played, and the attentive, pleasant staff, you cannot go wrong with Harvard Gardens. I'm still thanking my friend for bring me there, even though I have been disappointed with most other home fries since my brunch there.
(5)
Gail L.
Meh! Went for cocktails late on a Saturday, not impressed. Did not eat.
(2)
Cee Cee S.
Average. Came here for lunch during orientation week at MGH. The food was ok, but the service was so slooooowwwwwww. No one came to refill my water glass or soda. Come on, we were there at noon and there were only 4 other tables with fellow lunchers. Come on, I'm a nurse, and I can totally do the "avoiding eye contact thing" but then again, I don't work for tips. The food: I had the oven roasted pork sandwich. It was like a cuban, but on better bread. The only downside is that I've been burping up banana peppers and pickles all afternoon. If they improve the service, I'd up the stars.
(3)
Todd O.
I'm not sure why so many people are raving about brunch at this place. It's only OK at best. The food break down: 1. Breakfast Pizza. This was pretty much a bland quiche containing asparagus, bacon, goat cheese, and eggs. Salt was required and lots of it. On the bright side it might be an ideal dish if you hate tasty things. 2. Blueberry Pancakes w Side of Sausage. The stack was 5 high. Respectable. However they just lacked taste. I'm a huge pancake fan and I can only say that they were fine - the type of fine you experience with at-home pancake mix. Meh. A side of bacon comes with this meal and it is billed as apple smoked (or something to that effect). It was super bland! Who ever heard of bland bacon? The saving grace were the home fries. They were very tasty little potato chip style fries with parmesan. That was good. I ordered an extra side of sausage which was also very tasty. My girlfriend suggested that they may have contained some rosemary. They were good. Overall Harvard Gardens was just bland. If you are looking for a good brunch there are a ton to choose from in Boston, but this is not one. I've read good things about their lunch, but based on our brunch experience, we are not likely to come back.
(2)
Sean J.
This place sucks. It's made to be a restaurant, not a bar, and yet they feel the need to cram as many people into it as possible. The result? A literal deadlock once you enter the door. You cannot make it from one side of the bar to the other because there are two rows of booths and everyone stands in the narrow aisle between them. The only thing harder than getting around in the bar is getting one of the bartenders to help you.
(1)
Dan B.
I'll make this short and sweet. Ever since HG hired their new executive chef, this place has become my go-to spot. Awesome food, good portions, great atmosphere and a great staff!! Couple of recommendations for ya: pork dumplings (delicious). Had the Burger for my main course, pretty much melted in my mouth, cooked to perfection! Brilliant! My date ordered the special, an Asian style short rib dish with purple sweet potatos and fried green beans. Honestly, I've never seen her finish a meal in 7yrs until last night. Top it all off with their peanut butter chocolate molten cake for dessert and you're in business! Can't say enough about this place, classy yet also a good spot to unwind and watch a game! Prices are very reasonable. Even If you just feel like a beer and wings you'll be satisfied!! Well done HG, check this place out!
(5)
J M.
I HEART DAVE! (enough said)....P.S. the mac and cheese and hot dog are pretty amazing!
(5)
M M.
I came to Harvard Gardens after finally meeting up with one of my buddies who got stuck on the red line during the recent electrical failure. We were hungry as hell, and this place was the closest food venue we could find. It looked like a sports bar from the outside, so we expected cheap bar food and a younger crowd. Definitely not. It seemed like a place for professionals in their late 20s/early 30s to get together and enjoy the bar scene without dealing with stupid ass drunk kids. The food was not bad overall. I ordered the Atlantic salmon, which was really well prepared. The steak was a little tough, even for a sirloin. The mac and cheese was nothing memorable. The reason I give this place 4 stars is because I really enjoyed my dish and it seemed like most of the dishes held their value. The reason I don't give it a 5 stars is because service was a bit slow.
(4)
Jennifer J.
Food is inexpensive and pretty good. Waiters were very nice. Has a divey feel. Easy to get a seat on a Thursday night.
(4)
Tarah H.
First off, wine glasses as water glasses do not work. Yes, it looks classy and cool, but I'm not ordering water because I'm cheap, I want it because I'm thirsty, desire hydration and don't want the 200 calories a glass that accompanies soda. Whew. Glad I got that off my chest. So this place is a solid 3 to 3.5 star place. Basic bar fare done all fancy like as seems to be the trend. And they do an okay job of it. Sandwiches come with salad or fries or half and half. The dressing is a bit sweet for my taste, but okay. I wish they let the grilled asparagus stand on its own rather than drizzling balsamic all over it, but that's no great sin. The food is of good taste and good quality. The decor is that bistro bar look that seems to be more and more prevalent these days. A good vacuuming of the valance over the entry to the kitchen is needed. Speaking of which, I could see right into the kitchen without a half wall to hide even the most unavoidably unattractive part of the kitchen. I walked by this place at least a thousand times before ever entering. I was a Hill resident and thought this to be nothing more than an unimpressive bar with unimpressive food and unimpressive patrons. The food is better than I thought. Still undecided about the rests. It definitely gets crowded at night, but it's a solid lunch/dinner option, if not a little full of itself.
(3)
Molly W.
Went here late-night with friends and had a good time! You can hang by the bar, or sit at the open tables. It was full, but not ridiculously so - it's popular, which is a good sign, and it's an interesting mix of people. I mean, it's Beacon Hill - so it's like law-school kids and people who work at the State House n junk. My friend really wanted to meet a hot lawyer or something, and it's like yeaaaahhhh... I don't think so. But hey - you never know, tomorrow's another night, right? Anyway, there was a late night dance party, and we were groovin', so I thought it was pretty fun. I like to go out and dance, but not have to go to a club. You know what I mean? So yeah. Cool.
(3)
Trice B.
I think this place really has some good food, and the drinks are alright...not great. We had 3 rounds, and I still wasn't as buzzed as I like. But they tasted good going down. The prices are a little steep, and I think they believe they are more upscale than they appear. I mean it is a nice place, definitely a few notches up than the Hill Tavern down the street, but it's not the Liberty Hotel. Overall... would recommend this place if you are in the area, but dont go out of your way to eat here.
(3)
Sara L.
This is one of my favorites for happy hour. The beer selection is great, I can almost always grab a seat at the bar, and they have this pizza on the menu that I love. I'm actually surprised no one has mentioned it in the reviews I've read, because I order it every time I go. It's the butternut squash and fontina pizza and it's strangely divine! I most recently hit up this place on Saturday afternoon, after lunch and before the dinner rush. There were only a few regulars in there, so my friend and I saddled up to the bar just as the Sox/Skankees game started. I have forgotten the bartender's name, but he was great for two important reasons: 1. Knowing how to make small talk. He offered just the right amount without being overbearing. Too often in Boston I get bartenders who only offer a grunt or a head nod and aren't able to make any well-educated recommendations. This guy knew his menu as well as the well-selected background music that was playing and he occasionally dropped into our conversation to offer up something interesting. A+ for people skills. 2. Attentive service. He refilled my beer and water glass at just the right times, made some stiff drinks for my whiskey-loving friend, and was generally pleasant and accommodating. I can't speak to how this place gets late night (and judging from the reviews by other Yelpers, it probably wouldn't be my cup of tea), but for me it's great for late afternoon and after work drinks. I must plan more 4pm work meetings on the Hill so that I can hit this place up more often.
(4)
Stephen C.
Good food, fun atmosphere and, in our case, fantastic service. Ask for Virginia as your server.
(4)
AustinSLin ..
Modernite twentythirtysomethings congregate in this restaurant lounge in Beacon Hill. Whereas most destinations of this sort end up getting caught in the schizophrenia of which customer base to focus on, Harvard Gardens handles both sides of the restaurant. Literally. A non-instrusive divider down the center of Harvard Gardens separates the lounge/bar from the dining area for the most part. On a Saturday night, the lounge/bar was cramming room only, while the dining area was less claustrophobic (though not by much). While groups of singles seem to predominate, there's still a nice balance in crowd makeup---but you're at a lounge, after all, so stop thinking so much and just, well, go lounge. But you're hungry, too, right? Problem solved. The best way to soak up the atmosphere and acclimate to the space is to take advantage of a dinner here. You'll be seated in a much less cramped space in a solid booth with plenty of personal space. You can soak up the ambience without worrying about spilling your Ketel Red Bull on your neighbor (leave that for when you squeeze your way to the other side...but more on that later). The lobster gnocchi ($17) was tasty with a balanced texture---not rubbery like when it's overcooked, nor like bits of mashed potatoes when it's not quite done. Of course with most pasta dishes that have the word "lobster" in them, one is always skeptical on the amount that's actually used in the preparation, but in Harvard Gardens' case, fresh breaks of lobster meat were well integrated throughout the dish (not a half lobster or anything, but more than the typical place, and enough to make you actually have enough to chew on and realize that you're paying for (some) lobster)). The Harvard Gardens' spin on mac and cheese ($8) is a generous portion that can be taken as a meal of its own, presented in a way that's right on track with the decor. Altogether, the meal for two, with wine, was just south of $50 without tip. The decor is modern urban and geometric. The soft seemingly fluroescent suggestions of reds, cremes, and orange colors radiating from the crevices add to the hip lounge feel, all the time making you wonder if the ghost of Dan Flavin is there for a drink himself. As the crowd increases, even basic conversation in the dining area becomes a shouting match, so the only resolution is to experience the other half of the room. Pay your dinner bill, then slide over to the lounge and start a tab. The lounge area gets extremely crowded, but isnt' that the point? It will be difficult to not overlap conversations and literally rub elbows (at a minimum) with the rest of your Constant Harvard Gardeners.
(3)
Christian S.
Good for cocktails. Though no fancy bar and often too loud.
(4)
David S.
I went for lunch the other day. I had an oven-roasted pork sandwich which I really really liked. It kind of reminded me a little of a Cubano but with extra flavor (not that a good Cubano needs extra flavor when done right). It was my first time there and I would go back. They had some interesting pastas and pizzas that I would like to try next time.
(4)
Wendy K.
I was here for a lunchtime hockey-watching experience with several other people on a Saturday. They were still serving brunch at 1:30! YAY! Our waitress was at first seemingly unpleasant, judging by her flat affect and tone (I think that was maybe just how she interacted with people) and not very attentive, but it seemed that she was also the bartender, so that could have been why. We ordered Bloody Marys (which were good, but not spicy enough for my taste) and brunch/lunch. My friend ordered the brunch burger, which was fantastically amazing, and I ordered the reuben, which was also extremely good. My only qualm with the food, was that the "salad" that you could substitute fries for was simply a spring mix dressed with a vinaigrette - no other veggies. It was good tasting, but it could have used a few tomatoes or some cucumber, especially for the extra $ one must pay to substitute for a healthier option. All in all, a good experience.
(4)
Nicole M.
I always want to have a good time when I head to Harvard Gardens, but the night always ends up being a dud. I don't remember the food, which doesn't say much, the drinks are ok, the crowd is always so random. The plus, it's always loud and lively so at least it's not so bad that I find myself falling asleep!
(2)
Lukas B.
Came to this place a couple of times for dinner and it was good - not amazing, but totally good enough to come back again. Tonight I had a friend in town visiting and needed a good place to grab a drink to launch the night. We walked into this place at 10:45 and it was packed big time. Like not a single place to stand, one of those excuse me, excuse me, type packed. So I was about to walk about and try another bar when a waitress out of nowhere says, "are you guys looking to have a drink?" We obviously said yes and she showed us to an empty back table and took our order, the whole time she was incredibly attentive and kind. Rarely in a crowded place like that can you get that kind of service. I enjoyed the night and would encourage others to go have a drink there without fear of the crowds. So thanks Harvard Gardens and cute waitress for a solid evening.
(4)
Michelle P.
Only 3 stars because trying to find something healthy on the menu is futile. On our last visit, our (16 yr old?) waitress didn't know how to serve a bottle of wine and there were tiny black flies buzzing around. But I keep coming back anyway....it must be the comfortable booths, yummy food, and a good mix of bar and restaurant atmosphere.
(3)
Brendan M.
A relatively mellow bar/restaurant combo, HG apparently gets really busy during weekends. You can eat of the bar menu for $10-15; the more upscale restaurant menu will set you back $20-30. The wine list is reasonable. I had one of the pizzas, which was nice but nothing to write home about. One of my friends ordered a medium rare burger and wasn't impressed as it came well done.
(3)
Lauren W.
3.5 stars -- good specialty cocktails, and asparagus ravioli was great. I'm rounding down just because the prices are pretty ridiculously high for what it is. Good service and atmosphere, though. I'd come back for sure (especially since it's right across the street from the Liberty Hotel, where I've stayed lately while in town).
(3)
Sarah C.
5 of my girlfriends and I went to HG to celebrate a recent engagement. I have never been to HG but suggested it as our dinner celebration spot. I made reservations through Opentable for 6pm. We were all running late and the hostess called to see if we were still planning on coming. I told her we were all running late and she immediately said no worries and that they just were just checking on us. The inside is pretty small but has a warm atmosphere. I think the menu is pretty pricey but as someone mentioned you are in Beacon Hill. Before I talk about the food I'll talk about our waitress. Our waitress was very attentive. I know us 6 girls can get loud sometimes but I must say, she was always filling up our water, taking drink orders and answering any questions we had about the menu and overall a great waitress. We also had a surprise engagement cake for our friend and she presented it at the end and then served us the cake as our dessert. I really appreciate when a waitress/waiter knows what they are doing. She was definitely getting pretty busy as the night went on but I never felt like she wasn't paying attention to our table. Now onto the food. The food was just EH.... While we were waiting for our friends to arrive we had some cornbread. It was jalapeno something or another cornbread. The bread was a little to moist and crumbly, had a weird taste but also it was very salty!!! And I like salt, so for me to say it's salty is pretty bad. For my meal, I got the burger with half fries and half salad. Once again, everything on my plate was VERY SALTY! Our waitress kept refilling my water. The burger was cooked medium well and I asked for it well done but it was okay. The taste of the burger was okay but very salty. It had an onion relish with blue cheese on it. The side mixed green salad had way too much dressing so that was salty. The side of fries was salty but also I had pieces of fries that looked black and inedible. So overall, I think I would go there for drinks and maybe some appetizers but not sure I would go there for my main meal.
(2)
Justin C.
The food is OK - standard pub stuff - and the bar is usually pretty decently crowded. The layout of the bar is a little annoying - there's not much space between the bar itself and a rail with tables behind it, so it can get tight in there and kind of tough to order drinks. Crowd is a little random, from what I can tell - everything from cougars to docs from the MGH to locals from Beacon Hill. There tap beer selection is kind of unexciting.
(3)
Omoniyi A.
Ok, so i havent been here in some months. But it used to be my standard brunch place. I think it is so brunch perfect. Comfortable, not too crowded, affordable, nice large portions, accomodating of groups, and no rush to get out after you eat. The seasoned potatoes i also think were perfection (i cant vouch that they still are). Ive recommended it to many friends however who have had hit or miss experiences, but for me it's never failed to be fantastic.
(4)
Pierre C.
I moved to san francisco about three years ago and I think what I miss most about Boston is HG. Close by so this was either where we met to start the night or where we returned to end the night. Great drinks and attentive service. Not sure if Karen and Jenny are still there, but when they are behind the bar I always had a great time. Crowd may certainly of changed, but I liked the reduced quotient of meathead and overly drunk college girl that you'd be hard pressed to find at neighboring establishments.
(5)
Megan F.
I have been saying for years that one of these days I am going to write an article for some Boston Magazine about how great Harvard Gardens is...so for now, Yelp will have to do. I have been frequenting HG for several years now, always a great choice for whatever mood you are in. The food is great...the ingredients are high quality and fresh, the menu is a slightly modern twists on all your favorite comfort foods, the ambience is perfect for a cozy dinner at a booth or grabbing a drink at any hour. I will agree with a few of the other reviews that the service is rarely fast - but that is just sort of their gig - keeping things laid back despite the fast moving city that surrounds it. The drinks are affordable and well mixed and the parmesan truffle fries to die for!! HG is my oasis in the midst of so many other over crowded, over priced, too much attitude establishments. So if I were you, I would skip the lines and waits at almost every other place on a weekend night and grab a table at Harvard Gardens....and be sure to order a side of fries!
(5)
Melissa A.
Great place to go if you want your ribs jammed by large, overstuffed men in tight-fitting t-shirts. Fortunately (or unfortunately), said large man's elbows where pretty high up, and did NOT meet my ribs. Rather, they met my shoulder blades more often than I can count, forcing me to spill my beverage all over my birthday-celebrating friend. A good thing to do in this situation is employ a boyfriend who has no shame. I told mine what to do and he did it. Captain Large Shoulders got a lougie on his back. Good times, good times. Star back on!
(2)
Elizabeth G.
Uggghhh! I drop in here regularly for a late night drink but hadn't eaten here for a while until last week. The food in the past I thought was a little pricey but overall pretty good. I don't know what happened, but the prices were raised, the selection was poor and the food quality was just horrible as well as being exceptionally slow coming out of the kitchen despite few patrons. Portions were small (which I don't usually care as I am not a big eater...but at the price I thought I would take something home for later). Maybe the late-night bar menu is still reasonable but I'll never find out....the dinner was that bad.
(1)
Amanda S.
The doorman is annoying. As we approached he announced "one in, one out", so me and my two girlfriends formed a three-person line, fairly certain that we were waiting just so the doorman could feel powerful for a few moments and of course so Harvard Gardens looked like "the place to be". Then 2 girls marched up to the door said they knew the owner, and breezed on in. I half-jokingly said, "hey man! what happened to one in one out? that was 2 in, zero out!" Then he said we could go in (even though, still, no one had left), but first he "prepped us" to "stay out of the way of the waitresses, and go straight to the back of the bar". Great prep talk. Wait staff was fairly attentive, drinks were decent, but they place was about 100 degrees, and the atmosphere is nothing unique.
(2)
Jen S.
Doctors, Vomit, and Guys Getting Punched in the Face - Harvard Gardens Has It All After a long Tuesday at work, my friend Balison and I decided to head over to Harvard Gardens with a group of people, a place we had been only a few times previous. Little did we know what awaited us. (A) Pros: (1) Hot Bartender - this guy has been here every time I've been here (maybe 5 times total) and he's worth at least a star and a half of the 4 stars I'm giving HG. Go and check him out. (2) Secret not-on-the-menu chicken wings. Why wouldn't they put these on the menu? They are delicious. I put some in my mouth. (3) Doctors. Now this is a bit of a double edged sword. If you are in your 20s and single you probably wouldn't mind meeting a doctor. So the proximity to MGH and the amount of doctors clearly goes under "pros" - however, please see section (B)(1)(b) for the counterargument. (4) The hot bartender. (B) Cons (1) Vomit Another Yelp reviewer commented on the fact that she became oddly ill after drinking at HG. Now don't confuse what I am about to tell you with normal "I guzzled 5 glasses of whiskey and threw back 100 gross girly shot and now Im puking all over myself" sickness - HG has a weird way of making you sick off of a very small amount of booze. (a) 3 months ago I came here with friends, had maybe 3 glasses of wine and a cobb salad, almost puked in a cab and then got out of the cab and puked on my lovely winter white peacoat while standing on a street in the North End at 10pm on a Wednesday while people looked at me like I was a crazy wino. That was fun. (b) Last night my friend Balison had a few stiff ones - drinks that is (you never know with Balison) - and the next thing I know the hot bartender is very nicely asking me to help my friend. I turn around and Balison is asleep on a doctor's shoulder. Mouth hanging open, body heaving up and down with every deep sleepy breath she took. We wake her up and our other friend - let's call her "Melted Cheese" or "MC" for short - realizes she is about to vomit. As MC helps Balison to the bathroom, Balison begins to throw up - right into her own hand. She continues the puke festival across the bar, into the bathroom and I think eventually into the toilet. When she emerges she is covered in puke and says "I threw up on my shirt - and down my boobs." Sure enough, puke was down her boobs. This isn't ideal when you're trying to meet doctors. Last I checked, doctors don't call girls that puke into their own hand, and down their boobs. Watch out for the drinks. (2) Fistfights While Balison slept and vomited, MC and I were deep in serious conversation. Unfortunately, this random 40 yr old who we later found out was a regular at the bar did not care. He was so obnoxious that we wanted to roundhouse kick him, but being the sweethearts we are, we kept politely telling him that we were trying to finish a serious convo and would talk to him when we were done. That did not deter him. Finally this dude starts insulting us, and I get heated. Verbal banter ensues, and I am fabulously defending myself and telling this guy what a dbag he is. MC alerts the bartender to the guy's d-baggery and the bartender moves this guy away from us. Yet he returns and this time grabs me. I react with catlike reflexes and push him away, at which point I extend my pointer finger and instruct him not to touch me. He responds by biting my finger. At this point I almost certainly have rabies from this random guy biting my finger, and I respond by socking this guy in the face. Seriously, who does that. Harvard Gardens makes you crazy. I don't know what they are putting in those drinks, but I am not the girl who punches anyone in the face, especially some DUDE who probably could have knocked me into tomorrow. But yeah. Punched him in the face. Then I asked the doctor that Balison was sleeping on for Neosporin. In sum: Come here for hot bartenders, doctors, fistfights, and vomit. Do not come here for a normal, quiet night.
(4)
ms m.
I was pleasantly surprised the first time I walked into this place. It's nicely decorated with it's sleek white booths without looking tacky or pretentious. I'm always happy with the food here and it's definitely a step above your typical "bar food" offering things such as brie and mushroom pizza. The service is also always very good. Good place to go with a group or on a date.
(4)
Enrique D.
i wasnt sure what to expect when i was outside... it seemed off... the decor looked office space-like or like commercial, not really a bar/restaurant, and the sign seemed diner-ish.. but im happy i walked in. the place is dark cozy and full of a good crowd. u can tell its big with regulars and locals. always a good sign... well depending on the area, but its beacon hill...so yea, its a good thing. the food? IMPRESSIVE. i wasnt expecting much.. i was suprised at how good it all was. from apps to dessert, i loved every bite. drinks were good, nice wine selection, and the waitstaff was terrific. the manager , i think his name was Freddy or Frederick, sorry, was gracious enough to walk over to us and make sure we were enjoying everything and just really made us feel like the place wants and cares for patrons to leave happy and return eagerly, i appreciated that.
(4)
Stephen Y.
Still serving pizza at midnight ! Closes at 2 AM. We had a friendly bartender.... Good selection of beer on tap... Great 80- 90's music !!!!!! Best of all- short walk from home. Have to go there again in more sensible hours to try the food (pizza can only go so far) and other drinks....
(4)
Jesse P.
You will not fit in here unless you own hospital scrubs or an assertive button down shirt. That said, the food is often very good, especially the brunch, and it is a suprisingly good place to meet people even if you've left your scrubs at the MGH laundry or your assertive shirt on the yacht. The service is good, and the bartenders are more observant than you'd expect in a place that gets so packed.
(4)
Laura B.
Delicious brunch! Great service, huge portions and terrific value. They even take brunch reservations. I would definitely recommend it!
(5)
Shelley G.
Love this place. You can get a great brunch for under $10 and they give you so much food! Definitely one of my favorite places in town.
(5)
Michael N.
When you're two years outta college and you can't go to the BHP every night this is the spot to move to on thursday night to see if you can land some waaay classier broads....no ricca chics here. Just a slew of unmarried 30 year-old preps dying to let you into their lili pulitzers if you can convince them that you're having a tremendous year in the market....
(4)
Alice B.
I was really excited to eat at Harvard Gardens until our food came. Everyone who ordered pizza or sandwiches had something delicious looking in front of them. But my salad was barely there. If you go to this place and want to have a good meal, be prepared to order something unhealthy.
(2)
Meghan R.
Good food, good drinks, good service... be prepared to feel like you're in a preppy/yuppy meatmarket, but if you're willing to face the challenge, its a great place to hang with friends or meet some new hotties. HG flaunts a relatively established mid 20s-mid 30s scene with a trendy look, great atmosphere and a hot bartender on Thursday nights. It's one of my regular spots for after-work drinks!
(4)
Jane H.
Kind of blah. Not really impressed by food or service. My boyfriend liked his macaroni and cheese but my sandwich was really greasy and flavorless (I absolutely do not recommend getting the French Dip). I have only been here for lunch so I am not sure what the afterwork bar scene is like. From what I saw the drinks are expensive and not that creative. I may consider giving this place a second try though since I work nearby.
(2)
Brian S.
Had remarkably unpleasant service from a bartender on my only visit. She was miserable and hostile during a slow evening. I frankly prefer to be ignored than treated like a burden. Menu reads well, a seared tuna sandwich was good, not great. Salad greens were fresh and not over-dressed. Hopefully better service will up my opinion if I go back again. (3/07) On a return trip with friends: different bartender, same crap. finished our drinks and left, for good.
(2)
Carolyn B.
had a fun time at dinner here while visiting friends in boston. great drinks - i enjoyed the french 75 (all 3 of them). its a fun atmosphere - loud, good music, fun crowd. food was good - i had the steak frites, cant go wrong with that. i thought the fries were just ok, but they steak was good. spinach was good too but there was too much.
(4)
jkhkjh j.
I have mixed feelings. I've only been here once... for brunch. Maybe I was served lousy waffles... but honestly, this place wasn't all that great. The bacon tasted like cardboard; the only thing I liked were the home fries.
(3)
Kelly W.
I will not go back here. A friend and I went for dinner and drinks on Saturday and it was horrible! The food was tasteless! We got the spinach and artichoke dip and it tasted like soup, very watery. I got the spinach/feta pizza and my friend got the brie pizza. Both of them were disgusting. Also, the sangria is not good. It tasted like bad lemonade. The service was also bad. Our bartender would not stand behind the bar because she was getting a back message from some dude. Very weird!
(1)
Kathleen T.
Hot burgers, prices, drinks, atmosphere, staff and business men. Enough said.
(5)
Ashley M.
by far my favorite local place to chill. this place can cover any part of your weekend (or weeknight). friday - wonderful dinner from tasty menu - get fish, its worth the prices. saturday - desert and/or drinks - both are wonderful. sunday morning BRUNCH - try the smoked salmon eggs benedict (made with fresh salmon) and the brunch bellinis. music's too loud for a first date dinner, but music's always good. great first place to hit up on your way out or last place to hit up on your way back home. you just can't lose.
(5)
Kristina F.
Raspberry Sangarita! I just like saying it, and drinking it. We went here one hot Saturday afternoon after a bunch of friends got finished playing kickball (yes kickball!) at the Teddy Ebersol fields across the street. We rolled in 14 people deep and I thought they were going to freak, but they welcomed us with open arms!! Bartender was super cool, as were the manager on duty - we even gave them kickball tee-shirts. (jealous, aren't you!) We ordered snacks - truffle fries were awesome. Other stuff was pretty basic, and good. Drinks were a flowing, shots and it was 3 in the afternoon. While I don't know how the rest of the patrons felt about a bunch of loud rowdy kickballers, I know we had a good time. Good times!
(3)
Lowell H.
More of a bar with food. But the food was very good and a bit upscale. My wife had the ahi, which was great. I had the macaroni and cheese with ham and peas which was great. They had a lot of sandwiches on the menu about 4 pasta dishes and four entrees. Loud music, must be the latest music, because I never heard any of it before. My waitress was very good.
(4)
Ali S.
3.25 I can practically see this place from my apt, so I've been there quite a few times by now, especially for last call. Unfortunately, that is probably the worst time to go here. At a certain point in the night, this place goes from chill restaurant lounge to a loud, abrasive pick-up joint. Not sure when that transformation happens but it does. The food here is good, but overpriced. Although, their scallop dish is worth trying at least once. The wait staff can be quite snippy, which I don't appreciate from anyone who literally works for tips. Overall, not the worse place to pick-up a drink, but the earlier you go the better the crowd and energy. Bottom Line: I like this place before 12:30 AM
(3)
Christine C.
Well, I have never eaten here since the only time I go is after 11 on weeknights... however... They serve dark and stormies. They are convienient to my job. They have ample seating and fun music (not good, fun). I plan on trying the late night snacks ( I really love snacks) tonight and will review more later... (building up anticipation!) UPDATE- Love the late night menu! Really quirky items that turned out to be really yummy!
(4)
Michael A.
A definite big step up from all the pubs in the area. Always a good crowd there. Good menu good food. Nice staff.
(4)
Arestia R.
A great place I drag myself to on a weekday evenings or for last call on the weekend. Beacon Hill singles sip on Sam Seasonal while mingling with old friends and even making some new ones. The space is a little cramped for my taste, but I like the vibe...almost like a speakeasy. The secret, though? BRUNCH. I know, I would never think of it either! But the potatoes are to die for and it's a nice place to enjoy my favorite meal with friends.
(3)
Stu G.
Nice place. Got a great booth for five on short notice last Saturday night. Food and service were great. Had been here for drinks before. I was impressed with the dining. Not pretentious or busy. Will definitely return. Nice
(4)
Matt P.
Never been disappointed with this place... I've eaten lunch and dinner here on numerous occasions and it's always rocked a decent 3.5/4 stars. It's a nice spot on the other side of the hill if you're looking for reasonable prices and more creative fare. Atmosphere wise and all that jazz... i've never been past probably 8 or-so so no clue what it'd be like on a Saturday night; but if you are in the neighborhood i'd try it at least once.
(4)
Tom C.
Where do you eat on Sunday night and you're from out of town? Harvard Gardens is a must. Ron (bartender/manager) was very knowledgeable about his brews and friendly enough for this out of towner. Really nice moody atmosphere (dark with red lights except for the white(er) seating area in back). BTW a grilled chicken sandwich is more than it seems...get the salad not the fries.
(4)
Simon G.
I've been very slow to review this place because I'm too lazy. This is a long time coming, I go here once or twice a month. The lunch and dinner menus are just a step above normal bar fare. The music is great. Would not expect animal collective or kings of leon to play at a yuppie-ish bar. Also, other good music that I generally recognize and am surprised to hear, but forget because... the drinks are excellent because they are strong... and the bartenders are top-notch. These guys are friendly and attentive. A great break from the overall shitty Boston customer service. Can be a bit cramped at the bar though.
(4)
Colin G.
Solid Bar Joint for the Back Bay. food is surprisingly good and a great option if your looking for a place that is slightly more then just drinks in a night out. The mixed drinks are decent the the beers on tap is pretty good. It is most definitely a early 30's late 20's hang out. It is a good place for picking up someone of a decent background in the city.
(3)
Jasmine T.
I've only been here for drinks a couple of times. Everytime I go in the are so many snooty people that always are looking down on you. The bartenders were a little rude and took a while to come over even though it was a Wednesday night. They do play really good music though.
(3)
Cyndi H.
over priced and pretentious. Service was slow and host was obnoxious with an attitude. Work in the area and would not go back there
(1)
Allison S.
Although their beer list could use some help, their food is yummy! It keeps me coming back... They are constantly changing their dinner menu, and most everything on there looked appetizing. I wanted it all. If only my stomach was as big as my eyes think they are.... Although it was super hot (my bf and I were sweating) and the fire alarm went off (which I think can be attributed to their renovations, but I'm not sure), we had a great meal - even if they didn't have any dessert. Recommendation: if you like pasta and/or goat cheese, get the orchiette. It has goat cheese, orchiette, peas, tomatos, and a creamy pesto-like sauce. YUM! I was also pleasantly surprised to find out that they have brunch until 3pm on the weekends. Nice.
(4)
Ali E.
The brunch here is outstanding. On the pricier side, but the portions are monstrous. The HG Benny - Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon and asparagus is tremendous, both in size and yumminess. Whatever you do, though, make sure you get a side of hash browns - they're almost like thick-cut potato chips. Salty and perfect for a rough morning. The bar scene is most definitely of the meatmarket variety. But the music is great (Outkast/Killers/Kings of Leon) and the drinks aren't too expensive considering the clientele. EDIT: I just got back from lunch here and I'll reiterate my four-star rating. Our waiter was attentive and accomodating (and super cute). I ordered prociutto pizza and my fellow diner got the grilled chicken sandwich - a little expensive, but HUGE portions and very good, so justifiably so.
(4)
M T.
Bad! Went in for a quick app and beer..calamari came with pickles and jalapeños and the bread part was soggy, near inedible! Beer was fine but honestly how can you mess that up! Be sure to pass this door and move on down the road...
(1)
Kristina M.
We hit this place up for a last drink on our way home from Beacon Hill Pub (which is right next door). It is definitely way more trendy than the aforementioned pub (maybe trying a little too hard, though?), but the drinks weren't actually more expensive than next door (which was surprising). Music was ok, and the waiter was very nice. I don't think I would usually go here, but after the Beacon Hill this pace provided a pleasant conclusion of our night.
(3)
heather F.
just fine. food okay - sliders were good.
(3)
Greg D.
Good cheap place to drink (They serve food here?). I don't understand this place, is it an upscale dinner? It seems like a pretty party place and by 11pm people are starting to clear out. Good Service.
(3)
Courtney B.
I love everything about this place and am also an HG junkie!!! It's my go to watering hole in the area. Great food, great drinks and the awesome service. Seriously, you need to try the parmesan truffle fries. The bartenders are super friendly, funny and knowledgable, and on top of all that make some seriously stiff and tasty drinks! The ambiance is upscale without being pretentious, perfect spot for after work drinks for young professionals, and also gets packed and crazy fun on Friday and Saturday nights. They also have an incredible brunch! One of my favorite places in Boston.
(5)
Jessica S.
Just had a great birthday dinner at Harvard Gardens with the fam. The salads were fresh and sooo tasty (heirloom tomatoes and peach w/ balsamic glaze- total yum). The steak frite w/ parmesan truffle fries were unbelievable- definitely a table favorite. Reasonably priced for Boston and great service. Plus we were able to find on street parking on a Sat night- bonus!
(5)
Connie R.
Love Harvard Gardens! Recently moved into B Hill and just walked to it thinking it was like a casual pub. We were suprised to see it was a bit more upscale. It was but not at all stuffy. The prices can get high if you are just stopping in for a quick after work meal or lunch but it really is good. I am over the moon for the chicken sandwich. The fries are the best I have ever had but if the waitress asks if you want your fries parmesan, just know there is a charge. Still, yum yum. The wine list and bar are great although I usually dont partake. Desserts I could take or leave but you will be too stuffed to eat them anyway. GO GO GO to Harvard Gardens! You will be happy with your choice!
(4)
Meredith K.
When I walked in I observed this place had a cute, trendy decor/atmosphere. We were seated right away so I was happy there was no wait, but slightly concerned it would be one of trendy places with bad to mediocre food. They had decent beer / wine / drink selection and what looked to be a promising menu. The martinis were tasty - we were off to a good start. Our waitress was also very friendly and attentive. Food was ok. Not fantastic, but definitely not bad. I got steak frites. I had ordered the steak med. rare and it was more like med. well and was an ok piece of meat, but the fries with Parmesan cheese and truffle oil were soooo tasty, and the spinach was really good. Chicken was a little dry and unspecial. A friend had the pan seared tuna with pad thai noodles and loved it. So menu was a mixed bag. But for dinner and drinks out with friends - a good place to go.
(3)
Don A.
I don't know why people rave about Harvard Gardens, the beer selection is decent, and their food is average, I don't understand why people would make a trip to go out to this place. If I lived in the neighborhood I would probably go to this bar, but it is definitely not a Boston destination. I went to meet some people, we sat at a high top table and had some fries, the chicken fingers and some macaroni and cheese. The mac and cheese was bad, not very cheesy, almost like someone poured heavy cream over soggy noodles and then threw the concoction in the oven with bread crumbs on top. The fries were soggy and didn't come out very hot, but still edible, the one saving grace was the chicken fingers, the meat was tender and tasty, and the outside had the perfect crunch. The selection of dipping sauces left something to be desired, they weren't very good with the exception the buffalo sauce which wasn't bad. The atmosphere of the place was decent, definitely a lot of people for drinks and a lot of people for dinner, the location isn't bad, across from MGH and the T station so at least it wasn't a long commute for me to get out there. All in all I would probably go back but this place is never going to be on the top of my mind when I think of Beacon Hill Pubs.
(2)
Kelly H.
I absolutely love Harvard Gardens! It is my favorite place to go in Beacon Hill! The food is always delicious especially the spinach and artichoke dip (I think its the amazing chips that makes this dish irresistible). The staff is wonderful and very helpful, even when it is a busy night the service is always spot on! Perfect place for a date or a night out with the girls!
(5)
Dana L.
Talk amongst yourselves. I'll give you a topic: Harvard Gardens is neither a garden nor Harvard. A bit more upscale, perhaps, than BHP, but its less of a bar and more of a restaurant.
(3)
June P.
Very disappointed with Harvard Gardens. This is a neighborhood bar, and I have had two poor experiences here. My coworkers and I were looking for a place to hang out and throw back a few after work. We came into HG, where no one greeted us. There were no seats at the bar but the rest of the place was empty. (I understand you can't sit unless you're eating). We asked if some seats might open up soon, and the waiters didn't respond. So we left. I should've known better after this experience, but I wanted to give it a shot. I went here on a weeknight with a friend. He wanted food, so we sat at the tables. The service started off fine but, as the night went on, it was quite clear that the waitress wanted us out. Our beers went empty, our water glasses empty, and our table... empty. At the end of the night, I split the bill with my friend but he had ordered more. So I left less "tip". I checked my statement a few days later, and she had overcharged me. Needless to say, I will not be back.
(1)
John D.
The place is just another bar with decent food! So, why, oh pretentious hostess, did you think you had to ASK us TWICE whether we'd be having dinner? I said "a table for two for dinner" didn't I? Didn't you hear me the first time? Or did you really feel the need to ask me again on our way to a table? Maybe you get clientele who asks for a table and just drinks. What gave you the right to pool me into that category? You don't know me! When my date asked for a table different from the one we were put at, you snapped- "They are all reserved"! That's like McDonalds saving a table for those ordering an Angus Burger. Repeat after me: I just work at a mid-scale restaurant! Finally, after we settled in our seat, you came up once again, telling me which of the 4 seats at our table I should be sitting at because I'm blocking access to the bar area! Shouldn't you be cognizant of the fact that that table WAS blocking access and NOT set up a table there? I'm NOT sorry, that we just walked up and left. (That's brings me to the single star - yes, the water was refreshing and cold, so our waitress helped you earn that lone star) It was PRICELESS the way you went wide-eyed as we walked past you without a word exchanged! So... Get your act together, dear hostess... and stop pretending you are something you are not. The local restaurant up the road more than obliged us with a corner seat by the window, did not rush us despite constant flow of people, and all in all made us feel welcome.
(1)
Ethan H.
I'll tell you what - say what you will about HG but this place has never disappointed me. I have never eaten here, but the drinks are good, and there are usually a bunch of pretty cool peeps up in there. Pretty low amount of douchbaggery and a pretty high fun quotient. I like this place. Not for any particular reason, but because it is what it is - a solid, honest bar with a pretty favorable girl:guy ratio.
(4)
William P.
I went here with a friend and found that it was alright, a little crowded and when at capacity like it was the night I was in there it can be a little tough to move around. I will say that the bartenders were great because I never had a problem getting a drink. This would be a 3 star bar but the bartenders saved it one star.
(4)
Caitlin C.
The HG is such a friendly bar and I almost always have a great time when I go. We usually end up heading there when we don't want to go too far from home, but we don't feel up for the Faneuil scene. Most recently we stopped in on our way home for a couple hours after the ball dropped on NYE. I was still fighting the effects of a serious food coma, but we managed to score a booth so I could sit and drink a beer while the girls did some dancing. Everybody wins!
(4)
Lindsay D.
One star: Waitstaff is very attentive and will offer up suggestions One star: The mixed drinks are plenty strong One star: Proximity to my office and the T No star: The food. Really, Harvard Gardens, really? A house salad implies more than greens and dressing, especially when the price is so high. Also, the Truffled Parmesean fries were way overcooked and poor quality. No star: The drink timer. I have never in my life been to a bar that wouldn't let a partron order 2 rounds of shots in under 10 or 15 minutes. Weird... and not in a good way.
(3)
Bob G.
I went there for drinks while waiting for another restaurant. Cool place, friendly staff. I can see this being a fun local place
(3)
Colin N.
I've been to Harvard Gardens twice now. It's a much classier alternative to the BHP around the corner. However, the first time I went with my buddy ben, a drunk guy who claimed he just got out of prison was threatening to kill us. I bought him a drink and that still didn't calm him down. He claimed to know the bartender there, but that remains to be seen. Overall, I will go back. Women seem to love the place, and the times I've been have had a great girl / guy ratio.
(4)
Dendra A.
Terrible experience. First off, we were given the wrong menus for the day. Our server got our drinks wrong [two sodas?] It took forEVER to get the food and the place maybe had three tables. She was really disinterested in serving us, and I was displeased. Vowed never to go back, and I haven't since.
(1)
Felecia C.
Harvard Gardens, with its neon sign, looks from the outside like a cliche sports bar, and this is partially true. There is a bar along one wall and a couple screens showing the game du jour, but the seating area is dimly lit with candles, giving that part of the bar an almost romantic feel. HG does tack it up though - last time I was there, I noticed orange/pink string lights. Classy touch, HG. I usually hit this bar up right after work, when things are a bit slow. The clientele is mainly hospital folk or overflow from the Hill, so things do pick up later in the evening, but that has a negative effect on the service. Even though the waitstaff can be slow, I have always enjoyed my drinks - esp the admittedly girly Raspberry Sangrita. The music doesn't suck and neither does the food (according to the people I'm with who eat it). But I wish there were more space devoted to the bar instead of the dark dining area. Maybe I should be generous with the 4th star, since I am here often enough and it is generally a good time, but there is something about this bar that doesn't give a cohesive feel.
(3)
Emily O.
Stopped by here for dinner and drinks with another couple on a Friday night. Great appetizers...would definitely recommend the calamari, it was delicious! Great service and perfect, casual atmosphere. Would definitely come back!
(4)
M. Deloris D.
Harvard Gardens was surprisingly easy to get to by 11AM on a brisk Saturday morning. The brunch selections were a bit better than standard. The portions were superlative and the prices were reasonable. My HG Eggs Benedict was delicious. Eight of us brunching book club girls ordered and were served without much delay. No one complained about their food being cold, or an order being improperly prepared...except for Leighann who was incredulous at the idea that tomatoes should be included in eggs benedict... can't please everyone. I'd definitely return to HG. The value for the brunch dollar is pretty great.
(4)
Zane G.
This place is a wonderful spot to grab abide for lunch and dinner. Great prices, better service, and delicious food! Their turkey sandwich for lunch is sublime.
(5)
Renee B.
This is my Thursday night spot. Nice atmosphere, decently priced drinks, and lots of people to mingle with. It looks like a total hole-in-the wall from the outside but the interior is actually quite nice. The bar food is good. The french fries are tops on my list. If you're looking to meet somebody, this just might be the spot. Lots of young professional types. I have found (in my favor) that the ratio of men to women is a little high.
(4)
Jana L.
Burgers were very good We had 2x avocado burgers, and 2x bacon mushroom and Swiss burger They asked how we wanted burgers cooked which was a welcome surprise since many places only do medium well. Tasty grass fed meat, fresh avocado and hand cut fries We also went to Emmets Tavern which was similar in food type but Harvard Gardens was better
(4)
Stephanie H.
Awesome soundtrack and incredibly friendly and efficient staff here! I love the laid back vibe and the late night pub menu is awesome! I had the chicken sandwich and "regular" fries, which were great! Feasted on a great seasonal, limited edition Harpoon Nordic Saison in a large format 22 ounce bottle: wow. Great beer! Love that they support local breweries on their rotating feature bottle list. Highly recommend coming here with a date or a small group of friends. Music is at right levels, as is the lighting to support an intimate conversation or solid catch up session between friends. Could spend the whole evening here and never feel the urge to leave....especially with the great alt indie soundtrack as the backbeat to my beer drinking.
I walked out after 15 min, here are the reasons: 1. The menu on Yelp is not updated. I was looking for a healthy meal and saw that they offered a Grilled Chicken Wrap, however, they didn't have it and none of their meals were truly healthy. 2. I sat down, the waitress came and brought me a glass of water and she disappeared for over 15 minutes - yes! 15 minutes. It was not a busy day, it was around 3pm and there were probably 3 tables occupied. Because I just wanted to get a quick lunch I decided to leave and look for a faster and healthier option.
(2)
Peter D.
I'll be honest with you: I wanted Thai food for dinner.* But since nobody cares what I want, we ended up at Harvard Gardens. And it was a good thing, because they do everything right: The music is good, and the service is great. Shout out to Chelsea. They start you with good bread and soft, whipped butter. The wings are great, although they are not Buffalo wings. The burger is excellent (cheddar, caramelized onions, bacon aioli, can't be bad) and actually cooked properly. What's more, they offer a choice of fries, salad, or a little of both as accompaniments. Everyone wants a little of both, so every place should do this. Plus, it's basically the closest restaurant to MGH, and after a visit there everyone needs a good burger and fries. Unless they went in because they have a heart condition, I guess. ____________ *A few blocks away, there's a Thai restaurant that is Usher approved. He's taken multiple pictures with the owners, and if there's ANYONE in the world I trust when it comes to Thai food, it's Usher.
(5)
Nick S.
Great space - been here forever. There are weekends when the wait to be seated can seem like #Forever. The staff is quick & service spot-on. My advice: (1) come early. (2) The corned beef hash is no joke! Damn good - give it a try! ;)
(4)
Kimberly A.
Stopped in here to meet my cousin for dinner while visiting. The service was great. The food was great. The drinks were amazing.
(4)
Mish M.
Started out slow. The server took a while to notice we sat down we waited about 15 mins just to get water. But the food made up for it. Calamari was spicy and really good , it wasn't your typical frozen calamari either the portion was large and drizzled with sort of a buffalo glaze.the meatloaf hamburger and truffle fries so good you have an option of half salad half fries which I liked. . I had the blueberry beer which they put fresh blueberries into great flavor nice location.
(3)
Mallory C.
After an appointment at MGH and a several day inpatient stay, I was in serious need of a good brunch and this place hit the spot! From the street I was expecting something along the lines of a dive bar, but this place is much more upscale! I felt like I was at Joe's from Grey's Anatomy, as I'm sure this place gets a lot of medical folks just getting out of work. Great ambience, delicious food, good service, and TVs to watch the game- this has become our "go to place" near MGH. I had the Huevos Rancheros, and I'm pretty sure it was the best one I have ever had! The boy had the red velvet pancakes which also looked incredible. Although I wasn't drinking this time around, the iced coffee I had hit the spot and I hope to come back for one of their bloody Marys. Our waitress was super sweet, and was patient while we used a coupon we got on Yelp for checking in! Great perk as well. So glad we discovered this place- it almost makes me want to schedule medical appointments just so we can go here after! ....Almost.
(4)
Janhvi C.
Cosy place to eat. Sangria is tasty. Pancake was great!! The maple syrup was not thick enough though. The club sandwich was really great and French fries were tasty too! Perfect for an easy lunch!
(4)
Taj K.
Harvard Gardens got a new chef within the last couple of years who definitely raised the bar with food. Unfortunately this also raised the prices. Their truffle fries are my favorite. I have had most of the menu items and I feel confident that everything tastes great. They have decent wines by the glass. The bar area is almost always lively. Located right across the street from MGH makes it an ideal place for after work gatherings. Good spot for sure!
(4)
Leah K.
Went to Harvard Gardens for the first time last night. My friend and I wanted to get drinks after getting our nails done, and stopped in and sat at the bar. I ordered a martini (gin, rosemary syrup, and orange) and my friend had wine. I really liked my martini...the orange made it smell amazing, but it was barely sweet and pretty heavy on the gin. My favorite. Of course, we opted to order food as well. I heavily eyeballed the goat cheese dip (goat cheese, raspberry jam, and Iggy's bread), but it seemed steep at $15.00. I ordered a half portion of the butternut squash ravioli, which was around 6 raviolis on a long plate. It was absolutely amazing. The ravioli had a pecorino romano sauce, spinach and candied pecans topping it. It was savory but sweet at the same time. This would be a great appetizer to share (the half order is $12.00). It did not quite fill me, but it was a decent portion. My friend ordered the truffle mac n' cheese sans broccoli and peas, and it was deliciously creamy. I could have eaten her order, as well. I would absolutely come here for drinks and apps, but I could see how a full meal could set you back a pretty penny. The service was good, food great, drinks great, price a little out of line ....4 stars.
(4)
Courtney K.
Can only comment on the brunch, but it is a solid spot. The portions are big, bloody mary's were very strong, and the service was efficient. I enjoyed my huevos rancheros and all of my friends liked their benedicts/breakfast burritos/hash brown dishes as well. The menu is pretty extensive so people are likely to find something everyone will enjoy when dining in a group. Plus, they offer lunch foods during brunch hours for those who do not like the traditional brunch food
(4)
Brian L.
Came here for a Friday dinner to use a pretty sweet Gilt City deal ($20 for $40 plus 2 drinks). It was more of a bar feel than a restaurant at around 7:30. The crowd definitely seems doctor-y (people in scrubs, medical conversation), which would be explained by being right by MGH. I had a tasty Harpoon 100-barrel series India Pale Lager, the Cambridge Uncommon. A nice blend of IPA and lager, and with the hefty 24-ish ounce bottle, what's to dislike? We ordered the steak frites and steak tips for entrees. The frites was pretty good, but the best part was the truffle fries. That truffle oil is magic. Nicely seasoned and crispy as well. The steak tips were my favorite of the two, extra juicy and flavorful. Overall, seems like a nice place to stop by after work, or for a meal if you're in the area and it's not a weekend night (was a bit too loud for dinner conversation, and felt a bit crowded).
(4)
Shirley D.
We had just arrived in Boston and were staying in a bed & breakfast nearby. It was around 11:30 pm and most restaurants had closed or were closing - luckily a bartender in one of the places we had stopped by told us about Harvard Gardens. I was expecting just a restaurant but this was actually more of a local bar scene which was still pretty cool. As soon as you walk in you have security checking IDs, then you have the option to chill by the bar or sit in a table. The place is split in two, there are booth tables on the left and on the right hand side there's the bar where people were just standing around taking selfies & talking. On the other side of the booth tables, there were more tables. Then as you walk towards the back you see a couple of more tables and rounded sofas. The good thing about this place is that you can eat, drink, talk, and listen to music. The crowd seemed to be mostly late 20s early 30s. Seems like a cool place to just hang out and enjoy a drink. As for the food, they have a late night menu! Although it's a limited menu, you still have pretty good options. Honestly, I was just thankful their kitchen was open. We had spent thirty minutes trying to find somewhere to eat that was open late. I ordered a grilled chicken sandwich with a salad on the side and it was pretty good! Tip: Check in on Yelp and get 15% of your first entree.
The hubby and I were in town for a few days and stumbled upon this gem of a place. We liked it so much we ended all 3 of our nights here. Delicious food (truffle fries are OMG AMAZING), late night menu, great beer list, fantastic service and friendly patrons. If we're ever in Boston again we'll come see you guys! Thanks for the hospitality!
(5)
S. A.
The buffalo chicken tenders is the only reason you need to go to Harvard Gardens. I've never had a waitress who seemed particularly happy with life and the tall, skinny female bartender is NEVER nice. However, buffalo chicken tenders are all I need in a bar, so drink up, order this app and life will be good.
(4)
Donna J.
This is a review for their brunch. I ordered the HG breakfast plate and a side of red velvet pancakes. My boyfriend had the eggs and bacon with a side of a blueberry pancake. His pancake was thick and undercooked and his scrambled eggs were overcooked and dry. My red velvet pancake was good but covered with hard pecans. The sausage gravy slathered onto my biscuits looked like dog vomit and tasted as though a pound of sugar was thrown in. The only good part was the bacon but who can mess up bacon? I'm only giving two stars because I had a really good server who was attentive and kept our water glasses full. Sorry HG you've got a lot of work to do.
(2)
Stephanie M.
In a word: Gross. I do not recommend going here for food. Terrible terrible food. Fo starters our tuna tartare was disgusting, large chunks of tuna mixed with...cold hard rice??? Why would anyone think this ok is beyond me. The tartare also came with a few wonton chips that tasted like they were fried the day before in oil that was old and rancid. Literally left a film on the top of my mouth. GAG. I chose my cobb salad to go with something light and semi filling since it came with chicken...except when my salad came there honest to God two microscopic pieces of chicken mixed in with all the lettuce. Like literally I was digging through my lettuce to see if there was any sign of chicken. I told the waitress and she said "Oh I did notice it looked a little bare". Okkkkkk. I did get a little plate of a little pile of more microscopic chicken pieces and they just smelled and tasted a little funky. Like the uncooked chicken you leave in your fridge for a few days too long and then try to cook thinking that it might be ok. UGH. Everything about this dining experience made me mad. It's not like this place is the cheapest deal around either. You do not get what you pay for AT ALL. Again: Gross. Do not waste your money unless you are only headed here for drinks!
(1)
Lyndsey C.
This place is ok. I had greater hopes for it but the tables were a bit junky and our server seemed pretty out of it and not super pleasant when we tried to joke a little with her. Nice menu, though, a lot of good options for brunch. The kobe sliders were pretty good, bacon was yummy, red velvet pancakes were a bit too much for us (we tried one... but did love that we could get one as a side), and the truffle mac and cheese was really good but note that it is really heavy and large! Great portion but a little too much truffle oil in it. Overall good and decent prices, good location, but it was pretty warm in there and like I said the tables were kind of junky and shaky.. bathroom was super small. Great TV's though and nice bar selection.
(3)
Zig W.
+It is a hybrid bar/restaurant, with surprisingly good food +HG Burger +Chicken sandwich +Grilled Cheese +$5 Stella +Close to beacon hill -Gets pretty loud -Sometimes run into people from my high school
(4)
Alyssa B.
Looooooove HG. The brunch? Amazing. Drinks? Awesome. Bartenders? The best. I used to hate on this place for an after-work spot because it tends to attract a lot of douchey men who think that just because they are doctors at MGH they are God's gift to women. That alone doesn't make you special, fellas. But once I learned how to navigate this place, I learned to love it. For example, it gets crowded and it's not laid out well for large groups (unless you get a table), so don't walk in here at 8 on Thursday with 5 other people. But do go with 1 or 2 friends on the early side and post up at the bar. The bartenders are friendly and fun and will whip you up some great cocktails, like the Hot & Dirty. I haven't eaten dinner here in a while, but I remember the food being really good. I've split a few appetizers with friends for a light and tasty dinner. So obsessed with the brunch. There's an egg sandwich with avocado that's great. The eggs benny are great. The potatoes are the bestttttt. Also, they have a really delicious iced coffee adult beverage that I love and have tried recreating elsewhere and it's never as good. It has frangelico and I forget what else. Highly recommend!
(4)
Lauren K.
Came here with friends for Brunch, it was delicious. I had the Eggs Benedict but subbed Prosciutto for the Canadian Bacon - it was delicious. The eggs were cooked perfectly & the Hollandaise wasn't too greasy. We got the Fried Calamari & Polenta Fries for the table to share. The Polenta Fries are these delicious pillowy bites & the honey & sirachi aoli are the perfect complements! The cucumber vodka white sangria was dangerously delicious and refreshing. I could drink those all day.
(5)
Beth P.
OMG BRUNCH. This place has a great one. We went on a Saturday morning just after 11am (when they open), and it was decently crowded, maybe half the place was full. The menu had pretty standard brunch food, with a couple of unique items. I went with the breakfast burrito, and my boyfriend had the Eggs Benedict. The burrito was especially tasty -- the eggs were nice and moist, accompanied by melted cheddar cheese and a black bean spread. I asked for the sauce on the side, and I'm glad I did because it was super spicy! There were a couple slices of avocado on the side, and the home fries were AMAZING. They were thick cut seasoned, and topped with Parmesan cheese. The best part was the caramelized onions mixed in with the potatoes -- a great surprise! The Eggs Benedict was better than your average Eggs Bene, since it included prosciutto and asparagus. Both dishes were amazing. The ONLY thing I can say for a con is that I really wish they had a patio or even open windows! It's so dark in there!
(4)
Phy G.
Our favorite place to stop for dinner after work!!! Harvard Gardens not only have incredible food, the service is top notch!! The french onion soup and HG Burger are a must try! My husband and I have never had a bad service or a bad meal, we stop here at least twice a week!!
(5)
T. P.
Came here Saturday night for dinner with my boyfriend. Saturday night at about 8:30pm with only about 3 tables filled - that should have told us something right there. Besides the fact that it was FREEZING in the restaurant, I was happy with our booth and we received our waters fairly quickly. We ordered our drinks and apps together. The waiter came back with the drinks and asked us if we were ready to order our food yet, which we were. I got the ravioli and my boyfriend got steak tips. I also got a salad. My salad came out quick, and I thought that was strange since we didn't get our apps yet (we ordered 2 appetizers). So I asked my boyfriend to flag down the waiter next time we saw him in order to ask about our apps. This is where things went bad- we COULD have had our apps in time if our waiter was around to inquire about them!! However, we looked and looked and tried to enjoy our drinks and salad while also trying to keep an eye out for the waiter. 30 minutes went by before we finally saw our waiter again!! We asked him about our apps and he apologized and said he forgot. Well I was upset because I REALLY wanted to try my appetizer! I was all excited! :( And had he been around earlier we would have had enough time to remind him and have him bring them out. To ME, a normal standard is that if a restaurant forgets an app, they don't charge you and they bring the app out anyway. The manager did come over and apologize and told us our drinks were on her! KUDOS TO YOU AND GREAT JOB FOR THAT; however, I really did want the appetizers and never got them. We then noticed that other tables had bread. We didn't get any! If you look at my reviews, I feel like this happens all the time - I just cant seem to figure out how we always forget to be given bread whenever we go out. So throughout this long waiting game, we had no apps and no bread. We waited another 20 minutes for our waiter to come out again before I could ask for bread. It was a waiting game all night long. THE GOOD PART OF THIS REVIEW IS... the food is actually decent. My goat cheese raviolis were delicious; boyfriends steak and potatoes were just okay - I have had much better. At first we were not going to stay for dessert due to our poor experience; however with the manager coming over to apologize, we decided to give it a try and boy am I glad we did! We got the brownie sundae dessert and it was AMAZING! Overall, we prob will not be back due to the service and although the food was decent it is nothing to rave about or to risk customer service for.
(3)
Molly F.
If I didn't live nearby I wouldn't go out of my way, but it's a great place to grab a late dinner as the kitchen is open late. That being said, they have one of the best burgers I've ever eaten. Their fries are bomb too.
(5)
Joelle K.
I had an absolutely delicious brunch at Harvard garden today. I had the eggs Benedict. The portion size was enormous with a heaping pile of cheese flavored potatoes. The eggs were so yummy and served with prosciutto instead of Canadian bacon. Our waitress also brought us a basket of tasty coffee cake while we were waiting for our breakfast. I enjoyed coming here for brunch more than dinner and will definitely be back!
(4)
Jack S.
On 07/09/2015, had a bizarre experience where at 9.30 pm, we walked into the place and checked for a seat at the bar. The bar area was full, and we were about to leave when the host asked if he could help. we told him that we just wanted to have a couple drinks. He said he would check whether it was possible, and then came back and said yes. We sat at a booth and 5 minutes later a waitress came over and upon discovering we only wanted to order drinks, kicked us out in a very rude fashion. Not entirely sure what the story was with the communication between host and waitstaff was but it was highly disconcerting given we had told the host exactly what we were looking for. Then the attitude of the waitress was rather hostile. Especially given that booths and tables were pretty much empty...
(1)
Bron V.
Great place and simple. Never a line and believe it or not, one of my favorite things about it, is their food! Amazing brunches Appetizers are great And burgers are awesome. All while having reasonable prices. Bartenders and servers are great too. All nice people. Thanks for the great times!
(5)
Mark B.
I ate there for brunch twice and is was fine (read: not memorable in good or bad territory). Last night, I had dinner there and it was not fine. The food was closer to not good (read : bland) and expensive for what you get. Harvard Gardens seems like a decent place to pop in for a drink in occasion, but not to eat. Two strikes of "meh" for brunch and one strike of "not good" for dinner and Harvard Gardens is out.
(2)
Cristina R.
Moseyed in for lunch on a weekday. It was pretty empty, but the decor was nice and tastefully Halloween-y with orange lights hung up around the space. We were seated at one of the corner tables. Cozy. The soup of the day was butternut squash. It only comes in a bowl, so it could easily be your meal since it's filling. My friend and I split one as s starter, and I'd say this is the way to go. This stuff squashed most of the fall soups I've had! It was creamy but not overly heavy and very flavorful. Like a warm blanket for your insides. The ginger tones really kicked it up a notch! For my entree, I ordered the oven-roasted turkey sandwich. This sammie sounds splendid on the menu. Walnut-pecan bread surrounding turkey, cheese, Granny Smith apple slices, and cranberry sauce. Like Thanksgiving in sandwich form, right? Wrong. It comes cold! Which was a shock considering the "oven-roasted" declaration in the name. The bread is toasted, so was slightly warm and crispy, but all of the innards were refrigerator cold. Boo. After one unsatisfying bite, we asked the waiter if he could warm it up in the oven. He kindly obliged, and after about 10 very hungry minutes, came back with new sandwiches for us. It was MUCH better afterward, with the cheese melting on the turkey and the cranberry sauce soaking into the crispy bread. Although it sounds weird, I actually enjoyed the sandwich more the next day when I reheated the other half for lunch. Everything blended very well and made for a comforting meal. But I wouldn't order something just to be able to enjoy the leftovers! And considering the trouble and delay of getting it warmed up at the restaurant, I'd say to try out something else. The butternut squash soup is better'n most though! Jump on it (or in it) if it's offered.
(3)
Tony S.
What an utter clash of expectations versus reality. I was expecting shitballs on ice when I walked into this place. Dark... boringly boxy... that typically stank and bored feel I get when entering some pub in the middle of nowhere Essex or Franklin county Massachusetts....... Rhode Island even... Then my group of 7 pulled up to the bar. The bartender, a very no-nonsense lady took our drink orders, and we settled into our conversation on girls, sports, toe fungus, and that "hawtie at work" that we all fantasize about doing lewd and crude things to... especially if and when she comes to work without panties (because we all know THAT happens). The a couple of us mustered up the courage to admit...... "hey..... shit..... we haven't eaten over the last few hours.... and that pantie-less co-worker fantasy has kinda got me hungry..... you guys want to...... gulp..... eat something here?" And that was it.... we clocked in our timecards into gastro purgatory, and asked for menus..... and even inquired if the bartender recommended anything..... .... what do you know? A spark in her eye suddenly ..... well..... sparkled. The must-tries were the kobe sliders (I think that's what they were called), and some chili shrimp dish. I expected NOTHING better than cat-ass burgers. I got NOTHING less than PURRFECTION!.. ... and this is where I lose my Boston tuff-guy persona and bring out my inner Martha Stewart. Good LORD the food was amazing. After my first few bites of either dish, I actually avoided sharing it with my friends.... my homies.... my brotherhood of awesomeness..... ... fuck that..... every man for himself. This food is MINE! You may lick the shrimp tails and meat grease off my plate, but NOTHING else!! I don't usually lose my cool when reviewing restaurants....... (Ok..... that's a lie.... I'm an LA drama queen at least twice a month...)..... but HOLY SHITBALLS I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!! Yeah...... this is a gem hidden in plain sight. You HAVE To come here.... and at the very least...... order the shrimp and kobe slider..... with the egg...... omg.... fook this ... I'm going out for more....
(4)
Gordon C.
Excellent brunch spot! Make sure you get there early so you don't miss out on their corned beef hash. The best I've ever had. Best. Ever.
(4)
Lynn J.
outstanding service... Hostess flew across the room to greet us! manager apologized for the noise at the bar. waiter came to take out order immediately. nice selection of beer, wine and scotch. a wide variety of bar bites, burgers and salads. The deal: college crowd and mgh staff... just down the block from the mgh T stop.
(5)
Kalin M.
The food here is amazing. The bar staff is even better. My family and I have made this "our place" since our dads been at mass general. Diane has especially made us feel welcome and at home here. We will be back.
(5)
Rebecca R.
Over-rated. The portions are tiny, tasty but nothing special. I had the ravioli which comes on a long plate, an illusion to make it seem as though you are getting a larger portion than what is essentially 5 measly bites. It wasn't terrible, but certainly not worth the price. I have to admit my enjoyment was tampered by the subpar service. My waitress never refilled my water and disappeared for the remainder of my meal. Also the longest I've ever waited for a check (with so many empty tables.)
(3)
LoveYouToo L.
Friends at work recommended this spot for lunch since it's nearby. I recall only having had drinks at HG many years ago. This place was a pleasant surprise. We all ordered sandwiches (reuben, grilled chicken, hamburger, grilled cheese). Everyone seemed more than satisfied with his/her sandwich. The fries are really good and more like hand cut fries. I don't know what they have on the dinner menu, but lunch was really good, not expensive, and good value. Our waitress was very attentive. Also really like the music, and the retro lounge style decor.
(4)
Kiki D.
Harvard Gardens was a great casual brunch spot on a Sunday mid-morning. There was no wait and the service was great. I got the brunch burrito and it was AMAZING not to mention the brunch potatoes were some of the best I've had, super crispy with parmesan and herbs. Highly recommend coming here for brunch if you want a chill but nice brunch atmosphere!
(5)
Merrick M.
Great food. Good value for this area of Boston. Try the steak tips. They were wonderful.
(5)
Julissa P.
I like this place because I live across the street and the guys who work there are extremely friendly and helpful. The women who work at the bar seem to always be in a bad mood. Learned this the hard way, also the food is not worth the price. It sucks to spend so much money in there and receive terrible service. I suggest going on the weekends, much more lively and the staff is much nicer.
(3)
Reem K.
I went today for a brunch. Ordered French Toast. It was thick slices. Dry, tasteless, not crispy, not fluffy. Will not order this again. The place and the people were lovely.
(1)
Richard H.
I've always walked by here on a brisk walk from Charles/MGH to North Station and decided to meet a colleague here on a Saturday for brunch. There was no problem getting a spot at the bar and later a table for brunch. Nothing special about this place, though I was impressed by the selection of brunch items at what at first appeared to be a typical pub on the outside. I enjoyed my eggs benedict (with prosciutto and asparagus) although I found that the side of potatoes had a bit too much Parmesan cheese to the point of being overwhelming. Coffee was your typical bland filter coffee. Other menu selections including the french toast looked good. Will return if I'm passing though, but won't go out of my way. Although, I would come back for a drink as the bar is nice and long, with plenty of room to stand or sit.
(3)
Leanne E.
The truffle fries here are the stuff that dreams are made of. So hot, so much Parmesan, just so damn good. The grilled cheese is bomb, it comes with marinara and it's just perfect. I always get a bellini there, and it's awesome. Love it!
(4)
Angela J.
We LOVED out brunch. Red velvet pancakes were fantastic!--- though definitely sweet. Might have been too much as a stand alone meal- we ordered as a side. Breakfast potatoes were crispy and flavorful and served with parmesan. Will gladly return.
(5)
Gregg V.
I keep coming back to Harvard Gardens, and the reasons are obvious: great food, great service, great people. Well done HG!
(5)
Ryan M.
Harvard Gardens is always a great alternative for a weekend night, or a great spot to enjoy some brunch on a weekend. Many a trip to BHP have been detoured into Harvard Gardens for a few beers and a large helping of their DELICIOUS truffle fries. If you come here without getting the fries you are truly missing out! Other than these tasty morsels, the full menu has many scrumptious options to consider. The bartenders are really cool people (though as mentioned they can be no-nonsense) and are always open to making a suggestion for you based on your tastes. I've been here on almost every day of the week and they have always greeted me with a smile and a delicious beverage. I have frequented HG much more often at night than during the day but I can also vouch for their brunch. It is especially a popular spot before events at the Garden so take this into consideration when making your brunch plans.
(4)
Larry G.
After visiting our new granddaughter at MGH we walked across the street to HG. They accommodated us nicely with a booth as we had our 2 year old other granddaughter with us....she was quickly served a nice grilled cheese and fries....I got the steak frites, a very good version .....my wife got the southwestern chopped salad and it was the dish of the night....large flavorful with a nice mix of ingredients. I was going to give 5 stars but....I ordered the salad to go the next day and when I got home it was much smaller and missing several ingredients...too bad....I was very disappointed
(3)
Ngan T.
omg the mac n cheese. the mac n cheese. THE MAC N CHEESE!!! we went here originally for lots of ginger ale and soup since the manfriend was having an upset stomach. I've been here for drinks a time or two but finally got to writing this review because of the mac n cheese (ohhh did I give it away already?) The bartenders are very accommodating. My boyfriend got them to put 7 cherries in my drink once just because I love those maraschinos so. Our waiter this time was awkwardly chatty but A for effort.. The lighting is very dim here and the music selection is strange. Everything from hip hop to country. haha sounds like they plugged my ipod in. Anyway, food is EXCELLENT. We've only tried the tomato soup and the mac n cheese thus far but considering how well those two went, we'll definitely be regulars. Mac n cheese sauce was just the right consistency. They used orecchiette pasta which meant mini scoops of the delicious truffle cheese sauce. The crumbs were a very nice touch. I want to spend the rest of my life eating this.
(4)
Hayley B.
This place is down the st. from my Beacon Hill apartment and has become a go-to place for better than average bar food and a guaranteed seat any time of the week. I don't have much to say except the service is good, the food is good, and the truffle fries are outstanding. I would probably be satisfied just getting a few drinks with a friend and a large order of fries. YUM. Nothing fancy but this place exceeded my expectations. I have also ordered the Bib Salad a few times and was honestly impressed. It was SO good! The best part by far was the maple goat cheese vinaigrette. I will definitely be back!
(4)
Danae K.
Amazing brunch!!! Pleasant service, kind waitors. I had a lox combination and enjoyed it thoroughly.
(5)
Kathryn R.
I give this five stars not for the drinks or for the surprisingly delicious bar food but for the fact that it is my local bar. This is the place I come when I want to know the bar tenders, have a consistently good meal and either a Stella or one of their latest seasonal beers on tap. A few favorites include the pumpkin in October and the Harpoon Summer that's currently being served. Brunch is solid - try the blueberry pancakes and bacon and if your adventurous get a red velvet pancake to share. For dinner the Parmesan truffle fries are a great way to start your experience followed by one of the chicken dishes. Simple but quells my cravings every time. This is a neighborhood place that feels like home. I just keep coming back!
(5)
Jay M.
Mmm... Corned beef hash, 2 eggs over easy, side of home fries, side of bacon. Best way to kick off a Sunday morning!
(5)
Marcus M.
I have been here a number of times and I have always enjoyed the atmosphere. The drinks are cool too. Tonight, I had the salmon for a second time-- and I am convinced that this is some of the best salmon I've ever had. And that is saying a TON since I'm from the Great Northwest! (Go Hawks!) I know about salmon. But this is so tender and juicy with a perfect flake. It's not overcooked in the slightest. In addition, the service tonight was fantastic. And as an extra bonus, it's right near Mass General Hospital so you have a great chance of meeting an attractive doctor or nurse! I recommend you stop in to Harvard Gardens sometime. Doooooo iiitttt!
(4)
Madison M.
AMAZING BRUNCH! I'm giving them 5 stars because 3.5 stars does not do their Sunday brunch justice. HIGHLY recommend the French Toast (that bananas foster sauce is ridiculously good) and the Eggs Benedict. The potatoes were also delicious. Will definitely return.
(5)
Angela M.
We were headed to the hospital for business, so we got there early enough to grab a bite here. We were seated at the banquette against the back wall. TV's in the corners and above the bar kept us updated with the Aaron Hernandez story as we perused the menu. I chose the BLT with fries, until the server offered 50/50 to my coworker. I then opted for the BLT with 50/50, since I really only want a few fries for the flavor and the salad to feel healthier. The server advised that this is really the best deal, since you end up getting almost as much salad and fries as you would if you got only one. The meals came promptly. The BLT featured thick cut applewood smoked bacon, tomato, lettuce, and herbed mayo on lightly smoked sourdough. The bacon was thick and tasty, but a little tough, so you essentially got the whole slice of bacon in a bite, rather than having it break into a crispy bite. The tomato was juicy, not mealy, and the lettuce was crisp. I would've preferred less mayo and more toast on the bread, but that didn't stop me from eating the whole sandwich. There was a nice mix of greens in the salad, which was dressed with overly sweet balsamic vinaigrette. The fries were a tad soggy, good motivation to leave them on the plate. Check in on Yelp and get 15% off your bill!
(3)
Jordan W.
So this does not get lost in the review: THE TRUFFLE FRIES ARE LEGENDARY. ORDER THEM. HarGar, as I've come to call it, is my go-to dinner or after work drinks place. Unpretentious, relaxed, but still good food. It fills up with nurses and doctors at the end of MGH shifts, so there are some random-seeming times of day when it is super busy. Good brunch on Sundays, great burgers for lunch or dinner, and all around a pretty great place to hang out and grab a drink and snack with friends or colleagues.
(4)
Paul W.
Heard they had an awesome Chicken Bacon Avacado Sandwich, went there had one and it was awesome. Will be back for that sandwich!
(4)
Rachael L.
Sept 2013- This place earns its 3 stars solely for the grilled chicken sandwich. AMAZING!! All else was less than par, especially the service. The girl waiting on those in the dining area seemed great and attentive. The bartender, however, who was responsible for the high tops next to the bar, was rude and focused solely upon flirting with the old men giving her attention at the bar. We had to go get our own menus, wave her down for waters. She was annoyed to even have to serve us. They were out of several things (the beer we ordered and the lobster mac and cheese). Server thought she would just bring us regular mac and cheese....um no. There is a reason one orders SEAFOOD mac and cheese. She was snotty about us pointing out that we did not want it. Anyway, come for the chicken sandwich if you must come at all.
(3)
Matthew F.
Great neighborhood bar/restaurant. The food is surprisingly good, good quality drinks and nice enough interior.I had the steak frites and truffle fries which were excellent. Good selection of beer and liquors. I would go back any time for a casual dinner and drinks
(4)
S M.
This place was fun. The inside is VERY dark and set up using candles. But the bar staff is very nice. Lots of medical staff from Mass General hang out here as well.
(4)
Mary F.
Came here for brunch while staying in Beacon Hill. Wonderful service from hostess to waiter, our drinks were never empty, and the breakfast portions were huge and delicious! Also, if you come here during breakfast and don't try the red velvet pancakes, you've made a huge mistake. They. Are. Amazing.
(5)
Ramin S.
Great food, friendly staff and all around a pleasant experience. This place can serve as a place to grab a casual lunch, fancy dinner or a quick drink. I have been there on weekend nights too and have had a great time. The menu is always changing so it keeps everything fresh and new. I enjoyed the California club the last couple times and think they're food is really great.
(5)
Jeremy K.
I've had a few meals at Harvard Gardens, mostly out of convenience as I'm headed to a Bruins game. Whether it was brunch of dinner, I have yet to be wowed by my experience there. While the location is great and the place spacious and clean, the food just falls short if you ask me. I've found that they seem to take a focus on the quantity more than the quality of the food there and despite the pretty affordable prices, I've always managed to leave in the place in a starch-induced food coma, even when only eating about half of the portion. The selection on the meu is solid, but somehow it all gets ruined by the prices and portion size. The prices are a bit higher than most places, especially compared to other places nearby but it is Beacon Hill after all and I've only had spotty service there at best. Sometimes good service, sometimes horrendous. The kitchen always seems to be on the slow side of things and whether it was for brunch or dinner, I just have not been impressed. As far as their beer selection there, it's nothing amazing but it's pretty decent - they do however seem to run out of brews quite often, at least on my visits. The one beer that I always want to get there always seems to run out. Frustrating. All in all, the place is pretty decent but nothing amazing. It's conveniently located right next to the Charles/MGH T stop and offers a wise-array of dishes. Just be careful when you order as you might end up having a food coma as you walk out...
(3)
Kimmy B.
I would give them zero if I have a way to do so. Absolutely horrible service and hardly edible food: Got there around 5 on Tuesday evening and sat at the bar. An overweight in the mid-section bartender who has a snobbish attitude for no reason took 15 min to take my order (it was not crowded at all then). I ordered steak tips cooked MEDIUM (I personally feel cooking beef more than medium is being disrespectful to the cow) with French fries (it comes with garlic mashed potato but I did not want to take a chance with anything mashed there. You don't know what's going to be "mashed in" there). Ok (sigh) so the food came after quite a while, first, the beef looked burned outside and when I cut in the middle, it was completely cooked all the way and the soggy French fries were almost wet to the touch because they piled grilled vegetables and tips on top of them. I took a bite of the meat. It tasted and smelled like the meat was not fresh. And that was it for me. I am not sure how they stay in business (in "restaurant" business, unless they have something else going on behind lol). My conclusion: You've got to have a pretty sad life to want to hang out at that place!
(1)
Matt C.
Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Rancheros. Brunch at Harvard Gardens is worth a trip simply for the Huevos Rancheros. Huevos is my go-to anytime I am out to brunch and I can't recall a better version than Harvard Gardens'. Overall the brunch menu is vast and everything looked appetizing and we will definitely return.
(4)
Veronica P.
I wish I could marry this establishment. And their lemon drop martinis. EVERYTHING.
(5)
Rick L.
Love, love, love Harvard Gardens. The food is pleasantly pretty good, but I go for the music and drinks. I'm not sure who puts together their playlist, but within an hour I hear everything from Curtis Mayfield to The Clash. Shazam gets a good workout at Harvard Gardens. I also love the white leather decor...it feels like I'm in a Madmen scene.
(4)
Corey L.
Last night I thoroughly enjoyed the steak tips w veggies and truffle fries. Veggies were buttered but not too heavily. Fries were solid. All was quite tasty and excellent. And I still like the king professional crowd. Oh! Our waitress was awesome too
(4)
Eudaemonius ..
Looking for late night eats, we stumbled into Harvard Gardens not knowing what a treat it would be. At that point we were just looking for something on a Sunday night, and a libation to side car the meal. We found both! MaiTai - Delish Fish Tacos - Delish Shrimp in Chili Sauce - Delish Oysters on the Half Shell - Delish The drinks flowed and so the night went. We could not seem to order the shrimp or drinks fast enough. A worth stop on the north side of town!
(4)
Jackie C.
The food was great! I had the chicken sandwich and it was very good! The drinks were rough, not quite spot on. We will definitely be back, it was a great place but drinks need a little work.
(3)
Stephanie Y.
Came here for lunch while visiting MGH. This is definitely a decent and adequate place super close to the hospital. Was it the best meal ever? For salads negative. We actually started off with some delicious polenta fries. They were actually not what we expected at all but rather were these thick polenta blocks deep fried. One minus of this app was the lack of sauce that was included. C'mon now fries especially of the polenta variety are always better when accompanied with lots of slammin' sauces/condiments. My family and I all ordered salads. The cobb salad was ok. Presentation was amazing with a large thin cucumber serving as the bowl, with mixed greens, some bacon bits and tomatoes as the filling. Overall, nothing too crazy, and to be honest that sentiment could be replicated across all salads. My bf had the caesar which he said was super tasty but, it was super small. Side salad styz not entree status. Salads were all about $12. No protein included. Overall, I would bypass the salads and maybe stick with a sammy or a burger or maybe explore some more options in Boston but again, if you are in a bind and at the hospital and nearby and need a quick place to dine, this isn't a bad option.
(3)
Anna R.
When I worked at MGH, I loved meeting friends after work at Harvard Gardens. It was the closest, nicest joint you could walk into while still wearing scrubs. An added bonus was chatting up some of the other cuties in scrubs ;) Although slightly pricey, I loved the steak-frites with a good (local) beer. It was really delicious and hit the spot after a rough shift. But because HG isn't very big, there is definitely a line on weekend nights so you may have to wait for a spot. But, hey, it's Boston - there's always a line on weekends.
(4)
Jacob V.
Great Brunch the corned beef and hash was awesome and the bloody mary is a must. Cool atmosphere and in a great location. Enjoy
(4)
Chris B.
Disappointed -- underwhelmed. Firecracker shrimp was not shelled, mushroom stuffed ravioli was pedestrian -- all items al a carte and overpriced relative to quality -- even the Malbec was diffused. Better options in immediate area.
(2)
S.s. B.
Great place for brunch. Coffee was very good and my steak and eggs were delicious. Nice atmosphere with lots of booths and privacy. Out waitress was pleasant and attentive. Would definitely recommend this place for breakfast or brunch. Hoping to come back soon and try dinner.
(5)
Eric S.
Nice atmosphere. Great drinks! Stopped in for a late evening bite to eat and some drinks. My girlfriend had the grilled cheese (she liked it a lot), and I had the scallops (somewhat chewy in the center; would have expected a little better for a New England restaurant). I had the HG Doli (great pineapple flavor; a little lighter flavor than other Doli's I've had), and I had the Dark Blossom (?) (it had tequila and was a bit strong). Overall, a great location to sit and relax with some cocktails!
(4)
L N.
3 stars because the food is really good. Drinks? That's a no-go. And it is a bar so........ U can make that choice.
(3)
Judy K.
If you wanna drink - fine. Otherwise skip this place. Horrible cobb salad was had here. Expensive too. Yes, it was huge. But size does not always matter! The salad was doused in a cheap vinegar - vinegar alone is not a vinaigrette! I asked the waiter (who had a snobby attitude) for some olive oil because the salad was so acidic and he brought me a bottle of some indeterminate stuff. I drizzled it on - it helped a little but not much. I sat with my plate untouched for quite along time waiting for it to be removed. The waiter buzzed by our table a couple of times so quickly I didn't catch him to ask him to take my plate - not that I should have had to. Finally I piled my napkin on top along with some other articles - and he took my hint. Duh. Nope. Ain't goin' back. Ever.
(1)
Fernanda P.
I ordered a BLT and it was AMAZING. The bread was so crispy and delicious. I ordered a salad instead of fries and it came with italian dressing on the side. I asked for honey mustard. Everyone in my party loved the meal. They had the creamy potato soup, grilled chicken sandwich and classic reuben. The fries were tasty and crispy.
(4)
Robyn B.
I've heard that the brunch here is awesome (red velvet pancakes?!?!?! must. try.), but the (dinner) food that I've tried is kind of meh. Last time, my friends ordered the cobb salad and a burger, both were fine. I got a bowl of the french onion soup. Good but a little too salty/cheesy for me. But I guess that's what french onion soup is kind of supposed to be. Anyways, the gin and tonics here are awesome.
(3)
Xiao Z.
Decent bar with a fancy late-night bar menu (the kobe beef w/quail egg sliders were a nice touch) and they made some of the best Old Fashions I've had in a while.
(3)
Melissa B.
This place a a surprisingly great brunch. I had the prosciutto and goat cheese omelet and it was delicious. The breakfast potatoes where even better. They are crispy potato wedges with parmigiano cheese sprinkled over them. I only gave it 4 of 5 stars because I always feel this place is dark on the inside, but a comfortable set up none the less.
(4)
Maureen D.
I love that this relatively small urban bar/restaurant uses Open table for reservations. I made the reservation for 8 people less than a week ahead of time. I received an email reminder. We arrived a few minutes late, but the table was available. Our waiter was polite, got our drink and food orders right, and popped in plenty of times to see how we were doing. Generally people enjoyed their meals, which included pork chop with polenta 'fries', salmon, cobb salad, mac and cheese, and asparagus ravioli. The one flop was the Bibb salad, which our server said was big enough for a meal, but was actually quite small. There was a fairly average noise level, with a vibrant crowd at the bar. I liked being seated in the back, where there was a little less traffic and I could mostly hear my dining companions when they spoke loudly. The place is a little overpriced, but this is a city.
(4)
Adam F.
If you take the douchiness factor from Jersey Shore and combine it with college students who are all wannabe doctors, then mix in a few desperate girls you come up with a place like this. Don't worry, the staff factored in the quality of the patrons they would have, and play the music at a decibel level that prevents you from having that awkward conversation with the popped collar pre-med student. Something positive...the drinks are good, albeit expensive, and the staff is nice.
(2)
Adrienne M.
Great food, great service, great ambiance -- morning, noon or night -- with a date, big group of friends, or alone. I love Harvard Gardens the most for their brunch. (Killer bloody mary!) This is definitely one of my favorite spots in Boston--I can always count on a good experience! The service is what makes it stand out the most--even at their busiest. I'm gluten free and the servers are always helpful and accommodating so that I can have a delicious meal. They rotate the menus (and cocktails) pretty frequently, so it's always fun to try something new even though I come here all the time.
(4)
Saige B.
We came here on a Saturday afternoon and had a similar experience to when I've come at night or for lunch. The bartenders make delicious drinks for the Boston price. I had the Cranberry Margherita and my friend had the Red Line and both were awesome. The food, on the other hand, is just mediocre. They try very hard to put some things out that you wouldn't find at a typical Boston bar. We had the truffled mac'n'cheese (overcooked but still pretty good) and the polenta "fries" (these were seriously logs of fried polenta with very little flavor and a weird consistency). The atmosphere is a tad Grey's Anatomy with all the hospital staff spillovers but it's an okay spot to move to from downtown. I don't mind coming here for a great drink but the atmosphere is a little metro/stuffy and the food gets a 'C' for effort.
(3)
Chris S.
I'v gone here for lunch and for night life. Both times I was pretty disappointed. The food for lunch was tasteless and the bread was not fresh for my sandwich. I have gone here for drinks at night and when I went the place was packed. I had to deal w/ some immature patrons and all in all it was not a place I see myself going back to. The prices were not that bad but my experiences were. I gave it two stars because I was with friends at night and still had fun but I like I said I probably wont be going back.
(2)
A B.
This is my favorite bar on Beacon Hill. Yes, I'm partial to the name. It is also the closest bar to my front door, so please take that under advisement. It has great atmosphere and a friendly vibe. It looks a bit divey on the outside, but the inside is modern. The only thing saving it from a full 5 stars is that the food is not what it could be. The food is fine, yes, but given how good everything else is, I wish I could say I love the food. I think they would be better off with a simpler, more basic bar menu then striving for heights that sometimes they don't hit. That said, overall, this place is great. I hope to see you there!
(4)
Tiff M.
As a Beacon Hill resident who's tried all the local spots... this is definitely not my go-to restaurant for dinner. It's overpriced, and there are several better options for quality food. The weekend night scene... avoid it at all costs. The only times I venture here are for a drink mid-week... it works well in that setting.
(2)
George L.
I was staying at the Jefferson boarding house just down the street and this was the first place I tried during my very first night in Boston (there for an academic conference). Let's just say, I had no idea a place in Boston could make such great calamari. They used the small squid, not the rings, which I prefer and it was flash fried with peppers and it came with roasted peanuts and some sort of, what I think, was a soy sauce/vinegar based sauce but bottom line, blew me away. I was with an old friend, also attending the conference, and he was also blown away. I also had an arugula side salad which had a nice, light olive oil and vinegar dressing, if i remember correctly, but the bottom line was that it was incredibly fresh and crisp. I don't remember what I drink, I think a Harpoon IPA (good beer Boston!) but a nice, light satisfying meal. I was hoping to go back but I was only in town for a few days and Boston is one city with way too many good restaurants to back to the same one twice. Bottom line, if you are in the area, I think it is worth checking out. :-)
(4)
J B.
I have had dreams about the Kobe Sliders. The quail egg is unique and a great pairing with the beef and bacon aioli. They serve Moscow Mules in copper cups, the way it should be served. I would have given them 5 stars, but they don't seem to have enough of the copper cups if a bunch of people order the drink. I also felt like they thought I was going to steal it and wouldn't give me a second drink in the same cup. Annoying.
(4)
Jessica M.
Open late with great service! Ordered the chicken sandwich with fries to split with my boyfriend. They brought out separate plates for us and didn't charge any extra. It was late so the bartender was also waiting on the few tables there were. They played good music and were very attentive! Super yummy for late night eats!
(4)
Kristy G.
Firework shrimp and Steak Tips, yum! Came here in a slow snowy night, and it was delightful. Along with a glass of Rogue beer, I'd definitely come back.
(4)
Ida G.
Best casual restaurant in this neck of the woods in that it is not Italian like the ones on Charles Street and not a dive like the neighboring bars. The truffle fries are to die for and the HG burger is great, too. Perfect for date night or dinner out with friends.
(5)
Elizabeth S.
I'd never heard of Harvard Gardens, so I was pleasantly surprised when I sat down and (finally) got some food that it was, well, awesome. It's sort of a bar slash restaurant. We had a party of eight, no reservation, no problem. The only problem came when I got my meal 20 minutes after everyone else got theirs. Honestly! If pumpkin ravioli takes 20 extra minutes to make (really??) then put a note on the menu, or at least give me a heads up - I was starving, inebriated, and in the mood for anything edible, and you betcha I would've ordered something else. I was so famished by the time I got my decently sized but too small for my state of hunger meal, that I finished my few pieces of pumpkin ravioli (very sugary - definitely didn't want any more than the portion I had) and ate half of another member of our party's mac and cheese (much bigger portion, no sugar to be found).
(3)
James H.
Do they pump beer through the ventilation here? This place is always awash with drunken doctors, nurses, locals, vagrants, dogs - you name it, its probably drunk here right now. Drinks are guzzled so fast that taste isn't an issue, nor is the slow service resulting from the overworked bartenders attempting to placate this parade of insatiable inebriates.
(2)
Thomas L.
Enjoyed lunch here with the wife and some relatives. Service was great, ambiance was pleasant, and food was decent. I went with the burger and fries. The pickle that came with the burger was the best thing about the meal. The fries were the next best thing, as they were fresh, crunchy, and with just the right amount of salt. The burger arrived as I ordered it - medium - but it wasn't that sexy. Had a slice of tomato and lettuce on top of the burger; both were fresh and delicious. However, that's it. Nothing else going on with the burger. I was a bit disappointed and was hoping for more. Again, want to highlight the service as our waitress was attentive and speedy.
(3)
Anna L.
I've been here multiple times for drinks, dinner and brunch. The staff is very friendly - and have always been really great about accommodating my gluten-free food needs. My girlfriends and I come here regularly for wine and their truffle fries - which are amazing! The bartender recently suggested we order a side of bacon aioli (that comes on their burger) to dip our fries in - great idea for taste, bad for the arteries!
(4)
Couldbe A.
Great food, comfortable banquette seating and friendly staff. Young crowd at the bar, seems to be a mix of MGH, neighborhood regulars and tourists. Good spot for casual after work drinks.
(5)
Rich T.
Stopped over for lunch during the US vs Canada hockey game because the Hill Tavern was packed. This place was empty and now I know why. The bartender Dianne was probably the worst bartender I have had in years. Took 10 minutes to get a drink had to ask for a menu and when my food came I had asked for the bill since I only get an hour lunch and time was quickly passing I started eating my sandwich and when she came back with the bill she abruptley takes my plate with 3/4ths of the meal still left. If you go in see if Dianne is working and if she is walk right back out!!!
(1)
Brian D.
Okay, I'm going to talk in acronyms. I've lived in BH for 5+ years or so, and have enjoyed HG for many of those years. Good people here, good scene, and the food is good too, especially the fries. This is a great spot for a date, as I've been on a couple here with mixed success. It has great, romantic light for that sort of thing and the whole ambiance is good for a date. My only wish is that there was more room around the bar area, as it can get quite packed on a busy Saturday night. I've always liked coming here, and will continue to do so as long as I live in the Boston area. HG in BH, enjoy it.
(4)
Alyssa J.
This review is for the night time atmosphere. OOOOH Doggy! I think I have a huge, pretty sexual crush, on Harvard Gardens. I went last night, apres The Sevens, and the place was somewhat crowded...we still scored a table. And then we scored on some drinks. Like really scored. I am always surprised that the drinks are so reasonably priced at HG. I still spend too much money there....But! I always know that I could spend more at a much more douchey establishment. Anyway, the ambience is great, the lighting is awesome, a couple of gin martinis make the lambs stop screaming and they play the Cee-Lo "Fuck You" song at least twice a night. loveloveLOVE.
(4)
Megan B.
I was pleasantly surprised by this place. Came here for brunch last Sunday after a couple other beacon hill restaurants were packed. We were seated right away, had great service and had a great brunch! I was not impressed by the menu at first, but the food was great! Definitely try this place for brunch. I think this place was better than the other restaurants people wait an hour for.
To use the infamous Yelp cliche, I wanted to like it more but I couldn't. I was staying down the street and in need of some dinner, enter Harvard Gardens. It's a nice place, but has a touch of an identity crisis. Most patrons were more casual than one would expect when comparing it to the menu and decor. The space is nice; oblong with lots of dark wood and red-hued lighting. It's sleek and sexy, except for the two plasmas in the bar area. The menu is sophisticated, not your stereotypical bar fare. When I entered, I immediately suspected they were understaffed. It wasn't crowded, but there was only one server and one bartender on duty; no host or anything. By the time I left, the place was slammed and despite their best efforts, service suffered. I ordered a few Stellas and the spinach-artichoke appetizer. The appetizer was just ok, a touch bland but salt gave it the boost it needed. I think that they could have 86'd the parmesan on the tortilla strips, by the time I got one into the dip all of the grated cheese had fallen off. I contemplated ordering the tuna tartare appetizer, but am glad I passed. It looks mouth-watering on the website, but was plated completely differently when delivered to the people next to me. Watching them struggle to eat it from this awkward paint palette-like plate made me glad I decided to pass. This place is decent and the drink prices were quite reasonable, $4.25 for a pint of Stella was great! If I lived in the area I'd probably give it a second shot, and hope that the understaffing was a fluke.
(3)
Michael C.
Not sure why some of the super negative reviews on Harvard Garden have been written given my experience and those of friends. Service today was fast and attentive. The waitress quickly filled up empty drinks without prompting. The tomato, mozzarella and basil sandwich was excellent. Being a very good lad, I opted for salad instead of fries. The salad was simply a bunch of greens. I think these guys can do better than that. The Wagya burger, at least according to my friend, was excellent. Fries looked awfully good which contributed to my grumpiness about the salad. Food envy is a terrible thing. Nice atmosphere, reasonable prices.
(4)
Michael G.
I remember the first time I stood outside of Harvard Gardens. It was summertime, and I was looking at their food menu. Seems so weird now that I think about it. What I love about Harvard Gardens is that it is ALWAYS a scene inside and out. Outside people are arguing with the bouncer and the manager about who knows what. Inside you are usually packed like sardines near the bar and can't really move. I always have enjoyed my time at Harvard Gardens. I have eaten the food, but it was not memorable enough to be good nor bad. Also, Love that HG is far enough away so the north and south shore don't know where it is! HUGE PLUS!
(4)
Jonathan C.
This place is surprisingly good considering the price of the food. The Omelette of the day with the Home Fries (amazing) is a good deal. Last night I was surprised to find that they have pizza! I split the squash pizza with a friend. We added prosciutto and it was excellent. It was better than Flatbreads or Upper Crust (which are both over-rated in my opinion). Granted, they don't have a large selection of pizzas, but that is OK with me. Also, the service was good both times I went.
(4)
Eric S.
GREAT SPOT AFTER A LONG DAY @MGH. Last night my girlfriend and I went here after finally hearing mom will out of recovery in two hours. We asked the information clerk what was good to eat, and he told us a lot of MGH staff go to Harvard Gardens for a beer and something to eat after work. It was a dark lil place packed with people, and the Bruins game was on, so it was good right out of the gates. The Russian Standard Mule was a great drink. Our waitress Ashley was awesome, she knew her menu, and descriptions were spot on. I ordered the Wagyu burger, which I heard were really good, but never tried. The way it was offered with a fried egg, bacon mayonnaise, and asparagus was interesting to me so I ordered that, or you can get it with plain cheese, both served on a nice big roll. I was also interested in the mac-n-cheese, which was which was a four cheese combo, Romano, Parmesan, Fontina, Mozzarella, they had an option you can get that with peas and prosciutto description so I ordered a side of that as well. My better half ordered the steak frites, which was a nice portion of steak with some awesome hand cut fries. The steak was cooked as she asked and had a nice juicyness to it. The Wagyu burger was awesome, and as soon as the Mrs. saw it she quickly claimed she needed a bite of it, because it looked so awesome. The whole burger and fried egg thing was awesome, the flavor of the beef and the soft texture of the egg was great. Personally the asparagus didn't woo me, and would have just as enjoyable without it. The side of mac-n-cheese was so impressive, after the second bite I asked Ashley for an order to go. The description of the mac and cheese with the prosciutto and peas might make people think Carbonara, but no this was nice and cheesey, they used small shells, which has tendency of getting filled up with cheese sauce in the little slit, and it was like little heavenly cheese explosions eating this stuff. My girl makes home made mac-n-cheese when I ask her to and it is awesome she was very impressed by this. I'm on the way to go visit mom at MGH now, and am already thinking of what time I will go there for lunch. The service - awesome ask for Ashley she'll come by to make sure you water is full, will ask if everything is fine, and actually served the table with a smile; I know unbelievable; the price $75 for three meals (I had the take home order of mac-n-cheese), was very reasonable, and the atmosphere was nice. I'll be back again!!!
(5)
Melissa M.
David the Bartender is the MAN! I would go here everyday if I still lived on the Hill. I went in last night on a Tuesday night. I got a liter of Pellegrino, cuz das how I roll. My fiance got two cocktails, and we had a great time. David was charming, genuine, and just an all around pleasantly nice person to chat with. The place has some delicious aromas circulating throughout the establishment. Smells like truffled fries, or something equally delicious. I used to come here all the time back in my college days over a decade ago! This place hasn't changed and it's a nice thing! We will be back since it's just oh so conveniently located steps from the Charles Street T Stop. This place is my cozy lil home away from home!
(4)
Steve S.
Visited it on a Saturday nite, bar was packed, restaurant was moderately busy but found an open table. Really enjoyed having a couple appetizers and a drink as a late nite dinner.
(4)
Elizabeth D.
Their pamesan truffle fries are very good. So much flavor! However, it ended up working against me this time as they made my HG mac and cheese taste bland. I took the rest home though and the next day the mac and cheese tasted much better. There was a very odd smell when we first walked it. I should hope it was from the people at the crowded bar and not the establishment itself.
(3)
Ben D.
Not too bad! I stopped here with some friends as a sort of going-away lunch. Right in Boston made it convenient for everyone to get to and the food selection was nice. It was a little dark inside, which made for a strange atmosphere for lunch.
(3)
David L.
Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast! Everything. Was. Amazing! For $8 u get omelet, Bacon, toast, home fries, fruit! Everything is gourmet and very reasonably. Very quint has full bar And great service. Can't say enough good things!!! I just wish it was a little closer to me in Brighton :(
(5)
Harri S.
You know those places that are sooooo loud you can't hear, and then you realize you aren't at a concert? This is it! Got there 930ish, and wanted to tell everyone to shut the eff up, so I could hear the people next to me. On the upside, their water was delicious.
(2)
Ash C.
Harvard Gardens has become my favorite hangout place after my Friday clinical. Bartenders are friendly and attentive. I will definitely try their foods soon!
(4)
Mike M.
Went there on a date one night and wasn't too sure what to expect. I tried to do some research online to be prepared. You walk in and to the right you have the bar area which is of decent length with a good amount of high top tables. I got there around 7ish on a Thursday and it was pretty busy. The crowd was of mostly after work crowd and Beacon Hill locals and Harvard Students. The wait for a table was right away, which I wasn't anticipating. My date was about 10 minutes away so I was seated alone. Pretty sure she was late. I ordered 2 water just so I didn't look weird. I also asked for two menus of course. When she had arrived we ordered drinks and food. I had Stoli Blue w Soda and she had a Vodka Soda. The drinks were well poured, but the glass was kind of small. But after 3 or 4 whats the difference? For food I had no idea what to get. I ended up just keeping it simple and got some Boneless BBQ wings. Kinda of random, but I really had no idea what I wanted. I always hate to get a burger or something messy on a first date. You never wanna belch. But the wings were great. Great sauce and nice crispness to it. My date got a salad which was of good size and she enjoyed it, but it would never of filled me up. The atmosphere is very dark and cozy. The bar area is lively and the tables and dining are give you great privacy to be intimate and alone. The server was very sweet and attentive and very friendly. I will probably be back, but nothing really stuck out that would make me go out of my way to. The service is great and the food/drinks were all superb. The crowd can be a little much but in the end, it's a bar and as long as it has liquor, they are doing something right.
(4)
Brian G.
I rarely go out specifically to Harvard Gardens but often end up stopping in or staying here because it's a great place to go grab a drink. It's set up really well and feels upscale without going overboard and the bar area is big enough to move around in most of the time. The bartenders do a great job of keeping up and I rarely finding myself desperately trying to flag one down. The food I've had here is good but I've never eaten dinner here myself, but many of the dishes I've seen pass by look great. I'd suggest coming in for brunch as well and trying the breakfast pizza which is great. What brings me back here over and over is the big strong drinks they pour. They type of martinis that are trickily strong and taste great which is harder than it seems. I've seen a friend have one or two and forget the better part of her walk home. The drink list isn't huge or as in depth as you'd get at some of the more welkin cocktail places in Boston but it's one of the better upscale places in Beacon Hill to enjoy some time with friends who are looking to be "out" somewhere.
(4)
Jason M.
UGH. Maybe its just me. Maybe its just my delicate nature. Maybe its just that I'm a judgmental fool. But damn, this place smells of tools and low self-esteem. It's the kind of place that I feel requires the female bartenders to wear skimpy tank tops, the men to encourage the women to get overly drunk and everyone to act a fool after 11pm. Having walked by the front door more times than I care to admit, I can say I won't do it again. 1 star for simply having Rogue Dead Guy Ale on tap. 1 star for the ugliest sign ever. Really? Who, other than Google+, still uses circles on their signage?
(2)
Laura K.
Meh. Harvard Gardens. Closer to Man's Greatest Hospital, more expensive than most other bars within walking distance. Can you hear that? It's the I'd-rather-be-at-The-Sevens-or-Red-Hat murmur of my dive-bar heart. BUT WAIT. After years of hemming and hawing over which item on the lunch menu would leave me the least dissatisfied, I showed up for dinner last night and, after a quick perusal of the menu, decided to play it safe. "I'll take a Bombay Sapphire Martini straight-up with a twist and an order of the Mac and Cheese." HOLY. COWS. MILKED. IN. THE. CHEESEMAKING. PROCESS. The enormous portion of stringey, gooey, creamy heaben topped with a crispy crust -- fashioned from a fusion of breadcrumbs and more cheese -- made me wonder why my hell-no-if-it-ain't-homecooked mom hadn't told me about her new job. Normally, I would say this was the gin talking, but I completely ignored my martini as I struggled to consume as much of this manna as possible - horribly burning my mouth in the process. WORTH IT. OK, $12 for a BS Gin Martini and $14 for (at least) two reasonable portions of mac and cheese? Not bad considering quality. Still more expensive than my favorite dives on the hill - but also significantly less divey. I'll be back. I'll have back. Again, worth it.
(4)
Deirdre S.
Had dinner with a my friend to celebrate the birth of his son at MGH. The food was good, not great. The calamari appetizer was tasty but the portion was skimpy. The mac & cheese was delish. We arrived before 5 and sat at a high-top in the bar area so we were first served by the super busy bartender. She was friendly but not super attentive; not her fault as she was trying to attend to around 25 patrons all by herself. After a round of drinks and our appetizer, we were transferred to a new bartender for the rest of our meal. Bottom-line, it was a pleasant experience but nothing to write home about. I'd return if I was visiting MGH but wouldn't make a special trip as there are many other choices with similar menu items, competitive price points, and better ambiance.
(3)
Tom K.
Brunch Review! So maybe its about expectations, but walking into this place at 11am on a Sunday for brunch left me not expecting too much. The place was almost completely empty and looked like it was decorated in the 70s and not touched since. Fortunately for me, this place is a standout. The food here was great. We started with the Truffle Parmesan Fries and, although it goes terribly with both coffee or a mimosa, it was delicious. The Breakfast Pizza was very good as well, almost surprisingly so. Its such a simple concept but it works so well. Finally, the Eggs Benedict, while not something I'd write home about, were very good as well. Served on top of giant piece of delicious bread, I almost wished I had more eggs to go with it! So why 4-stars and not 5? There are fruit flies. I noticed them around the bar when I first walked in and another while we were eating. There's really no excuse for this at a restaurant. And while it doesn't particularly bother me, if you have an aversion to bugs at places you dine, you might want to skip HG.
(4)
Mel b.
Came here after the marathon for a bittersweet post race celebration. Wanted to thank the staff for the impressive service we received. I hadn't realized until after the fact how lucky we were to have a comfortable space to gather with family and friends-- I'm sure everyone working would have liked to do the same. I'll definitely be coming back in the future.
(5)
Tory H.
most people seem to think of this place as a going out spot but i went for dinner and it was awesome! Shared a bunch of apps with friends, we had the kobe sliders (awesome), mac and cheese (awesome), ceaser salad (not great), and the french onion soup (awesome). Will be back for sure!!
(4)
Brad M.
Loved it!!! Great atmosphere and food at reasonable prices.
(4)
Irene R.
The portions are very large. Brunch was good. Their breakfast pizza is big enough for 2 or 3 people to split. We had a pretty large group and they were very accommodating. The prices were good. Even better when you consider the large portions. The lose a star because they don't have any non-egg brunch options(and my spouse is allergic to eggs). He had a croissant, hash browns and some bacon, so at least he found something to eat. 6 hours after brunch and I'm still stuffed.
(4)
Karibeth M.
A group of 6 of us went to brunch on Sunday. The food was absolutely sinful. Our group started with the Truffle Parmesan Fries (yes, for breakfast), which wasn't a mistake. The basket was gone almost instantly and we kept looking for more. The Breakfast Sandwich was very messy to eat due to the hollandaise sauce (probably don't order this on a first brunch date), but was definitely worth the extra napkin as it was devilishly good. The portions were huge - a generous portion of homefries and fruit. From looking around the table at the Nutella and Banana French Toast, Omelette, Breakfast Pizza, and Eggs Benedict we were all struggling to clean our plates and there was plenty left on each plate to share and let other try as well. The service was a little slow and I drink that I had ordered that was not available that morning was still on the bill, but the waitress was very apologetic and took it off immediately when I found it. Definitely a place that I will go back to for brunch!
(4)
George M.
HG rocks! Great drinks are reasonably priced and served by goddesses. What's not to like? On the other side of the bar, the chick scene is pretty nice! I used to think the food was so-so, but things have changed. The food is now quite excellent. Brunch is uncrowded and relaxed. Check it out!
(4)
Denise M.
Went here on a Friday night with a group of four girls. We had a fabulous time - the food was delicious and the martinis were great. The environment was hip, but not too loud. The place would have gotten five stars if the food was a little less expensive and / or the service was a little bit better. There were periods of time that we didn't see the waitress for a long time and were left without knowing when our food would next arrive.
(4)
Roni E.
So I actually went all day without eating anything else after having brunch here. Literally... after my brunch, all I had was a Pumpkin Spice Latte from the 'bux and a LOT of wine later that evening, but no lunch or dinner for me. Now THAT's how brunch should be done. It should be able to keep you full and happy all day. And Harvard Gardens was able to do that. For $8 I enjoyed a Spinach, Tomato, Mozzarella and Basil Omelette. And for an extra $8.50 - my alcoholic cravings were fulfilled by the Raspberry Sangrita, which had freshly muddled raspberries making it look like a glass of Orbitz with the floating bits. I especially liked the home fries, which were slices of potatoes baked and topped with parmesan. The eggs had a good portion ratio between the ingredients. However, the egg itself seemed too fluffy for my taste, like not real eggs. Still delicious, but not my style. I'm actually quite surprised this place wasn't packed for a Saturday brunch, but maybe that's because no one knows what they are. Blair had mentioned that he thought it was a brothel for a long time based on the outside. And maybe that's why they're not getting the business they could be getting. *shrugs* Also, huge props to the family next to us that offered to move down a table with no hesitation.
(4)
Jessica P.
This is a great go-to place for pretty much any time of day: brunch, lunch, happy hour, and dinner - all really great food, never really have to wait too long for a table and always a good experience. I recently went with some friends on a Saturday night for dinner. We went at 745 and the restaurant part wasn't completely full but the bar area always seems to be packed even though its not that big of an area. The music was pretty fun and the lighting was dark enough that you actually felt like you were out for the night. I've been here many times and the service has always been decent, not really memorable (I guess thats good?) but this time the server seemed a bit annoyed to be there and alittle too "i dont give a shit." It didn't bother the meal too bad except he would ask half the group if they wanted another drink but not the rest so we'd have to call after him, as he quickly to turned to leave, about the rest of the drinks needed. Also at the end of the meal he asked if we wanted a shot to finish it up with? Strange, outta place? Yes I think so considering he was pretty distant the whole night, but anyways... The food is always really yummy, though it did seem to take a loong time to get there but no bother cause we weren't in a rush to go anywhere or that hungry. I had the Roasted Pork sandwich, sans fried onions, it was alittle under salted for me but over all really a great sandwich. Very moist and the cheese and brocoli rabe really made it come together. I love how they let you choose salad for a side instead of fries for no charge, always a plus. We also ordered the turkey sandwich, which was also really good, the apple chutney was a nice touch, and the butternut squash pizza with prosciutto added was awesome. Everyone at the table tried a piece and it was a hit. Just the right amount of sweet salty and cheesy, great choice. Bibb lettuce salad was unmemorable but decent size for a appetizer salad. Beers and drinks are reasonably priced. Not your usual selection though for restuarant for that area - no Octoberfest or BlueMoon? weird I've had the brunch here and it is really good and huuuge portions. The omelets are humungous and come with a ton of homefries. it does get pretty busy though.
(4)
Katie W.
Love this place to meet friends for drinks if I don't want to deal with the crowds of the Sevens or the smell of BHP. Lounge vibe inside with decent food which caught me off guard on my first visit and great drinks. Love the truffle fries and Mac and Cheese. My favorite drink-- the Cherry Lemonade: Lemonade, soda and black cherry vodka=deliciously deadly
(4)
Thomas N.
We often stop in for a beer here after walking around boston as it is neat the mgh stop, drinks are good and some different and interesting, we had lunch here saturday and everything was good, the mac and cheese very good, my tuna melt ok ( a little boring) and a caesars salad pretty good, fries were a little soft, overall a good place to stop for a drink and an ok place for a meal.............
(3)
David B.
Surprisingly good food overshadowed by other issues. My first thought was that it is a bar that tacked on a restaurant as an afterthought. As a bar, it's been around for a long time and it might not be worth a special trip but they do a reasonable job. It was a busy Thursday night and our reservation for six was maneuvering with difficulty for the maitresse d'hotel. She was apologetic and eventually parked us at a comfortable table. That's when we started running into problems. Our waitress was smart and friendly but it was clear that this evening some members of the waitstaff hadn't shown up because it took a long time to get a drink and an appetizer, not because the waitstaff wasn't working hard, but simply because there weren't enough of them. The appetizers arrived after about 20 minutes. The Pork Dumplings were steamed rather than pan-seared, but they were great. The special Duck Spring Rolls were surprisingly good. The main course took an epoch to get to the table. We spoke to our waitress twice and even considered bailing out but it was clearly not her fault. Finally, two weeks after she put the order in, the food arrived and it was...terrific. Almost worth waiting for. We had a mixed assortment of things and each one was perfectly done and better than we had expected. Clearly the kitchen team knows how to cook, if not how to expedite. This would have been a much better evening with the right amount of waitstaff and one or two more people in the kitchen. Unfortunately the one thing that will remain in all our memories is how overwhelmed the entire staff was. If we hadn't kept prodding our overworked waitress, we'd probably still be there waiting.
(2)
Jimbeau W.
We really like this place and try to stop by every couple of weeks. We usually eat at one of the hi tops in the bar area, just because at the after work time slot we show up this is the busiest area, however the dining area is very comfortable (lots of leather banquettes) and the servers are well trained and accomodating. We've tried a lot of dishes ranging from appetizers like grilled bacon wrapped dates stuffed with blue cheese and almonds to fire cracker shrimp (really good!) and Kobi sliders. All great! We've tried the entrees such as the burger (one of the best in Boston), pan roasted chicken and steak frites. All good, flavorful and decent portions. The only meh response I have is for the bolognese, which was just ordinary. When you add in the super drink menu, generous pours and friendly waitstaff, this place is a definite thumbs up.
(4)
Kathy A.
This is a nice place to go for a casual dinner or drinks with friends and family. It's a very relaxed environment with good service. They offer many good appetizers and entrees as well as some delicious sandwich choices. The turkey sandwich with apple chutney is awesome and the butternut squash pizza is pretty good too. However, for the caliber of the restaurant I would say they are a bit overpriced.
(3)
Emme S.
This review is a response only to the brunch experience. I am usually a glass-half-full experiencer of untried restaurants and bars. However, Harvard Gardens was really disappointing when we went for brunch this past Sunday. The service, food and prices all left me feeling really unenthusiastic about the Harvard Gardens experience. Service: Our server was very sullen and inaudibly soft spoken. After every order - food or drink - he would bring us our check which was totally unsolicited and gave the impression that he was ready for us to vacate his booth. That is a serious no-no to me, particularly because we were continuing to order each time and the restaurant was not busy in the least. Maybe it wasn't the server - is that HG policy? Either way, the management should squash that practice ASAP. Food: The portion size of my expensive (more on that later) huevos rancheros was tiny. The eggs benedict tasted like the frying pan's plastic coating and the hollandaise had zero flavor. Neither dishes were particularly delicious, which was distressing given the cost. I was excited to try their raved about truffle fries - but they were never delivered without an explanation. Lastly, if you are going to name your Bloody Mary, you better make sure it's good. Theirs was not. Price: Boston has a wide variety of AWESOME brunch places that charge $10 for a delicious brunch. For that reason, I was really surprised by the expense of the breakfast items on the menu. Huevos rancheros consist of some very cheap ingredients - eggs, beans, tortillas - and the expensive ingredients used by HG were doled out in a very small portion - avocado, cotijo cheese. For $15, I would expect enough huevos to feed two people and be amazing. These barely fed one and were meh. I work in Beacon Hill and have always wanted to try Harvard Gardens. However, after our brunch experience, it's unlikely that I will fight the crowd for dinner or drinks.
(2)
Paul B.
Food is always good. Waitstaff and bartenders are always nice and do a great job. Has the feel of a much more expensive place. Very comfortable.
(4)
Karen K.
Had to add one more thing, Moscow Mule, try one, thank me later.
(5)
Mark T.
Had a really good burger there - just the plain cheeseburger for $10 was quite impressive.
(4)
Terry C.
It really should be a 2.5 star, but I'm feeling generous today. Service: Ehh...it was OK. The hostess was really nice and friendly but our waiter was OK. My friend wanted a drink that they no longer have and when she asked for a recommendation, he wasn't too helpful. He was also distracted every time someone walked in the door and did not check to see if our food was OK. Food: The parmesan truffle fries are SOOOOOOOOOO good, one of the best I've had. I'm drooling just thinking about it! I ordered a turkey wrap and it was extremely bland. I mean, how exciting can a turkey wrap be right? but this just wasn't great. One of my friends ordered the ribs as an entree and I think they serve the entire pig's rib cage as one entree! - the portion was ginormous! I would not go out of my way to try this place, but its not a bad place for a drink and some fries.
(3)
Sara S.
Harvard Garden's gourmet pizzas are delicious. Their fontina and butternut squash pizza with caramelized onions is a great blend of flavors, which I've also been a fan of their mushroom pizza (seems not to be on the menu anymore?!) Also, their truffle fries are amazing late-night! The bar scene here is just that... an effing scene. Doctors from MGH, former frat boys after work from the Financial District, and Lily Pulitzer-clad, David Yurman wearing, manicured young ladies. If you want to be hit on, come here. The drinks are strong, and their cocktail menu isn't bad, either. Three stars (really 3.5, but rounding down) because I really don't like the layout of the bar area. It is so freaking cramped and narrow, it's hard to hang out with a group of friends or make yourself through the mob to talk to someone new. However, it's a solid neighborhood spot for food and drinks.
(3)
John L.
I'm kind of split on Harvard Gardens, particularly as a brunch location. It's got some pluses and minuses, but the pluses eventually outweigh the minuses. A bunch of fun and exciting Yelpers converged upon Harvard Gardens after our original destination's wait was too long. After a walk that included the sighting of an intramural Quidditch match (there should be more of these, but that's another discussion for another day), we arrived at Harvard Gardens, ready to have some grub. Considering that it was relatively quiet, the staff was ready, able, and willing to sit our larger group, and with a major assist from the group sitting next to us (who moved over, and given the opportunity, I would give 5 stars to), we all plopped down, ready to eat and drink. On the drinks, I ended up with a mimosa, which was quite good (the OJ and champagne mixed quite well). The waiter was also quick to check and confirm that the pear bellini was not available. A little inconvenient, considering it's on the menu, but the fact he checked before he finished the drink orders was a plus. On the downside, after that point and the food orders, we didn't see much of our waiter. I didn't get my water refilled until after I had started on the food. Not the worst thing in the world, but still not ideal. As for the food, it was right on target. I ordered the omelet with homefries and bacon and toast. This resulted in getting a good amount of homefries and bacon, and a decently sized omelet. As for the taste itself, the omelet was good, not the greatest I've ever had, but very good nonetheless, and the bacon was a little tough for my own desire. The homefries, however, were amazing. They were little potato wedges, and not only were they well-seasoned, they were generally yummy. Overall, I'm waffling between 3 and 4 stars. It's not the most exquisite brunch I've had in the course of the series (Gaslight wins that), but I'd put it in second place as of now. While I kind of wish the server was around a little bit more, I can understand, and the fact that they did a good job of fitting us all in without a reservation merits that 4th star.
(4)
Krissy K.
I stopped by for dinner here before the July 3 Pops rehearsal concert at The Esplanade. We got parking right in front, which was perfect for our evening plans. The menu here is not extensive, but I don't see that as a negative. I got the HG burger with fries. Another person in my group got the HG burger with salad, and someone else got a salad with salmon. There was a small hiccup, because the dressing was not brought on the side as requested. However, our server was extremely apologetic, and the situation was remedied quickly. I also impressed my dinner companions with the Yelp check-in offer. :p Being attached to your phone does have its occasional benefits! I wouldn't go out of my way to return the next time I'm in town, but Harvard Gardens was a pleasant experience that I would not mind repeating, either.
(3)
Jennifer P.
I work across the street from Harvard Gardens, so I come here often for after-work cocktails, but I had the unfortunate displeasure of having dinner alongside my cocktails last week. I ordered the baked brie appetizer and the goat cheese ravioli. The baked brie was just that - nothing more, nothing less. The goat cheese ravioli, on the other hand was a complete mess. The dish was more olive oil than anything else. I could barely take a bite without having oil dribbling down my chin. It was a sad experience, and I don't see myself coming back here for food (which is also overpriced - a bit of a slap to the face after such a dismal eating experience).
(1)
Jana L.
Burgers were very good We had 2x avocado burgers, and 2x bacon mushroom and Swiss burger They asked how we wanted burgers cooked which was a welcome surprise since many places only do medium well. Tasty grass fed meat, fresh avocado and hand cut fries We also went to Emmets Tavern which was similar in food type but Harvard Gardens was better
(4)
Stephanie H.
Awesome soundtrack and incredibly friendly and efficient staff here! I love the laid back vibe and the late night pub menu is awesome! I had the chicken sandwich and "regular" fries, which were great! Feasted on a great seasonal, limited edition Harpoon Nordic Saison in a large format 22 ounce bottle: wow. Great beer! Love that they support local breweries on their rotating feature bottle list. Highly recommend coming here with a date or a small group of friends. Music is at right levels, as is the lighting to support an intimate conversation or solid catch up session between friends. Could spend the whole evening here and never feel the urge to leave....especially with the great alt indie soundtrack as the backbeat to my beer drinking.
I walked out after 15 min, here are the reasons: 1. The menu on Yelp is not updated. I was looking for a healthy meal and saw that they offered a Grilled Chicken Wrap, however, they didn't have it and none of their meals were truly healthy. 2. I sat down, the waitress came and brought me a glass of water and she disappeared for over 15 minutes - yes! 15 minutes. It was not a busy day, it was around 3pm and there were probably 3 tables occupied. Because I just wanted to get a quick lunch I decided to leave and look for a faster and healthier option.
(2)
Peter D.
I'll be honest with you: I wanted Thai food for dinner.* But since nobody cares what I want, we ended up at Harvard Gardens. And it was a good thing, because they do everything right: The music is good, and the service is great. Shout out to Chelsea. They start you with good bread and soft, whipped butter. The wings are great, although they are not Buffalo wings. The burger is excellent (cheddar, caramelized onions, bacon aioli, can't be bad) and actually cooked properly. What's more, they offer a choice of fries, salad, or a little of both as accompaniments. Everyone wants a little of both, so every place should do this. Plus, it's basically the closest restaurant to MGH, and after a visit there everyone needs a good burger and fries. Unless they went in because they have a heart condition, I guess. ____________ *A few blocks away, there's a Thai restaurant that is Usher approved. He's taken multiple pictures with the owners, and if there's ANYONE in the world I trust when it comes to Thai food, it's Usher.
(5)
Nick S.
Great space - been here forever. There are weekends when the wait to be seated can seem like #Forever. The staff is quick & service spot-on. My advice: (1) come early. (2) The corned beef hash is no joke! Damn good - give it a try! ;)
(4)
Kimberly A.
Stopped in here to meet my cousin for dinner while visiting. The service was great. The food was great. The drinks were amazing.
(4)
Mish M.
Started out slow. The server took a while to notice we sat down we waited about 15 mins just to get water. But the food made up for it. Calamari was spicy and really good , it wasn't your typical frozen calamari either the portion was large and drizzled with sort of a buffalo glaze.the meatloaf hamburger and truffle fries so good you have an option of half salad half fries which I liked. . I had the blueberry beer which they put fresh blueberries into great flavor nice location.
(3)
S. A.
The buffalo chicken tenders is the only reason you need to go to Harvard Gardens. I've never had a waitress who seemed particularly happy with life and the tall, skinny female bartender is NEVER nice. However, buffalo chicken tenders are all I need in a bar, so drink up, order this app and life will be good.
(4)
Mallory C.
After an appointment at MGH and a several day inpatient stay, I was in serious need of a good brunch and this place hit the spot! From the street I was expecting something along the lines of a dive bar, but this place is much more upscale! I felt like I was at Joe's from Grey's Anatomy, as I'm sure this place gets a lot of medical folks just getting out of work. Great ambience, delicious food, good service, and TVs to watch the game- this has become our "go to place" near MGH. I had the Huevos Rancheros, and I'm pretty sure it was the best one I have ever had! The boy had the red velvet pancakes which also looked incredible. Although I wasn't drinking this time around, the iced coffee I had hit the spot and I hope to come back for one of their bloody Marys. Our waitress was super sweet, and was patient while we used a coupon we got on Yelp for checking in! Great perk as well. So glad we discovered this place- it almost makes me want to schedule medical appointments just so we can go here after! ....Almost.
(4)
Janhvi C.
Cosy place to eat. Sangria is tasty. Pancake was great!! The maple syrup was not thick enough though. The club sandwich was really great and French fries were tasty too! Perfect for an easy lunch!
(4)
Taj K.
Harvard Gardens got a new chef within the last couple of years who definitely raised the bar with food. Unfortunately this also raised the prices. Their truffle fries are my favorite. I have had most of the menu items and I feel confident that everything tastes great. They have decent wines by the glass. The bar area is almost always lively. Located right across the street from MGH makes it an ideal place for after work gatherings. Good spot for sure!
(4)
Leah K.
Went to Harvard Gardens for the first time last night. My friend and I wanted to get drinks after getting our nails done, and stopped in and sat at the bar. I ordered a martini (gin, rosemary syrup, and orange) and my friend had wine. I really liked my martini...the orange made it smell amazing, but it was barely sweet and pretty heavy on the gin. My favorite. Of course, we opted to order food as well. I heavily eyeballed the goat cheese dip (goat cheese, raspberry jam, and Iggy's bread), but it seemed steep at $15.00. I ordered a half portion of the butternut squash ravioli, which was around 6 raviolis on a long plate. It was absolutely amazing. The ravioli had a pecorino romano sauce, spinach and candied pecans topping it. It was savory but sweet at the same time. This would be a great appetizer to share (the half order is $12.00). It did not quite fill me, but it was a decent portion. My friend ordered the truffle mac n' cheese sans broccoli and peas, and it was deliciously creamy. I could have eaten her order, as well. I would absolutely come here for drinks and apps, but I could see how a full meal could set you back a pretty penny. The service was good, food great, drinks great, price a little out of line ....4 stars.
(4)
Courtney K.
Can only comment on the brunch, but it is a solid spot. The portions are big, bloody mary's were very strong, and the service was efficient. I enjoyed my huevos rancheros and all of my friends liked their benedicts/breakfast burritos/hash brown dishes as well. The menu is pretty extensive so people are likely to find something everyone will enjoy when dining in a group. Plus, they offer lunch foods during brunch hours for those who do not like the traditional brunch food
(4)
Brian L.
Came here for a Friday dinner to use a pretty sweet Gilt City deal ($20 for $40 plus 2 drinks). It was more of a bar feel than a restaurant at around 7:30. The crowd definitely seems doctor-y (people in scrubs, medical conversation), which would be explained by being right by MGH. I had a tasty Harpoon 100-barrel series India Pale Lager, the Cambridge Uncommon. A nice blend of IPA and lager, and with the hefty 24-ish ounce bottle, what's to dislike? We ordered the steak frites and steak tips for entrees. The frites was pretty good, but the best part was the truffle fries. That truffle oil is magic. Nicely seasoned and crispy as well. The steak tips were my favorite of the two, extra juicy and flavorful. Overall, seems like a nice place to stop by after work, or for a meal if you're in the area and it's not a weekend night (was a bit too loud for dinner conversation, and felt a bit crowded).
(4)
Shirley D.
We had just arrived in Boston and were staying in a bed & breakfast nearby. It was around 11:30 pm and most restaurants had closed or were closing - luckily a bartender in one of the places we had stopped by told us about Harvard Gardens. I was expecting just a restaurant but this was actually more of a local bar scene which was still pretty cool. As soon as you walk in you have security checking IDs, then you have the option to chill by the bar or sit in a table. The place is split in two, there are booth tables on the left and on the right hand side there's the bar where people were just standing around taking selfies & talking. On the other side of the booth tables, there were more tables. Then as you walk towards the back you see a couple of more tables and rounded sofas. The good thing about this place is that you can eat, drink, talk, and listen to music. The crowd seemed to be mostly late 20s early 30s. Seems like a cool place to just hang out and enjoy a drink. As for the food, they have a late night menu! Although it's a limited menu, you still have pretty good options. Honestly, I was just thankful their kitchen was open. We had spent thirty minutes trying to find somewhere to eat that was open late. I ordered a grilled chicken sandwich with a salad on the side and it was pretty good! Tip: Check in on Yelp and get 15% of your first entree.
The hubby and I were in town for a few days and stumbled upon this gem of a place. We liked it so much we ended all 3 of our nights here. Delicious food (truffle fries are OMG AMAZING), late night menu, great beer list, fantastic service and friendly patrons. If we're ever in Boston again we'll come see you guys! Thanks for the hospitality!
(5)
Donna J.
This is a review for their brunch. I ordered the HG breakfast plate and a side of red velvet pancakes. My boyfriend had the eggs and bacon with a side of a blueberry pancake. His pancake was thick and undercooked and his scrambled eggs were overcooked and dry. My red velvet pancake was good but covered with hard pecans. The sausage gravy slathered onto my biscuits looked like dog vomit and tasted as though a pound of sugar was thrown in. The only good part was the bacon but who can mess up bacon? I'm only giving two stars because I had a really good server who was attentive and kept our water glasses full. Sorry HG you've got a lot of work to do.
(2)
Stephanie M.
In a word: Gross. I do not recommend going here for food. Terrible terrible food. Fo starters our tuna tartare was disgusting, large chunks of tuna mixed with...cold hard rice??? Why would anyone think this ok is beyond me. The tartare also came with a few wonton chips that tasted like they were fried the day before in oil that was old and rancid. Literally left a film on the top of my mouth. GAG. I chose my cobb salad to go with something light and semi filling since it came with chicken...except when my salad came there honest to God two microscopic pieces of chicken mixed in with all the lettuce. Like literally I was digging through my lettuce to see if there was any sign of chicken. I told the waitress and she said "Oh I did notice it looked a little bare". Okkkkkk. I did get a little plate of a little pile of more microscopic chicken pieces and they just smelled and tasted a little funky. Like the uncooked chicken you leave in your fridge for a few days too long and then try to cook thinking that it might be ok. UGH. Everything about this dining experience made me mad. It's not like this place is the cheapest deal around either. You do not get what you pay for AT ALL. Again: Gross. Do not waste your money unless you are only headed here for drinks!
(1)
Lyndsey C.
This place is ok. I had greater hopes for it but the tables were a bit junky and our server seemed pretty out of it and not super pleasant when we tried to joke a little with her. Nice menu, though, a lot of good options for brunch. The kobe sliders were pretty good, bacon was yummy, red velvet pancakes were a bit too much for us (we tried one... but did love that we could get one as a side), and the truffle mac and cheese was really good but note that it is really heavy and large! Great portion but a little too much truffle oil in it. Overall good and decent prices, good location, but it was pretty warm in there and like I said the tables were kind of junky and shaky.. bathroom was super small. Great TV's though and nice bar selection.
(3)
Zig W.
+It is a hybrid bar/restaurant, with surprisingly good food +HG Burger +Chicken sandwich +Grilled Cheese +$5 Stella +Close to beacon hill -Gets pretty loud -Sometimes run into people from my high school
(4)
Alyssa B.
Looooooove HG. The brunch? Amazing. Drinks? Awesome. Bartenders? The best. I used to hate on this place for an after-work spot because it tends to attract a lot of douchey men who think that just because they are doctors at MGH they are God's gift to women. That alone doesn't make you special, fellas. But once I learned how to navigate this place, I learned to love it. For example, it gets crowded and it's not laid out well for large groups (unless you get a table), so don't walk in here at 8 on Thursday with 5 other people. But do go with 1 or 2 friends on the early side and post up at the bar. The bartenders are friendly and fun and will whip you up some great cocktails, like the Hot & Dirty. I haven't eaten dinner here in a while, but I remember the food being really good. I've split a few appetizers with friends for a light and tasty dinner. So obsessed with the brunch. There's an egg sandwich with avocado that's great. The eggs benny are great. The potatoes are the bestttttt. Also, they have a really delicious iced coffee adult beverage that I love and have tried recreating elsewhere and it's never as good. It has frangelico and I forget what else. Highly recommend!
(4)
Lauren K.
Came here with friends for Brunch, it was delicious. I had the Eggs Benedict but subbed Prosciutto for the Canadian Bacon - it was delicious. The eggs were cooked perfectly & the Hollandaise wasn't too greasy. We got the Fried Calamari & Polenta Fries for the table to share. The Polenta Fries are these delicious pillowy bites & the honey & sirachi aoli are the perfect complements! The cucumber vodka white sangria was dangerously delicious and refreshing. I could drink those all day.
(5)
Beth P.
OMG BRUNCH. This place has a great one. We went on a Saturday morning just after 11am (when they open), and it was decently crowded, maybe half the place was full. The menu had pretty standard brunch food, with a couple of unique items. I went with the breakfast burrito, and my boyfriend had the Eggs Benedict. The burrito was especially tasty -- the eggs were nice and moist, accompanied by melted cheddar cheese and a black bean spread. I asked for the sauce on the side, and I'm glad I did because it was super spicy! There were a couple slices of avocado on the side, and the home fries were AMAZING. They were thick cut seasoned, and topped with Parmesan cheese. The best part was the caramelized onions mixed in with the potatoes -- a great surprise! The Eggs Benedict was better than your average Eggs Bene, since it included prosciutto and asparagus. Both dishes were amazing. The ONLY thing I can say for a con is that I really wish they had a patio or even open windows! It's so dark in there!
(4)
Phy G.
Our favorite place to stop for dinner after work!!! Harvard Gardens not only have incredible food, the service is top notch!! The french onion soup and HG Burger are a must try! My husband and I have never had a bad service or a bad meal, we stop here at least twice a week!!
(5)
T. P.
Came here Saturday night for dinner with my boyfriend. Saturday night at about 8:30pm with only about 3 tables filled - that should have told us something right there. Besides the fact that it was FREEZING in the restaurant, I was happy with our booth and we received our waters fairly quickly. We ordered our drinks and apps together. The waiter came back with the drinks and asked us if we were ready to order our food yet, which we were. I got the ravioli and my boyfriend got steak tips. I also got a salad. My salad came out quick, and I thought that was strange since we didn't get our apps yet (we ordered 2 appetizers). So I asked my boyfriend to flag down the waiter next time we saw him in order to ask about our apps. This is where things went bad- we COULD have had our apps in time if our waiter was around to inquire about them!! However, we looked and looked and tried to enjoy our drinks and salad while also trying to keep an eye out for the waiter. 30 minutes went by before we finally saw our waiter again!! We asked him about our apps and he apologized and said he forgot. Well I was upset because I REALLY wanted to try my appetizer! I was all excited! :( And had he been around earlier we would have had enough time to remind him and have him bring them out. To ME, a normal standard is that if a restaurant forgets an app, they don't charge you and they bring the app out anyway. The manager did come over and apologize and told us our drinks were on her! KUDOS TO YOU AND GREAT JOB FOR THAT; however, I really did want the appetizers and never got them. We then noticed that other tables had bread. We didn't get any! If you look at my reviews, I feel like this happens all the time - I just cant seem to figure out how we always forget to be given bread whenever we go out. So throughout this long waiting game, we had no apps and no bread. We waited another 20 minutes for our waiter to come out again before I could ask for bread. It was a waiting game all night long. THE GOOD PART OF THIS REVIEW IS... the food is actually decent. My goat cheese raviolis were delicious; boyfriends steak and potatoes were just okay - I have had much better. At first we were not going to stay for dessert due to our poor experience; however with the manager coming over to apologize, we decided to give it a try and boy am I glad we did! We got the brownie sundae dessert and it was AMAZING! Overall, we prob will not be back due to the service and although the food was decent it is nothing to rave about or to risk customer service for.
(3)
Molly F.
If I didn't live nearby I wouldn't go out of my way, but it's a great place to grab a late dinner as the kitchen is open late. That being said, they have one of the best burgers I've ever eaten. Their fries are bomb too.
(5)
Joelle K.
I had an absolutely delicious brunch at Harvard garden today. I had the eggs Benedict. The portion size was enormous with a heaping pile of cheese flavored potatoes. The eggs were so yummy and served with prosciutto instead of Canadian bacon. Our waitress also brought us a basket of tasty coffee cake while we were waiting for our breakfast. I enjoyed coming here for brunch more than dinner and will definitely be back!
(4)
Jack S.
On 07/09/2015, had a bizarre experience where at 9.30 pm, we walked into the place and checked for a seat at the bar. The bar area was full, and we were about to leave when the host asked if he could help. we told him that we just wanted to have a couple drinks. He said he would check whether it was possible, and then came back and said yes. We sat at a booth and 5 minutes later a waitress came over and upon discovering we only wanted to order drinks, kicked us out in a very rude fashion. Not entirely sure what the story was with the communication between host and waitstaff was but it was highly disconcerting given we had told the host exactly what we were looking for. Then the attitude of the waitress was rather hostile. Especially given that booths and tables were pretty much empty...
(1)
Bron V.
Great place and simple. Never a line and believe it or not, one of my favorite things about it, is their food! Amazing brunches Appetizers are great And burgers are awesome. All while having reasonable prices. Bartenders and servers are great too. All nice people. Thanks for the great times!
(5)
Mark B.
I ate there for brunch twice and is was fine (read: not memorable in good or bad territory). Last night, I had dinner there and it was not fine. The food was closer to not good (read : bland) and expensive for what you get. Harvard Gardens seems like a decent place to pop in for a drink in occasion, but not to eat. Two strikes of "meh" for brunch and one strike of "not good" for dinner and Harvard Gardens is out.
(2)
Cristina R.
Moseyed in for lunch on a weekday. It was pretty empty, but the decor was nice and tastefully Halloween-y with orange lights hung up around the space. We were seated at one of the corner tables. Cozy. The soup of the day was butternut squash. It only comes in a bowl, so it could easily be your meal since it's filling. My friend and I split one as s starter, and I'd say this is the way to go. This stuff squashed most of the fall soups I've had! It was creamy but not overly heavy and very flavorful. Like a warm blanket for your insides. The ginger tones really kicked it up a notch! For my entree, I ordered the oven-roasted turkey sandwich. This sammie sounds splendid on the menu. Walnut-pecan bread surrounding turkey, cheese, Granny Smith apple slices, and cranberry sauce. Like Thanksgiving in sandwich form, right? Wrong. It comes cold! Which was a shock considering the "oven-roasted" declaration in the name. The bread is toasted, so was slightly warm and crispy, but all of the innards were refrigerator cold. Boo. After one unsatisfying bite, we asked the waiter if he could warm it up in the oven. He kindly obliged, and after about 10 very hungry minutes, came back with new sandwiches for us. It was MUCH better afterward, with the cheese melting on the turkey and the cranberry sauce soaking into the crispy bread. Although it sounds weird, I actually enjoyed the sandwich more the next day when I reheated the other half for lunch. Everything blended very well and made for a comforting meal. But I wouldn't order something just to be able to enjoy the leftovers! And considering the trouble and delay of getting it warmed up at the restaurant, I'd say to try out something else. The butternut squash soup is better'n most though! Jump on it (or in it) if it's offered.
(3)
Tony S.
What an utter clash of expectations versus reality. I was expecting shitballs on ice when I walked into this place. Dark... boringly boxy... that typically stank and bored feel I get when entering some pub in the middle of nowhere Essex or Franklin county Massachusetts....... Rhode Island even... Then my group of 7 pulled up to the bar. The bartender, a very no-nonsense lady took our drink orders, and we settled into our conversation on girls, sports, toe fungus, and that "hawtie at work" that we all fantasize about doing lewd and crude things to... especially if and when she comes to work without panties (because we all know THAT happens). The a couple of us mustered up the courage to admit...... "hey..... shit..... we haven't eaten over the last few hours.... and that pantie-less co-worker fantasy has kinda got me hungry..... you guys want to...... gulp..... eat something here?" And that was it.... we clocked in our timecards into gastro purgatory, and asked for menus..... and even inquired if the bartender recommended anything..... .... what do you know? A spark in her eye suddenly ..... well..... sparkled. The must-tries were the kobe sliders (I think that's what they were called), and some chili shrimp dish. I expected NOTHING better than cat-ass burgers. I got NOTHING less than PURRFECTION!.. ... and this is where I lose my Boston tuff-guy persona and bring out my inner Martha Stewart. Good LORD the food was amazing. After my first few bites of either dish, I actually avoided sharing it with my friends.... my homies.... my brotherhood of awesomeness..... ... fuck that..... every man for himself. This food is MINE! You may lick the shrimp tails and meat grease off my plate, but NOTHING else!! I don't usually lose my cool when reviewing restaurants....... (Ok..... that's a lie.... I'm an LA drama queen at least twice a month...)..... but HOLY SHITBALLS I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!! Yeah...... this is a gem hidden in plain sight. You HAVE To come here.... and at the very least...... order the shrimp and kobe slider..... with the egg...... omg.... fook this ... I'm going out for more....
(4)
Gordon C.
Excellent brunch spot! Make sure you get there early so you don't miss out on their corned beef hash. The best I've ever had. Best. Ever.
(4)
Lynn J.
outstanding service... Hostess flew across the room to greet us! manager apologized for the noise at the bar. waiter came to take out order immediately. nice selection of beer, wine and scotch. a wide variety of bar bites, burgers and salads. The deal: college crowd and mgh staff... just down the block from the mgh T stop.
(5)
Kalin M.
The food here is amazing. The bar staff is even better. My family and I have made this "our place" since our dads been at mass general. Diane has especially made us feel welcome and at home here. We will be back.
(5)
Rebecca R.
Over-rated. The portions are tiny, tasty but nothing special. I had the ravioli which comes on a long plate, an illusion to make it seem as though you are getting a larger portion than what is essentially 5 measly bites. It wasn't terrible, but certainly not worth the price. I have to admit my enjoyment was tampered by the subpar service. My waitress never refilled my water and disappeared for the remainder of my meal. Also the longest I've ever waited for a check (with so many empty tables.)
(3)
LoveYouToo L.
Friends at work recommended this spot for lunch since it's nearby. I recall only having had drinks at HG many years ago. This place was a pleasant surprise. We all ordered sandwiches (reuben, grilled chicken, hamburger, grilled cheese). Everyone seemed more than satisfied with his/her sandwich. The fries are really good and more like hand cut fries. I don't know what they have on the dinner menu, but lunch was really good, not expensive, and good value. Our waitress was very attentive. Also really like the music, and the retro lounge style decor.
(4)
Kiki D.
Harvard Gardens was a great casual brunch spot on a Sunday mid-morning. There was no wait and the service was great. I got the brunch burrito and it was AMAZING not to mention the brunch potatoes were some of the best I've had, super crispy with parmesan and herbs. Highly recommend coming here for brunch if you want a chill but nice brunch atmosphere!
(5)
Merrick M.
Great food. Good value for this area of Boston. Try the steak tips. They were wonderful.
(5)
Julissa P.
I like this place because I live across the street and the guys who work there are extremely friendly and helpful. The women who work at the bar seem to always be in a bad mood. Learned this the hard way, also the food is not worth the price. It sucks to spend so much money in there and receive terrible service. I suggest going on the weekends, much more lively and the staff is much nicer.
(3)
Reem K.
I went today for a brunch. Ordered French Toast. It was thick slices. Dry, tasteless, not crispy, not fluffy. Will not order this again. The place and the people were lovely.
(1)
Richard H.
I've always walked by here on a brisk walk from Charles/MGH to North Station and decided to meet a colleague here on a Saturday for brunch. There was no problem getting a spot at the bar and later a table for brunch. Nothing special about this place, though I was impressed by the selection of brunch items at what at first appeared to be a typical pub on the outside. I enjoyed my eggs benedict (with prosciutto and asparagus) although I found that the side of potatoes had a bit too much Parmesan cheese to the point of being overwhelming. Coffee was your typical bland filter coffee. Other menu selections including the french toast looked good. Will return if I'm passing though, but won't go out of my way. Although, I would come back for a drink as the bar is nice and long, with plenty of room to stand or sit.
(3)
Leanne E.
The truffle fries here are the stuff that dreams are made of. So hot, so much Parmesan, just so damn good. The grilled cheese is bomb, it comes with marinara and it's just perfect. I always get a bellini there, and it's awesome. Love it!
(4)
Angela J.
We LOVED out brunch. Red velvet pancakes were fantastic!--- though definitely sweet. Might have been too much as a stand alone meal- we ordered as a side. Breakfast potatoes were crispy and flavorful and served with parmesan. Will gladly return.
(5)
Gregg V.
I keep coming back to Harvard Gardens, and the reasons are obvious: great food, great service, great people. Well done HG!
(5)
Ryan M.
Harvard Gardens is always a great alternative for a weekend night, or a great spot to enjoy some brunch on a weekend. Many a trip to BHP have been detoured into Harvard Gardens for a few beers and a large helping of their DELICIOUS truffle fries. If you come here without getting the fries you are truly missing out! Other than these tasty morsels, the full menu has many scrumptious options to consider. The bartenders are really cool people (though as mentioned they can be no-nonsense) and are always open to making a suggestion for you based on your tastes. I've been here on almost every day of the week and they have always greeted me with a smile and a delicious beverage. I have frequented HG much more often at night than during the day but I can also vouch for their brunch. It is especially a popular spot before events at the Garden so take this into consideration when making your brunch plans.
(4)
Larry G.
After visiting our new granddaughter at MGH we walked across the street to HG. They accommodated us nicely with a booth as we had our 2 year old other granddaughter with us....she was quickly served a nice grilled cheese and fries....I got the steak frites, a very good version .....my wife got the southwestern chopped salad and it was the dish of the night....large flavorful with a nice mix of ingredients. I was going to give 5 stars but....I ordered the salad to go the next day and when I got home it was much smaller and missing several ingredients...too bad....I was very disappointed
(3)
Ngan T.
omg the mac n cheese. the mac n cheese. THE MAC N CHEESE!!! we went here originally for lots of ginger ale and soup since the manfriend was having an upset stomach. I've been here for drinks a time or two but finally got to writing this review because of the mac n cheese (ohhh did I give it away already?) The bartenders are very accommodating. My boyfriend got them to put 7 cherries in my drink once just because I love those maraschinos so. Our waiter this time was awkwardly chatty but A for effort.. The lighting is very dim here and the music selection is strange. Everything from hip hop to country. haha sounds like they plugged my ipod in. Anyway, food is EXCELLENT. We've only tried the tomato soup and the mac n cheese thus far but considering how well those two went, we'll definitely be regulars. Mac n cheese sauce was just the right consistency. They used orecchiette pasta which meant mini scoops of the delicious truffle cheese sauce. The crumbs were a very nice touch. I want to spend the rest of my life eating this.
(4)
Hayley B.
This place is down the st. from my Beacon Hill apartment and has become a go-to place for better than average bar food and a guaranteed seat any time of the week. I don't have much to say except the service is good, the food is good, and the truffle fries are outstanding. I would probably be satisfied just getting a few drinks with a friend and a large order of fries. YUM. Nothing fancy but this place exceeded my expectations. I have also ordered the Bib Salad a few times and was honestly impressed. It was SO good! The best part by far was the maple goat cheese vinaigrette. I will definitely be back!
(4)
Danae K.
Amazing brunch!!! Pleasant service, kind waitors. I had a lox combination and enjoyed it thoroughly.
(5)
Kathryn R.
I give this five stars not for the drinks or for the surprisingly delicious bar food but for the fact that it is my local bar. This is the place I come when I want to know the bar tenders, have a consistently good meal and either a Stella or one of their latest seasonal beers on tap. A few favorites include the pumpkin in October and the Harpoon Summer that's currently being served. Brunch is solid - try the blueberry pancakes and bacon and if your adventurous get a red velvet pancake to share. For dinner the Parmesan truffle fries are a great way to start your experience followed by one of the chicken dishes. Simple but quells my cravings every time. This is a neighborhood place that feels like home. I just keep coming back!
(5)
Jay M.
Mmm... Corned beef hash, 2 eggs over easy, side of home fries, side of bacon. Best way to kick off a Sunday morning!
(5)
Marcus M.
I have been here a number of times and I have always enjoyed the atmosphere. The drinks are cool too. Tonight, I had the salmon for a second time-- and I am convinced that this is some of the best salmon I've ever had. And that is saying a TON since I'm from the Great Northwest! (Go Hawks!) I know about salmon. But this is so tender and juicy with a perfect flake. It's not overcooked in the slightest. In addition, the service tonight was fantastic. And as an extra bonus, it's right near Mass General Hospital so you have a great chance of meeting an attractive doctor or nurse! I recommend you stop in to Harvard Gardens sometime. Doooooo iiitttt!
(4)
Madison M.
AMAZING BRUNCH! I'm giving them 5 stars because 3.5 stars does not do their Sunday brunch justice. HIGHLY recommend the French Toast (that bananas foster sauce is ridiculously good) and the Eggs Benedict. The potatoes were also delicious. Will definitely return.
(5)
Angela M.
We were headed to the hospital for business, so we got there early enough to grab a bite here. We were seated at the banquette against the back wall. TV's in the corners and above the bar kept us updated with the Aaron Hernandez story as we perused the menu. I chose the BLT with fries, until the server offered 50/50 to my coworker. I then opted for the BLT with 50/50, since I really only want a few fries for the flavor and the salad to feel healthier. The server advised that this is really the best deal, since you end up getting almost as much salad and fries as you would if you got only one. The meals came promptly. The BLT featured thick cut applewood smoked bacon, tomato, lettuce, and herbed mayo on lightly smoked sourdough. The bacon was thick and tasty, but a little tough, so you essentially got the whole slice of bacon in a bite, rather than having it break into a crispy bite. The tomato was juicy, not mealy, and the lettuce was crisp. I would've preferred less mayo and more toast on the bread, but that didn't stop me from eating the whole sandwich. There was a nice mix of greens in the salad, which was dressed with overly sweet balsamic vinaigrette. The fries were a tad soggy, good motivation to leave them on the plate. Check in on Yelp and get 15% off your bill!
(3)
Jordan W.
So this does not get lost in the review: THE TRUFFLE FRIES ARE LEGENDARY. ORDER THEM. HarGar, as I've come to call it, is my go-to dinner or after work drinks place. Unpretentious, relaxed, but still good food. It fills up with nurses and doctors at the end of MGH shifts, so there are some random-seeming times of day when it is super busy. Good brunch on Sundays, great burgers for lunch or dinner, and all around a pretty great place to hang out and grab a drink and snack with friends or colleagues.
(4)
Paul W.
Heard they had an awesome Chicken Bacon Avacado Sandwich, went there had one and it was awesome. Will be back for that sandwich!
(4)
Rachael L.
Sept 2013- This place earns its 3 stars solely for the grilled chicken sandwich. AMAZING!! All else was less than par, especially the service. The girl waiting on those in the dining area seemed great and attentive. The bartender, however, who was responsible for the high tops next to the bar, was rude and focused solely upon flirting with the old men giving her attention at the bar. We had to go get our own menus, wave her down for waters. She was annoyed to even have to serve us. They were out of several things (the beer we ordered and the lobster mac and cheese). Server thought she would just bring us regular mac and cheese....um no. There is a reason one orders SEAFOOD mac and cheese. She was snotty about us pointing out that we did not want it. Anyway, come for the chicken sandwich if you must come at all.
(3)
Matthew F.
Great neighborhood bar/restaurant. The food is surprisingly good, good quality drinks and nice enough interior.I had the steak frites and truffle fries which were excellent. Good selection of beer and liquors. I would go back any time for a casual dinner and drinks
(4)
S M.
This place was fun. The inside is VERY dark and set up using candles. But the bar staff is very nice. Lots of medical staff from Mass General hang out here as well.
(4)
Mary F.
Came here for brunch while staying in Beacon Hill. Wonderful service from hostess to waiter, our drinks were never empty, and the breakfast portions were huge and delicious! Also, if you come here during breakfast and don't try the red velvet pancakes, you've made a huge mistake. They. Are. Amazing.
(5)
Ramin S.
Great food, friendly staff and all around a pleasant experience. This place can serve as a place to grab a casual lunch, fancy dinner or a quick drink. I have been there on weekend nights too and have had a great time. The menu is always changing so it keeps everything fresh and new. I enjoyed the California club the last couple times and think they're food is really great.
(5)
Jeremy K.
I've had a few meals at Harvard Gardens, mostly out of convenience as I'm headed to a Bruins game. Whether it was brunch of dinner, I have yet to be wowed by my experience there. While the location is great and the place spacious and clean, the food just falls short if you ask me. I've found that they seem to take a focus on the quantity more than the quality of the food there and despite the pretty affordable prices, I've always managed to leave in the place in a starch-induced food coma, even when only eating about half of the portion. The selection on the meu is solid, but somehow it all gets ruined by the prices and portion size. The prices are a bit higher than most places, especially compared to other places nearby but it is Beacon Hill after all and I've only had spotty service there at best. Sometimes good service, sometimes horrendous. The kitchen always seems to be on the slow side of things and whether it was for brunch or dinner, I just have not been impressed. As far as their beer selection there, it's nothing amazing but it's pretty decent - they do however seem to run out of brews quite often, at least on my visits. The one beer that I always want to get there always seems to run out. Frustrating. All in all, the place is pretty decent but nothing amazing. It's conveniently located right next to the Charles/MGH T stop and offers a wise-array of dishes. Just be careful when you order as you might end up having a food coma as you walk out...
(3)
Kimmy B.
I would give them zero if I have a way to do so. Absolutely horrible service and hardly edible food: Got there around 5 on Tuesday evening and sat at the bar. An overweight in the mid-section bartender who has a snobbish attitude for no reason took 15 min to take my order (it was not crowded at all then). I ordered steak tips cooked MEDIUM (I personally feel cooking beef more than medium is being disrespectful to the cow) with French fries (it comes with garlic mashed potato but I did not want to take a chance with anything mashed there. You don't know what's going to be "mashed in" there). Ok (sigh) so the food came after quite a while, first, the beef looked burned outside and when I cut in the middle, it was completely cooked all the way and the soggy French fries were almost wet to the touch because they piled grilled vegetables and tips on top of them. I took a bite of the meat. It tasted and smelled like the meat was not fresh. And that was it for me. I am not sure how they stay in business (in "restaurant" business, unless they have something else going on behind lol). My conclusion: You've got to have a pretty sad life to want to hang out at that place!
(1)
Matt C.
Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Rancheros. Brunch at Harvard Gardens is worth a trip simply for the Huevos Rancheros. Huevos is my go-to anytime I am out to brunch and I can't recall a better version than Harvard Gardens'. Overall the brunch menu is vast and everything looked appetizing and we will definitely return.
(4)
Veronica P.
I wish I could marry this establishment. And their lemon drop martinis. EVERYTHING.
(5)
Rick L.
Love, love, love Harvard Gardens. The food is pleasantly pretty good, but I go for the music and drinks. I'm not sure who puts together their playlist, but within an hour I hear everything from Curtis Mayfield to The Clash. Shazam gets a good workout at Harvard Gardens. I also love the white leather decor...it feels like I'm in a Madmen scene.
(4)
Corey L.
Last night I thoroughly enjoyed the steak tips w veggies and truffle fries. Veggies were buttered but not too heavily. Fries were solid. All was quite tasty and excellent. And I still like the king professional crowd. Oh! Our waitress was awesome too
(4)
Eudaemonius ..
Looking for late night eats, we stumbled into Harvard Gardens not knowing what a treat it would be. At that point we were just looking for something on a Sunday night, and a libation to side car the meal. We found both! MaiTai - Delish Fish Tacos - Delish Shrimp in Chili Sauce - Delish Oysters on the Half Shell - Delish The drinks flowed and so the night went. We could not seem to order the shrimp or drinks fast enough. A worth stop on the north side of town!
(4)
Jackie C.
The food was great! I had the chicken sandwich and it was very good! The drinks were rough, not quite spot on. We will definitely be back, it was a great place but drinks need a little work.
(3)
Stephanie Y.
Came here for lunch while visiting MGH. This is definitely a decent and adequate place super close to the hospital. Was it the best meal ever? For salads negative. We actually started off with some delicious polenta fries. They were actually not what we expected at all but rather were these thick polenta blocks deep fried. One minus of this app was the lack of sauce that was included. C'mon now fries especially of the polenta variety are always better when accompanied with lots of slammin' sauces/condiments. My family and I all ordered salads. The cobb salad was ok. Presentation was amazing with a large thin cucumber serving as the bowl, with mixed greens, some bacon bits and tomatoes as the filling. Overall, nothing too crazy, and to be honest that sentiment could be replicated across all salads. My bf had the caesar which he said was super tasty but, it was super small. Side salad styz not entree status. Salads were all about $12. No protein included. Overall, I would bypass the salads and maybe stick with a sammy or a burger or maybe explore some more options in Boston but again, if you are in a bind and at the hospital and nearby and need a quick place to dine, this isn't a bad option.
(3)
L N.
3 stars because the food is really good. Drinks? That's a no-go. And it is a bar so........ U can make that choice.
(3)
Krissy K.
I stopped by for dinner here before the July 3 Pops rehearsal concert at The Esplanade. We got parking right in front, which was perfect for our evening plans. The menu here is not extensive, but I don't see that as a negative. I got the HG burger with fries. Another person in my group got the HG burger with salad, and someone else got a salad with salmon. There was a small hiccup, because the dressing was not brought on the side as requested. However, our server was extremely apologetic, and the situation was remedied quickly. I also impressed my dinner companions with the Yelp check-in offer. :p Being attached to your phone does have its occasional benefits! I wouldn't go out of my way to return the next time I'm in town, but Harvard Gardens was a pleasant experience that I would not mind repeating, either.
(3)
Jennifer P.
I work across the street from Harvard Gardens, so I come here often for after-work cocktails, but I had the unfortunate displeasure of having dinner alongside my cocktails last week. I ordered the baked brie appetizer and the goat cheese ravioli. The baked brie was just that - nothing more, nothing less. The goat cheese ravioli, on the other hand was a complete mess. The dish was more olive oil than anything else. I could barely take a bite without having oil dribbling down my chin. It was a sad experience, and I don't see myself coming back here for food (which is also overpriced - a bit of a slap to the face after such a dismal eating experience).
(1)
Anna R.
When I worked at MGH, I loved meeting friends after work at Harvard Gardens. It was the closest, nicest joint you could walk into while still wearing scrubs. An added bonus was chatting up some of the other cuties in scrubs ;) Although slightly pricey, I loved the steak-frites with a good (local) beer. It was really delicious and hit the spot after a rough shift. But because HG isn't very big, there is definitely a line on weekend nights so you may have to wait for a spot. But, hey, it's Boston - there's always a line on weekends.
(4)
Jacob V.
Great Brunch the corned beef and hash was awesome and the bloody mary is a must. Cool atmosphere and in a great location. Enjoy
(4)
Chris B.
Disappointed -- underwhelmed. Firecracker shrimp was not shelled, mushroom stuffed ravioli was pedestrian -- all items al a carte and overpriced relative to quality -- even the Malbec was diffused. Better options in immediate area.
(2)
S.s. B.
Great place for brunch. Coffee was very good and my steak and eggs were delicious. Nice atmosphere with lots of booths and privacy. Out waitress was pleasant and attentive. Would definitely recommend this place for breakfast or brunch. Hoping to come back soon and try dinner.
(5)
Eric S.
Nice atmosphere. Great drinks! Stopped in for a late evening bite to eat and some drinks. My girlfriend had the grilled cheese (she liked it a lot), and I had the scallops (somewhat chewy in the center; would have expected a little better for a New England restaurant). I had the HG Doli (great pineapple flavor; a little lighter flavor than other Doli's I've had), and I had the Dark Blossom (?) (it had tequila and was a bit strong). Overall, a great location to sit and relax with some cocktails!
(4)
Judy K.
If you wanna drink - fine. Otherwise skip this place. Horrible cobb salad was had here. Expensive too. Yes, it was huge. But size does not always matter! The salad was doused in a cheap vinegar - vinegar alone is not a vinaigrette! I asked the waiter (who had a snobby attitude) for some olive oil because the salad was so acidic and he brought me a bottle of some indeterminate stuff. I drizzled it on - it helped a little but not much. I sat with my plate untouched for quite along time waiting for it to be removed. The waiter buzzed by our table a couple of times so quickly I didn't catch him to ask him to take my plate - not that I should have had to. Finally I piled my napkin on top along with some other articles - and he took my hint. Duh. Nope. Ain't goin' back. Ever.
(1)
Fernanda P.
I ordered a BLT and it was AMAZING. The bread was so crispy and delicious. I ordered a salad instead of fries and it came with italian dressing on the side. I asked for honey mustard. Everyone in my party loved the meal. They had the creamy potato soup, grilled chicken sandwich and classic reuben. The fries were tasty and crispy.
(4)
Robyn B.
I've heard that the brunch here is awesome (red velvet pancakes?!?!?! must. try.), but the (dinner) food that I've tried is kind of meh. Last time, my friends ordered the cobb salad and a burger, both were fine. I got a bowl of the french onion soup. Good but a little too salty/cheesy for me. But I guess that's what french onion soup is kind of supposed to be. Anyways, the gin and tonics here are awesome.
(3)
Xiao Z.
Decent bar with a fancy late-night bar menu (the kobe beef w/quail egg sliders were a nice touch) and they made some of the best Old Fashions I've had in a while.
(3)
Melissa B.
This place a a surprisingly great brunch. I had the prosciutto and goat cheese omelet and it was delicious. The breakfast potatoes where even better. They are crispy potato wedges with parmigiano cheese sprinkled over them. I only gave it 4 of 5 stars because I always feel this place is dark on the inside, but a comfortable set up none the less.
(4)
Maureen D.
I love that this relatively small urban bar/restaurant uses Open table for reservations. I made the reservation for 8 people less than a week ahead of time. I received an email reminder. We arrived a few minutes late, but the table was available. Our waiter was polite, got our drink and food orders right, and popped in plenty of times to see how we were doing. Generally people enjoyed their meals, which included pork chop with polenta 'fries', salmon, cobb salad, mac and cheese, and asparagus ravioli. The one flop was the Bibb salad, which our server said was big enough for a meal, but was actually quite small. There was a fairly average noise level, with a vibrant crowd at the bar. I liked being seated in the back, where there was a little less traffic and I could mostly hear my dining companions when they spoke loudly. The place is a little overpriced, but this is a city.
(4)
Adam F.
If you take the douchiness factor from Jersey Shore and combine it with college students who are all wannabe doctors, then mix in a few desperate girls you come up with a place like this. Don't worry, the staff factored in the quality of the patrons they would have, and play the music at a decibel level that prevents you from having that awkward conversation with the popped collar pre-med student. Something positive...the drinks are good, albeit expensive, and the staff is nice.
(2)
Adrienne M.
Great food, great service, great ambiance -- morning, noon or night -- with a date, big group of friends, or alone. I love Harvard Gardens the most for their brunch. (Killer bloody mary!) This is definitely one of my favorite spots in Boston--I can always count on a good experience! The service is what makes it stand out the most--even at their busiest. I'm gluten free and the servers are always helpful and accommodating so that I can have a delicious meal. They rotate the menus (and cocktails) pretty frequently, so it's always fun to try something new even though I come here all the time.
(4)
Saige B.
We came here on a Saturday afternoon and had a similar experience to when I've come at night or for lunch. The bartenders make delicious drinks for the Boston price. I had the Cranberry Margherita and my friend had the Red Line and both were awesome. The food, on the other hand, is just mediocre. They try very hard to put some things out that you wouldn't find at a typical Boston bar. We had the truffled mac'n'cheese (overcooked but still pretty good) and the polenta "fries" (these were seriously logs of fried polenta with very little flavor and a weird consistency). The atmosphere is a tad Grey's Anatomy with all the hospital staff spillovers but it's an okay spot to move to from downtown. I don't mind coming here for a great drink but the atmosphere is a little metro/stuffy and the food gets a 'C' for effort.
(3)
Chris S.
I'v gone here for lunch and for night life. Both times I was pretty disappointed. The food for lunch was tasteless and the bread was not fresh for my sandwich. I have gone here for drinks at night and when I went the place was packed. I had to deal w/ some immature patrons and all in all it was not a place I see myself going back to. The prices were not that bad but my experiences were. I gave it two stars because I was with friends at night and still had fun but I like I said I probably wont be going back.
(2)
A B.
This is my favorite bar on Beacon Hill. Yes, I'm partial to the name. It is also the closest bar to my front door, so please take that under advisement. It has great atmosphere and a friendly vibe. It looks a bit divey on the outside, but the inside is modern. The only thing saving it from a full 5 stars is that the food is not what it could be. The food is fine, yes, but given how good everything else is, I wish I could say I love the food. I think they would be better off with a simpler, more basic bar menu then striving for heights that sometimes they don't hit. That said, overall, this place is great. I hope to see you there!
(4)
Tiff M.
As a Beacon Hill resident who's tried all the local spots... this is definitely not my go-to restaurant for dinner. It's overpriced, and there are several better options for quality food. The weekend night scene... avoid it at all costs. The only times I venture here are for a drink mid-week... it works well in that setting.
(2)
George L.
I was staying at the Jefferson boarding house just down the street and this was the first place I tried during my very first night in Boston (there for an academic conference). Let's just say, I had no idea a place in Boston could make such great calamari. They used the small squid, not the rings, which I prefer and it was flash fried with peppers and it came with roasted peanuts and some sort of, what I think, was a soy sauce/vinegar based sauce but bottom line, blew me away. I was with an old friend, also attending the conference, and he was also blown away. I also had an arugula side salad which had a nice, light olive oil and vinegar dressing, if i remember correctly, but the bottom line was that it was incredibly fresh and crisp. I don't remember what I drink, I think a Harpoon IPA (good beer Boston!) but a nice, light satisfying meal. I was hoping to go back but I was only in town for a few days and Boston is one city with way too many good restaurants to back to the same one twice. Bottom line, if you are in the area, I think it is worth checking out. :-)
(4)
J B.
I have had dreams about the Kobe Sliders. The quail egg is unique and a great pairing with the beef and bacon aioli. They serve Moscow Mules in copper cups, the way it should be served. I would have given them 5 stars, but they don't seem to have enough of the copper cups if a bunch of people order the drink. I also felt like they thought I was going to steal it and wouldn't give me a second drink in the same cup. Annoying.
(4)
Jessica M.
Open late with great service! Ordered the chicken sandwich with fries to split with my boyfriend. They brought out separate plates for us and didn't charge any extra. It was late so the bartender was also waiting on the few tables there were. They played good music and were very attentive! Super yummy for late night eats!
(4)
Kristy G.
Firework shrimp and Steak Tips, yum! Came here in a slow snowy night, and it was delightful. Along with a glass of Rogue beer, I'd definitely come back.
(4)
Ida G.
Best casual restaurant in this neck of the woods in that it is not Italian like the ones on Charles Street and not a dive like the neighboring bars. The truffle fries are to die for and the HG burger is great, too. Perfect for date night or dinner out with friends.
(5)
Elizabeth S.
I'd never heard of Harvard Gardens, so I was pleasantly surprised when I sat down and (finally) got some food that it was, well, awesome. It's sort of a bar slash restaurant. We had a party of eight, no reservation, no problem. The only problem came when I got my meal 20 minutes after everyone else got theirs. Honestly! If pumpkin ravioli takes 20 extra minutes to make (really??) then put a note on the menu, or at least give me a heads up - I was starving, inebriated, and in the mood for anything edible, and you betcha I would've ordered something else. I was so famished by the time I got my decently sized but too small for my state of hunger meal, that I finished my few pieces of pumpkin ravioli (very sugary - definitely didn't want any more than the portion I had) and ate half of another member of our party's mac and cheese (much bigger portion, no sugar to be found).
(3)
James H.
Do they pump beer through the ventilation here? This place is always awash with drunken doctors, nurses, locals, vagrants, dogs - you name it, its probably drunk here right now. Drinks are guzzled so fast that taste isn't an issue, nor is the slow service resulting from the overworked bartenders attempting to placate this parade of insatiable inebriates.
(2)
Thomas L.
Enjoyed lunch here with the wife and some relatives. Service was great, ambiance was pleasant, and food was decent. I went with the burger and fries. The pickle that came with the burger was the best thing about the meal. The fries were the next best thing, as they were fresh, crunchy, and with just the right amount of salt. The burger arrived as I ordered it - medium - but it wasn't that sexy. Had a slice of tomato and lettuce on top of the burger; both were fresh and delicious. However, that's it. Nothing else going on with the burger. I was a bit disappointed and was hoping for more. Again, want to highlight the service as our waitress was attentive and speedy.
(3)
Anna L.
I've been here multiple times for drinks, dinner and brunch. The staff is very friendly - and have always been really great about accommodating my gluten-free food needs. My girlfriends and I come here regularly for wine and their truffle fries - which are amazing! The bartender recently suggested we order a side of bacon aioli (that comes on their burger) to dip our fries in - great idea for taste, bad for the arteries!
(4)
Couldbe A.
Great food, comfortable banquette seating and friendly staff. Young crowd at the bar, seems to be a mix of MGH, neighborhood regulars and tourists. Good spot for casual after work drinks.
(5)
Rich T.
Stopped over for lunch during the US vs Canada hockey game because the Hill Tavern was packed. This place was empty and now I know why. The bartender Dianne was probably the worst bartender I have had in years. Took 10 minutes to get a drink had to ask for a menu and when my food came I had asked for the bill since I only get an hour lunch and time was quickly passing I started eating my sandwich and when she came back with the bill she abruptley takes my plate with 3/4ths of the meal still left. If you go in see if Dianne is working and if she is walk right back out!!!
(1)
Brian D.
Okay, I'm going to talk in acronyms. I've lived in BH for 5+ years or so, and have enjoyed HG for many of those years. Good people here, good scene, and the food is good too, especially the fries. This is a great spot for a date, as I've been on a couple here with mixed success. It has great, romantic light for that sort of thing and the whole ambiance is good for a date. My only wish is that there was more room around the bar area, as it can get quite packed on a busy Saturday night. I've always liked coming here, and will continue to do so as long as I live in the Boston area. HG in BH, enjoy it.
(4)
Alyssa J.
This review is for the night time atmosphere. OOOOH Doggy! I think I have a huge, pretty sexual crush, on Harvard Gardens. I went last night, apres The Sevens, and the place was somewhat crowded...we still scored a table. And then we scored on some drinks. Like really scored. I am always surprised that the drinks are so reasonably priced at HG. I still spend too much money there....But! I always know that I could spend more at a much more douchey establishment. Anyway, the ambience is great, the lighting is awesome, a couple of gin martinis make the lambs stop screaming and they play the Cee-Lo "Fuck You" song at least twice a night. loveloveLOVE.
(4)
Megan B.
I was pleasantly surprised by this place. Came here for brunch last Sunday after a couple other beacon hill restaurants were packed. We were seated right away, had great service and had a great brunch! I was not impressed by the menu at first, but the food was great! Definitely try this place for brunch. I think this place was better than the other restaurants people wait an hour for.
Their pamesan truffle fries are very good. So much flavor! However, it ended up working against me this time as they made my HG mac and cheese taste bland. I took the rest home though and the next day the mac and cheese tasted much better. There was a very odd smell when we first walked it. I should hope it was from the people at the crowded bar and not the establishment itself.
(3)
Ben D.
Not too bad! I stopped here with some friends as a sort of going-away lunch. Right in Boston made it convenient for everyone to get to and the food selection was nice. It was a little dark inside, which made for a strange atmosphere for lunch.
(3)
Mary T.
To use the infamous Yelp cliche, I wanted to like it more but I couldn't. I was staying down the street and in need of some dinner, enter Harvard Gardens. It's a nice place, but has a touch of an identity crisis. Most patrons were more casual than one would expect when comparing it to the menu and decor. The space is nice; oblong with lots of dark wood and red-hued lighting. It's sleek and sexy, except for the two plasmas in the bar area. The menu is sophisticated, not your stereotypical bar fare. When I entered, I immediately suspected they were understaffed. It wasn't crowded, but there was only one server and one bartender on duty; no host or anything. By the time I left, the place was slammed and despite their best efforts, service suffered. I ordered a few Stellas and the spinach-artichoke appetizer. The appetizer was just ok, a touch bland but salt gave it the boost it needed. I think that they could have 86'd the parmesan on the tortilla strips, by the time I got one into the dip all of the grated cheese had fallen off. I contemplated ordering the tuna tartare appetizer, but am glad I passed. It looks mouth-watering on the website, but was plated completely differently when delivered to the people next to me. Watching them struggle to eat it from this awkward paint palette-like plate made me glad I decided to pass. This place is decent and the drink prices were quite reasonable, $4.25 for a pint of Stella was great! If I lived in the area I'd probably give it a second shot, and hope that the understaffing was a fluke.
(3)
Michael C.
Not sure why some of the super negative reviews on Harvard Garden have been written given my experience and those of friends. Service today was fast and attentive. The waitress quickly filled up empty drinks without prompting. The tomato, mozzarella and basil sandwich was excellent. Being a very good lad, I opted for salad instead of fries. The salad was simply a bunch of greens. I think these guys can do better than that. The Wagya burger, at least according to my friend, was excellent. Fries looked awfully good which contributed to my grumpiness about the salad. Food envy is a terrible thing. Nice atmosphere, reasonable prices.
(4)
Michael G.
I remember the first time I stood outside of Harvard Gardens. It was summertime, and I was looking at their food menu. Seems so weird now that I think about it. What I love about Harvard Gardens is that it is ALWAYS a scene inside and out. Outside people are arguing with the bouncer and the manager about who knows what. Inside you are usually packed like sardines near the bar and can't really move. I always have enjoyed my time at Harvard Gardens. I have eaten the food, but it was not memorable enough to be good nor bad. Also, Love that HG is far enough away so the north and south shore don't know where it is! HUGE PLUS!
(4)
Jonathan C.
This place is surprisingly good considering the price of the food. The Omelette of the day with the Home Fries (amazing) is a good deal. Last night I was surprised to find that they have pizza! I split the squash pizza with a friend. We added prosciutto and it was excellent. It was better than Flatbreads or Upper Crust (which are both over-rated in my opinion). Granted, they don't have a large selection of pizzas, but that is OK with me. Also, the service was good both times I went.
(4)
Eric S.
GREAT SPOT AFTER A LONG DAY @MGH. Last night my girlfriend and I went here after finally hearing mom will out of recovery in two hours. We asked the information clerk what was good to eat, and he told us a lot of MGH staff go to Harvard Gardens for a beer and something to eat after work. It was a dark lil place packed with people, and the Bruins game was on, so it was good right out of the gates. The Russian Standard Mule was a great drink. Our waitress Ashley was awesome, she knew her menu, and descriptions were spot on. I ordered the Wagyu burger, which I heard were really good, but never tried. The way it was offered with a fried egg, bacon mayonnaise, and asparagus was interesting to me so I ordered that, or you can get it with plain cheese, both served on a nice big roll. I was also interested in the mac-n-cheese, which was which was a four cheese combo, Romano, Parmesan, Fontina, Mozzarella, they had an option you can get that with peas and prosciutto description so I ordered a side of that as well. My better half ordered the steak frites, which was a nice portion of steak with some awesome hand cut fries. The steak was cooked as she asked and had a nice juicyness to it. The Wagyu burger was awesome, and as soon as the Mrs. saw it she quickly claimed she needed a bite of it, because it looked so awesome. The whole burger and fried egg thing was awesome, the flavor of the beef and the soft texture of the egg was great. Personally the asparagus didn't woo me, and would have just as enjoyable without it. The side of mac-n-cheese was so impressive, after the second bite I asked Ashley for an order to go. The description of the mac and cheese with the prosciutto and peas might make people think Carbonara, but no this was nice and cheesey, they used small shells, which has tendency of getting filled up with cheese sauce in the little slit, and it was like little heavenly cheese explosions eating this stuff. My girl makes home made mac-n-cheese when I ask her to and it is awesome she was very impressed by this. I'm on the way to go visit mom at MGH now, and am already thinking of what time I will go there for lunch. The service - awesome ask for Ashley she'll come by to make sure you water is full, will ask if everything is fine, and actually served the table with a smile; I know unbelievable; the price $75 for three meals (I had the take home order of mac-n-cheese), was very reasonable, and the atmosphere was nice. I'll be back again!!!
(5)
Melissa M.
David the Bartender is the MAN! I would go here everyday if I still lived on the Hill. I went in last night on a Tuesday night. I got a liter of Pellegrino, cuz das how I roll. My fiance got two cocktails, and we had a great time. David was charming, genuine, and just an all around pleasantly nice person to chat with. The place has some delicious aromas circulating throughout the establishment. Smells like truffled fries, or something equally delicious. I used to come here all the time back in my college days over a decade ago! This place hasn't changed and it's a nice thing! We will be back since it's just oh so conveniently located steps from the Charles Street T Stop. This place is my cozy lil home away from home!
(4)
Steve S.
Visited it on a Saturday nite, bar was packed, restaurant was moderately busy but found an open table. Really enjoyed having a couple appetizers and a drink as a late nite dinner.
(4)
David L.
Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast! Everything. Was. Amazing! For $8 u get omelet, Bacon, toast, home fries, fruit! Everything is gourmet and very reasonably. Very quint has full bar And great service. Can't say enough good things!!! I just wish it was a little closer to me in Brighton :(
(5)
Harri S.
You know those places that are sooooo loud you can't hear, and then you realize you aren't at a concert? This is it! Got there 930ish, and wanted to tell everyone to shut the eff up, so I could hear the people next to me. On the upside, their water was delicious.
(2)
Ash C.
Harvard Gardens has become my favorite hangout place after my Friday clinical. Bartenders are friendly and attentive. I will definitely try their foods soon!
(4)
Mike M.
Went there on a date one night and wasn't too sure what to expect. I tried to do some research online to be prepared. You walk in and to the right you have the bar area which is of decent length with a good amount of high top tables. I got there around 7ish on a Thursday and it was pretty busy. The crowd was of mostly after work crowd and Beacon Hill locals and Harvard Students. The wait for a table was right away, which I wasn't anticipating. My date was about 10 minutes away so I was seated alone. Pretty sure she was late. I ordered 2 water just so I didn't look weird. I also asked for two menus of course. When she had arrived we ordered drinks and food. I had Stoli Blue w Soda and she had a Vodka Soda. The drinks were well poured, but the glass was kind of small. But after 3 or 4 whats the difference? For food I had no idea what to get. I ended up just keeping it simple and got some Boneless BBQ wings. Kinda of random, but I really had no idea what I wanted. I always hate to get a burger or something messy on a first date. You never wanna belch. But the wings were great. Great sauce and nice crispness to it. My date got a salad which was of good size and she enjoyed it, but it would never of filled me up. The atmosphere is very dark and cozy. The bar area is lively and the tables and dining are give you great privacy to be intimate and alone. The server was very sweet and attentive and very friendly. I will probably be back, but nothing really stuck out that would make me go out of my way to. The service is great and the food/drinks were all superb. The crowd can be a little much but in the end, it's a bar and as long as it has liquor, they are doing something right.
(4)
Irene R.
The portions are very large. Brunch was good. Their breakfast pizza is big enough for 2 or 3 people to split. We had a pretty large group and they were very accommodating. The prices were good. Even better when you consider the large portions. The lose a star because they don't have any non-egg brunch options(and my spouse is allergic to eggs). He had a croissant, hash browns and some bacon, so at least he found something to eat. 6 hours after brunch and I'm still stuffed.
(4)
Brian G.
I rarely go out specifically to Harvard Gardens but often end up stopping in or staying here because it's a great place to go grab a drink. It's set up really well and feels upscale without going overboard and the bar area is big enough to move around in most of the time. The bartenders do a great job of keeping up and I rarely finding myself desperately trying to flag one down. The food I've had here is good but I've never eaten dinner here myself, but many of the dishes I've seen pass by look great. I'd suggest coming in for brunch as well and trying the breakfast pizza which is great. What brings me back here over and over is the big strong drinks they pour. They type of martinis that are trickily strong and taste great which is harder than it seems. I've seen a friend have one or two and forget the better part of her walk home. The drink list isn't huge or as in depth as you'd get at some of the more welkin cocktail places in Boston but it's one of the better upscale places in Beacon Hill to enjoy some time with friends who are looking to be "out" somewhere.
(4)
Jason M.
UGH. Maybe its just me. Maybe its just my delicate nature. Maybe its just that I'm a judgmental fool. But damn, this place smells of tools and low self-esteem. It's the kind of place that I feel requires the female bartenders to wear skimpy tank tops, the men to encourage the women to get overly drunk and everyone to act a fool after 11pm. Having walked by the front door more times than I care to admit, I can say I won't do it again. 1 star for simply having Rogue Dead Guy Ale on tap. 1 star for the ugliest sign ever. Really? Who, other than Google+, still uses circles on their signage?
(2)
Laura K.
Meh. Harvard Gardens. Closer to Man's Greatest Hospital, more expensive than most other bars within walking distance. Can you hear that? It's the I'd-rather-be-at-The-Sevens-or-Red-Hat murmur of my dive-bar heart. BUT WAIT. After years of hemming and hawing over which item on the lunch menu would leave me the least dissatisfied, I showed up for dinner last night and, after a quick perusal of the menu, decided to play it safe. "I'll take a Bombay Sapphire Martini straight-up with a twist and an order of the Mac and Cheese." HOLY. COWS. MILKED. IN. THE. CHEESEMAKING. PROCESS. The enormous portion of stringey, gooey, creamy heaben topped with a crispy crust -- fashioned from a fusion of breadcrumbs and more cheese -- made me wonder why my hell-no-if-it-ain't-homecooked mom hadn't told me about her new job. Normally, I would say this was the gin talking, but I completely ignored my martini as I struggled to consume as much of this manna as possible - horribly burning my mouth in the process. WORTH IT. OK, $12 for a BS Gin Martini and $14 for (at least) two reasonable portions of mac and cheese? Not bad considering quality. Still more expensive than my favorite dives on the hill - but also significantly less divey. I'll be back. I'll have back. Again, worth it.
(4)
Deirdre S.
Had dinner with a my friend to celebrate the birth of his son at MGH. The food was good, not great. The calamari appetizer was tasty but the portion was skimpy. The mac & cheese was delish. We arrived before 5 and sat at a high-top in the bar area so we were first served by the super busy bartender. She was friendly but not super attentive; not her fault as she was trying to attend to around 25 patrons all by herself. After a round of drinks and our appetizer, we were transferred to a new bartender for the rest of our meal. Bottom-line, it was a pleasant experience but nothing to write home about. I'd return if I was visiting MGH but wouldn't make a special trip as there are many other choices with similar menu items, competitive price points, and better ambiance.
(3)
Tom K.
Brunch Review! So maybe its about expectations, but walking into this place at 11am on a Sunday for brunch left me not expecting too much. The place was almost completely empty and looked like it was decorated in the 70s and not touched since. Fortunately for me, this place is a standout. The food here was great. We started with the Truffle Parmesan Fries and, although it goes terribly with both coffee or a mimosa, it was delicious. The Breakfast Pizza was very good as well, almost surprisingly so. Its such a simple concept but it works so well. Finally, the Eggs Benedict, while not something I'd write home about, were very good as well. Served on top of giant piece of delicious bread, I almost wished I had more eggs to go with it! So why 4-stars and not 5? There are fruit flies. I noticed them around the bar when I first walked in and another while we were eating. There's really no excuse for this at a restaurant. And while it doesn't particularly bother me, if you have an aversion to bugs at places you dine, you might want to skip HG.
(4)
Mel b.
Came here after the marathon for a bittersweet post race celebration. Wanted to thank the staff for the impressive service we received. I hadn't realized until after the fact how lucky we were to have a comfortable space to gather with family and friends-- I'm sure everyone working would have liked to do the same. I'll definitely be coming back in the future.
(5)
Tory H.
most people seem to think of this place as a going out spot but i went for dinner and it was awesome! Shared a bunch of apps with friends, we had the kobe sliders (awesome), mac and cheese (awesome), ceaser salad (not great), and the french onion soup (awesome). Will be back for sure!!
(4)
Brad M.
Loved it!!! Great atmosphere and food at reasonable prices.
(4)
Kathy A.
This is a nice place to go for a casual dinner or drinks with friends and family. It's a very relaxed environment with good service. They offer many good appetizers and entrees as well as some delicious sandwich choices. The turkey sandwich with apple chutney is awesome and the butternut squash pizza is pretty good too. However, for the caliber of the restaurant I would say they are a bit overpriced.
(3)
Karibeth M.
A group of 6 of us went to brunch on Sunday. The food was absolutely sinful. Our group started with the Truffle Parmesan Fries (yes, for breakfast), which wasn't a mistake. The basket was gone almost instantly and we kept looking for more. The Breakfast Sandwich was very messy to eat due to the hollandaise sauce (probably don't order this on a first brunch date), but was definitely worth the extra napkin as it was devilishly good. The portions were huge - a generous portion of homefries and fruit. From looking around the table at the Nutella and Banana French Toast, Omelette, Breakfast Pizza, and Eggs Benedict we were all struggling to clean our plates and there was plenty left on each plate to share and let other try as well. The service was a little slow and I drink that I had ordered that was not available that morning was still on the bill, but the waitress was very apologetic and took it off immediately when I found it. Definitely a place that I will go back to for brunch!
(4)
George M.
HG rocks! Great drinks are reasonably priced and served by goddesses. What's not to like? On the other side of the bar, the chick scene is pretty nice! I used to think the food was so-so, but things have changed. The food is now quite excellent. Brunch is uncrowded and relaxed. Check it out!
(4)
Denise M.
Went here on a Friday night with a group of four girls. We had a fabulous time - the food was delicious and the martinis were great. The environment was hip, but not too loud. The place would have gotten five stars if the food was a little less expensive and / or the service was a little bit better. There were periods of time that we didn't see the waitress for a long time and were left without knowing when our food would next arrive.
(4)
Roni E.
So I actually went all day without eating anything else after having brunch here. Literally... after my brunch, all I had was a Pumpkin Spice Latte from the 'bux and a LOT of wine later that evening, but no lunch or dinner for me. Now THAT's how brunch should be done. It should be able to keep you full and happy all day. And Harvard Gardens was able to do that. For $8 I enjoyed a Spinach, Tomato, Mozzarella and Basil Omelette. And for an extra $8.50 - my alcoholic cravings were fulfilled by the Raspberry Sangrita, which had freshly muddled raspberries making it look like a glass of Orbitz with the floating bits. I especially liked the home fries, which were slices of potatoes baked and topped with parmesan. The eggs had a good portion ratio between the ingredients. However, the egg itself seemed too fluffy for my taste, like not real eggs. Still delicious, but not my style. I'm actually quite surprised this place wasn't packed for a Saturday brunch, but maybe that's because no one knows what they are. Blair had mentioned that he thought it was a brothel for a long time based on the outside. And maybe that's why they're not getting the business they could be getting. *shrugs* Also, huge props to the family next to us that offered to move down a table with no hesitation.
(4)
Jessica P.
This is a great go-to place for pretty much any time of day: brunch, lunch, happy hour, and dinner - all really great food, never really have to wait too long for a table and always a good experience. I recently went with some friends on a Saturday night for dinner. We went at 745 and the restaurant part wasn't completely full but the bar area always seems to be packed even though its not that big of an area. The music was pretty fun and the lighting was dark enough that you actually felt like you were out for the night. I've been here many times and the service has always been decent, not really memorable (I guess thats good?) but this time the server seemed a bit annoyed to be there and alittle too "i dont give a shit." It didn't bother the meal too bad except he would ask half the group if they wanted another drink but not the rest so we'd have to call after him, as he quickly to turned to leave, about the rest of the drinks needed. Also at the end of the meal he asked if we wanted a shot to finish it up with? Strange, outta place? Yes I think so considering he was pretty distant the whole night, but anyways... The food is always really yummy, though it did seem to take a loong time to get there but no bother cause we weren't in a rush to go anywhere or that hungry. I had the Roasted Pork sandwich, sans fried onions, it was alittle under salted for me but over all really a great sandwich. Very moist and the cheese and brocoli rabe really made it come together. I love how they let you choose salad for a side instead of fries for no charge, always a plus. We also ordered the turkey sandwich, which was also really good, the apple chutney was a nice touch, and the butternut squash pizza with prosciutto added was awesome. Everyone at the table tried a piece and it was a hit. Just the right amount of sweet salty and cheesy, great choice. Bibb lettuce salad was unmemorable but decent size for a appetizer salad. Beers and drinks are reasonably priced. Not your usual selection though for restuarant for that area - no Octoberfest or BlueMoon? weird I've had the brunch here and it is really good and huuuge portions. The omelets are humungous and come with a ton of homefries. it does get pretty busy though.
(4)
Katie W.
Love this place to meet friends for drinks if I don't want to deal with the crowds of the Sevens or the smell of BHP. Lounge vibe inside with decent food which caught me off guard on my first visit and great drinks. Love the truffle fries and Mac and Cheese. My favorite drink-- the Cherry Lemonade: Lemonade, soda and black cherry vodka=deliciously deadly
(4)
Thomas N.
We often stop in for a beer here after walking around boston as it is neat the mgh stop, drinks are good and some different and interesting, we had lunch here saturday and everything was good, the mac and cheese very good, my tuna melt ok ( a little boring) and a caesars salad pretty good, fries were a little soft, overall a good place to stop for a drink and an ok place for a meal.............
(3)
David B.
Surprisingly good food overshadowed by other issues. My first thought was that it is a bar that tacked on a restaurant as an afterthought. As a bar, it's been around for a long time and it might not be worth a special trip but they do a reasonable job. It was a busy Thursday night and our reservation for six was maneuvering with difficulty for the maitresse d'hotel. She was apologetic and eventually parked us at a comfortable table. That's when we started running into problems. Our waitress was smart and friendly but it was clear that this evening some members of the waitstaff hadn't shown up because it took a long time to get a drink and an appetizer, not because the waitstaff wasn't working hard, but simply because there weren't enough of them. The appetizers arrived after about 20 minutes. The Pork Dumplings were steamed rather than pan-seared, but they were great. The special Duck Spring Rolls were surprisingly good. The main course took an epoch to get to the table. We spoke to our waitress twice and even considered bailing out but it was clearly not her fault. Finally, two weeks after she put the order in, the food arrived and it was...terrific. Almost worth waiting for. We had a mixed assortment of things and each one was perfectly done and better than we had expected. Clearly the kitchen team knows how to cook, if not how to expedite. This would have been a much better evening with the right amount of waitstaff and one or two more people in the kitchen. Unfortunately the one thing that will remain in all our memories is how overwhelmed the entire staff was. If we hadn't kept prodding our overworked waitress, we'd probably still be there waiting.
(2)
Jimbeau W.
We really like this place and try to stop by every couple of weeks. We usually eat at one of the hi tops in the bar area, just because at the after work time slot we show up this is the busiest area, however the dining area is very comfortable (lots of leather banquettes) and the servers are well trained and accomodating. We've tried a lot of dishes ranging from appetizers like grilled bacon wrapped dates stuffed with blue cheese and almonds to fire cracker shrimp (really good!) and Kobi sliders. All great! We've tried the entrees such as the burger (one of the best in Boston), pan roasted chicken and steak frites. All good, flavorful and decent portions. The only meh response I have is for the bolognese, which was just ordinary. When you add in the super drink menu, generous pours and friendly waitstaff, this place is a definite thumbs up.
(4)
John S.
Harvard Gardens works the "dimly lit funky restaurant" angle perfectly. You feel cooler when you enter, and after conversing with the friendly and attentive wait staff, you get a sense like perhaps you somehow own the place. The food is tasty and unique (lobster roll sliders, anyone), if a touch overpriced. The drinks, given the number of people at the bar, were slung often and well. This is a date place that is slightly more than casual, so hold off until date #3 to take the lucky guy or girl there.
(4)
Emme S.
This review is a response only to the brunch experience. I am usually a glass-half-full experiencer of untried restaurants and bars. However, Harvard Gardens was really disappointing when we went for brunch this past Sunday. The service, food and prices all left me feeling really unenthusiastic about the Harvard Gardens experience. Service: Our server was very sullen and inaudibly soft spoken. After every order - food or drink - he would bring us our check which was totally unsolicited and gave the impression that he was ready for us to vacate his booth. That is a serious no-no to me, particularly because we were continuing to order each time and the restaurant was not busy in the least. Maybe it wasn't the server - is that HG policy? Either way, the management should squash that practice ASAP. Food: The portion size of my expensive (more on that later) huevos rancheros was tiny. The eggs benedict tasted like the frying pan's plastic coating and the hollandaise had zero flavor. Neither dishes were particularly delicious, which was distressing given the cost. I was excited to try their raved about truffle fries - but they were never delivered without an explanation. Lastly, if you are going to name your Bloody Mary, you better make sure it's good. Theirs was not. Price: Boston has a wide variety of AWESOME brunch places that charge $10 for a delicious brunch. For that reason, I was really surprised by the expense of the breakfast items on the menu. Huevos rancheros consist of some very cheap ingredients - eggs, beans, tortillas - and the expensive ingredients used by HG were doled out in a very small portion - avocado, cotijo cheese. For $15, I would expect enough huevos to feed two people and be amazing. These barely fed one and were meh. I work in Beacon Hill and have always wanted to try Harvard Gardens. However, after our brunch experience, it's unlikely that I will fight the crowd for dinner or drinks.
(2)
Paul B.
Food is always good. Waitstaff and bartenders are always nice and do a great job. Has the feel of a much more expensive place. Very comfortable.
(4)
Karen K.
Had to add one more thing, Moscow Mule, try one, thank me later.
(5)
Mark T.
Had a really good burger there - just the plain cheeseburger for $10 was quite impressive.
(4)
Terry C.
It really should be a 2.5 star, but I'm feeling generous today. Service: Ehh...it was OK. The hostess was really nice and friendly but our waiter was OK. My friend wanted a drink that they no longer have and when she asked for a recommendation, he wasn't too helpful. He was also distracted every time someone walked in the door and did not check to see if our food was OK. Food: The parmesan truffle fries are SOOOOOOOOOO good, one of the best I've had. I'm drooling just thinking about it! I ordered a turkey wrap and it was extremely bland. I mean, how exciting can a turkey wrap be right? but this just wasn't great. One of my friends ordered the ribs as an entree and I think they serve the entire pig's rib cage as one entree! - the portion was ginormous! I would not go out of my way to try this place, but its not a bad place for a drink and some fries.
(3)
Sara S.
Harvard Garden's gourmet pizzas are delicious. Their fontina and butternut squash pizza with caramelized onions is a great blend of flavors, which I've also been a fan of their mushroom pizza (seems not to be on the menu anymore?!) Also, their truffle fries are amazing late-night! The bar scene here is just that... an effing scene. Doctors from MGH, former frat boys after work from the Financial District, and Lily Pulitzer-clad, David Yurman wearing, manicured young ladies. If you want to be hit on, come here. The drinks are strong, and their cocktail menu isn't bad, either. Three stars (really 3.5, but rounding down) because I really don't like the layout of the bar area. It is so freaking cramped and narrow, it's hard to hang out with a group of friends or make yourself through the mob to talk to someone new. However, it's a solid neighborhood spot for food and drinks.
(3)
John L.
I'm kind of split on Harvard Gardens, particularly as a brunch location. It's got some pluses and minuses, but the pluses eventually outweigh the minuses. A bunch of fun and exciting Yelpers converged upon Harvard Gardens after our original destination's wait was too long. After a walk that included the sighting of an intramural Quidditch match (there should be more of these, but that's another discussion for another day), we arrived at Harvard Gardens, ready to have some grub. Considering that it was relatively quiet, the staff was ready, able, and willing to sit our larger group, and with a major assist from the group sitting next to us (who moved over, and given the opportunity, I would give 5 stars to), we all plopped down, ready to eat and drink. On the drinks, I ended up with a mimosa, which was quite good (the OJ and champagne mixed quite well). The waiter was also quick to check and confirm that the pear bellini was not available. A little inconvenient, considering it's on the menu, but the fact he checked before he finished the drink orders was a plus. On the downside, after that point and the food orders, we didn't see much of our waiter. I didn't get my water refilled until after I had started on the food. Not the worst thing in the world, but still not ideal. As for the food, it was right on target. I ordered the omelet with homefries and bacon and toast. This resulted in getting a good amount of homefries and bacon, and a decently sized omelet. As for the taste itself, the omelet was good, not the greatest I've ever had, but very good nonetheless, and the bacon was a little tough for my own desire. The homefries, however, were amazing. They were little potato wedges, and not only were they well-seasoned, they were generally yummy. Overall, I'm waffling between 3 and 4 stars. It's not the most exquisite brunch I've had in the course of the series (Gaslight wins that), but I'd put it in second place as of now. While I kind of wish the server was around a little bit more, I can understand, and the fact that they did a good job of fitting us all in without a reservation merits that 4th star.
(4)
Ashley P.
Ok I need to break this up into sections.... Lunch: My coworkers and I love going here at lunch time. 90% of the time the service is great and fast. The food is always divine and much better than most of the other lunch places in the area. For lunch, I love the lobster roll, any of the pizzas and the french fries are amazing. Dinner: I came here for dinner for a birthday celebration with a group of girlfriends. Other than the obnoxious guy at the bar hitting on us the whole time, it was great. Our waiter was very helpful and did not make us feel pressured when we hung around for a very long time. I love the martini's and all the food that we had was great. Drinks/Bar: The bar area is very fun and relaxed. We were there on a Friday night so it was pretty busy, but we didn't have a problem getting a table. The atmosphere was nice and the people there seemed cool. The only reason that I deducted a star from HG is because when we sat at the table during the bar hours, we asked if we should go up to the bar to get our drinks (which we didn't mind doing) or if we were going to have a waitress. We were told we had a waitress, but she was extremely slow and we ended up going to the bar anyways. But I am definitely in love with this place and will continue to dine there often!
(4)
Evelyn S.
Nice service. Decent food and good drinks.
(3)
Kaitlin M.
Good local bar for me and my roommates to spend the night or stumble into late night. We've had their late night pizza a few times, and despite burning my mouth on it once, its delicious. They let us order a basket f fries right as the kitchen was closing one night too, and they were amazing. And not just because we had been drinking all night. The crowd is usually chill and fun. Top 40s music bumpin. But no one dancing It does get packed, and is kind of not sure what kind of bar it is. But its always reliable for a good time and good food, at any time. The bartenders and staff are always friendly and attentive as well.
(4)
Ali A.
I am an HG junkie - can't get enough! I've never been disappointed by the food, be it brunch, lunch, dinner or bar bites. For those later meals: One of my most favorite salads in the world is from Harvard Gardens - the Boston Bibb. Mmmmmm, I could have that every day and die a happy girl. The Pizzas are also delish and on a chilly fall/winter day, that Pumpkin Ravioli hits the spot! For those early meals: The omelets are fab. (Although you can really order anything that comes with the homefries because that is the real star of the plate.) The Pumpkin muffins come in twos are are hot out of the oven. But the best part of brunch here is that you can always get a table. No reservation, no waiting - something almost unheard of on a Sunday morning in this town. For those drinks: The bar scene is always lively and the cocktails are good. While the Dark & Stormy is no longer on the cocktail menu, order it because they make a delicious one!
(4)
EricaLynn J.
I've gone on Friday nights after about 9pm or so with a rather large crowd. They're usually able to handle the whole slew of us, and normally do so without fuss. Not a huge fan of the space; it's a little crowded for my taste, but then again, I'm the one who shows up with 15 people in tow, so I have no room to complain. Literally. But figuratively, too. Food is not worth the expensive price tag. I'd probably be happier if my friends chose a different place to go, but for the convenience factor, I'll remain in tow for the time being. Unless I'm hungry. Then it's a whole other story.
(3)
Adam G.
This is a nice bar to grab a drink, take in a game or get a sandwich off the menu if you're in the area. This is a good staple in a neighborhood where the options are sort of limited. In a city where inflated prices and terrible service could be lurking around any corner, this is a refreshing safe haven.
(4)
Blair H.
Here's my theory on the evolution of events which have led to the current situation at Harvard Gardens (HG). 1930- Good looking surgical resident at MGH, with well-defined facial features and English accent, fancies a pint. Finds HG suiting of his needs. Lets call him, Dr Cox. - Becomes a regular after 36hr rotations in clinic removing kidney stones with a rusty hammer. 1932- HG becomes a local hang-out for doctors. 1935- A gaggle of bachelorettes wanders through Beacon Hill and one breaks her ankle after slipping in vomit on North Grove Street, just adjacent to Cambridge Street. The Docs, having a Baywatch themed party, run out in slow motion to tend to the distressed broad. - 11 of the 13 bachelorettes wed the 6 physicians. The 12th and 13th end up together. All 13 end in divorce or mysterious disappearances. 1960s- For twenty years, physicians, gold-diggers, and cougars intermingle at HG, until... 1962- Douchebags discover HG. - Douchebags pretend to be physicians, lawyers, and pilots, attracting even more slutty women. The cycle propogates as douchebags and skanks multiply in number. - Physicians/Residents, hampered by their increasing work load and reimbursement cutbacks, leave HG. 2009- Cougars and gold-diggers still go to HG in search of docs. Instead, they are only met by douchebags pretending to be docs. To this day, HG is the place to watch Friday night fireworks as the two sexes vie for position. Fri/Sat nights are for those under 32 with waist sizes to match. For professionals in the area, lunch time is the time to go. For $15, a decent meal. For Brunch, mind the vomit around the corner, but rewards be had in the form of eggs benedict and morning cocktails.
(3)
TIM O.
This place earns extra points for a nostalgic decor and attentive service to match. The premium burger was great as a rare treat.
(4)
Peter G.
Been here twice, once for drinks and once for lunch. Service and quality of food were good. Bartender was friendly enough without being too over top as is the case in some places. My wife had the quails eggs and I had a breakfast. Both were slightly different to be genuinely interesting and tasty without being pretentious. The quails eggs were the best ever and the breakfast consisted of ample portions of good home food. We'll be back there on our next pub crawl! Well done guys!
(4)
Kim K.
I. Freaking. Love. Harvard. Gardens. Where to begin? First, this place is bustling. It's got a huge bar right up front and tables lining the walls and in the back. It's dimly lit, has huge HD TVs, and a constant buzz of noise. That all said, I find the atmosphere of this place incredibly sexy. It's just exactly what I've ever wanted in a date restaurant. One of the best appetizers I have ever had came from here: lobster roll sliders. They were creamy, the lobster was delicious (and I'm not a lobster person), and the bread was buttery and yummy. Entrees: The sandwiches are my go to here. And every one I've ever had has been exquisite. The pulled pork was smoky and delicious and the tuna melt was perfectly cooked panini style. The salads are great here, super fresh. The fries are yummy too. The service has always been awesome when I've gone, the waitstaff is a bunch of really cool folks. Anyways, just do yourself a favor and go to Harvard Gardens on your next date night, ok?
(4)
Leah M.
I like HG. It has a good atmosphere and the food is decent but I feel it is extremely over priced for what you get. A simple side salad is $8, which is pretty ridiculous if you ask me. Plus when I was there the manager (Im assuming was the manager, an older Hispanic gentleman) was extremely rude not just to me and my party but to the staff. It's the service industry, cracking a smile wouldn't kill you... just saying
(3)
Nick G.
So I don't really know what all the fuss is about. HG is a pricey bar/restaurant that that tries very hard to be something it's not. The food is mediocre at best . Service seem slow and at 10PM on a Thursday maybe it just wasn't firing on all cylinders. You can find better on Cambridge Street.
(1)
Christopher L.
Delightful brunch with the best huevos rancheros in the city! Red velvet are good for when you're in a decadent sort of mood. Lunch and dinner options are also very good and are well above the standard boston bar food.
(4)
Courtney H.
So I've been here twice now, once for a very early dinner with the fam and once for drinks on my bday before going to another bar. I enjoyed both times. It really is the most convenient bar I think to MGH, which is why I've stopped by both times really. Drinks and food aren't too pricey for the Beacon Hill area. I had the margherita pizza and it was very tasty. I also liked their mac & cheese. When I came for drinks, I just got my regular but it was good. Everything about this place screams Ok, but not awesome. If you are in the area and looking for a decent place then you should stop by. If you are looking for some awesome place to drink, maybe stop by Alibi across the street.
(3)
Deepa C.
The ever fabu Yelp book club met here last month to fair reviews. Service - good but not spectacular. Our waitress WAS patient with our group and didn't make many mistakes but had somewhat bad timing. Not a huge deal though - 12 chattering girls can prove to be a challenge to corral when all you want to do it get drink orders. The selection - LOTS of egg-based dishes, no French Toast? No Pancakes? Really? The did have sandwiches and all that, but when you meet at 11, a burger seems not quite right. That said, the salads looked amazing and the omelets were large and filling. The potatoes were not my cup of tea, but everything else seemed to love them. The atmosphere - surprisingly empty when we left around 12:30/1 on a Saturday. Other than that, it was pretty basic, tables, chairs, bar, floor. Nothing crazy, but still not boring and sparse. Will I be back? With all the other brunch places that I have yet to try, I may not be back anytime soon. That said, if I find myself int he area at brunch time and hungry, yes, I would probably stop in.
(3)
Leighann F.
Good for large groups. Not so much for Eggs Benedict. I've eaten a lot of Eggs Benedict in my adult life and this version of the dish was near the bottom of my list. The eggs were undercooked, the dill-infused Hollandaise was very watery and the English muffins were soggy. The salmon was thickly sliced and not smoked, which did not add much to the overall flavor of the dish. The potatoes, on the other were amazing and came in a giant pile on my plate! Thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned, light on the cheese and onions. I could have done without the Benedict and simply have eaten the potatoes. If you don't mind sacrificing some quality for portion size, Harvard Gardens is definitely the spot for you! I don't think one person in our entire party finished their meal!
(3)
A N.
The reason for 1 star would be the service... the place wasn't even half way full. service took forever... but even worse, we ordered an app so once my meal came i was barely hungry, took literally 2 bites and asked for it to be packed to go... so the server figured it would be ok to throw away all the french fries and the half of sandwhich with 2 bites taken out of it... ridiculous, if your that dumb ask specifically what i want packed. now i know why they dont do take out... they would throw half your meal away before packing it.
(1)
Danielle E.
So my coworkers and I USED to dine here at least once a month.. We would get together and dish as girlfriends usually do over burgers and fries...the food was pretty good--seeing as we selected very simple entrees... but the last few times we have eaten here the food was disugusting...Especially this past Thursday. We ALL order burgers, but everyone but me asked for theirs well done... note that I asked for mine to be medium. ALL of our burgers tasted like charcoal, not to mention my fries and their parm fries were soggy and overcooked. We are talking basic All-American cuisine--and they screwed it up! I could have given half a star more because he did take the 5 (burgers) out of the 7 meals ordered off of the bill but I went home hungry :(
(1)
Rick L.
My wife and I had a great dinner here. The tuna tartar was excellent(great quality tuna) and the truffle fries were amazing. The steak frite was just ok. Service was also just ok. That's why the 4 stars. Portions are a generous size.
(4)
Cleopatra P.
I braved the elements last Saturday morning to dine at Harvard Gardens with some fellow Yelpers for the monthly book club brunch. The conversation and company were impressive--the food unfortunately, not so much. I knew that something was up as soon as I opened up my menu to see nary a mention of French toast or pancakes among my brunch options. Come to think of it, there was a serious lack of simple carb-filled options for a meal which is one of the best excuses out there to carbo-load. What was really messed up was that, going by the other offerings on the menu, the basic ingredients for French toast were clearly lying around the kitchen (eggs, milk, cinnamon, bread, etc.), but there was not one meal that included my favorite brunch staple. Since I hate omelettes and most other egg-centered dishes, I decided to be lame and order a cheeseburger. Bad idea. My cheeseburger ended up being a mean, rather sad-looking affair--a small, dry, and oh-so-tasteless beef patty overwhelmed by a large, stiff bun and topped off with a perfunctory sprinkling of shredded mozzarella. The fries that came with my meal were very good, but not nearly good enough to make up for the hunk of ill-prepared and poorly-outfitted meat on my plate. Between the menu weirdness and the lackluster food, I doubt that I'll be back at Harvard Gardens on my own dime any time soon.
(2)
Katie B.
I went in to Harvard Gardens and found they have a deliciously updated menu created by a new chef. Some of the same bar-food staples remain (the Kobe Sliders are amazing) but the dinner menu has greatly improved. I had the Lemon and Sea Salt Crusted Pan Roasted Chicken with rosemary prosciutto gnocchi and caramelized cauliflower. The chef seemingly uses French cooking methods because the chicken breast was mouth wateringly tender on the inside and the skin was perfectly crisped on the outside. I was in taste bud heaven! The chef even sent over a complementary blueberry cobbler with vanilla bean ice cream for dessert... The only thing I miss very dearly from the old menu is the Edamame with Sesame oil, but with all these new treats to try, I will forget it soon enough! If it's been a while, give Harvard Gardens another try for a nice dinner out!
(4)
d f.
Had lunch here on a rainy August Monday afternoon after appointments at MGH. Service was exceptional - thanks to Jackie who was bartending/serving. The truffled mac & cheese was great and atmosphere was relaxing as there were only a few customers on this particular day and time. The cost was typical for Boston: $7 for a beer and $20 for Mac & Cheese. I enjoyed the food and conversation with other patrons and Jackie.
(4)
John E.
Very simple - the Kobe beef sliders w/ bacon infused may topped off with a quail egg is one of the best things I have ever had
(5)
Mike N.
Lots of pretentious people who really shouldn't be. Otherwise the truffle fries ahhh manifique
(3)
Jordan G.
Happening Bar, Delicious Food and Phenomenal Service, need I say more? Okay okay, apparently I do. Don't be fooled by the outer appearance of the restaurant. When me and my ladies arrived by cab, the exterior looked like a diner. But boy, were we in for a surprise. The bar was hopping and the game was on in the background. While we weren't seated promptly, the manager comped our drinks while apologizing profusely. Glad to see that they cared. The food... oh where do I start? The Tuna and the Lobster Quesadilla were delectable. I am a huge fan of the wagyu burger (SMOTHERED with onion rings) while my friends raved about the bibb salad and the pumpkin ravioli. And you must order the truffle parmesan fries. My carb-conscious friends couldn't resist seconds, thirds and fourths. All in all, the experience was great. The only reason why I didn't give the full 5 stars was due to the bar being a little too noisy and spilling into the dining area. Difficult to control since there's only a small divider between the two.
(4)
Travis K.
My wife and I had a nice dinner here. The burger was great and the Mac and cheese was outstanding.
(4)
G S.
I met a friend here for drinks last night before going out for the night. The way she described it was "There are always a lot of cute but uninteresting men here." The men here last night were not cute or interesting. A lot of short, Beacon Hill "young professionals"...no thanks. The drinks are good and the staff is friendly. It can get a bit crowded, but there's usually room to stand or sit at the bar.
(3)
Patrick C.
Harvard Gardens is close by, so my girlfriend and I went a few times when we first moved in. Three attempts resulted in disappointment. We ordered Lobster Ragoons (sounded good!) but sent them back because they were just bad. They cooked us a new batch and were very nice about it. Unfortunately, we were wrong. It wasn't that they were cooked incorrectly, by their standards; it was that Harvard Gardens makes horrible Lobster Ragoons! - If you want to drink: Go to Beacon Hill Pub, around the corner - If you want to eat: Go to The Hill Tavern, down the street - If you want to eat, then drink: Go to The Hill Tavern then Beacon Hill Pub
(1)
Christina G.
I've been here a few times. Once for brunch and twice for dinner mainly just because its close. Brunch was pretty good here, but dinner has never wowed me. The menu is not that impressive and neither is the food to be honest. I'm sure its great if you are just going out for drinks though. I like the Hill Tavern Better.
(2)
Jeff W.
I've been here a few times. Brunch, Lunch, and most recently drinks and a few appetizers. Food was decent - may not win awards, but I won't complain. What gives this place the 4 stars are the bar tenders. Attentive, Friendly, and Honest. What else could you ask for? Cheers to this place --- I'll be back for sure!
(4)
Michelle L.
A great bar for casual drinks and apps. Especially great if you aren't really in the mood to go out, but can't imagine sitting at home. Harvard Gardens has seating for dinner and standing room for drinking bar-side. Nothing better than that.
(3)
Purvi R.
A good place to meet up with people given its proximity to the train station and MGH. Went here on a weeknight once and met up with a friend and some of her MGH colleagues. I actually was surprised - the interior looked a lot nicer than I had expected - I don't know what I was expecting and why, but I somehow thought it'd be more like Hill Tavern or even just a step up from the BHP. Anyways, we passed a couple of appitizers - in particular note was the grilled naan and onions and chutney. Random but pretty good. For dinner, I had the ravioli - warning - it is VERY rich. I might almost suggest asking to go easy on the sauce, as it is very buttery. It was good, but not sure I would order it again. Friends at the table were sharing some pizzas and they were also delicious - but definitely shareable! One menu item that was memorable was the fries. Great stand-alone snackability. The other thing that surprised me (less after I saw the interior of the place) was price. Somewhat pricey for some items, but they have such a wide range, it's possible to get out of there without emptying your wallet. Just choose wisely. Would I come here again? I don't think I would be opposed but I might eat beforehand. Fun atmosphere, yes, but don't see myself getting overly excited to go there.
(3)
Adam M.
We had a fantastic brunch and a great overall experience. The food was unique and tasty; even the breakfast potatos were excellent. The selections included some very healthful options. We were in a rush to get to a Bruins game; they got us in and out in 45 minutes, no problem. Service was friendly and attentive. I'm amazed that such a happening nighttime spot would do such a great job with brunch.
(5)
angela g.
I had a decent time here last night. We went for dinner and drinks. I liked the cozy lighting and modern environment. From the outside, i was expecting something divier. Sat down around 9:30 and left just before cosing. The drink list is interesting, but i found that everything i tried lacked the proper amount of alcohol. 2 out of 3 of us had great meals, I had the seared tuna salad and grilled asparagus. YUM. i could eat some right now. However, my fiance had the mac and cheese. What a disappointment, as one reviewer said previously, tasted like heavy cream was poured onto soggy noddles and topped with bread crumbs. bummer. the waitress while she seemed disinterested in any of our antics, was pretty reliable and kept the booze flowing. the only complaint i have is the high percentage of douche bags that seem to fill this place. but hey i can forgive that. i would be back.
(4)
Christine C.
Well, I have never eaten here since the only time I go is after 11 on weeknights... however... They serve dark and stormies. They are convienient to my job. They have ample seating and fun music (not good, fun). I plan on trying the late night snacks ( I really love snacks) tonight and will review more later... (building up anticipation!) UPDATE- Love the late night menu! Really quirky items that turned out to be really yummy!
(4)
Michael A.
A definite big step up from all the pubs in the area. Always a good crowd there. Good menu good food. Nice staff.
(4)
Lauren D.
A good, good friend took me to Harvard Gardens twice. Once for lunch and once for brunch. Both meals were delicious. The restaurant has a great ambiance - dim lighting, and a great music selection. The TVs at the bar usually showing whatever game is on at the moment. For lunch I had the Grilled Chicken with Fresh Mozzarella, Thick Tomato, Smoked Bacon & Basil Pesto Mayo (so yummy!), and for brunch I had an Omelet which was the special - smoked tomato, bacon, and cheese. Alongside the omelet were arguably some of the best home fries I have ever had in my life. I'm still waiting to go back just to have those again. The orange juice was freshly squeezed, and even the coffee was good. Between the delicious food, the nice, relaxing atmosphere, good music being played, and the attentive, pleasant staff, you cannot go wrong with Harvard Gardens. I'm still thanking my friend for bring me there, even though I have been disappointed with most other home fries since my brunch there.
(5)
Gail L.
Meh! Went for cocktails late on a Saturday, not impressed. Did not eat.
(2)
Cee Cee S.
Average. Came here for lunch during orientation week at MGH. The food was ok, but the service was so slooooowwwwwww. No one came to refill my water glass or soda. Come on, we were there at noon and there were only 4 other tables with fellow lunchers. Come on, I'm a nurse, and I can totally do the "avoiding eye contact thing" but then again, I don't work for tips. The food: I had the oven roasted pork sandwich. It was like a cuban, but on better bread. The only downside is that I've been burping up banana peppers and pickles all afternoon. If they improve the service, I'd up the stars.
(3)
Todd O.
I'm not sure why so many people are raving about brunch at this place. It's only OK at best. The food break down: 1. Breakfast Pizza. This was pretty much a bland quiche containing asparagus, bacon, goat cheese, and eggs. Salt was required and lots of it. On the bright side it might be an ideal dish if you hate tasty things. 2. Blueberry Pancakes w Side of Sausage. The stack was 5 high. Respectable. However they just lacked taste. I'm a huge pancake fan and I can only say that they were fine - the type of fine you experience with at-home pancake mix. Meh. A side of bacon comes with this meal and it is billed as apple smoked (or something to that effect). It was super bland! Who ever heard of bland bacon? The saving grace were the home fries. They were very tasty little potato chip style fries with parmesan. That was good. I ordered an extra side of sausage which was also very tasty. My girlfriend suggested that they may have contained some rosemary. They were good. Overall Harvard Gardens was just bland. If you are looking for a good brunch there are a ton to choose from in Boston, but this is not one. I've read good things about their lunch, but based on our brunch experience, we are not likely to come back.
(2)
Sean J.
This place sucks. It's made to be a restaurant, not a bar, and yet they feel the need to cram as many people into it as possible. The result? A literal deadlock once you enter the door. You cannot make it from one side of the bar to the other because there are two rows of booths and everyone stands in the narrow aisle between them. The only thing harder than getting around in the bar is getting one of the bartenders to help you.
(1)
Dan B.
I'll make this short and sweet. Ever since HG hired their new executive chef, this place has become my go-to spot. Awesome food, good portions, great atmosphere and a great staff!! Couple of recommendations for ya: pork dumplings (delicious). Had the Burger for my main course, pretty much melted in my mouth, cooked to perfection! Brilliant! My date ordered the special, an Asian style short rib dish with purple sweet potatos and fried green beans. Honestly, I've never seen her finish a meal in 7yrs until last night. Top it all off with their peanut butter chocolate molten cake for dessert and you're in business! Can't say enough about this place, classy yet also a good spot to unwind and watch a game! Prices are very reasonable. Even If you just feel like a beer and wings you'll be satisfied!! Well done HG, check this place out!
(5)
J M.
I HEART DAVE! (enough said)....P.S. the mac and cheese and hot dog are pretty amazing!
(5)
M M.
I came to Harvard Gardens after finally meeting up with one of my buddies who got stuck on the red line during the recent electrical failure. We were hungry as hell, and this place was the closest food venue we could find. It looked like a sports bar from the outside, so we expected cheap bar food and a younger crowd. Definitely not. It seemed like a place for professionals in their late 20s/early 30s to get together and enjoy the bar scene without dealing with stupid ass drunk kids. The food was not bad overall. I ordered the Atlantic salmon, which was really well prepared. The steak was a little tough, even for a sirloin. The mac and cheese was nothing memorable. The reason I give this place 4 stars is because I really enjoyed my dish and it seemed like most of the dishes held their value. The reason I don't give it a 5 stars is because service was a bit slow.
(4)
Jennifer J.
Food is inexpensive and pretty good. Waiters were very nice. Has a divey feel. Easy to get a seat on a Thursday night.
(4)
Tarah H.
First off, wine glasses as water glasses do not work. Yes, it looks classy and cool, but I'm not ordering water because I'm cheap, I want it because I'm thirsty, desire hydration and don't want the 200 calories a glass that accompanies soda. Whew. Glad I got that off my chest. So this place is a solid 3 to 3.5 star place. Basic bar fare done all fancy like as seems to be the trend. And they do an okay job of it. Sandwiches come with salad or fries or half and half. The dressing is a bit sweet for my taste, but okay. I wish they let the grilled asparagus stand on its own rather than drizzling balsamic all over it, but that's no great sin. The food is of good taste and good quality. The decor is that bistro bar look that seems to be more and more prevalent these days. A good vacuuming of the valance over the entry to the kitchen is needed. Speaking of which, I could see right into the kitchen without a half wall to hide even the most unavoidably unattractive part of the kitchen. I walked by this place at least a thousand times before ever entering. I was a Hill resident and thought this to be nothing more than an unimpressive bar with unimpressive food and unimpressive patrons. The food is better than I thought. Still undecided about the rests. It definitely gets crowded at night, but it's a solid lunch/dinner option, if not a little full of itself.
(3)
Molly W.
Went here late-night with friends and had a good time! You can hang by the bar, or sit at the open tables. It was full, but not ridiculously so - it's popular, which is a good sign, and it's an interesting mix of people. I mean, it's Beacon Hill - so it's like law-school kids and people who work at the State House n junk. My friend really wanted to meet a hot lawyer or something, and it's like yeaaaahhhh... I don't think so. But hey - you never know, tomorrow's another night, right? Anyway, there was a late night dance party, and we were groovin', so I thought it was pretty fun. I like to go out and dance, but not have to go to a club. You know what I mean? So yeah. Cool.
(3)
Trice B.
I think this place really has some good food, and the drinks are alright...not great. We had 3 rounds, and I still wasn't as buzzed as I like. But they tasted good going down. The prices are a little steep, and I think they believe they are more upscale than they appear. I mean it is a nice place, definitely a few notches up than the Hill Tavern down the street, but it's not the Liberty Hotel. Overall... would recommend this place if you are in the area, but dont go out of your way to eat here.
(3)
Kristina F.
Raspberry Sangarita! I just like saying it, and drinking it. We went here one hot Saturday afternoon after a bunch of friends got finished playing kickball (yes kickball!) at the Teddy Ebersol fields across the street. We rolled in 14 people deep and I thought they were going to freak, but they welcomed us with open arms!! Bartender was super cool, as were the manager on duty - we even gave them kickball tee-shirts. (jealous, aren't you!) We ordered snacks - truffle fries were awesome. Other stuff was pretty basic, and good. Drinks were a flowing, shots and it was 3 in the afternoon. While I don't know how the rest of the patrons felt about a bunch of loud rowdy kickballers, I know we had a good time. Good times!
(3)
Lowell H.
More of a bar with food. But the food was very good and a bit upscale. My wife had the ahi, which was great. I had the macaroni and cheese with ham and peas which was great. They had a lot of sandwiches on the menu about 4 pasta dishes and four entrees. Loud music, must be the latest music, because I never heard any of it before. My waitress was very good.
(4)
Ali S.
3.25 I can practically see this place from my apt, so I've been there quite a few times by now, especially for last call. Unfortunately, that is probably the worst time to go here. At a certain point in the night, this place goes from chill restaurant lounge to a loud, abrasive pick-up joint. Not sure when that transformation happens but it does. The food here is good, but overpriced. Although, their scallop dish is worth trying at least once. The wait staff can be quite snippy, which I don't appreciate from anyone who literally works for tips. Overall, not the worse place to pick-up a drink, but the earlier you go the better the crowd and energy. Bottom Line: I like this place before 12:30 AM
(3)
Arestia R.
A great place I drag myself to on a weekday evenings or for last call on the weekend. Beacon Hill singles sip on Sam Seasonal while mingling with old friends and even making some new ones. The space is a little cramped for my taste, but I like the vibe...almost like a speakeasy. The secret, though? BRUNCH. I know, I would never think of it either! But the potatoes are to die for and it's a nice place to enjoy my favorite meal with friends.
(3)
Stu G.
Nice place. Got a great booth for five on short notice last Saturday night. Food and service were great. Had been here for drinks before. I was impressed with the dining. Not pretentious or busy. Will definitely return. Nice
(4)
Matt P.
Never been disappointed with this place... I've eaten lunch and dinner here on numerous occasions and it's always rocked a decent 3.5/4 stars. It's a nice spot on the other side of the hill if you're looking for reasonable prices and more creative fare. Atmosphere wise and all that jazz... i've never been past probably 8 or-so so no clue what it'd be like on a Saturday night; but if you are in the neighborhood i'd try it at least once.
(4)
Tom C.
Where do you eat on Sunday night and you're from out of town? Harvard Gardens is a must. Ron (bartender/manager) was very knowledgeable about his brews and friendly enough for this out of towner. Really nice moody atmosphere (dark with red lights except for the white(er) seating area in back). BTW a grilled chicken sandwich is more than it seems...get the salad not the fries.
(4)
Simon G.
I've been very slow to review this place because I'm too lazy. This is a long time coming, I go here once or twice a month. The lunch and dinner menus are just a step above normal bar fare. The music is great. Would not expect animal collective or kings of leon to play at a yuppie-ish bar. Also, other good music that I generally recognize and am surprised to hear, but forget because... the drinks are excellent because they are strong... and the bartenders are top-notch. These guys are friendly and attentive. A great break from the overall shitty Boston customer service. Can be a bit cramped at the bar though.
(4)
Colin G.
Solid Bar Joint for the Back Bay. food is surprisingly good and a great option if your looking for a place that is slightly more then just drinks in a night out. The mixed drinks are decent the the beers on tap is pretty good. It is most definitely a early 30's late 20's hang out. It is a good place for picking up someone of a decent background in the city.
(3)
Jasmine T.
I've only been here for drinks a couple of times. Everytime I go in the are so many snooty people that always are looking down on you. The bartenders were a little rude and took a while to come over even though it was a Wednesday night. They do play really good music though.
(3)
Cyndi H.
over priced and pretentious. Service was slow and host was obnoxious with an attitude. Work in the area and would not go back there
(1)
Allison S.
Although their beer list could use some help, their food is yummy! It keeps me coming back... They are constantly changing their dinner menu, and most everything on there looked appetizing. I wanted it all. If only my stomach was as big as my eyes think they are.... Although it was super hot (my bf and I were sweating) and the fire alarm went off (which I think can be attributed to their renovations, but I'm not sure), we had a great meal - even if they didn't have any dessert. Recommendation: if you like pasta and/or goat cheese, get the orchiette. It has goat cheese, orchiette, peas, tomatos, and a creamy pesto-like sauce. YUM! I was also pleasantly surprised to find out that they have brunch until 3pm on the weekends. Nice.
(4)
Ali E.
The brunch here is outstanding. On the pricier side, but the portions are monstrous. The HG Benny - Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon and asparagus is tremendous, both in size and yumminess. Whatever you do, though, make sure you get a side of hash browns - they're almost like thick-cut potato chips. Salty and perfect for a rough morning. The bar scene is most definitely of the meatmarket variety. But the music is great (Outkast/Killers/Kings of Leon) and the drinks aren't too expensive considering the clientele. EDIT: I just got back from lunch here and I'll reiterate my four-star rating. Our waiter was attentive and accomodating (and super cute). I ordered prociutto pizza and my fellow diner got the grilled chicken sandwich - a little expensive, but HUGE portions and very good, so justifiably so.
(4)
M T.
Bad! Went in for a quick app and beer..calamari came with pickles and jalapeños and the bread part was soggy, near inedible! Beer was fine but honestly how can you mess that up! Be sure to pass this door and move on down the road...
(1)
Kristina M.
We hit this place up for a last drink on our way home from Beacon Hill Pub (which is right next door). It is definitely way more trendy than the aforementioned pub (maybe trying a little too hard, though?), but the drinks weren't actually more expensive than next door (which was surprising). Music was ok, and the waiter was very nice. I don't think I would usually go here, but after the Beacon Hill this pace provided a pleasant conclusion of our night.
(3)
heather F.
just fine. food okay - sliders were good.
(3)
Greg D.
Good cheap place to drink (They serve food here?). I don't understand this place, is it an upscale dinner? It seems like a pretty party place and by 11pm people are starting to clear out. Good Service.
(3)
Courtney B.
I love everything about this place and am also an HG junkie!!! It's my go to watering hole in the area. Great food, great drinks and the awesome service. Seriously, you need to try the parmesan truffle fries. The bartenders are super friendly, funny and knowledgable, and on top of all that make some seriously stiff and tasty drinks! The ambiance is upscale without being pretentious, perfect spot for after work drinks for young professionals, and also gets packed and crazy fun on Friday and Saturday nights. They also have an incredible brunch! One of my favorite places in Boston.
(5)
Jessica S.
Just had a great birthday dinner at Harvard Gardens with the fam. The salads were fresh and sooo tasty (heirloom tomatoes and peach w/ balsamic glaze- total yum). The steak frite w/ parmesan truffle fries were unbelievable- definitely a table favorite. Reasonably priced for Boston and great service. Plus we were able to find on street parking on a Sat night- bonus!
(5)
Connie R.
Love Harvard Gardens! Recently moved into B Hill and just walked to it thinking it was like a casual pub. We were suprised to see it was a bit more upscale. It was but not at all stuffy. The prices can get high if you are just stopping in for a quick after work meal or lunch but it really is good. I am over the moon for the chicken sandwich. The fries are the best I have ever had but if the waitress asks if you want your fries parmesan, just know there is a charge. Still, yum yum. The wine list and bar are great although I usually dont partake. Desserts I could take or leave but you will be too stuffed to eat them anyway. GO GO GO to Harvard Gardens! You will be happy with your choice!
(4)
Meredith K.
When I walked in I observed this place had a cute, trendy decor/atmosphere. We were seated right away so I was happy there was no wait, but slightly concerned it would be one of trendy places with bad to mediocre food. They had decent beer / wine / drink selection and what looked to be a promising menu. The martinis were tasty - we were off to a good start. Our waitress was also very friendly and attentive. Food was ok. Not fantastic, but definitely not bad. I got steak frites. I had ordered the steak med. rare and it was more like med. well and was an ok piece of meat, but the fries with Parmesan cheese and truffle oil were soooo tasty, and the spinach was really good. Chicken was a little dry and unspecial. A friend had the pan seared tuna with pad thai noodles and loved it. So menu was a mixed bag. But for dinner and drinks out with friends - a good place to go.
(3)
Don A.
I don't know why people rave about Harvard Gardens, the beer selection is decent, and their food is average, I don't understand why people would make a trip to go out to this place. If I lived in the neighborhood I would probably go to this bar, but it is definitely not a Boston destination. I went to meet some people, we sat at a high top table and had some fries, the chicken fingers and some macaroni and cheese. The mac and cheese was bad, not very cheesy, almost like someone poured heavy cream over soggy noodles and then threw the concoction in the oven with bread crumbs on top. The fries were soggy and didn't come out very hot, but still edible, the one saving grace was the chicken fingers, the meat was tender and tasty, and the outside had the perfect crunch. The selection of dipping sauces left something to be desired, they weren't very good with the exception the buffalo sauce which wasn't bad. The atmosphere of the place was decent, definitely a lot of people for drinks and a lot of people for dinner, the location isn't bad, across from MGH and the T station so at least it wasn't a long commute for me to get out there. All in all I would probably go back but this place is never going to be on the top of my mind when I think of Beacon Hill Pubs.
(2)
Kelly H.
I absolutely love Harvard Gardens! It is my favorite place to go in Beacon Hill! The food is always delicious especially the spinach and artichoke dip (I think its the amazing chips that makes this dish irresistible). The staff is wonderful and very helpful, even when it is a busy night the service is always spot on! Perfect place for a date or a night out with the girls!
(5)
Dana L.
Talk amongst yourselves. I'll give you a topic: Harvard Gardens is neither a garden nor Harvard. A bit more upscale, perhaps, than BHP, but its less of a bar and more of a restaurant.
(3)
June P.
Very disappointed with Harvard Gardens. This is a neighborhood bar, and I have had two poor experiences here. My coworkers and I were looking for a place to hang out and throw back a few after work. We came into HG, where no one greeted us. There were no seats at the bar but the rest of the place was empty. (I understand you can't sit unless you're eating). We asked if some seats might open up soon, and the waiters didn't respond. So we left. I should've known better after this experience, but I wanted to give it a shot. I went here on a weeknight with a friend. He wanted food, so we sat at the tables. The service started off fine but, as the night went on, it was quite clear that the waitress wanted us out. Our beers went empty, our water glasses empty, and our table... empty. At the end of the night, I split the bill with my friend but he had ordered more. So I left less "tip". I checked my statement a few days later, and she had overcharged me. Needless to say, I will not be back.
(1)
John D.
The place is just another bar with decent food! So, why, oh pretentious hostess, did you think you had to ASK us TWICE whether we'd be having dinner? I said "a table for two for dinner" didn't I? Didn't you hear me the first time? Or did you really feel the need to ask me again on our way to a table? Maybe you get clientele who asks for a table and just drinks. What gave you the right to pool me into that category? You don't know me! When my date asked for a table different from the one we were put at, you snapped- "They are all reserved"! That's like McDonalds saving a table for those ordering an Angus Burger. Repeat after me: I just work at a mid-scale restaurant! Finally, after we settled in our seat, you came up once again, telling me which of the 4 seats at our table I should be sitting at because I'm blocking access to the bar area! Shouldn't you be cognizant of the fact that that table WAS blocking access and NOT set up a table there? I'm NOT sorry, that we just walked up and left. (That's brings me to the single star - yes, the water was refreshing and cold, so our waitress helped you earn that lone star) It was PRICELESS the way you went wide-eyed as we walked past you without a word exchanged! So... Get your act together, dear hostess... and stop pretending you are something you are not. The local restaurant up the road more than obliged us with a corner seat by the window, did not rush us despite constant flow of people, and all in all made us feel welcome.
(1)
Ethan H.
I'll tell you what - say what you will about HG but this place has never disappointed me. I have never eaten here, but the drinks are good, and there are usually a bunch of pretty cool peeps up in there. Pretty low amount of douchbaggery and a pretty high fun quotient. I like this place. Not for any particular reason, but because it is what it is - a solid, honest bar with a pretty favorable girl:guy ratio.
(4)
William P.
I went here with a friend and found that it was alright, a little crowded and when at capacity like it was the night I was in there it can be a little tough to move around. I will say that the bartenders were great because I never had a problem getting a drink. This would be a 3 star bar but the bartenders saved it one star.
(4)
Caitlin C.
The HG is such a friendly bar and I almost always have a great time when I go. We usually end up heading there when we don't want to go too far from home, but we don't feel up for the Faneuil scene. Most recently we stopped in on our way home for a couple hours after the ball dropped on NYE. I was still fighting the effects of a serious food coma, but we managed to score a booth so I could sit and drink a beer while the girls did some dancing. Everybody wins!
(4)
Lindsay D.
One star: Waitstaff is very attentive and will offer up suggestions One star: The mixed drinks are plenty strong One star: Proximity to my office and the T No star: The food. Really, Harvard Gardens, really? A house salad implies more than greens and dressing, especially when the price is so high. Also, the Truffled Parmesean fries were way overcooked and poor quality. No star: The drink timer. I have never in my life been to a bar that wouldn't let a partron order 2 rounds of shots in under 10 or 15 minutes. Weird... and not in a good way.
(3)
Bob G.
I went there for drinks while waiting for another restaurant. Cool place, friendly staff. I can see this being a fun local place
(3)
Colin N.
I've been to Harvard Gardens twice now. It's a much classier alternative to the BHP around the corner. However, the first time I went with my buddy ben, a drunk guy who claimed he just got out of prison was threatening to kill us. I bought him a drink and that still didn't calm him down. He claimed to know the bartender there, but that remains to be seen. Overall, I will go back. Women seem to love the place, and the times I've been have had a great girl / guy ratio.
(4)
Dendra A.
Terrible experience. First off, we were given the wrong menus for the day. Our server got our drinks wrong [two sodas?] It took forEVER to get the food and the place maybe had three tables. She was really disinterested in serving us, and I was displeased. Vowed never to go back, and I haven't since.
(1)
Felecia C.
Harvard Gardens, with its neon sign, looks from the outside like a cliche sports bar, and this is partially true. There is a bar along one wall and a couple screens showing the game du jour, but the seating area is dimly lit with candles, giving that part of the bar an almost romantic feel. HG does tack it up though - last time I was there, I noticed orange/pink string lights. Classy touch, HG. I usually hit this bar up right after work, when things are a bit slow. The clientele is mainly hospital folk or overflow from the Hill, so things do pick up later in the evening, but that has a negative effect on the service. Even though the waitstaff can be slow, I have always enjoyed my drinks - esp the admittedly girly Raspberry Sangrita. The music doesn't suck and neither does the food (according to the people I'm with who eat it). But I wish there were more space devoted to the bar instead of the dark dining area. Maybe I should be generous with the 4th star, since I am here often enough and it is generally a good time, but there is something about this bar that doesn't give a cohesive feel.
(3)
Emily O.
Stopped by here for dinner and drinks with another couple on a Friday night. Great appetizers...would definitely recommend the calamari, it was delicious! Great service and perfect, casual atmosphere. Would definitely come back!
(4)
M. Deloris D.
Harvard Gardens was surprisingly easy to get to by 11AM on a brisk Saturday morning. The brunch selections were a bit better than standard. The portions were superlative and the prices were reasonable. My HG Eggs Benedict was delicious. Eight of us brunching book club girls ordered and were served without much delay. No one complained about their food being cold, or an order being improperly prepared...except for Leighann who was incredulous at the idea that tomatoes should be included in eggs benedict... can't please everyone. I'd definitely return to HG. The value for the brunch dollar is pretty great.
(4)
Zane G.
This place is a wonderful spot to grab abide for lunch and dinner. Great prices, better service, and delicious food! Their turkey sandwich for lunch is sublime.
(5)
Renee B.
This is my Thursday night spot. Nice atmosphere, decently priced drinks, and lots of people to mingle with. It looks like a total hole-in-the wall from the outside but the interior is actually quite nice. The bar food is good. The french fries are tops on my list. If you're looking to meet somebody, this just might be the spot. Lots of young professional types. I have found (in my favor) that the ratio of men to women is a little high.
(4)
Omoniyi A.
Ok, so i havent been here in some months. But it used to be my standard brunch place. I think it is so brunch perfect. Comfortable, not too crowded, affordable, nice large portions, accomodating of groups, and no rush to get out after you eat. The seasoned potatoes i also think were perfection (i cant vouch that they still are). Ive recommended it to many friends however who have had hit or miss experiences, but for me it's never failed to be fantastic.
(4)
AustinSLin ..
Modernite twentythirtysomethings congregate in this restaurant lounge in Beacon Hill. Whereas most destinations of this sort end up getting caught in the schizophrenia of which customer base to focus on, Harvard Gardens handles both sides of the restaurant. Literally. A non-instrusive divider down the center of Harvard Gardens separates the lounge/bar from the dining area for the most part. On a Saturday night, the lounge/bar was cramming room only, while the dining area was less claustrophobic (though not by much). While groups of singles seem to predominate, there's still a nice balance in crowd makeup---but you're at a lounge, after all, so stop thinking so much and just, well, go lounge. But you're hungry, too, right? Problem solved. The best way to soak up the atmosphere and acclimate to the space is to take advantage of a dinner here. You'll be seated in a much less cramped space in a solid booth with plenty of personal space. You can soak up the ambience without worrying about spilling your Ketel Red Bull on your neighbor (leave that for when you squeeze your way to the other side...but more on that later). The lobster gnocchi ($17) was tasty with a balanced texture---not rubbery like when it's overcooked, nor like bits of mashed potatoes when it's not quite done. Of course with most pasta dishes that have the word "lobster" in them, one is always skeptical on the amount that's actually used in the preparation, but in Harvard Gardens' case, fresh breaks of lobster meat were well integrated throughout the dish (not a half lobster or anything, but more than the typical place, and enough to make you actually have enough to chew on and realize that you're paying for (some) lobster)). The Harvard Gardens' spin on mac and cheese ($8) is a generous portion that can be taken as a meal of its own, presented in a way that's right on track with the decor. Altogether, the meal for two, with wine, was just south of $50 without tip. The decor is modern urban and geometric. The soft seemingly fluroescent suggestions of reds, cremes, and orange colors radiating from the crevices add to the hip lounge feel, all the time making you wonder if the ghost of Dan Flavin is there for a drink himself. As the crowd increases, even basic conversation in the dining area becomes a shouting match, so the only resolution is to experience the other half of the room. Pay your dinner bill, then slide over to the lounge and start a tab. The lounge area gets extremely crowded, but isnt' that the point? It will be difficult to not overlap conversations and literally rub elbows (at a minimum) with the rest of your Constant Harvard Gardeners.
(3)
Christian S.
Good for cocktails. Though no fancy bar and often too loud.
(4)
David S.
I went for lunch the other day. I had an oven-roasted pork sandwich which I really really liked. It kind of reminded me a little of a Cubano but with extra flavor (not that a good Cubano needs extra flavor when done right). It was my first time there and I would go back. They had some interesting pastas and pizzas that I would like to try next time.
(4)
Sara L.
This is one of my favorites for happy hour. The beer selection is great, I can almost always grab a seat at the bar, and they have this pizza on the menu that I love. I'm actually surprised no one has mentioned it in the reviews I've read, because I order it every time I go. It's the butternut squash and fontina pizza and it's strangely divine! I most recently hit up this place on Saturday afternoon, after lunch and before the dinner rush. There were only a few regulars in there, so my friend and I saddled up to the bar just as the Sox/Skankees game started. I have forgotten the bartender's name, but he was great for two important reasons: 1. Knowing how to make small talk. He offered just the right amount without being overbearing. Too often in Boston I get bartenders who only offer a grunt or a head nod and aren't able to make any well-educated recommendations. This guy knew his menu as well as the well-selected background music that was playing and he occasionally dropped into our conversation to offer up something interesting. A+ for people skills. 2. Attentive service. He refilled my beer and water glass at just the right times, made some stiff drinks for my whiskey-loving friend, and was generally pleasant and accommodating. I can't speak to how this place gets late night (and judging from the reviews by other Yelpers, it probably wouldn't be my cup of tea), but for me it's great for late afternoon and after work drinks. I must plan more 4pm work meetings on the Hill so that I can hit this place up more often.
(4)
Stephen C.
Good food, fun atmosphere and, in our case, fantastic service. Ask for Virginia as your server.
(4)
Wendy K.
I was here for a lunchtime hockey-watching experience with several other people on a Saturday. They were still serving brunch at 1:30! YAY! Our waitress was at first seemingly unpleasant, judging by her flat affect and tone (I think that was maybe just how she interacted with people) and not very attentive, but it seemed that she was also the bartender, so that could have been why. We ordered Bloody Marys (which were good, but not spicy enough for my taste) and brunch/lunch. My friend ordered the brunch burger, which was fantastically amazing, and I ordered the reuben, which was also extremely good. My only qualm with the food, was that the "salad" that you could substitute fries for was simply a spring mix dressed with a vinaigrette - no other veggies. It was good tasting, but it could have used a few tomatoes or some cucumber, especially for the extra $ one must pay to substitute for a healthier option. All in all, a good experience.
(4)
Nicole M.
I always want to have a good time when I head to Harvard Gardens, but the night always ends up being a dud. I don't remember the food, which doesn't say much, the drinks are ok, the crowd is always so random. The plus, it's always loud and lively so at least it's not so bad that I find myself falling asleep!
(2)
Lukas B.
Came to this place a couple of times for dinner and it was good - not amazing, but totally good enough to come back again. Tonight I had a friend in town visiting and needed a good place to grab a drink to launch the night. We walked into this place at 10:45 and it was packed big time. Like not a single place to stand, one of those excuse me, excuse me, type packed. So I was about to walk about and try another bar when a waitress out of nowhere says, "are you guys looking to have a drink?" We obviously said yes and she showed us to an empty back table and took our order, the whole time she was incredibly attentive and kind. Rarely in a crowded place like that can you get that kind of service. I enjoyed the night and would encourage others to go have a drink there without fear of the crowds. So thanks Harvard Gardens and cute waitress for a solid evening.
(4)
Sarah C.
5 of my girlfriends and I went to HG to celebrate a recent engagement. I have never been to HG but suggested it as our dinner celebration spot. I made reservations through Opentable for 6pm. We were all running late and the hostess called to see if we were still planning on coming. I told her we were all running late and she immediately said no worries and that they just were just checking on us. The inside is pretty small but has a warm atmosphere. I think the menu is pretty pricey but as someone mentioned you are in Beacon Hill. Before I talk about the food I'll talk about our waitress. Our waitress was very attentive. I know us 6 girls can get loud sometimes but I must say, she was always filling up our water, taking drink orders and answering any questions we had about the menu and overall a great waitress. We also had a surprise engagement cake for our friend and she presented it at the end and then served us the cake as our dessert. I really appreciate when a waitress/waiter knows what they are doing. She was definitely getting pretty busy as the night went on but I never felt like she wasn't paying attention to our table. Now onto the food. The food was just EH.... While we were waiting for our friends to arrive we had some cornbread. It was jalapeno something or another cornbread. The bread was a little to moist and crumbly, had a weird taste but also it was very salty!!! And I like salt, so for me to say it's salty is pretty bad. For my meal, I got the burger with half fries and half salad. Once again, everything on my plate was VERY SALTY! Our waitress kept refilling my water. The burger was cooked medium well and I asked for it well done but it was okay. The taste of the burger was okay but very salty. It had an onion relish with blue cheese on it. The side mixed green salad had way too much dressing so that was salty. The side of fries was salty but also I had pieces of fries that looked black and inedible. So overall, I think I would go there for drinks and maybe some appetizers but not sure I would go there for my main meal.
(2)
Justin C.
The food is OK - standard pub stuff - and the bar is usually pretty decently crowded. The layout of the bar is a little annoying - there's not much space between the bar itself and a rail with tables behind it, so it can get tight in there and kind of tough to order drinks. Crowd is a little random, from what I can tell - everything from cougars to docs from the MGH to locals from Beacon Hill. There tap beer selection is kind of unexciting.
(3)
Pierre C.
I moved to san francisco about three years ago and I think what I miss most about Boston is HG. Close by so this was either where we met to start the night or where we returned to end the night. Great drinks and attentive service. Not sure if Karen and Jenny are still there, but when they are behind the bar I always had a great time. Crowd may certainly of changed, but I liked the reduced quotient of meathead and overly drunk college girl that you'd be hard pressed to find at neighboring establishments.
(5)
Megan F.
I have been saying for years that one of these days I am going to write an article for some Boston Magazine about how great Harvard Gardens is...so for now, Yelp will have to do. I have been frequenting HG for several years now, always a great choice for whatever mood you are in. The food is great...the ingredients are high quality and fresh, the menu is a slightly modern twists on all your favorite comfort foods, the ambience is perfect for a cozy dinner at a booth or grabbing a drink at any hour. I will agree with a few of the other reviews that the service is rarely fast - but that is just sort of their gig - keeping things laid back despite the fast moving city that surrounds it. The drinks are affordable and well mixed and the parmesan truffle fries to die for!! HG is my oasis in the midst of so many other over crowded, over priced, too much attitude establishments. So if I were you, I would skip the lines and waits at almost every other place on a weekend night and grab a table at Harvard Gardens....and be sure to order a side of fries!
(5)
Melissa A.
Great place to go if you want your ribs jammed by large, overstuffed men in tight-fitting t-shirts. Fortunately (or unfortunately), said large man's elbows where pretty high up, and did NOT meet my ribs. Rather, they met my shoulder blades more often than I can count, forcing me to spill my beverage all over my birthday-celebrating friend. A good thing to do in this situation is employ a boyfriend who has no shame. I told mine what to do and he did it. Captain Large Shoulders got a lougie on his back. Good times, good times. Star back on!
(2)
Elizabeth G.
Uggghhh! I drop in here regularly for a late night drink but hadn't eaten here for a while until last week. The food in the past I thought was a little pricey but overall pretty good. I don't know what happened, but the prices were raised, the selection was poor and the food quality was just horrible as well as being exceptionally slow coming out of the kitchen despite few patrons. Portions were small (which I don't usually care as I am not a big eater...but at the price I thought I would take something home for later). Maybe the late-night bar menu is still reasonable but I'll never find out....the dinner was that bad.
(1)
Amanda S.
The doorman is annoying. As we approached he announced "one in, one out", so me and my two girlfriends formed a three-person line, fairly certain that we were waiting just so the doorman could feel powerful for a few moments and of course so Harvard Gardens looked like "the place to be". Then 2 girls marched up to the door said they knew the owner, and breezed on in. I half-jokingly said, "hey man! what happened to one in one out? that was 2 in, zero out!" Then he said we could go in (even though, still, no one had left), but first he "prepped us" to "stay out of the way of the waitresses, and go straight to the back of the bar". Great prep talk. Wait staff was fairly attentive, drinks were decent, but they place was about 100 degrees, and the atmosphere is nothing unique.
(2)
Jen S.
Doctors, Vomit, and Guys Getting Punched in the Face - Harvard Gardens Has It All After a long Tuesday at work, my friend Balison and I decided to head over to Harvard Gardens with a group of people, a place we had been only a few times previous. Little did we know what awaited us. (A) Pros: (1) Hot Bartender - this guy has been here every time I've been here (maybe 5 times total) and he's worth at least a star and a half of the 4 stars I'm giving HG. Go and check him out. (2) Secret not-on-the-menu chicken wings. Why wouldn't they put these on the menu? They are delicious. I put some in my mouth. (3) Doctors. Now this is a bit of a double edged sword. If you are in your 20s and single you probably wouldn't mind meeting a doctor. So the proximity to MGH and the amount of doctors clearly goes under "pros" - however, please see section (B)(1)(b) for the counterargument. (4) The hot bartender. (B) Cons (1) Vomit Another Yelp reviewer commented on the fact that she became oddly ill after drinking at HG. Now don't confuse what I am about to tell you with normal "I guzzled 5 glasses of whiskey and threw back 100 gross girly shot and now Im puking all over myself" sickness - HG has a weird way of making you sick off of a very small amount of booze. (a) 3 months ago I came here with friends, had maybe 3 glasses of wine and a cobb salad, almost puked in a cab and then got out of the cab and puked on my lovely winter white peacoat while standing on a street in the North End at 10pm on a Wednesday while people looked at me like I was a crazy wino. That was fun. (b) Last night my friend Balison had a few stiff ones - drinks that is (you never know with Balison) - and the next thing I know the hot bartender is very nicely asking me to help my friend. I turn around and Balison is asleep on a doctor's shoulder. Mouth hanging open, body heaving up and down with every deep sleepy breath she took. We wake her up and our other friend - let's call her "Melted Cheese" or "MC" for short - realizes she is about to vomit. As MC helps Balison to the bathroom, Balison begins to throw up - right into her own hand. She continues the puke festival across the bar, into the bathroom and I think eventually into the toilet. When she emerges she is covered in puke and says "I threw up on my shirt - and down my boobs." Sure enough, puke was down her boobs. This isn't ideal when you're trying to meet doctors. Last I checked, doctors don't call girls that puke into their own hand, and down their boobs. Watch out for the drinks. (2) Fistfights While Balison slept and vomited, MC and I were deep in serious conversation. Unfortunately, this random 40 yr old who we later found out was a regular at the bar did not care. He was so obnoxious that we wanted to roundhouse kick him, but being the sweethearts we are, we kept politely telling him that we were trying to finish a serious convo and would talk to him when we were done. That did not deter him. Finally this dude starts insulting us, and I get heated. Verbal banter ensues, and I am fabulously defending myself and telling this guy what a dbag he is. MC alerts the bartender to the guy's d-baggery and the bartender moves this guy away from us. Yet he returns and this time grabs me. I react with catlike reflexes and push him away, at which point I extend my pointer finger and instruct him not to touch me. He responds by biting my finger. At this point I almost certainly have rabies from this random guy biting my finger, and I respond by socking this guy in the face. Seriously, who does that. Harvard Gardens makes you crazy. I don't know what they are putting in those drinks, but I am not the girl who punches anyone in the face, especially some DUDE who probably could have knocked me into tomorrow. But yeah. Punched him in the face. Then I asked the doctor that Balison was sleeping on for Neosporin. In sum: Come here for hot bartenders, doctors, fistfights, and vomit. Do not come here for a normal, quiet night.
(4)
Leys B.
Always great service. But, what happened to the duck spring rolls? Everything you have had to replace them so far has not lived up to those! And now you have changed the menu again - less fries and no pizza! Don't change what your regulars like just to make a buck :( The fries are half what they used to be and no cone!!
(2)
Patrick K.
I would say that this place would be great for any single person looking to hook up with the opposite sex. Its packed to the rim and just feels like a sardine can. I went there for dinner and the food was surprising good but the atmosphere was brutal for dinner. If a bar is what you want its a viable option but DO NOT go in for dinner! You will regret it and feel over clothed if you are a lady.
(2)
Michelle P.
Only 3 stars because trying to find something healthy on the menu is futile. On our last visit, our (16 yr old?) waitress didn't know how to serve a bottle of wine and there were tiny black flies buzzing around. But I keep coming back anyway....it must be the comfortable booths, yummy food, and a good mix of bar and restaurant atmosphere.
(3)
Brendan M.
A relatively mellow bar/restaurant combo, HG apparently gets really busy during weekends. You can eat of the bar menu for $10-15; the more upscale restaurant menu will set you back $20-30. The wine list is reasonable. I had one of the pizzas, which was nice but nothing to write home about. One of my friends ordered a medium rare burger and wasn't impressed as it came well done.
(3)
Lauren W.
3.5 stars -- good specialty cocktails, and asparagus ravioli was great. I'm rounding down just because the prices are pretty ridiculously high for what it is. Good service and atmosphere, though. I'd come back for sure (especially since it's right across the street from the Liberty Hotel, where I've stayed lately while in town).
(3)
ms m.
I was pleasantly surprised the first time I walked into this place. It's nicely decorated with it's sleek white booths without looking tacky or pretentious. I'm always happy with the food here and it's definitely a step above your typical "bar food" offering things such as brie and mushroom pizza. The service is also always very good. Good place to go with a group or on a date.
(4)
Enrique D.
i wasnt sure what to expect when i was outside... it seemed off... the decor looked office space-like or like commercial, not really a bar/restaurant, and the sign seemed diner-ish.. but im happy i walked in. the place is dark cozy and full of a good crowd. u can tell its big with regulars and locals. always a good sign... well depending on the area, but its beacon hill...so yea, its a good thing. the food? IMPRESSIVE. i wasnt expecting much.. i was suprised at how good it all was. from apps to dessert, i loved every bite. drinks were good, nice wine selection, and the waitstaff was terrific. the manager , i think his name was Freddy or Frederick, sorry, was gracious enough to walk over to us and make sure we were enjoying everything and just really made us feel like the place wants and cares for patrons to leave happy and return eagerly, i appreciated that.
(4)
Stephen Y.
Still serving pizza at midnight ! Closes at 2 AM. We had a friendly bartender.... Good selection of beer on tap... Great 80- 90's music !!!!!! Best of all- short walk from home. Have to go there again in more sensible hours to try the food (pizza can only go so far) and other drinks....
(4)
Jesse P.
You will not fit in here unless you own hospital scrubs or an assertive button down shirt. That said, the food is often very good, especially the brunch, and it is a suprisingly good place to meet people even if you've left your scrubs at the MGH laundry or your assertive shirt on the yacht. The service is good, and the bartenders are more observant than you'd expect in a place that gets so packed.
(4)
Laura B.
Delicious brunch! Great service, huge portions and terrific value. They even take brunch reservations. I would definitely recommend it!
(5)
Shelley G.
Love this place. You can get a great brunch for under $10 and they give you so much food! Definitely one of my favorite places in town.
(5)
Michael N.
When you're two years outta college and you can't go to the BHP every night this is the spot to move to on thursday night to see if you can land some waaay classier broads....no ricca chics here. Just a slew of unmarried 30 year-old preps dying to let you into their lili pulitzers if you can convince them that you're having a tremendous year in the market....
(4)
Alice B.
I was really excited to eat at Harvard Gardens until our food came. Everyone who ordered pizza or sandwiches had something delicious looking in front of them. But my salad was barely there. If you go to this place and want to have a good meal, be prepared to order something unhealthy.
(2)
Meghan R.
Good food, good drinks, good service... be prepared to feel like you're in a preppy/yuppy meatmarket, but if you're willing to face the challenge, its a great place to hang with friends or meet some new hotties. HG flaunts a relatively established mid 20s-mid 30s scene with a trendy look, great atmosphere and a hot bartender on Thursday nights. It's one of my regular spots for after-work drinks!
(4)
Jane H.
Kind of blah. Not really impressed by food or service. My boyfriend liked his macaroni and cheese but my sandwich was really greasy and flavorless (I absolutely do not recommend getting the French Dip). I have only been here for lunch so I am not sure what the afterwork bar scene is like. From what I saw the drinks are expensive and not that creative. I may consider giving this place a second try though since I work nearby.
(2)
Brian S.
Had remarkably unpleasant service from a bartender on my only visit. She was miserable and hostile during a slow evening. I frankly prefer to be ignored than treated like a burden. Menu reads well, a seared tuna sandwich was good, not great. Salad greens were fresh and not over-dressed. Hopefully better service will up my opinion if I go back again. (3/07) On a return trip with friends: different bartender, same crap. finished our drinks and left, for good.
(2)
Carolyn B.
had a fun time at dinner here while visiting friends in boston. great drinks - i enjoyed the french 75 (all 3 of them). its a fun atmosphere - loud, good music, fun crowd. food was good - i had the steak frites, cant go wrong with that. i thought the fries were just ok, but they steak was good. spinach was good too but there was too much.
(4)
jkhkjh j.
I have mixed feelings. I've only been here once... for brunch. Maybe I was served lousy waffles... but honestly, this place wasn't all that great. The bacon tasted like cardboard; the only thing I liked were the home fries.
(3)
Kelly W.
I will not go back here. A friend and I went for dinner and drinks on Saturday and it was horrible! The food was tasteless! We got the spinach and artichoke dip and it tasted like soup, very watery. I got the spinach/feta pizza and my friend got the brie pizza. Both of them were disgusting. Also, the sangria is not good. It tasted like bad lemonade. The service was also bad. Our bartender would not stand behind the bar because she was getting a back message from some dude. Very weird!
(1)
Kathleen T.
Hot burgers, prices, drinks, atmosphere, staff and business men. Enough said.
(5)
Ashley M.
by far my favorite local place to chill. this place can cover any part of your weekend (or weeknight). friday - wonderful dinner from tasty menu - get fish, its worth the prices. saturday - desert and/or drinks - both are wonderful. sunday morning BRUNCH - try the smoked salmon eggs benedict (made with fresh salmon) and the brunch bellinis. music's too loud for a first date dinner, but music's always good. great first place to hit up on your way out or last place to hit up on your way back home. you just can't lose.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Brunch, Dinner, Late Night Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : No Best Nights : Wed, Thu, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Ashley P.
Ok I need to break this up into sections.... Lunch: My coworkers and I love going here at lunch time. 90% of the time the service is great and fast. The food is always divine and much better than most of the other lunch places in the area. For lunch, I love the lobster roll, any of the pizzas and the french fries are amazing. Dinner: I came here for dinner for a birthday celebration with a group of girlfriends. Other than the obnoxious guy at the bar hitting on us the whole time, it was great. Our waiter was very helpful and did not make us feel pressured when we hung around for a very long time. I love the martini's and all the food that we had was great. Drinks/Bar: The bar area is very fun and relaxed. We were there on a Friday night so it was pretty busy, but we didn't have a problem getting a table. The atmosphere was nice and the people there seemed cool. The only reason that I deducted a star from HG is because when we sat at the table during the bar hours, we asked if we should go up to the bar to get our drinks (which we didn't mind doing) or if we were going to have a waitress. We were told we had a waitress, but she was extremely slow and we ended up going to the bar anyways. But I am definitely in love with this place and will continue to dine there often!
(4)Evelyn S.
Nice service. Decent food and good drinks.
(3)Kaitlin M.
Good local bar for me and my roommates to spend the night or stumble into late night. We've had their late night pizza a few times, and despite burning my mouth on it once, its delicious. They let us order a basket f fries right as the kitchen was closing one night too, and they were amazing. And not just because we had been drinking all night. The crowd is usually chill and fun. Top 40s music bumpin. But no one dancing It does get packed, and is kind of not sure what kind of bar it is. But its always reliable for a good time and good food, at any time. The bartenders and staff are always friendly and attentive as well.
(4)Ali A.
I am an HG junkie - can't get enough! I've never been disappointed by the food, be it brunch, lunch, dinner or bar bites. For those later meals: One of my most favorite salads in the world is from Harvard Gardens - the Boston Bibb. Mmmmmm, I could have that every day and die a happy girl. The Pizzas are also delish and on a chilly fall/winter day, that Pumpkin Ravioli hits the spot! For those early meals: The omelets are fab. (Although you can really order anything that comes with the homefries because that is the real star of the plate.) The Pumpkin muffins come in twos are are hot out of the oven. But the best part of brunch here is that you can always get a table. No reservation, no waiting - something almost unheard of on a Sunday morning in this town. For those drinks: The bar scene is always lively and the cocktails are good. While the Dark & Stormy is no longer on the cocktail menu, order it because they make a delicious one!
(4)John S.
Harvard Gardens works the "dimly lit funky restaurant" angle perfectly. You feel cooler when you enter, and after conversing with the friendly and attentive wait staff, you get a sense like perhaps you somehow own the place. The food is tasty and unique (lobster roll sliders, anyone), if a touch overpriced. The drinks, given the number of people at the bar, were slung often and well. This is a date place that is slightly more than casual, so hold off until date #3 to take the lucky guy or girl there.
(4)EricaLynn J.
I've gone on Friday nights after about 9pm or so with a rather large crowd. They're usually able to handle the whole slew of us, and normally do so without fuss. Not a huge fan of the space; it's a little crowded for my taste, but then again, I'm the one who shows up with 15 people in tow, so I have no room to complain. Literally. But figuratively, too. Food is not worth the expensive price tag. I'd probably be happier if my friends chose a different place to go, but for the convenience factor, I'll remain in tow for the time being. Unless I'm hungry. Then it's a whole other story.
(3)Adam G.
This is a nice bar to grab a drink, take in a game or get a sandwich off the menu if you're in the area. This is a good staple in a neighborhood where the options are sort of limited. In a city where inflated prices and terrible service could be lurking around any corner, this is a refreshing safe haven.
(4)Blair H.
Here's my theory on the evolution of events which have led to the current situation at Harvard Gardens (HG). 1930- Good looking surgical resident at MGH, with well-defined facial features and English accent, fancies a pint. Finds HG suiting of his needs. Lets call him, Dr Cox. - Becomes a regular after 36hr rotations in clinic removing kidney stones with a rusty hammer. 1932- HG becomes a local hang-out for doctors. 1935- A gaggle of bachelorettes wanders through Beacon Hill and one breaks her ankle after slipping in vomit on North Grove Street, just adjacent to Cambridge Street. The Docs, having a Baywatch themed party, run out in slow motion to tend to the distressed broad. - 11 of the 13 bachelorettes wed the 6 physicians. The 12th and 13th end up together. All 13 end in divorce or mysterious disappearances. 1960s- For twenty years, physicians, gold-diggers, and cougars intermingle at HG, until... 1962- Douchebags discover HG. - Douchebags pretend to be physicians, lawyers, and pilots, attracting even more slutty women. The cycle propogates as douchebags and skanks multiply in number. - Physicians/Residents, hampered by their increasing work load and reimbursement cutbacks, leave HG. 2009- Cougars and gold-diggers still go to HG in search of docs. Instead, they are only met by douchebags pretending to be docs. To this day, HG is the place to watch Friday night fireworks as the two sexes vie for position. Fri/Sat nights are for those under 32 with waist sizes to match. For professionals in the area, lunch time is the time to go. For $15, a decent meal. For Brunch, mind the vomit around the corner, but rewards be had in the form of eggs benedict and morning cocktails.
(3)TIM O.
This place earns extra points for a nostalgic decor and attentive service to match. The premium burger was great as a rare treat.
(4)Peter G.
Been here twice, once for drinks and once for lunch. Service and quality of food were good. Bartender was friendly enough without being too over top as is the case in some places. My wife had the quails eggs and I had a breakfast. Both were slightly different to be genuinely interesting and tasty without being pretentious. The quails eggs were the best ever and the breakfast consisted of ample portions of good home food. We'll be back there on our next pub crawl! Well done guys!
(4)Kim K.
I. Freaking. Love. Harvard. Gardens. Where to begin? First, this place is bustling. It's got a huge bar right up front and tables lining the walls and in the back. It's dimly lit, has huge HD TVs, and a constant buzz of noise. That all said, I find the atmosphere of this place incredibly sexy. It's just exactly what I've ever wanted in a date restaurant. One of the best appetizers I have ever had came from here: lobster roll sliders. They were creamy, the lobster was delicious (and I'm not a lobster person), and the bread was buttery and yummy. Entrees: The sandwiches are my go to here. And every one I've ever had has been exquisite. The pulled pork was smoky and delicious and the tuna melt was perfectly cooked panini style. The salads are great here, super fresh. The fries are yummy too. The service has always been awesome when I've gone, the waitstaff is a bunch of really cool folks. Anyways, just do yourself a favor and go to Harvard Gardens on your next date night, ok?
(4)Leah M.
I like HG. It has a good atmosphere and the food is decent but I feel it is extremely over priced for what you get. A simple side salad is $8, which is pretty ridiculous if you ask me. Plus when I was there the manager (Im assuming was the manager, an older Hispanic gentleman) was extremely rude not just to me and my party but to the staff. It's the service industry, cracking a smile wouldn't kill you... just saying
(3)Nick G.
So I don't really know what all the fuss is about. HG is a pricey bar/restaurant that that tries very hard to be something it's not. The food is mediocre at best . Service seem slow and at 10PM on a Thursday maybe it just wasn't firing on all cylinders. You can find better on Cambridge Street.
(1)Christopher L.
Delightful brunch with the best huevos rancheros in the city! Red velvet are good for when you're in a decadent sort of mood. Lunch and dinner options are also very good and are well above the standard boston bar food.
(4)Courtney H.
So I've been here twice now, once for a very early dinner with the fam and once for drinks on my bday before going to another bar. I enjoyed both times. It really is the most convenient bar I think to MGH, which is why I've stopped by both times really. Drinks and food aren't too pricey for the Beacon Hill area. I had the margherita pizza and it was very tasty. I also liked their mac & cheese. When I came for drinks, I just got my regular but it was good. Everything about this place screams Ok, but not awesome. If you are in the area and looking for a decent place then you should stop by. If you are looking for some awesome place to drink, maybe stop by Alibi across the street.
(3)Deepa C.
The ever fabu Yelp book club met here last month to fair reviews. Service - good but not spectacular. Our waitress WAS patient with our group and didn't make many mistakes but had somewhat bad timing. Not a huge deal though - 12 chattering girls can prove to be a challenge to corral when all you want to do it get drink orders. The selection - LOTS of egg-based dishes, no French Toast? No Pancakes? Really? The did have sandwiches and all that, but when you meet at 11, a burger seems not quite right. That said, the salads looked amazing and the omelets were large and filling. The potatoes were not my cup of tea, but everything else seemed to love them. The atmosphere - surprisingly empty when we left around 12:30/1 on a Saturday. Other than that, it was pretty basic, tables, chairs, bar, floor. Nothing crazy, but still not boring and sparse. Will I be back? With all the other brunch places that I have yet to try, I may not be back anytime soon. That said, if I find myself int he area at brunch time and hungry, yes, I would probably stop in.
(3)Leighann F.
Good for large groups. Not so much for Eggs Benedict. I've eaten a lot of Eggs Benedict in my adult life and this version of the dish was near the bottom of my list. The eggs were undercooked, the dill-infused Hollandaise was very watery and the English muffins were soggy. The salmon was thickly sliced and not smoked, which did not add much to the overall flavor of the dish. The potatoes, on the other were amazing and came in a giant pile on my plate! Thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned, light on the cheese and onions. I could have done without the Benedict and simply have eaten the potatoes. If you don't mind sacrificing some quality for portion size, Harvard Gardens is definitely the spot for you! I don't think one person in our entire party finished their meal!
(3)A N.
The reason for 1 star would be the service... the place wasn't even half way full. service took forever... but even worse, we ordered an app so once my meal came i was barely hungry, took literally 2 bites and asked for it to be packed to go... so the server figured it would be ok to throw away all the french fries and the half of sandwhich with 2 bites taken out of it... ridiculous, if your that dumb ask specifically what i want packed. now i know why they dont do take out... they would throw half your meal away before packing it.
(1)Danielle E.
So my coworkers and I USED to dine here at least once a month.. We would get together and dish as girlfriends usually do over burgers and fries...the food was pretty good--seeing as we selected very simple entrees... but the last few times we have eaten here the food was disugusting...Especially this past Thursday. We ALL order burgers, but everyone but me asked for theirs well done... note that I asked for mine to be medium. ALL of our burgers tasted like charcoal, not to mention my fries and their parm fries were soggy and overcooked. We are talking basic All-American cuisine--and they screwed it up! I could have given half a star more because he did take the 5 (burgers) out of the 7 meals ordered off of the bill but I went home hungry :(
(1)Rick L.
My wife and I had a great dinner here. The tuna tartar was excellent(great quality tuna) and the truffle fries were amazing. The steak frite was just ok. Service was also just ok. That's why the 4 stars. Portions are a generous size.
(4)Cleopatra P.
I braved the elements last Saturday morning to dine at Harvard Gardens with some fellow Yelpers for the monthly book club brunch. The conversation and company were impressive--the food unfortunately, not so much. I knew that something was up as soon as I opened up my menu to see nary a mention of French toast or pancakes among my brunch options. Come to think of it, there was a serious lack of simple carb-filled options for a meal which is one of the best excuses out there to carbo-load. What was really messed up was that, going by the other offerings on the menu, the basic ingredients for French toast were clearly lying around the kitchen (eggs, milk, cinnamon, bread, etc.), but there was not one meal that included my favorite brunch staple. Since I hate omelettes and most other egg-centered dishes, I decided to be lame and order a cheeseburger. Bad idea. My cheeseburger ended up being a mean, rather sad-looking affair--a small, dry, and oh-so-tasteless beef patty overwhelmed by a large, stiff bun and topped off with a perfunctory sprinkling of shredded mozzarella. The fries that came with my meal were very good, but not nearly good enough to make up for the hunk of ill-prepared and poorly-outfitted meat on my plate. Between the menu weirdness and the lackluster food, I doubt that I'll be back at Harvard Gardens on my own dime any time soon.
(2)Katie B.
I went in to Harvard Gardens and found they have a deliciously updated menu created by a new chef. Some of the same bar-food staples remain (the Kobe Sliders are amazing) but the dinner menu has greatly improved. I had the Lemon and Sea Salt Crusted Pan Roasted Chicken with rosemary prosciutto gnocchi and caramelized cauliflower. The chef seemingly uses French cooking methods because the chicken breast was mouth wateringly tender on the inside and the skin was perfectly crisped on the outside. I was in taste bud heaven! The chef even sent over a complementary blueberry cobbler with vanilla bean ice cream for dessert... The only thing I miss very dearly from the old menu is the Edamame with Sesame oil, but with all these new treats to try, I will forget it soon enough! If it's been a while, give Harvard Gardens another try for a nice dinner out!
(4)d f.
Had lunch here on a rainy August Monday afternoon after appointments at MGH. Service was exceptional - thanks to Jackie who was bartending/serving. The truffled mac & cheese was great and atmosphere was relaxing as there were only a few customers on this particular day and time. The cost was typical for Boston: $7 for a beer and $20 for Mac & Cheese. I enjoyed the food and conversation with other patrons and Jackie.
(4)John E.
Very simple - the Kobe beef sliders w/ bacon infused may topped off with a quail egg is one of the best things I have ever had
(5)Mike N.
Lots of pretentious people who really shouldn't be. Otherwise the truffle fries ahhh manifique
(3)Jordan G.
Happening Bar, Delicious Food and Phenomenal Service, need I say more? Okay okay, apparently I do. Don't be fooled by the outer appearance of the restaurant. When me and my ladies arrived by cab, the exterior looked like a diner. But boy, were we in for a surprise. The bar was hopping and the game was on in the background. While we weren't seated promptly, the manager comped our drinks while apologizing profusely. Glad to see that they cared. The food... oh where do I start? The Tuna and the Lobster Quesadilla were delectable. I am a huge fan of the wagyu burger (SMOTHERED with onion rings) while my friends raved about the bibb salad and the pumpkin ravioli. And you must order the truffle parmesan fries. My carb-conscious friends couldn't resist seconds, thirds and fourths. All in all, the experience was great. The only reason why I didn't give the full 5 stars was due to the bar being a little too noisy and spilling into the dining area. Difficult to control since there's only a small divider between the two.
(4)Travis K.
My wife and I had a nice dinner here. The burger was great and the Mac and cheese was outstanding.
(4)G S.
I met a friend here for drinks last night before going out for the night. The way she described it was "There are always a lot of cute but uninteresting men here." The men here last night were not cute or interesting. A lot of short, Beacon Hill "young professionals"...no thanks. The drinks are good and the staff is friendly. It can get a bit crowded, but there's usually room to stand or sit at the bar.
(3)Patrick C.
Harvard Gardens is close by, so my girlfriend and I went a few times when we first moved in. Three attempts resulted in disappointment. We ordered Lobster Ragoons (sounded good!) but sent them back because they were just bad. They cooked us a new batch and were very nice about it. Unfortunately, we were wrong. It wasn't that they were cooked incorrectly, by their standards; it was that Harvard Gardens makes horrible Lobster Ragoons! - If you want to drink: Go to Beacon Hill Pub, around the corner - If you want to eat: Go to The Hill Tavern, down the street - If you want to eat, then drink: Go to The Hill Tavern then Beacon Hill Pub
(1)Christina G.
I've been here a few times. Once for brunch and twice for dinner mainly just because its close. Brunch was pretty good here, but dinner has never wowed me. The menu is not that impressive and neither is the food to be honest. I'm sure its great if you are just going out for drinks though. I like the Hill Tavern Better.
(2)Jeff W.
I've been here a few times. Brunch, Lunch, and most recently drinks and a few appetizers. Food was decent - may not win awards, but I won't complain. What gives this place the 4 stars are the bar tenders. Attentive, Friendly, and Honest. What else could you ask for? Cheers to this place --- I'll be back for sure!
(4)Michelle L.
A great bar for casual drinks and apps. Especially great if you aren't really in the mood to go out, but can't imagine sitting at home. Harvard Gardens has seating for dinner and standing room for drinking bar-side. Nothing better than that.
(3)Purvi R.
A good place to meet up with people given its proximity to the train station and MGH. Went here on a weeknight once and met up with a friend and some of her MGH colleagues. I actually was surprised - the interior looked a lot nicer than I had expected - I don't know what I was expecting and why, but I somehow thought it'd be more like Hill Tavern or even just a step up from the BHP. Anyways, we passed a couple of appitizers - in particular note was the grilled naan and onions and chutney. Random but pretty good. For dinner, I had the ravioli - warning - it is VERY rich. I might almost suggest asking to go easy on the sauce, as it is very buttery. It was good, but not sure I would order it again. Friends at the table were sharing some pizzas and they were also delicious - but definitely shareable! One menu item that was memorable was the fries. Great stand-alone snackability. The other thing that surprised me (less after I saw the interior of the place) was price. Somewhat pricey for some items, but they have such a wide range, it's possible to get out of there without emptying your wallet. Just choose wisely. Would I come here again? I don't think I would be opposed but I might eat beforehand. Fun atmosphere, yes, but don't see myself getting overly excited to go there.
(3)Adam M.
We had a fantastic brunch and a great overall experience. The food was unique and tasty; even the breakfast potatos were excellent. The selections included some very healthful options. We were in a rush to get to a Bruins game; they got us in and out in 45 minutes, no problem. Service was friendly and attentive. I'm amazed that such a happening nighttime spot would do such a great job with brunch.
(5)angela g.
I had a decent time here last night. We went for dinner and drinks. I liked the cozy lighting and modern environment. From the outside, i was expecting something divier. Sat down around 9:30 and left just before cosing. The drink list is interesting, but i found that everything i tried lacked the proper amount of alcohol. 2 out of 3 of us had great meals, I had the seared tuna salad and grilled asparagus. YUM. i could eat some right now. However, my fiance had the mac and cheese. What a disappointment, as one reviewer said previously, tasted like heavy cream was poured onto soggy noddles and topped with bread crumbs. bummer. the waitress while she seemed disinterested in any of our antics, was pretty reliable and kept the booze flowing. the only complaint i have is the high percentage of douche bags that seem to fill this place. but hey i can forgive that. i would be back.
(4)Leys B.
Always great service. But, what happened to the duck spring rolls? Everything you have had to replace them so far has not lived up to those! And now you have changed the menu again - less fries and no pizza! Don't change what your regulars like just to make a buck :( The fries are half what they used to be and no cone!!
(2)Patrick K.
I would say that this place would be great for any single person looking to hook up with the opposite sex. Its packed to the rim and just feels like a sardine can. I went there for dinner and the food was surprising good but the atmosphere was brutal for dinner. If a bar is what you want its a viable option but DO NOT go in for dinner! You will regret it and feel over clothed if you are a lady.
(2)Lauren D.
A good, good friend took me to Harvard Gardens twice. Once for lunch and once for brunch. Both meals were delicious. The restaurant has a great ambiance - dim lighting, and a great music selection. The TVs at the bar usually showing whatever game is on at the moment. For lunch I had the Grilled Chicken with Fresh Mozzarella, Thick Tomato, Smoked Bacon & Basil Pesto Mayo (so yummy!), and for brunch I had an Omelet which was the special - smoked tomato, bacon, and cheese. Alongside the omelet were arguably some of the best home fries I have ever had in my life. I'm still waiting to go back just to have those again. The orange juice was freshly squeezed, and even the coffee was good. Between the delicious food, the nice, relaxing atmosphere, good music being played, and the attentive, pleasant staff, you cannot go wrong with Harvard Gardens. I'm still thanking my friend for bring me there, even though I have been disappointed with most other home fries since my brunch there.
(5)Gail L.
Meh! Went for cocktails late on a Saturday, not impressed. Did not eat.
(2)Cee Cee S.
Average. Came here for lunch during orientation week at MGH. The food was ok, but the service was so slooooowwwwwww. No one came to refill my water glass or soda. Come on, we were there at noon and there were only 4 other tables with fellow lunchers. Come on, I'm a nurse, and I can totally do the "avoiding eye contact thing" but then again, I don't work for tips. The food: I had the oven roasted pork sandwich. It was like a cuban, but on better bread. The only downside is that I've been burping up banana peppers and pickles all afternoon. If they improve the service, I'd up the stars.
(3)Todd O.
I'm not sure why so many people are raving about brunch at this place. It's only OK at best. The food break down: 1. Breakfast Pizza. This was pretty much a bland quiche containing asparagus, bacon, goat cheese, and eggs. Salt was required and lots of it. On the bright side it might be an ideal dish if you hate tasty things. 2. Blueberry Pancakes w Side of Sausage. The stack was 5 high. Respectable. However they just lacked taste. I'm a huge pancake fan and I can only say that they were fine - the type of fine you experience with at-home pancake mix. Meh. A side of bacon comes with this meal and it is billed as apple smoked (or something to that effect). It was super bland! Who ever heard of bland bacon? The saving grace were the home fries. They were very tasty little potato chip style fries with parmesan. That was good. I ordered an extra side of sausage which was also very tasty. My girlfriend suggested that they may have contained some rosemary. They were good. Overall Harvard Gardens was just bland. If you are looking for a good brunch there are a ton to choose from in Boston, but this is not one. I've read good things about their lunch, but based on our brunch experience, we are not likely to come back.
(2)Sean J.
This place sucks. It's made to be a restaurant, not a bar, and yet they feel the need to cram as many people into it as possible. The result? A literal deadlock once you enter the door. You cannot make it from one side of the bar to the other because there are two rows of booths and everyone stands in the narrow aisle between them. The only thing harder than getting around in the bar is getting one of the bartenders to help you.
(1)Dan B.
I'll make this short and sweet. Ever since HG hired their new executive chef, this place has become my go-to spot. Awesome food, good portions, great atmosphere and a great staff!! Couple of recommendations for ya: pork dumplings (delicious). Had the Burger for my main course, pretty much melted in my mouth, cooked to perfection! Brilliant! My date ordered the special, an Asian style short rib dish with purple sweet potatos and fried green beans. Honestly, I've never seen her finish a meal in 7yrs until last night. Top it all off with their peanut butter chocolate molten cake for dessert and you're in business! Can't say enough about this place, classy yet also a good spot to unwind and watch a game! Prices are very reasonable. Even If you just feel like a beer and wings you'll be satisfied!! Well done HG, check this place out!
(5)J M.
I HEART DAVE! (enough said)....P.S. the mac and cheese and hot dog are pretty amazing!
(5)M M.
I came to Harvard Gardens after finally meeting up with one of my buddies who got stuck on the red line during the recent electrical failure. We were hungry as hell, and this place was the closest food venue we could find. It looked like a sports bar from the outside, so we expected cheap bar food and a younger crowd. Definitely not. It seemed like a place for professionals in their late 20s/early 30s to get together and enjoy the bar scene without dealing with stupid ass drunk kids. The food was not bad overall. I ordered the Atlantic salmon, which was really well prepared. The steak was a little tough, even for a sirloin. The mac and cheese was nothing memorable. The reason I give this place 4 stars is because I really enjoyed my dish and it seemed like most of the dishes held their value. The reason I don't give it a 5 stars is because service was a bit slow.
(4)Jennifer J.
Food is inexpensive and pretty good. Waiters were very nice. Has a divey feel. Easy to get a seat on a Thursday night.
(4)Tarah H.
First off, wine glasses as water glasses do not work. Yes, it looks classy and cool, but I'm not ordering water because I'm cheap, I want it because I'm thirsty, desire hydration and don't want the 200 calories a glass that accompanies soda. Whew. Glad I got that off my chest. So this place is a solid 3 to 3.5 star place. Basic bar fare done all fancy like as seems to be the trend. And they do an okay job of it. Sandwiches come with salad or fries or half and half. The dressing is a bit sweet for my taste, but okay. I wish they let the grilled asparagus stand on its own rather than drizzling balsamic all over it, but that's no great sin. The food is of good taste and good quality. The decor is that bistro bar look that seems to be more and more prevalent these days. A good vacuuming of the valance over the entry to the kitchen is needed. Speaking of which, I could see right into the kitchen without a half wall to hide even the most unavoidably unattractive part of the kitchen. I walked by this place at least a thousand times before ever entering. I was a Hill resident and thought this to be nothing more than an unimpressive bar with unimpressive food and unimpressive patrons. The food is better than I thought. Still undecided about the rests. It definitely gets crowded at night, but it's a solid lunch/dinner option, if not a little full of itself.
(3)Molly W.
Went here late-night with friends and had a good time! You can hang by the bar, or sit at the open tables. It was full, but not ridiculously so - it's popular, which is a good sign, and it's an interesting mix of people. I mean, it's Beacon Hill - so it's like law-school kids and people who work at the State House n junk. My friend really wanted to meet a hot lawyer or something, and it's like yeaaaahhhh... I don't think so. But hey - you never know, tomorrow's another night, right? Anyway, there was a late night dance party, and we were groovin', so I thought it was pretty fun. I like to go out and dance, but not have to go to a club. You know what I mean? So yeah. Cool.
(3)Trice B.
I think this place really has some good food, and the drinks are alright...not great. We had 3 rounds, and I still wasn't as buzzed as I like. But they tasted good going down. The prices are a little steep, and I think they believe they are more upscale than they appear. I mean it is a nice place, definitely a few notches up than the Hill Tavern down the street, but it's not the Liberty Hotel. Overall... would recommend this place if you are in the area, but dont go out of your way to eat here.
(3)Sara L.
This is one of my favorites for happy hour. The beer selection is great, I can almost always grab a seat at the bar, and they have this pizza on the menu that I love. I'm actually surprised no one has mentioned it in the reviews I've read, because I order it every time I go. It's the butternut squash and fontina pizza and it's strangely divine! I most recently hit up this place on Saturday afternoon, after lunch and before the dinner rush. There were only a few regulars in there, so my friend and I saddled up to the bar just as the Sox/Skankees game started. I have forgotten the bartender's name, but he was great for two important reasons: 1. Knowing how to make small talk. He offered just the right amount without being overbearing. Too often in Boston I get bartenders who only offer a grunt or a head nod and aren't able to make any well-educated recommendations. This guy knew his menu as well as the well-selected background music that was playing and he occasionally dropped into our conversation to offer up something interesting. A+ for people skills. 2. Attentive service. He refilled my beer and water glass at just the right times, made some stiff drinks for my whiskey-loving friend, and was generally pleasant and accommodating. I can't speak to how this place gets late night (and judging from the reviews by other Yelpers, it probably wouldn't be my cup of tea), but for me it's great for late afternoon and after work drinks. I must plan more 4pm work meetings on the Hill so that I can hit this place up more often.
(4)Stephen C.
Good food, fun atmosphere and, in our case, fantastic service. Ask for Virginia as your server.
(4)AustinSLin ..
Modernite twentythirtysomethings congregate in this restaurant lounge in Beacon Hill. Whereas most destinations of this sort end up getting caught in the schizophrenia of which customer base to focus on, Harvard Gardens handles both sides of the restaurant. Literally. A non-instrusive divider down the center of Harvard Gardens separates the lounge/bar from the dining area for the most part. On a Saturday night, the lounge/bar was cramming room only, while the dining area was less claustrophobic (though not by much). While groups of singles seem to predominate, there's still a nice balance in crowd makeup---but you're at a lounge, after all, so stop thinking so much and just, well, go lounge. But you're hungry, too, right? Problem solved. The best way to soak up the atmosphere and acclimate to the space is to take advantage of a dinner here. You'll be seated in a much less cramped space in a solid booth with plenty of personal space. You can soak up the ambience without worrying about spilling your Ketel Red Bull on your neighbor (leave that for when you squeeze your way to the other side...but more on that later). The lobster gnocchi ($17) was tasty with a balanced texture---not rubbery like when it's overcooked, nor like bits of mashed potatoes when it's not quite done. Of course with most pasta dishes that have the word "lobster" in them, one is always skeptical on the amount that's actually used in the preparation, but in Harvard Gardens' case, fresh breaks of lobster meat were well integrated throughout the dish (not a half lobster or anything, but more than the typical place, and enough to make you actually have enough to chew on and realize that you're paying for (some) lobster)). The Harvard Gardens' spin on mac and cheese ($8) is a generous portion that can be taken as a meal of its own, presented in a way that's right on track with the decor. Altogether, the meal for two, with wine, was just south of $50 without tip. The decor is modern urban and geometric. The soft seemingly fluroescent suggestions of reds, cremes, and orange colors radiating from the crevices add to the hip lounge feel, all the time making you wonder if the ghost of Dan Flavin is there for a drink himself. As the crowd increases, even basic conversation in the dining area becomes a shouting match, so the only resolution is to experience the other half of the room. Pay your dinner bill, then slide over to the lounge and start a tab. The lounge area gets extremely crowded, but isnt' that the point? It will be difficult to not overlap conversations and literally rub elbows (at a minimum) with the rest of your Constant Harvard Gardeners.
(3)Christian S.
Good for cocktails. Though no fancy bar and often too loud.
(4)David S.
I went for lunch the other day. I had an oven-roasted pork sandwich which I really really liked. It kind of reminded me a little of a Cubano but with extra flavor (not that a good Cubano needs extra flavor when done right). It was my first time there and I would go back. They had some interesting pastas and pizzas that I would like to try next time.
(4)Wendy K.
I was here for a lunchtime hockey-watching experience with several other people on a Saturday. They were still serving brunch at 1:30! YAY! Our waitress was at first seemingly unpleasant, judging by her flat affect and tone (I think that was maybe just how she interacted with people) and not very attentive, but it seemed that she was also the bartender, so that could have been why. We ordered Bloody Marys (which were good, but not spicy enough for my taste) and brunch/lunch. My friend ordered the brunch burger, which was fantastically amazing, and I ordered the reuben, which was also extremely good. My only qualm with the food, was that the "salad" that you could substitute fries for was simply a spring mix dressed with a vinaigrette - no other veggies. It was good tasting, but it could have used a few tomatoes or some cucumber, especially for the extra $ one must pay to substitute for a healthier option. All in all, a good experience.
(4)Nicole M.
I always want to have a good time when I head to Harvard Gardens, but the night always ends up being a dud. I don't remember the food, which doesn't say much, the drinks are ok, the crowd is always so random. The plus, it's always loud and lively so at least it's not so bad that I find myself falling asleep!
(2)Lukas B.
Came to this place a couple of times for dinner and it was good - not amazing, but totally good enough to come back again. Tonight I had a friend in town visiting and needed a good place to grab a drink to launch the night. We walked into this place at 10:45 and it was packed big time. Like not a single place to stand, one of those excuse me, excuse me, type packed. So I was about to walk about and try another bar when a waitress out of nowhere says, "are you guys looking to have a drink?" We obviously said yes and she showed us to an empty back table and took our order, the whole time she was incredibly attentive and kind. Rarely in a crowded place like that can you get that kind of service. I enjoyed the night and would encourage others to go have a drink there without fear of the crowds. So thanks Harvard Gardens and cute waitress for a solid evening.
(4)Michelle P.
Only 3 stars because trying to find something healthy on the menu is futile. On our last visit, our (16 yr old?) waitress didn't know how to serve a bottle of wine and there were tiny black flies buzzing around. But I keep coming back anyway....it must be the comfortable booths, yummy food, and a good mix of bar and restaurant atmosphere.
(3)Brendan M.
A relatively mellow bar/restaurant combo, HG apparently gets really busy during weekends. You can eat of the bar menu for $10-15; the more upscale restaurant menu will set you back $20-30. The wine list is reasonable. I had one of the pizzas, which was nice but nothing to write home about. One of my friends ordered a medium rare burger and wasn't impressed as it came well done.
(3)Lauren W.
3.5 stars -- good specialty cocktails, and asparagus ravioli was great. I'm rounding down just because the prices are pretty ridiculously high for what it is. Good service and atmosphere, though. I'd come back for sure (especially since it's right across the street from the Liberty Hotel, where I've stayed lately while in town).
(3)Sarah C.
5 of my girlfriends and I went to HG to celebrate a recent engagement. I have never been to HG but suggested it as our dinner celebration spot. I made reservations through Opentable for 6pm. We were all running late and the hostess called to see if we were still planning on coming. I told her we were all running late and she immediately said no worries and that they just were just checking on us. The inside is pretty small but has a warm atmosphere. I think the menu is pretty pricey but as someone mentioned you are in Beacon Hill. Before I talk about the food I'll talk about our waitress. Our waitress was very attentive. I know us 6 girls can get loud sometimes but I must say, she was always filling up our water, taking drink orders and answering any questions we had about the menu and overall a great waitress. We also had a surprise engagement cake for our friend and she presented it at the end and then served us the cake as our dessert. I really appreciate when a waitress/waiter knows what they are doing. She was definitely getting pretty busy as the night went on but I never felt like she wasn't paying attention to our table. Now onto the food. The food was just EH.... While we were waiting for our friends to arrive we had some cornbread. It was jalapeno something or another cornbread. The bread was a little to moist and crumbly, had a weird taste but also it was very salty!!! And I like salt, so for me to say it's salty is pretty bad. For my meal, I got the burger with half fries and half salad. Once again, everything on my plate was VERY SALTY! Our waitress kept refilling my water. The burger was cooked medium well and I asked for it well done but it was okay. The taste of the burger was okay but very salty. It had an onion relish with blue cheese on it. The side mixed green salad had way too much dressing so that was salty. The side of fries was salty but also I had pieces of fries that looked black and inedible. So overall, I think I would go there for drinks and maybe some appetizers but not sure I would go there for my main meal.
(2)Justin C.
The food is OK - standard pub stuff - and the bar is usually pretty decently crowded. The layout of the bar is a little annoying - there's not much space between the bar itself and a rail with tables behind it, so it can get tight in there and kind of tough to order drinks. Crowd is a little random, from what I can tell - everything from cougars to docs from the MGH to locals from Beacon Hill. There tap beer selection is kind of unexciting.
(3)Omoniyi A.
Ok, so i havent been here in some months. But it used to be my standard brunch place. I think it is so brunch perfect. Comfortable, not too crowded, affordable, nice large portions, accomodating of groups, and no rush to get out after you eat. The seasoned potatoes i also think were perfection (i cant vouch that they still are). Ive recommended it to many friends however who have had hit or miss experiences, but for me it's never failed to be fantastic.
(4)Pierre C.
I moved to san francisco about three years ago and I think what I miss most about Boston is HG. Close by so this was either where we met to start the night or where we returned to end the night. Great drinks and attentive service. Not sure if Karen and Jenny are still there, but when they are behind the bar I always had a great time. Crowd may certainly of changed, but I liked the reduced quotient of meathead and overly drunk college girl that you'd be hard pressed to find at neighboring establishments.
(5)Megan F.
I have been saying for years that one of these days I am going to write an article for some Boston Magazine about how great Harvard Gardens is...so for now, Yelp will have to do. I have been frequenting HG for several years now, always a great choice for whatever mood you are in. The food is great...the ingredients are high quality and fresh, the menu is a slightly modern twists on all your favorite comfort foods, the ambience is perfect for a cozy dinner at a booth or grabbing a drink at any hour. I will agree with a few of the other reviews that the service is rarely fast - but that is just sort of their gig - keeping things laid back despite the fast moving city that surrounds it. The drinks are affordable and well mixed and the parmesan truffle fries to die for!! HG is my oasis in the midst of so many other over crowded, over priced, too much attitude establishments. So if I were you, I would skip the lines and waits at almost every other place on a weekend night and grab a table at Harvard Gardens....and be sure to order a side of fries!
(5)Melissa A.
Great place to go if you want your ribs jammed by large, overstuffed men in tight-fitting t-shirts. Fortunately (or unfortunately), said large man's elbows where pretty high up, and did NOT meet my ribs. Rather, they met my shoulder blades more often than I can count, forcing me to spill my beverage all over my birthday-celebrating friend. A good thing to do in this situation is employ a boyfriend who has no shame. I told mine what to do and he did it. Captain Large Shoulders got a lougie on his back. Good times, good times. Star back on!
(2)Elizabeth G.
Uggghhh! I drop in here regularly for a late night drink but hadn't eaten here for a while until last week. The food in the past I thought was a little pricey but overall pretty good. I don't know what happened, but the prices were raised, the selection was poor and the food quality was just horrible as well as being exceptionally slow coming out of the kitchen despite few patrons. Portions were small (which I don't usually care as I am not a big eater...but at the price I thought I would take something home for later). Maybe the late-night bar menu is still reasonable but I'll never find out....the dinner was that bad.
(1)Amanda S.
The doorman is annoying. As we approached he announced "one in, one out", so me and my two girlfriends formed a three-person line, fairly certain that we were waiting just so the doorman could feel powerful for a few moments and of course so Harvard Gardens looked like "the place to be". Then 2 girls marched up to the door said they knew the owner, and breezed on in. I half-jokingly said, "hey man! what happened to one in one out? that was 2 in, zero out!" Then he said we could go in (even though, still, no one had left), but first he "prepped us" to "stay out of the way of the waitresses, and go straight to the back of the bar". Great prep talk. Wait staff was fairly attentive, drinks were decent, but they place was about 100 degrees, and the atmosphere is nothing unique.
(2)Jen S.
Doctors, Vomit, and Guys Getting Punched in the Face - Harvard Gardens Has It All After a long Tuesday at work, my friend Balison and I decided to head over to Harvard Gardens with a group of people, a place we had been only a few times previous. Little did we know what awaited us. (A) Pros: (1) Hot Bartender - this guy has been here every time I've been here (maybe 5 times total) and he's worth at least a star and a half of the 4 stars I'm giving HG. Go and check him out. (2) Secret not-on-the-menu chicken wings. Why wouldn't they put these on the menu? They are delicious. I put some in my mouth. (3) Doctors. Now this is a bit of a double edged sword. If you are in your 20s and single you probably wouldn't mind meeting a doctor. So the proximity to MGH and the amount of doctors clearly goes under "pros" - however, please see section (B)(1)(b) for the counterargument. (4) The hot bartender. (B) Cons (1) Vomit Another Yelp reviewer commented on the fact that she became oddly ill after drinking at HG. Now don't confuse what I am about to tell you with normal "I guzzled 5 glasses of whiskey and threw back 100 gross girly shot and now Im puking all over myself" sickness - HG has a weird way of making you sick off of a very small amount of booze. (a) 3 months ago I came here with friends, had maybe 3 glasses of wine and a cobb salad, almost puked in a cab and then got out of the cab and puked on my lovely winter white peacoat while standing on a street in the North End at 10pm on a Wednesday while people looked at me like I was a crazy wino. That was fun. (b) Last night my friend Balison had a few stiff ones - drinks that is (you never know with Balison) - and the next thing I know the hot bartender is very nicely asking me to help my friend. I turn around and Balison is asleep on a doctor's shoulder. Mouth hanging open, body heaving up and down with every deep sleepy breath she took. We wake her up and our other friend - let's call her "Melted Cheese" or "MC" for short - realizes she is about to vomit. As MC helps Balison to the bathroom, Balison begins to throw up - right into her own hand. She continues the puke festival across the bar, into the bathroom and I think eventually into the toilet. When she emerges she is covered in puke and says "I threw up on my shirt - and down my boobs." Sure enough, puke was down her boobs. This isn't ideal when you're trying to meet doctors. Last I checked, doctors don't call girls that puke into their own hand, and down their boobs. Watch out for the drinks. (2) Fistfights While Balison slept and vomited, MC and I were deep in serious conversation. Unfortunately, this random 40 yr old who we later found out was a regular at the bar did not care. He was so obnoxious that we wanted to roundhouse kick him, but being the sweethearts we are, we kept politely telling him that we were trying to finish a serious convo and would talk to him when we were done. That did not deter him. Finally this dude starts insulting us, and I get heated. Verbal banter ensues, and I am fabulously defending myself and telling this guy what a dbag he is. MC alerts the bartender to the guy's d-baggery and the bartender moves this guy away from us. Yet he returns and this time grabs me. I react with catlike reflexes and push him away, at which point I extend my pointer finger and instruct him not to touch me. He responds by biting my finger. At this point I almost certainly have rabies from this random guy biting my finger, and I respond by socking this guy in the face. Seriously, who does that. Harvard Gardens makes you crazy. I don't know what they are putting in those drinks, but I am not the girl who punches anyone in the face, especially some DUDE who probably could have knocked me into tomorrow. But yeah. Punched him in the face. Then I asked the doctor that Balison was sleeping on for Neosporin. In sum: Come here for hot bartenders, doctors, fistfights, and vomit. Do not come here for a normal, quiet night.
(4)ms m.
I was pleasantly surprised the first time I walked into this place. It's nicely decorated with it's sleek white booths without looking tacky or pretentious. I'm always happy with the food here and it's definitely a step above your typical "bar food" offering things such as brie and mushroom pizza. The service is also always very good. Good place to go with a group or on a date.
(4)Enrique D.
i wasnt sure what to expect when i was outside... it seemed off... the decor looked office space-like or like commercial, not really a bar/restaurant, and the sign seemed diner-ish.. but im happy i walked in. the place is dark cozy and full of a good crowd. u can tell its big with regulars and locals. always a good sign... well depending on the area, but its beacon hill...so yea, its a good thing. the food? IMPRESSIVE. i wasnt expecting much.. i was suprised at how good it all was. from apps to dessert, i loved every bite. drinks were good, nice wine selection, and the waitstaff was terrific. the manager , i think his name was Freddy or Frederick, sorry, was gracious enough to walk over to us and make sure we were enjoying everything and just really made us feel like the place wants and cares for patrons to leave happy and return eagerly, i appreciated that.
(4)Stephen Y.
Still serving pizza at midnight ! Closes at 2 AM. We had a friendly bartender.... Good selection of beer on tap... Great 80- 90's music !!!!!! Best of all- short walk from home. Have to go there again in more sensible hours to try the food (pizza can only go so far) and other drinks....
(4)Jesse P.
You will not fit in here unless you own hospital scrubs or an assertive button down shirt. That said, the food is often very good, especially the brunch, and it is a suprisingly good place to meet people even if you've left your scrubs at the MGH laundry or your assertive shirt on the yacht. The service is good, and the bartenders are more observant than you'd expect in a place that gets so packed.
(4)Laura B.
Delicious brunch! Great service, huge portions and terrific value. They even take brunch reservations. I would definitely recommend it!
(5)Shelley G.
Love this place. You can get a great brunch for under $10 and they give you so much food! Definitely one of my favorite places in town.
(5)Michael N.
When you're two years outta college and you can't go to the BHP every night this is the spot to move to on thursday night to see if you can land some waaay classier broads....no ricca chics here. Just a slew of unmarried 30 year-old preps dying to let you into their lili pulitzers if you can convince them that you're having a tremendous year in the market....
(4)Alice B.
I was really excited to eat at Harvard Gardens until our food came. Everyone who ordered pizza or sandwiches had something delicious looking in front of them. But my salad was barely there. If you go to this place and want to have a good meal, be prepared to order something unhealthy.
(2)Meghan R.
Good food, good drinks, good service... be prepared to feel like you're in a preppy/yuppy meatmarket, but if you're willing to face the challenge, its a great place to hang with friends or meet some new hotties. HG flaunts a relatively established mid 20s-mid 30s scene with a trendy look, great atmosphere and a hot bartender on Thursday nights. It's one of my regular spots for after-work drinks!
(4)Jane H.
Kind of blah. Not really impressed by food or service. My boyfriend liked his macaroni and cheese but my sandwich was really greasy and flavorless (I absolutely do not recommend getting the French Dip). I have only been here for lunch so I am not sure what the afterwork bar scene is like. From what I saw the drinks are expensive and not that creative. I may consider giving this place a second try though since I work nearby.
(2)Brian S.
Had remarkably unpleasant service from a bartender on my only visit. She was miserable and hostile during a slow evening. I frankly prefer to be ignored than treated like a burden. Menu reads well, a seared tuna sandwich was good, not great. Salad greens were fresh and not over-dressed. Hopefully better service will up my opinion if I go back again. (3/07) On a return trip with friends: different bartender, same crap. finished our drinks and left, for good.
(2)Carolyn B.
had a fun time at dinner here while visiting friends in boston. great drinks - i enjoyed the french 75 (all 3 of them). its a fun atmosphere - loud, good music, fun crowd. food was good - i had the steak frites, cant go wrong with that. i thought the fries were just ok, but they steak was good. spinach was good too but there was too much.
(4)jkhkjh j.
I have mixed feelings. I've only been here once... for brunch. Maybe I was served lousy waffles... but honestly, this place wasn't all that great. The bacon tasted like cardboard; the only thing I liked were the home fries.
(3)Kelly W.
I will not go back here. A friend and I went for dinner and drinks on Saturday and it was horrible! The food was tasteless! We got the spinach and artichoke dip and it tasted like soup, very watery. I got the spinach/feta pizza and my friend got the brie pizza. Both of them were disgusting. Also, the sangria is not good. It tasted like bad lemonade. The service was also bad. Our bartender would not stand behind the bar because she was getting a back message from some dude. Very weird!
(1)Kathleen T.
Hot burgers, prices, drinks, atmosphere, staff and business men. Enough said.
(5)Ashley M.
by far my favorite local place to chill. this place can cover any part of your weekend (or weeknight). friday - wonderful dinner from tasty menu - get fish, its worth the prices. saturday - desert and/or drinks - both are wonderful. sunday morning BRUNCH - try the smoked salmon eggs benedict (made with fresh salmon) and the brunch bellinis. music's too loud for a first date dinner, but music's always good. great first place to hit up on your way out or last place to hit up on your way back home. you just can't lose.
(5)Kristina F.
Raspberry Sangarita! I just like saying it, and drinking it. We went here one hot Saturday afternoon after a bunch of friends got finished playing kickball (yes kickball!) at the Teddy Ebersol fields across the street. We rolled in 14 people deep and I thought they were going to freak, but they welcomed us with open arms!! Bartender was super cool, as were the manager on duty - we even gave them kickball tee-shirts. (jealous, aren't you!) We ordered snacks - truffle fries were awesome. Other stuff was pretty basic, and good. Drinks were a flowing, shots and it was 3 in the afternoon. While I don't know how the rest of the patrons felt about a bunch of loud rowdy kickballers, I know we had a good time. Good times!
(3)Lowell H.
More of a bar with food. But the food was very good and a bit upscale. My wife had the ahi, which was great. I had the macaroni and cheese with ham and peas which was great. They had a lot of sandwiches on the menu about 4 pasta dishes and four entrees. Loud music, must be the latest music, because I never heard any of it before. My waitress was very good.
(4)Ali S.
3.25 I can practically see this place from my apt, so I've been there quite a few times by now, especially for last call. Unfortunately, that is probably the worst time to go here. At a certain point in the night, this place goes from chill restaurant lounge to a loud, abrasive pick-up joint. Not sure when that transformation happens but it does. The food here is good, but overpriced. Although, their scallop dish is worth trying at least once. The wait staff can be quite snippy, which I don't appreciate from anyone who literally works for tips. Overall, not the worse place to pick-up a drink, but the earlier you go the better the crowd and energy. Bottom Line: I like this place before 12:30 AM
(3)Christine C.
Well, I have never eaten here since the only time I go is after 11 on weeknights... however... They serve dark and stormies. They are convienient to my job. They have ample seating and fun music (not good, fun). I plan on trying the late night snacks ( I really love snacks) tonight and will review more later... (building up anticipation!) UPDATE- Love the late night menu! Really quirky items that turned out to be really yummy!
(4)Michael A.
A definite big step up from all the pubs in the area. Always a good crowd there. Good menu good food. Nice staff.
(4)Arestia R.
A great place I drag myself to on a weekday evenings or for last call on the weekend. Beacon Hill singles sip on Sam Seasonal while mingling with old friends and even making some new ones. The space is a little cramped for my taste, but I like the vibe...almost like a speakeasy. The secret, though? BRUNCH. I know, I would never think of it either! But the potatoes are to die for and it's a nice place to enjoy my favorite meal with friends.
(3)Stu G.
Nice place. Got a great booth for five on short notice last Saturday night. Food and service were great. Had been here for drinks before. I was impressed with the dining. Not pretentious or busy. Will definitely return. Nice
(4)Matt P.
Never been disappointed with this place... I've eaten lunch and dinner here on numerous occasions and it's always rocked a decent 3.5/4 stars. It's a nice spot on the other side of the hill if you're looking for reasonable prices and more creative fare. Atmosphere wise and all that jazz... i've never been past probably 8 or-so so no clue what it'd be like on a Saturday night; but if you are in the neighborhood i'd try it at least once.
(4)Tom C.
Where do you eat on Sunday night and you're from out of town? Harvard Gardens is a must. Ron (bartender/manager) was very knowledgeable about his brews and friendly enough for this out of towner. Really nice moody atmosphere (dark with red lights except for the white(er) seating area in back). BTW a grilled chicken sandwich is more than it seems...get the salad not the fries.
(4)Simon G.
I've been very slow to review this place because I'm too lazy. This is a long time coming, I go here once or twice a month. The lunch and dinner menus are just a step above normal bar fare. The music is great. Would not expect animal collective or kings of leon to play at a yuppie-ish bar. Also, other good music that I generally recognize and am surprised to hear, but forget because... the drinks are excellent because they are strong... and the bartenders are top-notch. These guys are friendly and attentive. A great break from the overall shitty Boston customer service. Can be a bit cramped at the bar though.
(4)Colin G.
Solid Bar Joint for the Back Bay. food is surprisingly good and a great option if your looking for a place that is slightly more then just drinks in a night out. The mixed drinks are decent the the beers on tap is pretty good. It is most definitely a early 30's late 20's hang out. It is a good place for picking up someone of a decent background in the city.
(3)Jasmine T.
I've only been here for drinks a couple of times. Everytime I go in the are so many snooty people that always are looking down on you. The bartenders were a little rude and took a while to come over even though it was a Wednesday night. They do play really good music though.
(3)Cyndi H.
over priced and pretentious. Service was slow and host was obnoxious with an attitude. Work in the area and would not go back there
(1)Allison S.
Although their beer list could use some help, their food is yummy! It keeps me coming back... They are constantly changing their dinner menu, and most everything on there looked appetizing. I wanted it all. If only my stomach was as big as my eyes think they are.... Although it was super hot (my bf and I were sweating) and the fire alarm went off (which I think can be attributed to their renovations, but I'm not sure), we had a great meal - even if they didn't have any dessert. Recommendation: if you like pasta and/or goat cheese, get the orchiette. It has goat cheese, orchiette, peas, tomatos, and a creamy pesto-like sauce. YUM! I was also pleasantly surprised to find out that they have brunch until 3pm on the weekends. Nice.
(4)Ali E.
The brunch here is outstanding. On the pricier side, but the portions are monstrous. The HG Benny - Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon and asparagus is tremendous, both in size and yumminess. Whatever you do, though, make sure you get a side of hash browns - they're almost like thick-cut potato chips. Salty and perfect for a rough morning. The bar scene is most definitely of the meatmarket variety. But the music is great (Outkast/Killers/Kings of Leon) and the drinks aren't too expensive considering the clientele. EDIT: I just got back from lunch here and I'll reiterate my four-star rating. Our waiter was attentive and accomodating (and super cute). I ordered prociutto pizza and my fellow diner got the grilled chicken sandwich - a little expensive, but HUGE portions and very good, so justifiably so.
(4)M T.
Bad! Went in for a quick app and beer..calamari came with pickles and jalapeños and the bread part was soggy, near inedible! Beer was fine but honestly how can you mess that up! Be sure to pass this door and move on down the road...
(1)Kristina M.
We hit this place up for a last drink on our way home from Beacon Hill Pub (which is right next door). It is definitely way more trendy than the aforementioned pub (maybe trying a little too hard, though?), but the drinks weren't actually more expensive than next door (which was surprising). Music was ok, and the waiter was very nice. I don't think I would usually go here, but after the Beacon Hill this pace provided a pleasant conclusion of our night.
(3)heather F.
just fine. food okay - sliders were good.
(3)Greg D.
Good cheap place to drink (They serve food here?). I don't understand this place, is it an upscale dinner? It seems like a pretty party place and by 11pm people are starting to clear out. Good Service.
(3)Courtney B.
I love everything about this place and am also an HG junkie!!! It's my go to watering hole in the area. Great food, great drinks and the awesome service. Seriously, you need to try the parmesan truffle fries. The bartenders are super friendly, funny and knowledgable, and on top of all that make some seriously stiff and tasty drinks! The ambiance is upscale without being pretentious, perfect spot for after work drinks for young professionals, and also gets packed and crazy fun on Friday and Saturday nights. They also have an incredible brunch! One of my favorite places in Boston.
(5)Jessica S.
Just had a great birthday dinner at Harvard Gardens with the fam. The salads were fresh and sooo tasty (heirloom tomatoes and peach w/ balsamic glaze- total yum). The steak frite w/ parmesan truffle fries were unbelievable- definitely a table favorite. Reasonably priced for Boston and great service. Plus we were able to find on street parking on a Sat night- bonus!
(5)Connie R.
Love Harvard Gardens! Recently moved into B Hill and just walked to it thinking it was like a casual pub. We were suprised to see it was a bit more upscale. It was but not at all stuffy. The prices can get high if you are just stopping in for a quick after work meal or lunch but it really is good. I am over the moon for the chicken sandwich. The fries are the best I have ever had but if the waitress asks if you want your fries parmesan, just know there is a charge. Still, yum yum. The wine list and bar are great although I usually dont partake. Desserts I could take or leave but you will be too stuffed to eat them anyway. GO GO GO to Harvard Gardens! You will be happy with your choice!
(4)Meredith K.
When I walked in I observed this place had a cute, trendy decor/atmosphere. We were seated right away so I was happy there was no wait, but slightly concerned it would be one of trendy places with bad to mediocre food. They had decent beer / wine / drink selection and what looked to be a promising menu. The martinis were tasty - we were off to a good start. Our waitress was also very friendly and attentive. Food was ok. Not fantastic, but definitely not bad. I got steak frites. I had ordered the steak med. rare and it was more like med. well and was an ok piece of meat, but the fries with Parmesan cheese and truffle oil were soooo tasty, and the spinach was really good. Chicken was a little dry and unspecial. A friend had the pan seared tuna with pad thai noodles and loved it. So menu was a mixed bag. But for dinner and drinks out with friends - a good place to go.
(3)Don A.
I don't know why people rave about Harvard Gardens, the beer selection is decent, and their food is average, I don't understand why people would make a trip to go out to this place. If I lived in the neighborhood I would probably go to this bar, but it is definitely not a Boston destination. I went to meet some people, we sat at a high top table and had some fries, the chicken fingers and some macaroni and cheese. The mac and cheese was bad, not very cheesy, almost like someone poured heavy cream over soggy noodles and then threw the concoction in the oven with bread crumbs on top. The fries were soggy and didn't come out very hot, but still edible, the one saving grace was the chicken fingers, the meat was tender and tasty, and the outside had the perfect crunch. The selection of dipping sauces left something to be desired, they weren't very good with the exception the buffalo sauce which wasn't bad. The atmosphere of the place was decent, definitely a lot of people for drinks and a lot of people for dinner, the location isn't bad, across from MGH and the T station so at least it wasn't a long commute for me to get out there. All in all I would probably go back but this place is never going to be on the top of my mind when I think of Beacon Hill Pubs.
(2)Kelly H.
I absolutely love Harvard Gardens! It is my favorite place to go in Beacon Hill! The food is always delicious especially the spinach and artichoke dip (I think its the amazing chips that makes this dish irresistible). The staff is wonderful and very helpful, even when it is a busy night the service is always spot on! Perfect place for a date or a night out with the girls!
(5)Dana L.
Talk amongst yourselves. I'll give you a topic: Harvard Gardens is neither a garden nor Harvard. A bit more upscale, perhaps, than BHP, but its less of a bar and more of a restaurant.
(3)June P.
Very disappointed with Harvard Gardens. This is a neighborhood bar, and I have had two poor experiences here. My coworkers and I were looking for a place to hang out and throw back a few after work. We came into HG, where no one greeted us. There were no seats at the bar but the rest of the place was empty. (I understand you can't sit unless you're eating). We asked if some seats might open up soon, and the waiters didn't respond. So we left. I should've known better after this experience, but I wanted to give it a shot. I went here on a weeknight with a friend. He wanted food, so we sat at the tables. The service started off fine but, as the night went on, it was quite clear that the waitress wanted us out. Our beers went empty, our water glasses empty, and our table... empty. At the end of the night, I split the bill with my friend but he had ordered more. So I left less "tip". I checked my statement a few days later, and she had overcharged me. Needless to say, I will not be back.
(1)John D.
The place is just another bar with decent food! So, why, oh pretentious hostess, did you think you had to ASK us TWICE whether we'd be having dinner? I said "a table for two for dinner" didn't I? Didn't you hear me the first time? Or did you really feel the need to ask me again on our way to a table? Maybe you get clientele who asks for a table and just drinks. What gave you the right to pool me into that category? You don't know me! When my date asked for a table different from the one we were put at, you snapped- "They are all reserved"! That's like McDonalds saving a table for those ordering an Angus Burger. Repeat after me: I just work at a mid-scale restaurant! Finally, after we settled in our seat, you came up once again, telling me which of the 4 seats at our table I should be sitting at because I'm blocking access to the bar area! Shouldn't you be cognizant of the fact that that table WAS blocking access and NOT set up a table there? I'm NOT sorry, that we just walked up and left. (That's brings me to the single star - yes, the water was refreshing and cold, so our waitress helped you earn that lone star) It was PRICELESS the way you went wide-eyed as we walked past you without a word exchanged! So... Get your act together, dear hostess... and stop pretending you are something you are not. The local restaurant up the road more than obliged us with a corner seat by the window, did not rush us despite constant flow of people, and all in all made us feel welcome.
(1)Ethan H.
I'll tell you what - say what you will about HG but this place has never disappointed me. I have never eaten here, but the drinks are good, and there are usually a bunch of pretty cool peeps up in there. Pretty low amount of douchbaggery and a pretty high fun quotient. I like this place. Not for any particular reason, but because it is what it is - a solid, honest bar with a pretty favorable girl:guy ratio.
(4)William P.
I went here with a friend and found that it was alright, a little crowded and when at capacity like it was the night I was in there it can be a little tough to move around. I will say that the bartenders were great because I never had a problem getting a drink. This would be a 3 star bar but the bartenders saved it one star.
(4)Caitlin C.
The HG is such a friendly bar and I almost always have a great time when I go. We usually end up heading there when we don't want to go too far from home, but we don't feel up for the Faneuil scene. Most recently we stopped in on our way home for a couple hours after the ball dropped on NYE. I was still fighting the effects of a serious food coma, but we managed to score a booth so I could sit and drink a beer while the girls did some dancing. Everybody wins!
(4)Lindsay D.
One star: Waitstaff is very attentive and will offer up suggestions One star: The mixed drinks are plenty strong One star: Proximity to my office and the T No star: The food. Really, Harvard Gardens, really? A house salad implies more than greens and dressing, especially when the price is so high. Also, the Truffled Parmesean fries were way overcooked and poor quality. No star: The drink timer. I have never in my life been to a bar that wouldn't let a partron order 2 rounds of shots in under 10 or 15 minutes. Weird... and not in a good way.
(3)Bob G.
I went there for drinks while waiting for another restaurant. Cool place, friendly staff. I can see this being a fun local place
(3)Colin N.
I've been to Harvard Gardens twice now. It's a much classier alternative to the BHP around the corner. However, the first time I went with my buddy ben, a drunk guy who claimed he just got out of prison was threatening to kill us. I bought him a drink and that still didn't calm him down. He claimed to know the bartender there, but that remains to be seen. Overall, I will go back. Women seem to love the place, and the times I've been have had a great girl / guy ratio.
(4)Dendra A.
Terrible experience. First off, we were given the wrong menus for the day. Our server got our drinks wrong [two sodas?] It took forEVER to get the food and the place maybe had three tables. She was really disinterested in serving us, and I was displeased. Vowed never to go back, and I haven't since.
(1)Felecia C.
Harvard Gardens, with its neon sign, looks from the outside like a cliche sports bar, and this is partially true. There is a bar along one wall and a couple screens showing the game du jour, but the seating area is dimly lit with candles, giving that part of the bar an almost romantic feel. HG does tack it up though - last time I was there, I noticed orange/pink string lights. Classy touch, HG. I usually hit this bar up right after work, when things are a bit slow. The clientele is mainly hospital folk or overflow from the Hill, so things do pick up later in the evening, but that has a negative effect on the service. Even though the waitstaff can be slow, I have always enjoyed my drinks - esp the admittedly girly Raspberry Sangrita. The music doesn't suck and neither does the food (according to the people I'm with who eat it). But I wish there were more space devoted to the bar instead of the dark dining area. Maybe I should be generous with the 4th star, since I am here often enough and it is generally a good time, but there is something about this bar that doesn't give a cohesive feel.
(3)Emily O.
Stopped by here for dinner and drinks with another couple on a Friday night. Great appetizers...would definitely recommend the calamari, it was delicious! Great service and perfect, casual atmosphere. Would definitely come back!
(4)M. Deloris D.
Harvard Gardens was surprisingly easy to get to by 11AM on a brisk Saturday morning. The brunch selections were a bit better than standard. The portions were superlative and the prices were reasonable. My HG Eggs Benedict was delicious. Eight of us brunching book club girls ordered and were served without much delay. No one complained about their food being cold, or an order being improperly prepared...except for Leighann who was incredulous at the idea that tomatoes should be included in eggs benedict... can't please everyone. I'd definitely return to HG. The value for the brunch dollar is pretty great.
(4)Zane G.
This place is a wonderful spot to grab abide for lunch and dinner. Great prices, better service, and delicious food! Their turkey sandwich for lunch is sublime.
(5)Renee B.
This is my Thursday night spot. Nice atmosphere, decently priced drinks, and lots of people to mingle with. It looks like a total hole-in-the wall from the outside but the interior is actually quite nice. The bar food is good. The french fries are tops on my list. If you're looking to meet somebody, this just might be the spot. Lots of young professional types. I have found (in my favor) that the ratio of men to women is a little high.
(4)Jana L.
Burgers were very good We had 2x avocado burgers, and 2x bacon mushroom and Swiss burger They asked how we wanted burgers cooked which was a welcome surprise since many places only do medium well. Tasty grass fed meat, fresh avocado and hand cut fries We also went to Emmets Tavern which was similar in food type but Harvard Gardens was better
(4)Stephanie H.
Awesome soundtrack and incredibly friendly and efficient staff here! I love the laid back vibe and the late night pub menu is awesome! I had the chicken sandwich and "regular" fries, which were great! Feasted on a great seasonal, limited edition Harpoon Nordic Saison in a large format 22 ounce bottle: wow. Great beer! Love that they support local breweries on their rotating feature bottle list. Highly recommend coming here with a date or a small group of friends. Music is at right levels, as is the lighting to support an intimate conversation or solid catch up session between friends. Could spend the whole evening here and never feel the urge to leave....especially with the great alt indie soundtrack as the backbeat to my beer drinking.
(4)Aimée I.
I walked out after 15 min, here are the reasons: 1. The menu on Yelp is not updated. I was looking for a healthy meal and saw that they offered a Grilled Chicken Wrap, however, they didn't have it and none of their meals were truly healthy. 2. I sat down, the waitress came and brought me a glass of water and she disappeared for over 15 minutes - yes! 15 minutes. It was not a busy day, it was around 3pm and there were probably 3 tables occupied. Because I just wanted to get a quick lunch I decided to leave and look for a faster and healthier option.
(2)Peter D.
I'll be honest with you: I wanted Thai food for dinner.* But since nobody cares what I want, we ended up at Harvard Gardens. And it was a good thing, because they do everything right: The music is good, and the service is great. Shout out to Chelsea. They start you with good bread and soft, whipped butter. The wings are great, although they are not Buffalo wings. The burger is excellent (cheddar, caramelized onions, bacon aioli, can't be bad) and actually cooked properly. What's more, they offer a choice of fries, salad, or a little of both as accompaniments. Everyone wants a little of both, so every place should do this. Plus, it's basically the closest restaurant to MGH, and after a visit there everyone needs a good burger and fries. Unless they went in because they have a heart condition, I guess. ____________ *A few blocks away, there's a Thai restaurant that is Usher approved. He's taken multiple pictures with the owners, and if there's ANYONE in the world I trust when it comes to Thai food, it's Usher.
(5)Nick S.
Great space - been here forever. There are weekends when the wait to be seated can seem like #Forever. The staff is quick & service spot-on. My advice: (1) come early. (2) The corned beef hash is no joke! Damn good - give it a try! ;)
(4)Kimberly A.
Stopped in here to meet my cousin for dinner while visiting. The service was great. The food was great. The drinks were amazing.
(4)Mish M.
Started out slow. The server took a while to notice we sat down we waited about 15 mins just to get water. But the food made up for it. Calamari was spicy and really good , it wasn't your typical frozen calamari either the portion was large and drizzled with sort of a buffalo glaze.the meatloaf hamburger and truffle fries so good you have an option of half salad half fries which I liked. . I had the blueberry beer which they put fresh blueberries into great flavor nice location.
(3)Mallory C.
After an appointment at MGH and a several day inpatient stay, I was in serious need of a good brunch and this place hit the spot! From the street I was expecting something along the lines of a dive bar, but this place is much more upscale! I felt like I was at Joe's from Grey's Anatomy, as I'm sure this place gets a lot of medical folks just getting out of work. Great ambience, delicious food, good service, and TVs to watch the game- this has become our "go to place" near MGH. I had the Huevos Rancheros, and I'm pretty sure it was the best one I have ever had! The boy had the red velvet pancakes which also looked incredible. Although I wasn't drinking this time around, the iced coffee I had hit the spot and I hope to come back for one of their bloody Marys. Our waitress was super sweet, and was patient while we used a coupon we got on Yelp for checking in! Great perk as well. So glad we discovered this place- it almost makes me want to schedule medical appointments just so we can go here after! ....Almost.
(4)Janhvi C.
Cosy place to eat. Sangria is tasty. Pancake was great!! The maple syrup was not thick enough though. The club sandwich was really great and French fries were tasty too! Perfect for an easy lunch!
(4)Taj K.
Harvard Gardens got a new chef within the last couple of years who definitely raised the bar with food. Unfortunately this also raised the prices. Their truffle fries are my favorite. I have had most of the menu items and I feel confident that everything tastes great. They have decent wines by the glass. The bar area is almost always lively. Located right across the street from MGH makes it an ideal place for after work gatherings. Good spot for sure!
(4)Leah K.
Went to Harvard Gardens for the first time last night. My friend and I wanted to get drinks after getting our nails done, and stopped in and sat at the bar. I ordered a martini (gin, rosemary syrup, and orange) and my friend had wine. I really liked my martini...the orange made it smell amazing, but it was barely sweet and pretty heavy on the gin. My favorite. Of course, we opted to order food as well. I heavily eyeballed the goat cheese dip (goat cheese, raspberry jam, and Iggy's bread), but it seemed steep at $15.00. I ordered a half portion of the butternut squash ravioli, which was around 6 raviolis on a long plate. It was absolutely amazing. The ravioli had a pecorino romano sauce, spinach and candied pecans topping it. It was savory but sweet at the same time. This would be a great appetizer to share (the half order is $12.00). It did not quite fill me, but it was a decent portion. My friend ordered the truffle mac n' cheese sans broccoli and peas, and it was deliciously creamy. I could have eaten her order, as well. I would absolutely come here for drinks and apps, but I could see how a full meal could set you back a pretty penny. The service was good, food great, drinks great, price a little out of line ....4 stars.
(4)Courtney K.
Can only comment on the brunch, but it is a solid spot. The portions are big, bloody mary's were very strong, and the service was efficient. I enjoyed my huevos rancheros and all of my friends liked their benedicts/breakfast burritos/hash brown dishes as well. The menu is pretty extensive so people are likely to find something everyone will enjoy when dining in a group. Plus, they offer lunch foods during brunch hours for those who do not like the traditional brunch food
(4)Brian L.
Came here for a Friday dinner to use a pretty sweet Gilt City deal ($20 for $40 plus 2 drinks). It was more of a bar feel than a restaurant at around 7:30. The crowd definitely seems doctor-y (people in scrubs, medical conversation), which would be explained by being right by MGH. I had a tasty Harpoon 100-barrel series India Pale Lager, the Cambridge Uncommon. A nice blend of IPA and lager, and with the hefty 24-ish ounce bottle, what's to dislike? We ordered the steak frites and steak tips for entrees. The frites was pretty good, but the best part was the truffle fries. That truffle oil is magic. Nicely seasoned and crispy as well. The steak tips were my favorite of the two, extra juicy and flavorful. Overall, seems like a nice place to stop by after work, or for a meal if you're in the area and it's not a weekend night (was a bit too loud for dinner conversation, and felt a bit crowded).
(4)Shirley D.
We had just arrived in Boston and were staying in a bed & breakfast nearby. It was around 11:30 pm and most restaurants had closed or were closing - luckily a bartender in one of the places we had stopped by told us about Harvard Gardens. I was expecting just a restaurant but this was actually more of a local bar scene which was still pretty cool. As soon as you walk in you have security checking IDs, then you have the option to chill by the bar or sit in a table. The place is split in two, there are booth tables on the left and on the right hand side there's the bar where people were just standing around taking selfies & talking. On the other side of the booth tables, there were more tables. Then as you walk towards the back you see a couple of more tables and rounded sofas. The good thing about this place is that you can eat, drink, talk, and listen to music. The crowd seemed to be mostly late 20s early 30s. Seems like a cool place to just hang out and enjoy a drink. As for the food, they have a late night menu! Although it's a limited menu, you still have pretty good options. Honestly, I was just thankful their kitchen was open. We had spent thirty minutes trying to find somewhere to eat that was open late. I ordered a grilled chicken sandwich with a salad on the side and it was pretty good! Tip: Check in on Yelp and get 15% of your first entree.
(3)Gloria C.
Came here for brunch one weekend. I like the decor and vibe of this place. It's very comfy, soothing, and spacious. The inside is totally different from what you'd expect based on the outside. L Their Bloody Mary was not bad! I was a huge fan of their bread basket--so soft and tasty. We got the huevos rancheros, steak & eggs, and breakfast burrito. We were all really satisfied with our food. The ingredients were all very fresh and the breakfast potatoes were on point. They use a black bean purée/spread which I think is pretty neat. I think their brunch is exponentially better than their neighbor's (hill tavern). We didn't order the French toast but the table next door did and it looked incredible!!!! It's served banana foster style with bacon. Their fruit bowl also looked pretty amazing and hefty
(4)Jennifer L.
The hubby and I were in town for a few days and stumbled upon this gem of a place. We liked it so much we ended all 3 of our nights here. Delicious food (truffle fries are OMG AMAZING), late night menu, great beer list, fantastic service and friendly patrons. If we're ever in Boston again we'll come see you guys! Thanks for the hospitality!
(5)S. A.
The buffalo chicken tenders is the only reason you need to go to Harvard Gardens. I've never had a waitress who seemed particularly happy with life and the tall, skinny female bartender is NEVER nice. However, buffalo chicken tenders are all I need in a bar, so drink up, order this app and life will be good.
(4)Donna J.
This is a review for their brunch. I ordered the HG breakfast plate and a side of red velvet pancakes. My boyfriend had the eggs and bacon with a side of a blueberry pancake. His pancake was thick and undercooked and his scrambled eggs were overcooked and dry. My red velvet pancake was good but covered with hard pecans. The sausage gravy slathered onto my biscuits looked like dog vomit and tasted as though a pound of sugar was thrown in. The only good part was the bacon but who can mess up bacon? I'm only giving two stars because I had a really good server who was attentive and kept our water glasses full. Sorry HG you've got a lot of work to do.
(2)Stephanie M.
In a word: Gross. I do not recommend going here for food. Terrible terrible food. Fo starters our tuna tartare was disgusting, large chunks of tuna mixed with...cold hard rice??? Why would anyone think this ok is beyond me. The tartare also came with a few wonton chips that tasted like they were fried the day before in oil that was old and rancid. Literally left a film on the top of my mouth. GAG. I chose my cobb salad to go with something light and semi filling since it came with chicken...except when my salad came there honest to God two microscopic pieces of chicken mixed in with all the lettuce. Like literally I was digging through my lettuce to see if there was any sign of chicken. I told the waitress and she said "Oh I did notice it looked a little bare". Okkkkkk. I did get a little plate of a little pile of more microscopic chicken pieces and they just smelled and tasted a little funky. Like the uncooked chicken you leave in your fridge for a few days too long and then try to cook thinking that it might be ok. UGH. Everything about this dining experience made me mad. It's not like this place is the cheapest deal around either. You do not get what you pay for AT ALL. Again: Gross. Do not waste your money unless you are only headed here for drinks!
(1)Lyndsey C.
This place is ok. I had greater hopes for it but the tables were a bit junky and our server seemed pretty out of it and not super pleasant when we tried to joke a little with her. Nice menu, though, a lot of good options for brunch. The kobe sliders were pretty good, bacon was yummy, red velvet pancakes were a bit too much for us (we tried one... but did love that we could get one as a side), and the truffle mac and cheese was really good but note that it is really heavy and large! Great portion but a little too much truffle oil in it. Overall good and decent prices, good location, but it was pretty warm in there and like I said the tables were kind of junky and shaky.. bathroom was super small. Great TV's though and nice bar selection.
(3)Zig W.
+It is a hybrid bar/restaurant, with surprisingly good food +HG Burger +Chicken sandwich +Grilled Cheese +$5 Stella +Close to beacon hill -Gets pretty loud -Sometimes run into people from my high school
(4)Alyssa B.
Looooooove HG. The brunch? Amazing. Drinks? Awesome. Bartenders? The best. I used to hate on this place for an after-work spot because it tends to attract a lot of douchey men who think that just because they are doctors at MGH they are God's gift to women. That alone doesn't make you special, fellas. But once I learned how to navigate this place, I learned to love it. For example, it gets crowded and it's not laid out well for large groups (unless you get a table), so don't walk in here at 8 on Thursday with 5 other people. But do go with 1 or 2 friends on the early side and post up at the bar. The bartenders are friendly and fun and will whip you up some great cocktails, like the Hot & Dirty. I haven't eaten dinner here in a while, but I remember the food being really good. I've split a few appetizers with friends for a light and tasty dinner. So obsessed with the brunch. There's an egg sandwich with avocado that's great. The eggs benny are great. The potatoes are the bestttttt. Also, they have a really delicious iced coffee adult beverage that I love and have tried recreating elsewhere and it's never as good. It has frangelico and I forget what else. Highly recommend!
(4)Lauren K.
Came here with friends for Brunch, it was delicious. I had the Eggs Benedict but subbed Prosciutto for the Canadian Bacon - it was delicious. The eggs were cooked perfectly & the Hollandaise wasn't too greasy. We got the Fried Calamari & Polenta Fries for the table to share. The Polenta Fries are these delicious pillowy bites & the honey & sirachi aoli are the perfect complements! The cucumber vodka white sangria was dangerously delicious and refreshing. I could drink those all day.
(5)Beth P.
OMG BRUNCH. This place has a great one. We went on a Saturday morning just after 11am (when they open), and it was decently crowded, maybe half the place was full. The menu had pretty standard brunch food, with a couple of unique items. I went with the breakfast burrito, and my boyfriend had the Eggs Benedict. The burrito was especially tasty -- the eggs were nice and moist, accompanied by melted cheddar cheese and a black bean spread. I asked for the sauce on the side, and I'm glad I did because it was super spicy! There were a couple slices of avocado on the side, and the home fries were AMAZING. They were thick cut seasoned, and topped with Parmesan cheese. The best part was the caramelized onions mixed in with the potatoes -- a great surprise! The Eggs Benedict was better than your average Eggs Bene, since it included prosciutto and asparagus. Both dishes were amazing. The ONLY thing I can say for a con is that I really wish they had a patio or even open windows! It's so dark in there!
(4)Phy G.
Our favorite place to stop for dinner after work!!! Harvard Gardens not only have incredible food, the service is top notch!! The french onion soup and HG Burger are a must try! My husband and I have never had a bad service or a bad meal, we stop here at least twice a week!!
(5)T. P.
Came here Saturday night for dinner with my boyfriend. Saturday night at about 8:30pm with only about 3 tables filled - that should have told us something right there. Besides the fact that it was FREEZING in the restaurant, I was happy with our booth and we received our waters fairly quickly. We ordered our drinks and apps together. The waiter came back with the drinks and asked us if we were ready to order our food yet, which we were. I got the ravioli and my boyfriend got steak tips. I also got a salad. My salad came out quick, and I thought that was strange since we didn't get our apps yet (we ordered 2 appetizers). So I asked my boyfriend to flag down the waiter next time we saw him in order to ask about our apps. This is where things went bad- we COULD have had our apps in time if our waiter was around to inquire about them!! However, we looked and looked and tried to enjoy our drinks and salad while also trying to keep an eye out for the waiter. 30 minutes went by before we finally saw our waiter again!! We asked him about our apps and he apologized and said he forgot. Well I was upset because I REALLY wanted to try my appetizer! I was all excited! :( And had he been around earlier we would have had enough time to remind him and have him bring them out. To ME, a normal standard is that if a restaurant forgets an app, they don't charge you and they bring the app out anyway. The manager did come over and apologize and told us our drinks were on her! KUDOS TO YOU AND GREAT JOB FOR THAT; however, I really did want the appetizers and never got them. We then noticed that other tables had bread. We didn't get any! If you look at my reviews, I feel like this happens all the time - I just cant seem to figure out how we always forget to be given bread whenever we go out. So throughout this long waiting game, we had no apps and no bread. We waited another 20 minutes for our waiter to come out again before I could ask for bread. It was a waiting game all night long. THE GOOD PART OF THIS REVIEW IS... the food is actually decent. My goat cheese raviolis were delicious; boyfriends steak and potatoes were just okay - I have had much better. At first we were not going to stay for dessert due to our poor experience; however with the manager coming over to apologize, we decided to give it a try and boy am I glad we did! We got the brownie sundae dessert and it was AMAZING! Overall, we prob will not be back due to the service and although the food was decent it is nothing to rave about or to risk customer service for.
(3)Molly F.
If I didn't live nearby I wouldn't go out of my way, but it's a great place to grab a late dinner as the kitchen is open late. That being said, they have one of the best burgers I've ever eaten. Their fries are bomb too.
(5)Joelle K.
I had an absolutely delicious brunch at Harvard garden today. I had the eggs Benedict. The portion size was enormous with a heaping pile of cheese flavored potatoes. The eggs were so yummy and served with prosciutto instead of Canadian bacon. Our waitress also brought us a basket of tasty coffee cake while we were waiting for our breakfast. I enjoyed coming here for brunch more than dinner and will definitely be back!
(4)Jack S.
On 07/09/2015, had a bizarre experience where at 9.30 pm, we walked into the place and checked for a seat at the bar. The bar area was full, and we were about to leave when the host asked if he could help. we told him that we just wanted to have a couple drinks. He said he would check whether it was possible, and then came back and said yes. We sat at a booth and 5 minutes later a waitress came over and upon discovering we only wanted to order drinks, kicked us out in a very rude fashion. Not entirely sure what the story was with the communication between host and waitstaff was but it was highly disconcerting given we had told the host exactly what we were looking for. Then the attitude of the waitress was rather hostile. Especially given that booths and tables were pretty much empty...
(1)Bron V.
Great place and simple. Never a line and believe it or not, one of my favorite things about it, is their food! Amazing brunches Appetizers are great And burgers are awesome. All while having reasonable prices. Bartenders and servers are great too. All nice people. Thanks for the great times!
(5)Mark B.
I ate there for brunch twice and is was fine (read: not memorable in good or bad territory). Last night, I had dinner there and it was not fine. The food was closer to not good (read : bland) and expensive for what you get. Harvard Gardens seems like a decent place to pop in for a drink in occasion, but not to eat. Two strikes of "meh" for brunch and one strike of "not good" for dinner and Harvard Gardens is out.
(2)Cristina R.
Moseyed in for lunch on a weekday. It was pretty empty, but the decor was nice and tastefully Halloween-y with orange lights hung up around the space. We were seated at one of the corner tables. Cozy. The soup of the day was butternut squash. It only comes in a bowl, so it could easily be your meal since it's filling. My friend and I split one as s starter, and I'd say this is the way to go. This stuff squashed most of the fall soups I've had! It was creamy but not overly heavy and very flavorful. Like a warm blanket for your insides. The ginger tones really kicked it up a notch! For my entree, I ordered the oven-roasted turkey sandwich. This sammie sounds splendid on the menu. Walnut-pecan bread surrounding turkey, cheese, Granny Smith apple slices, and cranberry sauce. Like Thanksgiving in sandwich form, right? Wrong. It comes cold! Which was a shock considering the "oven-roasted" declaration in the name. The bread is toasted, so was slightly warm and crispy, but all of the innards were refrigerator cold. Boo. After one unsatisfying bite, we asked the waiter if he could warm it up in the oven. He kindly obliged, and after about 10 very hungry minutes, came back with new sandwiches for us. It was MUCH better afterward, with the cheese melting on the turkey and the cranberry sauce soaking into the crispy bread. Although it sounds weird, I actually enjoyed the sandwich more the next day when I reheated the other half for lunch. Everything blended very well and made for a comforting meal. But I wouldn't order something just to be able to enjoy the leftovers! And considering the trouble and delay of getting it warmed up at the restaurant, I'd say to try out something else. The butternut squash soup is better'n most though! Jump on it (or in it) if it's offered.
(3)Tony S.
What an utter clash of expectations versus reality. I was expecting shitballs on ice when I walked into this place. Dark... boringly boxy... that typically stank and bored feel I get when entering some pub in the middle of nowhere Essex or Franklin county Massachusetts....... Rhode Island even... Then my group of 7 pulled up to the bar. The bartender, a very no-nonsense lady took our drink orders, and we settled into our conversation on girls, sports, toe fungus, and that "hawtie at work" that we all fantasize about doing lewd and crude things to... especially if and when she comes to work without panties (because we all know THAT happens). The a couple of us mustered up the courage to admit...... "hey..... shit..... we haven't eaten over the last few hours.... and that pantie-less co-worker fantasy has kinda got me hungry..... you guys want to...... gulp..... eat something here?" And that was it.... we clocked in our timecards into gastro purgatory, and asked for menus..... and even inquired if the bartender recommended anything..... .... what do you know? A spark in her eye suddenly ..... well..... sparkled. The must-tries were the kobe sliders (I think that's what they were called), and some chili shrimp dish. I expected NOTHING better than cat-ass burgers. I got NOTHING less than PURRFECTION!.. ... and this is where I lose my Boston tuff-guy persona and bring out my inner Martha Stewart. Good LORD the food was amazing. After my first few bites of either dish, I actually avoided sharing it with my friends.... my homies.... my brotherhood of awesomeness..... ... fuck that..... every man for himself. This food is MINE! You may lick the shrimp tails and meat grease off my plate, but NOTHING else!! I don't usually lose my cool when reviewing restaurants....... (Ok..... that's a lie.... I'm an LA drama queen at least twice a month...)..... but HOLY SHITBALLS I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!! Yeah...... this is a gem hidden in plain sight. You HAVE To come here.... and at the very least...... order the shrimp and kobe slider..... with the egg...... omg.... fook this ... I'm going out for more....
(4)Gordon C.
Excellent brunch spot! Make sure you get there early so you don't miss out on their corned beef hash. The best I've ever had. Best. Ever.
(4)Lynn J.
outstanding service... Hostess flew across the room to greet us! manager apologized for the noise at the bar. waiter came to take out order immediately. nice selection of beer, wine and scotch. a wide variety of bar bites, burgers and salads. The deal: college crowd and mgh staff... just down the block from the mgh T stop.
(5)Kalin M.
The food here is amazing. The bar staff is even better. My family and I have made this "our place" since our dads been at mass general. Diane has especially made us feel welcome and at home here. We will be back.
(5)Rebecca R.
Over-rated. The portions are tiny, tasty but nothing special. I had the ravioli which comes on a long plate, an illusion to make it seem as though you are getting a larger portion than what is essentially 5 measly bites. It wasn't terrible, but certainly not worth the price. I have to admit my enjoyment was tampered by the subpar service. My waitress never refilled my water and disappeared for the remainder of my meal. Also the longest I've ever waited for a check (with so many empty tables.)
(3)LoveYouToo L.
Friends at work recommended this spot for lunch since it's nearby. I recall only having had drinks at HG many years ago. This place was a pleasant surprise. We all ordered sandwiches (reuben, grilled chicken, hamburger, grilled cheese). Everyone seemed more than satisfied with his/her sandwich. The fries are really good and more like hand cut fries. I don't know what they have on the dinner menu, but lunch was really good, not expensive, and good value. Our waitress was very attentive. Also really like the music, and the retro lounge style decor.
(4)Kiki D.
Harvard Gardens was a great casual brunch spot on a Sunday mid-morning. There was no wait and the service was great. I got the brunch burrito and it was AMAZING not to mention the brunch potatoes were some of the best I've had, super crispy with parmesan and herbs. Highly recommend coming here for brunch if you want a chill but nice brunch atmosphere!
(5)Merrick M.
Great food. Good value for this area of Boston. Try the steak tips. They were wonderful.
(5)Julissa P.
I like this place because I live across the street and the guys who work there are extremely friendly and helpful. The women who work at the bar seem to always be in a bad mood. Learned this the hard way, also the food is not worth the price. It sucks to spend so much money in there and receive terrible service. I suggest going on the weekends, much more lively and the staff is much nicer.
(3)Reem K.
I went today for a brunch. Ordered French Toast. It was thick slices. Dry, tasteless, not crispy, not fluffy. Will not order this again. The place and the people were lovely.
(1)Richard H.
I've always walked by here on a brisk walk from Charles/MGH to North Station and decided to meet a colleague here on a Saturday for brunch. There was no problem getting a spot at the bar and later a table for brunch. Nothing special about this place, though I was impressed by the selection of brunch items at what at first appeared to be a typical pub on the outside. I enjoyed my eggs benedict (with prosciutto and asparagus) although I found that the side of potatoes had a bit too much Parmesan cheese to the point of being overwhelming. Coffee was your typical bland filter coffee. Other menu selections including the french toast looked good. Will return if I'm passing though, but won't go out of my way. Although, I would come back for a drink as the bar is nice and long, with plenty of room to stand or sit.
(3)Leanne E.
The truffle fries here are the stuff that dreams are made of. So hot, so much Parmesan, just so damn good. The grilled cheese is bomb, it comes with marinara and it's just perfect. I always get a bellini there, and it's awesome. Love it!
(4)Angela J.
We LOVED out brunch. Red velvet pancakes were fantastic!--- though definitely sweet. Might have been too much as a stand alone meal- we ordered as a side. Breakfast potatoes were crispy and flavorful and served with parmesan. Will gladly return.
(5)Gregg V.
I keep coming back to Harvard Gardens, and the reasons are obvious: great food, great service, great people. Well done HG!
(5)Ryan M.
Harvard Gardens is always a great alternative for a weekend night, or a great spot to enjoy some brunch on a weekend. Many a trip to BHP have been detoured into Harvard Gardens for a few beers and a large helping of their DELICIOUS truffle fries. If you come here without getting the fries you are truly missing out! Other than these tasty morsels, the full menu has many scrumptious options to consider. The bartenders are really cool people (though as mentioned they can be no-nonsense) and are always open to making a suggestion for you based on your tastes. I've been here on almost every day of the week and they have always greeted me with a smile and a delicious beverage. I have frequented HG much more often at night than during the day but I can also vouch for their brunch. It is especially a popular spot before events at the Garden so take this into consideration when making your brunch plans.
(4)Larry G.
After visiting our new granddaughter at MGH we walked across the street to HG. They accommodated us nicely with a booth as we had our 2 year old other granddaughter with us....she was quickly served a nice grilled cheese and fries....I got the steak frites, a very good version .....my wife got the southwestern chopped salad and it was the dish of the night....large flavorful with a nice mix of ingredients. I was going to give 5 stars but....I ordered the salad to go the next day and when I got home it was much smaller and missing several ingredients...too bad....I was very disappointed
(3)Ngan T.
omg the mac n cheese. the mac n cheese. THE MAC N CHEESE!!! we went here originally for lots of ginger ale and soup since the manfriend was having an upset stomach. I've been here for drinks a time or two but finally got to writing this review because of the mac n cheese (ohhh did I give it away already?) The bartenders are very accommodating. My boyfriend got them to put 7 cherries in my drink once just because I love those maraschinos so. Our waiter this time was awkwardly chatty but A for effort.. The lighting is very dim here and the music selection is strange. Everything from hip hop to country. haha sounds like they plugged my ipod in. Anyway, food is EXCELLENT. We've only tried the tomato soup and the mac n cheese thus far but considering how well those two went, we'll definitely be regulars. Mac n cheese sauce was just the right consistency. They used orecchiette pasta which meant mini scoops of the delicious truffle cheese sauce. The crumbs were a very nice touch. I want to spend the rest of my life eating this.
(4)Hayley B.
This place is down the st. from my Beacon Hill apartment and has become a go-to place for better than average bar food and a guaranteed seat any time of the week. I don't have much to say except the service is good, the food is good, and the truffle fries are outstanding. I would probably be satisfied just getting a few drinks with a friend and a large order of fries. YUM. Nothing fancy but this place exceeded my expectations. I have also ordered the Bib Salad a few times and was honestly impressed. It was SO good! The best part by far was the maple goat cheese vinaigrette. I will definitely be back!
(4)Danae K.
Amazing brunch!!! Pleasant service, kind waitors. I had a lox combination and enjoyed it thoroughly.
(5)Kathryn R.
I give this five stars not for the drinks or for the surprisingly delicious bar food but for the fact that it is my local bar. This is the place I come when I want to know the bar tenders, have a consistently good meal and either a Stella or one of their latest seasonal beers on tap. A few favorites include the pumpkin in October and the Harpoon Summer that's currently being served. Brunch is solid - try the blueberry pancakes and bacon and if your adventurous get a red velvet pancake to share. For dinner the Parmesan truffle fries are a great way to start your experience followed by one of the chicken dishes. Simple but quells my cravings every time. This is a neighborhood place that feels like home. I just keep coming back!
(5)Jay M.
Mmm... Corned beef hash, 2 eggs over easy, side of home fries, side of bacon. Best way to kick off a Sunday morning!
(5)Marcus M.
I have been here a number of times and I have always enjoyed the atmosphere. The drinks are cool too. Tonight, I had the salmon for a second time-- and I am convinced that this is some of the best salmon I've ever had. And that is saying a TON since I'm from the Great Northwest! (Go Hawks!) I know about salmon. But this is so tender and juicy with a perfect flake. It's not overcooked in the slightest. In addition, the service tonight was fantastic. And as an extra bonus, it's right near Mass General Hospital so you have a great chance of meeting an attractive doctor or nurse! I recommend you stop in to Harvard Gardens sometime. Doooooo iiitttt!
(4)Madison M.
AMAZING BRUNCH! I'm giving them 5 stars because 3.5 stars does not do their Sunday brunch justice. HIGHLY recommend the French Toast (that bananas foster sauce is ridiculously good) and the Eggs Benedict. The potatoes were also delicious. Will definitely return.
(5)Angela M.
We were headed to the hospital for business, so we got there early enough to grab a bite here. We were seated at the banquette against the back wall. TV's in the corners and above the bar kept us updated with the Aaron Hernandez story as we perused the menu. I chose the BLT with fries, until the server offered 50/50 to my coworker. I then opted for the BLT with 50/50, since I really only want a few fries for the flavor and the salad to feel healthier. The server advised that this is really the best deal, since you end up getting almost as much salad and fries as you would if you got only one. The meals came promptly. The BLT featured thick cut applewood smoked bacon, tomato, lettuce, and herbed mayo on lightly smoked sourdough. The bacon was thick and tasty, but a little tough, so you essentially got the whole slice of bacon in a bite, rather than having it break into a crispy bite. The tomato was juicy, not mealy, and the lettuce was crisp. I would've preferred less mayo and more toast on the bread, but that didn't stop me from eating the whole sandwich. There was a nice mix of greens in the salad, which was dressed with overly sweet balsamic vinaigrette. The fries were a tad soggy, good motivation to leave them on the plate. Check in on Yelp and get 15% off your bill!
(3)Jordan W.
So this does not get lost in the review: THE TRUFFLE FRIES ARE LEGENDARY. ORDER THEM. HarGar, as I've come to call it, is my go-to dinner or after work drinks place. Unpretentious, relaxed, but still good food. It fills up with nurses and doctors at the end of MGH shifts, so there are some random-seeming times of day when it is super busy. Good brunch on Sundays, great burgers for lunch or dinner, and all around a pretty great place to hang out and grab a drink and snack with friends or colleagues.
(4)Paul W.
Heard they had an awesome Chicken Bacon Avacado Sandwich, went there had one and it was awesome. Will be back for that sandwich!
(4)Rachael L.
Sept 2013- This place earns its 3 stars solely for the grilled chicken sandwich. AMAZING!! All else was less than par, especially the service. The girl waiting on those in the dining area seemed great and attentive. The bartender, however, who was responsible for the high tops next to the bar, was rude and focused solely upon flirting with the old men giving her attention at the bar. We had to go get our own menus, wave her down for waters. She was annoyed to even have to serve us. They were out of several things (the beer we ordered and the lobster mac and cheese). Server thought she would just bring us regular mac and cheese....um no. There is a reason one orders SEAFOOD mac and cheese. She was snotty about us pointing out that we did not want it. Anyway, come for the chicken sandwich if you must come at all.
(3)Matthew F.
Great neighborhood bar/restaurant. The food is surprisingly good, good quality drinks and nice enough interior.I had the steak frites and truffle fries which were excellent. Good selection of beer and liquors. I would go back any time for a casual dinner and drinks
(4)S M.
This place was fun. The inside is VERY dark and set up using candles. But the bar staff is very nice. Lots of medical staff from Mass General hang out here as well.
(4)Mary F.
Came here for brunch while staying in Beacon Hill. Wonderful service from hostess to waiter, our drinks were never empty, and the breakfast portions were huge and delicious! Also, if you come here during breakfast and don't try the red velvet pancakes, you've made a huge mistake. They. Are. Amazing.
(5)Ramin S.
Great food, friendly staff and all around a pleasant experience. This place can serve as a place to grab a casual lunch, fancy dinner or a quick drink. I have been there on weekend nights too and have had a great time. The menu is always changing so it keeps everything fresh and new. I enjoyed the California club the last couple times and think they're food is really great.
(5)Jeremy K.
I've had a few meals at Harvard Gardens, mostly out of convenience as I'm headed to a Bruins game. Whether it was brunch of dinner, I have yet to be wowed by my experience there. While the location is great and the place spacious and clean, the food just falls short if you ask me. I've found that they seem to take a focus on the quantity more than the quality of the food there and despite the pretty affordable prices, I've always managed to leave in the place in a starch-induced food coma, even when only eating about half of the portion. The selection on the meu is solid, but somehow it all gets ruined by the prices and portion size. The prices are a bit higher than most places, especially compared to other places nearby but it is Beacon Hill after all and I've only had spotty service there at best. Sometimes good service, sometimes horrendous. The kitchen always seems to be on the slow side of things and whether it was for brunch or dinner, I just have not been impressed. As far as their beer selection there, it's nothing amazing but it's pretty decent - they do however seem to run out of brews quite often, at least on my visits. The one beer that I always want to get there always seems to run out. Frustrating. All in all, the place is pretty decent but nothing amazing. It's conveniently located right next to the Charles/MGH T stop and offers a wise-array of dishes. Just be careful when you order as you might end up having a food coma as you walk out...
(3)Kimmy B.
I would give them zero if I have a way to do so. Absolutely horrible service and hardly edible food: Got there around 5 on Tuesday evening and sat at the bar. An overweight in the mid-section bartender who has a snobbish attitude for no reason took 15 min to take my order (it was not crowded at all then). I ordered steak tips cooked MEDIUM (I personally feel cooking beef more than medium is being disrespectful to the cow) with French fries (it comes with garlic mashed potato but I did not want to take a chance with anything mashed there. You don't know what's going to be "mashed in" there). Ok (sigh) so the food came after quite a while, first, the beef looked burned outside and when I cut in the middle, it was completely cooked all the way and the soggy French fries were almost wet to the touch because they piled grilled vegetables and tips on top of them. I took a bite of the meat. It tasted and smelled like the meat was not fresh. And that was it for me. I am not sure how they stay in business (in "restaurant" business, unless they have something else going on behind lol). My conclusion: You've got to have a pretty sad life to want to hang out at that place!
(1)Matt C.
Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Rancheros. Brunch at Harvard Gardens is worth a trip simply for the Huevos Rancheros. Huevos is my go-to anytime I am out to brunch and I can't recall a better version than Harvard Gardens'. Overall the brunch menu is vast and everything looked appetizing and we will definitely return.
(4)Veronica P.
I wish I could marry this establishment. And their lemon drop martinis. EVERYTHING.
(5)Rick L.
Love, love, love Harvard Gardens. The food is pleasantly pretty good, but I go for the music and drinks. I'm not sure who puts together their playlist, but within an hour I hear everything from Curtis Mayfield to The Clash. Shazam gets a good workout at Harvard Gardens. I also love the white leather decor...it feels like I'm in a Madmen scene.
(4)Corey L.
Last night I thoroughly enjoyed the steak tips w veggies and truffle fries. Veggies were buttered but not too heavily. Fries were solid. All was quite tasty and excellent. And I still like the king professional crowd. Oh! Our waitress was awesome too
(4)Eudaemonius ..
Looking for late night eats, we stumbled into Harvard Gardens not knowing what a treat it would be. At that point we were just looking for something on a Sunday night, and a libation to side car the meal. We found both! MaiTai - Delish Fish Tacos - Delish Shrimp in Chili Sauce - Delish Oysters on the Half Shell - Delish The drinks flowed and so the night went. We could not seem to order the shrimp or drinks fast enough. A worth stop on the north side of town!
(4)Jackie C.
The food was great! I had the chicken sandwich and it was very good! The drinks were rough, not quite spot on. We will definitely be back, it was a great place but drinks need a little work.
(3)Stephanie Y.
Came here for lunch while visiting MGH. This is definitely a decent and adequate place super close to the hospital. Was it the best meal ever? For salads negative. We actually started off with some delicious polenta fries. They were actually not what we expected at all but rather were these thick polenta blocks deep fried. One minus of this app was the lack of sauce that was included. C'mon now fries especially of the polenta variety are always better when accompanied with lots of slammin' sauces/condiments. My family and I all ordered salads. The cobb salad was ok. Presentation was amazing with a large thin cucumber serving as the bowl, with mixed greens, some bacon bits and tomatoes as the filling. Overall, nothing too crazy, and to be honest that sentiment could be replicated across all salads. My bf had the caesar which he said was super tasty but, it was super small. Side salad styz not entree status. Salads were all about $12. No protein included. Overall, I would bypass the salads and maybe stick with a sammy or a burger or maybe explore some more options in Boston but again, if you are in a bind and at the hospital and nearby and need a quick place to dine, this isn't a bad option.
(3)Anna R.
When I worked at MGH, I loved meeting friends after work at Harvard Gardens. It was the closest, nicest joint you could walk into while still wearing scrubs. An added bonus was chatting up some of the other cuties in scrubs ;) Although slightly pricey, I loved the steak-frites with a good (local) beer. It was really delicious and hit the spot after a rough shift. But because HG isn't very big, there is definitely a line on weekend nights so you may have to wait for a spot. But, hey, it's Boston - there's always a line on weekends.
(4)Jacob V.
Great Brunch the corned beef and hash was awesome and the bloody mary is a must. Cool atmosphere and in a great location. Enjoy
(4)Chris B.
Disappointed -- underwhelmed. Firecracker shrimp was not shelled, mushroom stuffed ravioli was pedestrian -- all items al a carte and overpriced relative to quality -- even the Malbec was diffused. Better options in immediate area.
(2)S.s. B.
Great place for brunch. Coffee was very good and my steak and eggs were delicious. Nice atmosphere with lots of booths and privacy. Out waitress was pleasant and attentive. Would definitely recommend this place for breakfast or brunch. Hoping to come back soon and try dinner.
(5)Eric S.
Nice atmosphere. Great drinks! Stopped in for a late evening bite to eat and some drinks. My girlfriend had the grilled cheese (she liked it a lot), and I had the scallops (somewhat chewy in the center; would have expected a little better for a New England restaurant). I had the HG Doli (great pineapple flavor; a little lighter flavor than other Doli's I've had), and I had the Dark Blossom (?) (it had tequila and was a bit strong). Overall, a great location to sit and relax with some cocktails!
(4)L N.
3 stars because the food is really good. Drinks? That's a no-go. And it is a bar so........ U can make that choice.
(3)Judy K.
If you wanna drink - fine. Otherwise skip this place. Horrible cobb salad was had here. Expensive too. Yes, it was huge. But size does not always matter! The salad was doused in a cheap vinegar - vinegar alone is not a vinaigrette! I asked the waiter (who had a snobby attitude) for some olive oil because the salad was so acidic and he brought me a bottle of some indeterminate stuff. I drizzled it on - it helped a little but not much. I sat with my plate untouched for quite along time waiting for it to be removed. The waiter buzzed by our table a couple of times so quickly I didn't catch him to ask him to take my plate - not that I should have had to. Finally I piled my napkin on top along with some other articles - and he took my hint. Duh. Nope. Ain't goin' back. Ever.
(1)Fernanda P.
I ordered a BLT and it was AMAZING. The bread was so crispy and delicious. I ordered a salad instead of fries and it came with italian dressing on the side. I asked for honey mustard. Everyone in my party loved the meal. They had the creamy potato soup, grilled chicken sandwich and classic reuben. The fries were tasty and crispy.
(4)Robyn B.
I've heard that the brunch here is awesome (red velvet pancakes?!?!?! must. try.), but the (dinner) food that I've tried is kind of meh. Last time, my friends ordered the cobb salad and a burger, both were fine. I got a bowl of the french onion soup. Good but a little too salty/cheesy for me. But I guess that's what french onion soup is kind of supposed to be. Anyways, the gin and tonics here are awesome.
(3)Xiao Z.
Decent bar with a fancy late-night bar menu (the kobe beef w/quail egg sliders were a nice touch) and they made some of the best Old Fashions I've had in a while.
(3)Melissa B.
This place a a surprisingly great brunch. I had the prosciutto and goat cheese omelet and it was delicious. The breakfast potatoes where even better. They are crispy potato wedges with parmigiano cheese sprinkled over them. I only gave it 4 of 5 stars because I always feel this place is dark on the inside, but a comfortable set up none the less.
(4)Maureen D.
I love that this relatively small urban bar/restaurant uses Open table for reservations. I made the reservation for 8 people less than a week ahead of time. I received an email reminder. We arrived a few minutes late, but the table was available. Our waiter was polite, got our drink and food orders right, and popped in plenty of times to see how we were doing. Generally people enjoyed their meals, which included pork chop with polenta 'fries', salmon, cobb salad, mac and cheese, and asparagus ravioli. The one flop was the Bibb salad, which our server said was big enough for a meal, but was actually quite small. There was a fairly average noise level, with a vibrant crowd at the bar. I liked being seated in the back, where there was a little less traffic and I could mostly hear my dining companions when they spoke loudly. The place is a little overpriced, but this is a city.
(4)Adam F.
If you take the douchiness factor from Jersey Shore and combine it with college students who are all wannabe doctors, then mix in a few desperate girls you come up with a place like this. Don't worry, the staff factored in the quality of the patrons they would have, and play the music at a decibel level that prevents you from having that awkward conversation with the popped collar pre-med student. Something positive...the drinks are good, albeit expensive, and the staff is nice.
(2)Adrienne M.
Great food, great service, great ambiance -- morning, noon or night -- with a date, big group of friends, or alone. I love Harvard Gardens the most for their brunch. (Killer bloody mary!) This is definitely one of my favorite spots in Boston--I can always count on a good experience! The service is what makes it stand out the most--even at their busiest. I'm gluten free and the servers are always helpful and accommodating so that I can have a delicious meal. They rotate the menus (and cocktails) pretty frequently, so it's always fun to try something new even though I come here all the time.
(4)Saige B.
We came here on a Saturday afternoon and had a similar experience to when I've come at night or for lunch. The bartenders make delicious drinks for the Boston price. I had the Cranberry Margherita and my friend had the Red Line and both were awesome. The food, on the other hand, is just mediocre. They try very hard to put some things out that you wouldn't find at a typical Boston bar. We had the truffled mac'n'cheese (overcooked but still pretty good) and the polenta "fries" (these were seriously logs of fried polenta with very little flavor and a weird consistency). The atmosphere is a tad Grey's Anatomy with all the hospital staff spillovers but it's an okay spot to move to from downtown. I don't mind coming here for a great drink but the atmosphere is a little metro/stuffy and the food gets a 'C' for effort.
(3)Chris S.
I'v gone here for lunch and for night life. Both times I was pretty disappointed. The food for lunch was tasteless and the bread was not fresh for my sandwich. I have gone here for drinks at night and when I went the place was packed. I had to deal w/ some immature patrons and all in all it was not a place I see myself going back to. The prices were not that bad but my experiences were. I gave it two stars because I was with friends at night and still had fun but I like I said I probably wont be going back.
(2)A B.
This is my favorite bar on Beacon Hill. Yes, I'm partial to the name. It is also the closest bar to my front door, so please take that under advisement. It has great atmosphere and a friendly vibe. It looks a bit divey on the outside, but the inside is modern. The only thing saving it from a full 5 stars is that the food is not what it could be. The food is fine, yes, but given how good everything else is, I wish I could say I love the food. I think they would be better off with a simpler, more basic bar menu then striving for heights that sometimes they don't hit. That said, overall, this place is great. I hope to see you there!
(4)Tiff M.
As a Beacon Hill resident who's tried all the local spots... this is definitely not my go-to restaurant for dinner. It's overpriced, and there are several better options for quality food. The weekend night scene... avoid it at all costs. The only times I venture here are for a drink mid-week... it works well in that setting.
(2)George L.
I was staying at the Jefferson boarding house just down the street and this was the first place I tried during my very first night in Boston (there for an academic conference). Let's just say, I had no idea a place in Boston could make such great calamari. They used the small squid, not the rings, which I prefer and it was flash fried with peppers and it came with roasted peanuts and some sort of, what I think, was a soy sauce/vinegar based sauce but bottom line, blew me away. I was with an old friend, also attending the conference, and he was also blown away. I also had an arugula side salad which had a nice, light olive oil and vinegar dressing, if i remember correctly, but the bottom line was that it was incredibly fresh and crisp. I don't remember what I drink, I think a Harpoon IPA (good beer Boston!) but a nice, light satisfying meal. I was hoping to go back but I was only in town for a few days and Boston is one city with way too many good restaurants to back to the same one twice. Bottom line, if you are in the area, I think it is worth checking out. :-)
(4)J B.
I have had dreams about the Kobe Sliders. The quail egg is unique and a great pairing with the beef and bacon aioli. They serve Moscow Mules in copper cups, the way it should be served. I would have given them 5 stars, but they don't seem to have enough of the copper cups if a bunch of people order the drink. I also felt like they thought I was going to steal it and wouldn't give me a second drink in the same cup. Annoying.
(4)Jessica M.
Open late with great service! Ordered the chicken sandwich with fries to split with my boyfriend. They brought out separate plates for us and didn't charge any extra. It was late so the bartender was also waiting on the few tables there were. They played good music and were very attentive! Super yummy for late night eats!
(4)Kristy G.
Firework shrimp and Steak Tips, yum! Came here in a slow snowy night, and it was delightful. Along with a glass of Rogue beer, I'd definitely come back.
(4)Ida G.
Best casual restaurant in this neck of the woods in that it is not Italian like the ones on Charles Street and not a dive like the neighboring bars. The truffle fries are to die for and the HG burger is great, too. Perfect for date night or dinner out with friends.
(5)Elizabeth S.
I'd never heard of Harvard Gardens, so I was pleasantly surprised when I sat down and (finally) got some food that it was, well, awesome. It's sort of a bar slash restaurant. We had a party of eight, no reservation, no problem. The only problem came when I got my meal 20 minutes after everyone else got theirs. Honestly! If pumpkin ravioli takes 20 extra minutes to make (really??) then put a note on the menu, or at least give me a heads up - I was starving, inebriated, and in the mood for anything edible, and you betcha I would've ordered something else. I was so famished by the time I got my decently sized but too small for my state of hunger meal, that I finished my few pieces of pumpkin ravioli (very sugary - definitely didn't want any more than the portion I had) and ate half of another member of our party's mac and cheese (much bigger portion, no sugar to be found).
(3)James H.
Do they pump beer through the ventilation here? This place is always awash with drunken doctors, nurses, locals, vagrants, dogs - you name it, its probably drunk here right now. Drinks are guzzled so fast that taste isn't an issue, nor is the slow service resulting from the overworked bartenders attempting to placate this parade of insatiable inebriates.
(2)Thomas L.
Enjoyed lunch here with the wife and some relatives. Service was great, ambiance was pleasant, and food was decent. I went with the burger and fries. The pickle that came with the burger was the best thing about the meal. The fries were the next best thing, as they were fresh, crunchy, and with just the right amount of salt. The burger arrived as I ordered it - medium - but it wasn't that sexy. Had a slice of tomato and lettuce on top of the burger; both were fresh and delicious. However, that's it. Nothing else going on with the burger. I was a bit disappointed and was hoping for more. Again, want to highlight the service as our waitress was attentive and speedy.
(3)Anna L.
I've been here multiple times for drinks, dinner and brunch. The staff is very friendly - and have always been really great about accommodating my gluten-free food needs. My girlfriends and I come here regularly for wine and their truffle fries - which are amazing! The bartender recently suggested we order a side of bacon aioli (that comes on their burger) to dip our fries in - great idea for taste, bad for the arteries!
(4)Couldbe A.
Great food, comfortable banquette seating and friendly staff. Young crowd at the bar, seems to be a mix of MGH, neighborhood regulars and tourists. Good spot for casual after work drinks.
(5)Rich T.
Stopped over for lunch during the US vs Canada hockey game because the Hill Tavern was packed. This place was empty and now I know why. The bartender Dianne was probably the worst bartender I have had in years. Took 10 minutes to get a drink had to ask for a menu and when my food came I had asked for the bill since I only get an hour lunch and time was quickly passing I started eating my sandwich and when she came back with the bill she abruptley takes my plate with 3/4ths of the meal still left. If you go in see if Dianne is working and if she is walk right back out!!!
(1)Brian D.
Okay, I'm going to talk in acronyms. I've lived in BH for 5+ years or so, and have enjoyed HG for many of those years. Good people here, good scene, and the food is good too, especially the fries. This is a great spot for a date, as I've been on a couple here with mixed success. It has great, romantic light for that sort of thing and the whole ambiance is good for a date. My only wish is that there was more room around the bar area, as it can get quite packed on a busy Saturday night. I've always liked coming here, and will continue to do so as long as I live in the Boston area. HG in BH, enjoy it.
(4)Alyssa J.
This review is for the night time atmosphere. OOOOH Doggy! I think I have a huge, pretty sexual crush, on Harvard Gardens. I went last night, apres The Sevens, and the place was somewhat crowded...we still scored a table. And then we scored on some drinks. Like really scored. I am always surprised that the drinks are so reasonably priced at HG. I still spend too much money there....But! I always know that I could spend more at a much more douchey establishment. Anyway, the ambience is great, the lighting is awesome, a couple of gin martinis make the lambs stop screaming and they play the Cee-Lo "Fuck You" song at least twice a night. loveloveLOVE.
(4)Megan B.
I was pleasantly surprised by this place. Came here for brunch last Sunday after a couple other beacon hill restaurants were packed. We were seated right away, had great service and had a great brunch! I was not impressed by the menu at first, but the food was great! Definitely try this place for brunch. I think this place was better than the other restaurants people wait an hour for.
(4)Nadia K.
This is for brunch: It was a rainy sunday morning and the bf and I decided to go for brunch somewhere new for me, this turned out to be the spot and I'm so glad it was because the rosemary hollandaise on the eggs benedict blew my mind. Normally hollandaise sauce is too rich for me, this stuff, I was dipping their delicious home fries in (crispy and brown, soft in the middle and came with sautéd onions and a light dusting of parm cheese). Heaven. The corned beef that the bf had looked great too- large pieces of flaky corned beef and a lot of it. I would have tried it, but before I could get to it he was smart enough to defile the plate with ketchup. Gross. Anyways, looked epic. I'll be back Harvard Gardens, even though your name sounds like a retirement community.
(4)Mary T.
To use the infamous Yelp cliche, I wanted to like it more but I couldn't. I was staying down the street and in need of some dinner, enter Harvard Gardens. It's a nice place, but has a touch of an identity crisis. Most patrons were more casual than one would expect when comparing it to the menu and decor. The space is nice; oblong with lots of dark wood and red-hued lighting. It's sleek and sexy, except for the two plasmas in the bar area. The menu is sophisticated, not your stereotypical bar fare. When I entered, I immediately suspected they were understaffed. It wasn't crowded, but there was only one server and one bartender on duty; no host or anything. By the time I left, the place was slammed and despite their best efforts, service suffered. I ordered a few Stellas and the spinach-artichoke appetizer. The appetizer was just ok, a touch bland but salt gave it the boost it needed. I think that they could have 86'd the parmesan on the tortilla strips, by the time I got one into the dip all of the grated cheese had fallen off. I contemplated ordering the tuna tartare appetizer, but am glad I passed. It looks mouth-watering on the website, but was plated completely differently when delivered to the people next to me. Watching them struggle to eat it from this awkward paint palette-like plate made me glad I decided to pass. This place is decent and the drink prices were quite reasonable, $4.25 for a pint of Stella was great! If I lived in the area I'd probably give it a second shot, and hope that the understaffing was a fluke.
(3)Michael C.
Not sure why some of the super negative reviews on Harvard Garden have been written given my experience and those of friends. Service today was fast and attentive. The waitress quickly filled up empty drinks without prompting. The tomato, mozzarella and basil sandwich was excellent. Being a very good lad, I opted for salad instead of fries. The salad was simply a bunch of greens. I think these guys can do better than that. The Wagya burger, at least according to my friend, was excellent. Fries looked awfully good which contributed to my grumpiness about the salad. Food envy is a terrible thing. Nice atmosphere, reasonable prices.
(4)Michael G.
I remember the first time I stood outside of Harvard Gardens. It was summertime, and I was looking at their food menu. Seems so weird now that I think about it. What I love about Harvard Gardens is that it is ALWAYS a scene inside and out. Outside people are arguing with the bouncer and the manager about who knows what. Inside you are usually packed like sardines near the bar and can't really move. I always have enjoyed my time at Harvard Gardens. I have eaten the food, but it was not memorable enough to be good nor bad. Also, Love that HG is far enough away so the north and south shore don't know where it is! HUGE PLUS!
(4)Jonathan C.
This place is surprisingly good considering the price of the food. The Omelette of the day with the Home Fries (amazing) is a good deal. Last night I was surprised to find that they have pizza! I split the squash pizza with a friend. We added prosciutto and it was excellent. It was better than Flatbreads or Upper Crust (which are both over-rated in my opinion). Granted, they don't have a large selection of pizzas, but that is OK with me. Also, the service was good both times I went.
(4)Eric S.
GREAT SPOT AFTER A LONG DAY @MGH. Last night my girlfriend and I went here after finally hearing mom will out of recovery in two hours. We asked the information clerk what was good to eat, and he told us a lot of MGH staff go to Harvard Gardens for a beer and something to eat after work. It was a dark lil place packed with people, and the Bruins game was on, so it was good right out of the gates. The Russian Standard Mule was a great drink. Our waitress Ashley was awesome, she knew her menu, and descriptions were spot on. I ordered the Wagyu burger, which I heard were really good, but never tried. The way it was offered with a fried egg, bacon mayonnaise, and asparagus was interesting to me so I ordered that, or you can get it with plain cheese, both served on a nice big roll. I was also interested in the mac-n-cheese, which was which was a four cheese combo, Romano, Parmesan, Fontina, Mozzarella, they had an option you can get that with peas and prosciutto description so I ordered a side of that as well. My better half ordered the steak frites, which was a nice portion of steak with some awesome hand cut fries. The steak was cooked as she asked and had a nice juicyness to it. The Wagyu burger was awesome, and as soon as the Mrs. saw it she quickly claimed she needed a bite of it, because it looked so awesome. The whole burger and fried egg thing was awesome, the flavor of the beef and the soft texture of the egg was great. Personally the asparagus didn't woo me, and would have just as enjoyable without it. The side of mac-n-cheese was so impressive, after the second bite I asked Ashley for an order to go. The description of the mac and cheese with the prosciutto and peas might make people think Carbonara, but no this was nice and cheesey, they used small shells, which has tendency of getting filled up with cheese sauce in the little slit, and it was like little heavenly cheese explosions eating this stuff. My girl makes home made mac-n-cheese when I ask her to and it is awesome she was very impressed by this. I'm on the way to go visit mom at MGH now, and am already thinking of what time I will go there for lunch. The service - awesome ask for Ashley she'll come by to make sure you water is full, will ask if everything is fine, and actually served the table with a smile; I know unbelievable; the price $75 for three meals (I had the take home order of mac-n-cheese), was very reasonable, and the atmosphere was nice. I'll be back again!!!
(5)Melissa M.
David the Bartender is the MAN! I would go here everyday if I still lived on the Hill. I went in last night on a Tuesday night. I got a liter of Pellegrino, cuz das how I roll. My fiance got two cocktails, and we had a great time. David was charming, genuine, and just an all around pleasantly nice person to chat with. The place has some delicious aromas circulating throughout the establishment. Smells like truffled fries, or something equally delicious. I used to come here all the time back in my college days over a decade ago! This place hasn't changed and it's a nice thing! We will be back since it's just oh so conveniently located steps from the Charles Street T Stop. This place is my cozy lil home away from home!
(4)Steve S.
Visited it on a Saturday nite, bar was packed, restaurant was moderately busy but found an open table. Really enjoyed having a couple appetizers and a drink as a late nite dinner.
(4)Elizabeth D.
Their pamesan truffle fries are very good. So much flavor! However, it ended up working against me this time as they made my HG mac and cheese taste bland. I took the rest home though and the next day the mac and cheese tasted much better. There was a very odd smell when we first walked it. I should hope it was from the people at the crowded bar and not the establishment itself.
(3)Ben D.
Not too bad! I stopped here with some friends as a sort of going-away lunch. Right in Boston made it convenient for everyone to get to and the food selection was nice. It was a little dark inside, which made for a strange atmosphere for lunch.
(3)David L.
Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast! Everything. Was. Amazing! For $8 u get omelet, Bacon, toast, home fries, fruit! Everything is gourmet and very reasonably. Very quint has full bar And great service. Can't say enough good things!!! I just wish it was a little closer to me in Brighton :(
(5)Harri S.
You know those places that are sooooo loud you can't hear, and then you realize you aren't at a concert? This is it! Got there 930ish, and wanted to tell everyone to shut the eff up, so I could hear the people next to me. On the upside, their water was delicious.
(2)Ash C.
Harvard Gardens has become my favorite hangout place after my Friday clinical. Bartenders are friendly and attentive. I will definitely try their foods soon!
(4)Mike M.
Went there on a date one night and wasn't too sure what to expect. I tried to do some research online to be prepared. You walk in and to the right you have the bar area which is of decent length with a good amount of high top tables. I got there around 7ish on a Thursday and it was pretty busy. The crowd was of mostly after work crowd and Beacon Hill locals and Harvard Students. The wait for a table was right away, which I wasn't anticipating. My date was about 10 minutes away so I was seated alone. Pretty sure she was late. I ordered 2 water just so I didn't look weird. I also asked for two menus of course. When she had arrived we ordered drinks and food. I had Stoli Blue w Soda and she had a Vodka Soda. The drinks were well poured, but the glass was kind of small. But after 3 or 4 whats the difference? For food I had no idea what to get. I ended up just keeping it simple and got some Boneless BBQ wings. Kinda of random, but I really had no idea what I wanted. I always hate to get a burger or something messy on a first date. You never wanna belch. But the wings were great. Great sauce and nice crispness to it. My date got a salad which was of good size and she enjoyed it, but it would never of filled me up. The atmosphere is very dark and cozy. The bar area is lively and the tables and dining are give you great privacy to be intimate and alone. The server was very sweet and attentive and very friendly. I will probably be back, but nothing really stuck out that would make me go out of my way to. The service is great and the food/drinks were all superb. The crowd can be a little much but in the end, it's a bar and as long as it has liquor, they are doing something right.
(4)Brian G.
I rarely go out specifically to Harvard Gardens but often end up stopping in or staying here because it's a great place to go grab a drink. It's set up really well and feels upscale without going overboard and the bar area is big enough to move around in most of the time. The bartenders do a great job of keeping up and I rarely finding myself desperately trying to flag one down. The food I've had here is good but I've never eaten dinner here myself, but many of the dishes I've seen pass by look great. I'd suggest coming in for brunch as well and trying the breakfast pizza which is great. What brings me back here over and over is the big strong drinks they pour. They type of martinis that are trickily strong and taste great which is harder than it seems. I've seen a friend have one or two and forget the better part of her walk home. The drink list isn't huge or as in depth as you'd get at some of the more welkin cocktail places in Boston but it's one of the better upscale places in Beacon Hill to enjoy some time with friends who are looking to be "out" somewhere.
(4)Jason M.
UGH. Maybe its just me. Maybe its just my delicate nature. Maybe its just that I'm a judgmental fool. But damn, this place smells of tools and low self-esteem. It's the kind of place that I feel requires the female bartenders to wear skimpy tank tops, the men to encourage the women to get overly drunk and everyone to act a fool after 11pm. Having walked by the front door more times than I care to admit, I can say I won't do it again. 1 star for simply having Rogue Dead Guy Ale on tap. 1 star for the ugliest sign ever. Really? Who, other than Google+, still uses circles on their signage?
(2)Laura K.
Meh. Harvard Gardens. Closer to Man's Greatest Hospital, more expensive than most other bars within walking distance. Can you hear that? It's the I'd-rather-be-at-The-Sevens-or-Red-Hat murmur of my dive-bar heart. BUT WAIT. After years of hemming and hawing over which item on the lunch menu would leave me the least dissatisfied, I showed up for dinner last night and, after a quick perusal of the menu, decided to play it safe. "I'll take a Bombay Sapphire Martini straight-up with a twist and an order of the Mac and Cheese." HOLY. COWS. MILKED. IN. THE. CHEESEMAKING. PROCESS. The enormous portion of stringey, gooey, creamy heaben topped with a crispy crust -- fashioned from a fusion of breadcrumbs and more cheese -- made me wonder why my hell-no-if-it-ain't-homecooked mom hadn't told me about her new job. Normally, I would say this was the gin talking, but I completely ignored my martini as I struggled to consume as much of this manna as possible - horribly burning my mouth in the process. WORTH IT. OK, $12 for a BS Gin Martini and $14 for (at least) two reasonable portions of mac and cheese? Not bad considering quality. Still more expensive than my favorite dives on the hill - but also significantly less divey. I'll be back. I'll have back. Again, worth it.
(4)Deirdre S.
Had dinner with a my friend to celebrate the birth of his son at MGH. The food was good, not great. The calamari appetizer was tasty but the portion was skimpy. The mac & cheese was delish. We arrived before 5 and sat at a high-top in the bar area so we were first served by the super busy bartender. She was friendly but not super attentive; not her fault as she was trying to attend to around 25 patrons all by herself. After a round of drinks and our appetizer, we were transferred to a new bartender for the rest of our meal. Bottom-line, it was a pleasant experience but nothing to write home about. I'd return if I was visiting MGH but wouldn't make a special trip as there are many other choices with similar menu items, competitive price points, and better ambiance.
(3)Tom K.
Brunch Review! So maybe its about expectations, but walking into this place at 11am on a Sunday for brunch left me not expecting too much. The place was almost completely empty and looked like it was decorated in the 70s and not touched since. Fortunately for me, this place is a standout. The food here was great. We started with the Truffle Parmesan Fries and, although it goes terribly with both coffee or a mimosa, it was delicious. The Breakfast Pizza was very good as well, almost surprisingly so. Its such a simple concept but it works so well. Finally, the Eggs Benedict, while not something I'd write home about, were very good as well. Served on top of giant piece of delicious bread, I almost wished I had more eggs to go with it! So why 4-stars and not 5? There are fruit flies. I noticed them around the bar when I first walked in and another while we were eating. There's really no excuse for this at a restaurant. And while it doesn't particularly bother me, if you have an aversion to bugs at places you dine, you might want to skip HG.
(4)Mel b.
Came here after the marathon for a bittersweet post race celebration. Wanted to thank the staff for the impressive service we received. I hadn't realized until after the fact how lucky we were to have a comfortable space to gather with family and friends-- I'm sure everyone working would have liked to do the same. I'll definitely be coming back in the future.
(5)Tory H.
most people seem to think of this place as a going out spot but i went for dinner and it was awesome! Shared a bunch of apps with friends, we had the kobe sliders (awesome), mac and cheese (awesome), ceaser salad (not great), and the french onion soup (awesome). Will be back for sure!!
(4)Brad M.
Loved it!!! Great atmosphere and food at reasonable prices.
(4)Irene R.
The portions are very large. Brunch was good. Their breakfast pizza is big enough for 2 or 3 people to split. We had a pretty large group and they were very accommodating. The prices were good. Even better when you consider the large portions. The lose a star because they don't have any non-egg brunch options(and my spouse is allergic to eggs). He had a croissant, hash browns and some bacon, so at least he found something to eat. 6 hours after brunch and I'm still stuffed.
(4)Karibeth M.
A group of 6 of us went to brunch on Sunday. The food was absolutely sinful. Our group started with the Truffle Parmesan Fries (yes, for breakfast), which wasn't a mistake. The basket was gone almost instantly and we kept looking for more. The Breakfast Sandwich was very messy to eat due to the hollandaise sauce (probably don't order this on a first brunch date), but was definitely worth the extra napkin as it was devilishly good. The portions were huge - a generous portion of homefries and fruit. From looking around the table at the Nutella and Banana French Toast, Omelette, Breakfast Pizza, and Eggs Benedict we were all struggling to clean our plates and there was plenty left on each plate to share and let other try as well. The service was a little slow and I drink that I had ordered that was not available that morning was still on the bill, but the waitress was very apologetic and took it off immediately when I found it. Definitely a place that I will go back to for brunch!
(4)George M.
HG rocks! Great drinks are reasonably priced and served by goddesses. What's not to like? On the other side of the bar, the chick scene is pretty nice! I used to think the food was so-so, but things have changed. The food is now quite excellent. Brunch is uncrowded and relaxed. Check it out!
(4)Denise M.
Went here on a Friday night with a group of four girls. We had a fabulous time - the food was delicious and the martinis were great. The environment was hip, but not too loud. The place would have gotten five stars if the food was a little less expensive and / or the service was a little bit better. There were periods of time that we didn't see the waitress for a long time and were left without knowing when our food would next arrive.
(4)Roni E.
So I actually went all day without eating anything else after having brunch here. Literally... after my brunch, all I had was a Pumpkin Spice Latte from the 'bux and a LOT of wine later that evening, but no lunch or dinner for me. Now THAT's how brunch should be done. It should be able to keep you full and happy all day. And Harvard Gardens was able to do that. For $8 I enjoyed a Spinach, Tomato, Mozzarella and Basil Omelette. And for an extra $8.50 - my alcoholic cravings were fulfilled by the Raspberry Sangrita, which had freshly muddled raspberries making it look like a glass of Orbitz with the floating bits. I especially liked the home fries, which were slices of potatoes baked and topped with parmesan. The eggs had a good portion ratio between the ingredients. However, the egg itself seemed too fluffy for my taste, like not real eggs. Still delicious, but not my style. I'm actually quite surprised this place wasn't packed for a Saturday brunch, but maybe that's because no one knows what they are. Blair had mentioned that he thought it was a brothel for a long time based on the outside. And maybe that's why they're not getting the business they could be getting. *shrugs* Also, huge props to the family next to us that offered to move down a table with no hesitation.
(4)Jessica P.
This is a great go-to place for pretty much any time of day: brunch, lunch, happy hour, and dinner - all really great food, never really have to wait too long for a table and always a good experience. I recently went with some friends on a Saturday night for dinner. We went at 745 and the restaurant part wasn't completely full but the bar area always seems to be packed even though its not that big of an area. The music was pretty fun and the lighting was dark enough that you actually felt like you were out for the night. I've been here many times and the service has always been decent, not really memorable (I guess thats good?) but this time the server seemed a bit annoyed to be there and alittle too "i dont give a shit." It didn't bother the meal too bad except he would ask half the group if they wanted another drink but not the rest so we'd have to call after him, as he quickly to turned to leave, about the rest of the drinks needed. Also at the end of the meal he asked if we wanted a shot to finish it up with? Strange, outta place? Yes I think so considering he was pretty distant the whole night, but anyways... The food is always really yummy, though it did seem to take a loong time to get there but no bother cause we weren't in a rush to go anywhere or that hungry. I had the Roasted Pork sandwich, sans fried onions, it was alittle under salted for me but over all really a great sandwich. Very moist and the cheese and brocoli rabe really made it come together. I love how they let you choose salad for a side instead of fries for no charge, always a plus. We also ordered the turkey sandwich, which was also really good, the apple chutney was a nice touch, and the butternut squash pizza with prosciutto added was awesome. Everyone at the table tried a piece and it was a hit. Just the right amount of sweet salty and cheesy, great choice. Bibb lettuce salad was unmemorable but decent size for a appetizer salad. Beers and drinks are reasonably priced. Not your usual selection though for restuarant for that area - no Octoberfest or BlueMoon? weird I've had the brunch here and it is really good and huuuge portions. The omelets are humungous and come with a ton of homefries. it does get pretty busy though.
(4)Katie W.
Love this place to meet friends for drinks if I don't want to deal with the crowds of the Sevens or the smell of BHP. Lounge vibe inside with decent food which caught me off guard on my first visit and great drinks. Love the truffle fries and Mac and Cheese. My favorite drink-- the Cherry Lemonade: Lemonade, soda and black cherry vodka=deliciously deadly
(4)Thomas N.
We often stop in for a beer here after walking around boston as it is neat the mgh stop, drinks are good and some different and interesting, we had lunch here saturday and everything was good, the mac and cheese very good, my tuna melt ok ( a little boring) and a caesars salad pretty good, fries were a little soft, overall a good place to stop for a drink and an ok place for a meal.............
(3)David B.
Surprisingly good food overshadowed by other issues. My first thought was that it is a bar that tacked on a restaurant as an afterthought. As a bar, it's been around for a long time and it might not be worth a special trip but they do a reasonable job. It was a busy Thursday night and our reservation for six was maneuvering with difficulty for the maitresse d'hotel. She was apologetic and eventually parked us at a comfortable table. That's when we started running into problems. Our waitress was smart and friendly but it was clear that this evening some members of the waitstaff hadn't shown up because it took a long time to get a drink and an appetizer, not because the waitstaff wasn't working hard, but simply because there weren't enough of them. The appetizers arrived after about 20 minutes. The Pork Dumplings were steamed rather than pan-seared, but they were great. The special Duck Spring Rolls were surprisingly good. The main course took an epoch to get to the table. We spoke to our waitress twice and even considered bailing out but it was clearly not her fault. Finally, two weeks after she put the order in, the food arrived and it was...terrific. Almost worth waiting for. We had a mixed assortment of things and each one was perfectly done and better than we had expected. Clearly the kitchen team knows how to cook, if not how to expedite. This would have been a much better evening with the right amount of waitstaff and one or two more people in the kitchen. Unfortunately the one thing that will remain in all our memories is how overwhelmed the entire staff was. If we hadn't kept prodding our overworked waitress, we'd probably still be there waiting.
(2)Jimbeau W.
We really like this place and try to stop by every couple of weeks. We usually eat at one of the hi tops in the bar area, just because at the after work time slot we show up this is the busiest area, however the dining area is very comfortable (lots of leather banquettes) and the servers are well trained and accomodating. We've tried a lot of dishes ranging from appetizers like grilled bacon wrapped dates stuffed with blue cheese and almonds to fire cracker shrimp (really good!) and Kobi sliders. All great! We've tried the entrees such as the burger (one of the best in Boston), pan roasted chicken and steak frites. All good, flavorful and decent portions. The only meh response I have is for the bolognese, which was just ordinary. When you add in the super drink menu, generous pours and friendly waitstaff, this place is a definite thumbs up.
(4)Kathy A.
This is a nice place to go for a casual dinner or drinks with friends and family. It's a very relaxed environment with good service. They offer many good appetizers and entrees as well as some delicious sandwich choices. The turkey sandwich with apple chutney is awesome and the butternut squash pizza is pretty good too. However, for the caliber of the restaurant I would say they are a bit overpriced.
(3)Emme S.
This review is a response only to the brunch experience. I am usually a glass-half-full experiencer of untried restaurants and bars. However, Harvard Gardens was really disappointing when we went for brunch this past Sunday. The service, food and prices all left me feeling really unenthusiastic about the Harvard Gardens experience. Service: Our server was very sullen and inaudibly soft spoken. After every order - food or drink - he would bring us our check which was totally unsolicited and gave the impression that he was ready for us to vacate his booth. That is a serious no-no to me, particularly because we were continuing to order each time and the restaurant was not busy in the least. Maybe it wasn't the server - is that HG policy? Either way, the management should squash that practice ASAP. Food: The portion size of my expensive (more on that later) huevos rancheros was tiny. The eggs benedict tasted like the frying pan's plastic coating and the hollandaise had zero flavor. Neither dishes were particularly delicious, which was distressing given the cost. I was excited to try their raved about truffle fries - but they were never delivered without an explanation. Lastly, if you are going to name your Bloody Mary, you better make sure it's good. Theirs was not. Price: Boston has a wide variety of AWESOME brunch places that charge $10 for a delicious brunch. For that reason, I was really surprised by the expense of the breakfast items on the menu. Huevos rancheros consist of some very cheap ingredients - eggs, beans, tortillas - and the expensive ingredients used by HG were doled out in a very small portion - avocado, cotijo cheese. For $15, I would expect enough huevos to feed two people and be amazing. These barely fed one and were meh. I work in Beacon Hill and have always wanted to try Harvard Gardens. However, after our brunch experience, it's unlikely that I will fight the crowd for dinner or drinks.
(2)Paul B.
Food is always good. Waitstaff and bartenders are always nice and do a great job. Has the feel of a much more expensive place. Very comfortable.
(4)Karen K.
Had to add one more thing, Moscow Mule, try one, thank me later.
(5)Mark T.
Had a really good burger there - just the plain cheeseburger for $10 was quite impressive.
(4)Terry C.
It really should be a 2.5 star, but I'm feeling generous today. Service: Ehh...it was OK. The hostess was really nice and friendly but our waiter was OK. My friend wanted a drink that they no longer have and when she asked for a recommendation, he wasn't too helpful. He was also distracted every time someone walked in the door and did not check to see if our food was OK. Food: The parmesan truffle fries are SOOOOOOOOOO good, one of the best I've had. I'm drooling just thinking about it! I ordered a turkey wrap and it was extremely bland. I mean, how exciting can a turkey wrap be right? but this just wasn't great. One of my friends ordered the ribs as an entree and I think they serve the entire pig's rib cage as one entree! - the portion was ginormous! I would not go out of my way to try this place, but its not a bad place for a drink and some fries.
(3)Sara S.
Harvard Garden's gourmet pizzas are delicious. Their fontina and butternut squash pizza with caramelized onions is a great blend of flavors, which I've also been a fan of their mushroom pizza (seems not to be on the menu anymore?!) Also, their truffle fries are amazing late-night! The bar scene here is just that... an effing scene. Doctors from MGH, former frat boys after work from the Financial District, and Lily Pulitzer-clad, David Yurman wearing, manicured young ladies. If you want to be hit on, come here. The drinks are strong, and their cocktail menu isn't bad, either. Three stars (really 3.5, but rounding down) because I really don't like the layout of the bar area. It is so freaking cramped and narrow, it's hard to hang out with a group of friends or make yourself through the mob to talk to someone new. However, it's a solid neighborhood spot for food and drinks.
(3)John L.
I'm kind of split on Harvard Gardens, particularly as a brunch location. It's got some pluses and minuses, but the pluses eventually outweigh the minuses. A bunch of fun and exciting Yelpers converged upon Harvard Gardens after our original destination's wait was too long. After a walk that included the sighting of an intramural Quidditch match (there should be more of these, but that's another discussion for another day), we arrived at Harvard Gardens, ready to have some grub. Considering that it was relatively quiet, the staff was ready, able, and willing to sit our larger group, and with a major assist from the group sitting next to us (who moved over, and given the opportunity, I would give 5 stars to), we all plopped down, ready to eat and drink. On the drinks, I ended up with a mimosa, which was quite good (the OJ and champagne mixed quite well). The waiter was also quick to check and confirm that the pear bellini was not available. A little inconvenient, considering it's on the menu, but the fact he checked before he finished the drink orders was a plus. On the downside, after that point and the food orders, we didn't see much of our waiter. I didn't get my water refilled until after I had started on the food. Not the worst thing in the world, but still not ideal. As for the food, it was right on target. I ordered the omelet with homefries and bacon and toast. This resulted in getting a good amount of homefries and bacon, and a decently sized omelet. As for the taste itself, the omelet was good, not the greatest I've ever had, but very good nonetheless, and the bacon was a little tough for my own desire. The homefries, however, were amazing. They were little potato wedges, and not only were they well-seasoned, they were generally yummy. Overall, I'm waffling between 3 and 4 stars. It's not the most exquisite brunch I've had in the course of the series (Gaslight wins that), but I'd put it in second place as of now. While I kind of wish the server was around a little bit more, I can understand, and the fact that they did a good job of fitting us all in without a reservation merits that 4th star.
(4)Krissy K.
I stopped by for dinner here before the July 3 Pops rehearsal concert at The Esplanade. We got parking right in front, which was perfect for our evening plans. The menu here is not extensive, but I don't see that as a negative. I got the HG burger with fries. Another person in my group got the HG burger with salad, and someone else got a salad with salmon. There was a small hiccup, because the dressing was not brought on the side as requested. However, our server was extremely apologetic, and the situation was remedied quickly. I also impressed my dinner companions with the Yelp check-in offer. :p Being attached to your phone does have its occasional benefits! I wouldn't go out of my way to return the next time I'm in town, but Harvard Gardens was a pleasant experience that I would not mind repeating, either.
(3)Jennifer P.
I work across the street from Harvard Gardens, so I come here often for after-work cocktails, but I had the unfortunate displeasure of having dinner alongside my cocktails last week. I ordered the baked brie appetizer and the goat cheese ravioli. The baked brie was just that - nothing more, nothing less. The goat cheese ravioli, on the other hand was a complete mess. The dish was more olive oil than anything else. I could barely take a bite without having oil dribbling down my chin. It was a sad experience, and I don't see myself coming back here for food (which is also overpriced - a bit of a slap to the face after such a dismal eating experience).
(1)Jana L.
Burgers were very good We had 2x avocado burgers, and 2x bacon mushroom and Swiss burger They asked how we wanted burgers cooked which was a welcome surprise since many places only do medium well. Tasty grass fed meat, fresh avocado and hand cut fries We also went to Emmets Tavern which was similar in food type but Harvard Gardens was better
(4)Stephanie H.
Awesome soundtrack and incredibly friendly and efficient staff here! I love the laid back vibe and the late night pub menu is awesome! I had the chicken sandwich and "regular" fries, which were great! Feasted on a great seasonal, limited edition Harpoon Nordic Saison in a large format 22 ounce bottle: wow. Great beer! Love that they support local breweries on their rotating feature bottle list. Highly recommend coming here with a date or a small group of friends. Music is at right levels, as is the lighting to support an intimate conversation or solid catch up session between friends. Could spend the whole evening here and never feel the urge to leave....especially with the great alt indie soundtrack as the backbeat to my beer drinking.
(4)Aimée I.
I walked out after 15 min, here are the reasons: 1. The menu on Yelp is not updated. I was looking for a healthy meal and saw that they offered a Grilled Chicken Wrap, however, they didn't have it and none of their meals were truly healthy. 2. I sat down, the waitress came and brought me a glass of water and she disappeared for over 15 minutes - yes! 15 minutes. It was not a busy day, it was around 3pm and there were probably 3 tables occupied. Because I just wanted to get a quick lunch I decided to leave and look for a faster and healthier option.
(2)Peter D.
I'll be honest with you: I wanted Thai food for dinner.* But since nobody cares what I want, we ended up at Harvard Gardens. And it was a good thing, because they do everything right: The music is good, and the service is great. Shout out to Chelsea. They start you with good bread and soft, whipped butter. The wings are great, although they are not Buffalo wings. The burger is excellent (cheddar, caramelized onions, bacon aioli, can't be bad) and actually cooked properly. What's more, they offer a choice of fries, salad, or a little of both as accompaniments. Everyone wants a little of both, so every place should do this. Plus, it's basically the closest restaurant to MGH, and after a visit there everyone needs a good burger and fries. Unless they went in because they have a heart condition, I guess. ____________ *A few blocks away, there's a Thai restaurant that is Usher approved. He's taken multiple pictures with the owners, and if there's ANYONE in the world I trust when it comes to Thai food, it's Usher.
(5)Nick S.
Great space - been here forever. There are weekends when the wait to be seated can seem like #Forever. The staff is quick & service spot-on. My advice: (1) come early. (2) The corned beef hash is no joke! Damn good - give it a try! ;)
(4)Kimberly A.
Stopped in here to meet my cousin for dinner while visiting. The service was great. The food was great. The drinks were amazing.
(4)Mish M.
Started out slow. The server took a while to notice we sat down we waited about 15 mins just to get water. But the food made up for it. Calamari was spicy and really good , it wasn't your typical frozen calamari either the portion was large and drizzled with sort of a buffalo glaze.the meatloaf hamburger and truffle fries so good you have an option of half salad half fries which I liked. . I had the blueberry beer which they put fresh blueberries into great flavor nice location.
(3)S. A.
The buffalo chicken tenders is the only reason you need to go to Harvard Gardens. I've never had a waitress who seemed particularly happy with life and the tall, skinny female bartender is NEVER nice. However, buffalo chicken tenders are all I need in a bar, so drink up, order this app and life will be good.
(4)Mallory C.
After an appointment at MGH and a several day inpatient stay, I was in serious need of a good brunch and this place hit the spot! From the street I was expecting something along the lines of a dive bar, but this place is much more upscale! I felt like I was at Joe's from Grey's Anatomy, as I'm sure this place gets a lot of medical folks just getting out of work. Great ambience, delicious food, good service, and TVs to watch the game- this has become our "go to place" near MGH. I had the Huevos Rancheros, and I'm pretty sure it was the best one I have ever had! The boy had the red velvet pancakes which also looked incredible. Although I wasn't drinking this time around, the iced coffee I had hit the spot and I hope to come back for one of their bloody Marys. Our waitress was super sweet, and was patient while we used a coupon we got on Yelp for checking in! Great perk as well. So glad we discovered this place- it almost makes me want to schedule medical appointments just so we can go here after! ....Almost.
(4)Janhvi C.
Cosy place to eat. Sangria is tasty. Pancake was great!! The maple syrup was not thick enough though. The club sandwich was really great and French fries were tasty too! Perfect for an easy lunch!
(4)Taj K.
Harvard Gardens got a new chef within the last couple of years who definitely raised the bar with food. Unfortunately this also raised the prices. Their truffle fries are my favorite. I have had most of the menu items and I feel confident that everything tastes great. They have decent wines by the glass. The bar area is almost always lively. Located right across the street from MGH makes it an ideal place for after work gatherings. Good spot for sure!
(4)Leah K.
Went to Harvard Gardens for the first time last night. My friend and I wanted to get drinks after getting our nails done, and stopped in and sat at the bar. I ordered a martini (gin, rosemary syrup, and orange) and my friend had wine. I really liked my martini...the orange made it smell amazing, but it was barely sweet and pretty heavy on the gin. My favorite. Of course, we opted to order food as well. I heavily eyeballed the goat cheese dip (goat cheese, raspberry jam, and Iggy's bread), but it seemed steep at $15.00. I ordered a half portion of the butternut squash ravioli, which was around 6 raviolis on a long plate. It was absolutely amazing. The ravioli had a pecorino romano sauce, spinach and candied pecans topping it. It was savory but sweet at the same time. This would be a great appetizer to share (the half order is $12.00). It did not quite fill me, but it was a decent portion. My friend ordered the truffle mac n' cheese sans broccoli and peas, and it was deliciously creamy. I could have eaten her order, as well. I would absolutely come here for drinks and apps, but I could see how a full meal could set you back a pretty penny. The service was good, food great, drinks great, price a little out of line ....4 stars.
(4)Courtney K.
Can only comment on the brunch, but it is a solid spot. The portions are big, bloody mary's were very strong, and the service was efficient. I enjoyed my huevos rancheros and all of my friends liked their benedicts/breakfast burritos/hash brown dishes as well. The menu is pretty extensive so people are likely to find something everyone will enjoy when dining in a group. Plus, they offer lunch foods during brunch hours for those who do not like the traditional brunch food
(4)Brian L.
Came here for a Friday dinner to use a pretty sweet Gilt City deal ($20 for $40 plus 2 drinks). It was more of a bar feel than a restaurant at around 7:30. The crowd definitely seems doctor-y (people in scrubs, medical conversation), which would be explained by being right by MGH. I had a tasty Harpoon 100-barrel series India Pale Lager, the Cambridge Uncommon. A nice blend of IPA and lager, and with the hefty 24-ish ounce bottle, what's to dislike? We ordered the steak frites and steak tips for entrees. The frites was pretty good, but the best part was the truffle fries. That truffle oil is magic. Nicely seasoned and crispy as well. The steak tips were my favorite of the two, extra juicy and flavorful. Overall, seems like a nice place to stop by after work, or for a meal if you're in the area and it's not a weekend night (was a bit too loud for dinner conversation, and felt a bit crowded).
(4)Shirley D.
We had just arrived in Boston and were staying in a bed & breakfast nearby. It was around 11:30 pm and most restaurants had closed or were closing - luckily a bartender in one of the places we had stopped by told us about Harvard Gardens. I was expecting just a restaurant but this was actually more of a local bar scene which was still pretty cool. As soon as you walk in you have security checking IDs, then you have the option to chill by the bar or sit in a table. The place is split in two, there are booth tables on the left and on the right hand side there's the bar where people were just standing around taking selfies & talking. On the other side of the booth tables, there were more tables. Then as you walk towards the back you see a couple of more tables and rounded sofas. The good thing about this place is that you can eat, drink, talk, and listen to music. The crowd seemed to be mostly late 20s early 30s. Seems like a cool place to just hang out and enjoy a drink. As for the food, they have a late night menu! Although it's a limited menu, you still have pretty good options. Honestly, I was just thankful their kitchen was open. We had spent thirty minutes trying to find somewhere to eat that was open late. I ordered a grilled chicken sandwich with a salad on the side and it was pretty good! Tip: Check in on Yelp and get 15% of your first entree.
(3)Gloria C.
Came here for brunch one weekend. I like the decor and vibe of this place. It's very comfy, soothing, and spacious. The inside is totally different from what you'd expect based on the outside. L Their Bloody Mary was not bad! I was a huge fan of their bread basket--so soft and tasty. We got the huevos rancheros, steak & eggs, and breakfast burrito. We were all really satisfied with our food. The ingredients were all very fresh and the breakfast potatoes were on point. They use a black bean purée/spread which I think is pretty neat. I think their brunch is exponentially better than their neighbor's (hill tavern). We didn't order the French toast but the table next door did and it looked incredible!!!! It's served banana foster style with bacon. Their fruit bowl also looked pretty amazing and hefty
(4)Jennifer L.
The hubby and I were in town for a few days and stumbled upon this gem of a place. We liked it so much we ended all 3 of our nights here. Delicious food (truffle fries are OMG AMAZING), late night menu, great beer list, fantastic service and friendly patrons. If we're ever in Boston again we'll come see you guys! Thanks for the hospitality!
(5)Donna J.
This is a review for their brunch. I ordered the HG breakfast plate and a side of red velvet pancakes. My boyfriend had the eggs and bacon with a side of a blueberry pancake. His pancake was thick and undercooked and his scrambled eggs were overcooked and dry. My red velvet pancake was good but covered with hard pecans. The sausage gravy slathered onto my biscuits looked like dog vomit and tasted as though a pound of sugar was thrown in. The only good part was the bacon but who can mess up bacon? I'm only giving two stars because I had a really good server who was attentive and kept our water glasses full. Sorry HG you've got a lot of work to do.
(2)Stephanie M.
In a word: Gross. I do not recommend going here for food. Terrible terrible food. Fo starters our tuna tartare was disgusting, large chunks of tuna mixed with...cold hard rice??? Why would anyone think this ok is beyond me. The tartare also came with a few wonton chips that tasted like they were fried the day before in oil that was old and rancid. Literally left a film on the top of my mouth. GAG. I chose my cobb salad to go with something light and semi filling since it came with chicken...except when my salad came there honest to God two microscopic pieces of chicken mixed in with all the lettuce. Like literally I was digging through my lettuce to see if there was any sign of chicken. I told the waitress and she said "Oh I did notice it looked a little bare". Okkkkkk. I did get a little plate of a little pile of more microscopic chicken pieces and they just smelled and tasted a little funky. Like the uncooked chicken you leave in your fridge for a few days too long and then try to cook thinking that it might be ok. UGH. Everything about this dining experience made me mad. It's not like this place is the cheapest deal around either. You do not get what you pay for AT ALL. Again: Gross. Do not waste your money unless you are only headed here for drinks!
(1)Lyndsey C.
This place is ok. I had greater hopes for it but the tables were a bit junky and our server seemed pretty out of it and not super pleasant when we tried to joke a little with her. Nice menu, though, a lot of good options for brunch. The kobe sliders were pretty good, bacon was yummy, red velvet pancakes were a bit too much for us (we tried one... but did love that we could get one as a side), and the truffle mac and cheese was really good but note that it is really heavy and large! Great portion but a little too much truffle oil in it. Overall good and decent prices, good location, but it was pretty warm in there and like I said the tables were kind of junky and shaky.. bathroom was super small. Great TV's though and nice bar selection.
(3)Zig W.
+It is a hybrid bar/restaurant, with surprisingly good food +HG Burger +Chicken sandwich +Grilled Cheese +$5 Stella +Close to beacon hill -Gets pretty loud -Sometimes run into people from my high school
(4)Alyssa B.
Looooooove HG. The brunch? Amazing. Drinks? Awesome. Bartenders? The best. I used to hate on this place for an after-work spot because it tends to attract a lot of douchey men who think that just because they are doctors at MGH they are God's gift to women. That alone doesn't make you special, fellas. But once I learned how to navigate this place, I learned to love it. For example, it gets crowded and it's not laid out well for large groups (unless you get a table), so don't walk in here at 8 on Thursday with 5 other people. But do go with 1 or 2 friends on the early side and post up at the bar. The bartenders are friendly and fun and will whip you up some great cocktails, like the Hot & Dirty. I haven't eaten dinner here in a while, but I remember the food being really good. I've split a few appetizers with friends for a light and tasty dinner. So obsessed with the brunch. There's an egg sandwich with avocado that's great. The eggs benny are great. The potatoes are the bestttttt. Also, they have a really delicious iced coffee adult beverage that I love and have tried recreating elsewhere and it's never as good. It has frangelico and I forget what else. Highly recommend!
(4)Lauren K.
Came here with friends for Brunch, it was delicious. I had the Eggs Benedict but subbed Prosciutto for the Canadian Bacon - it was delicious. The eggs were cooked perfectly & the Hollandaise wasn't too greasy. We got the Fried Calamari & Polenta Fries for the table to share. The Polenta Fries are these delicious pillowy bites & the honey & sirachi aoli are the perfect complements! The cucumber vodka white sangria was dangerously delicious and refreshing. I could drink those all day.
(5)Beth P.
OMG BRUNCH. This place has a great one. We went on a Saturday morning just after 11am (when they open), and it was decently crowded, maybe half the place was full. The menu had pretty standard brunch food, with a couple of unique items. I went with the breakfast burrito, and my boyfriend had the Eggs Benedict. The burrito was especially tasty -- the eggs were nice and moist, accompanied by melted cheddar cheese and a black bean spread. I asked for the sauce on the side, and I'm glad I did because it was super spicy! There were a couple slices of avocado on the side, and the home fries were AMAZING. They were thick cut seasoned, and topped with Parmesan cheese. The best part was the caramelized onions mixed in with the potatoes -- a great surprise! The Eggs Benedict was better than your average Eggs Bene, since it included prosciutto and asparagus. Both dishes were amazing. The ONLY thing I can say for a con is that I really wish they had a patio or even open windows! It's so dark in there!
(4)Phy G.
Our favorite place to stop for dinner after work!!! Harvard Gardens not only have incredible food, the service is top notch!! The french onion soup and HG Burger are a must try! My husband and I have never had a bad service or a bad meal, we stop here at least twice a week!!
(5)T. P.
Came here Saturday night for dinner with my boyfriend. Saturday night at about 8:30pm with only about 3 tables filled - that should have told us something right there. Besides the fact that it was FREEZING in the restaurant, I was happy with our booth and we received our waters fairly quickly. We ordered our drinks and apps together. The waiter came back with the drinks and asked us if we were ready to order our food yet, which we were. I got the ravioli and my boyfriend got steak tips. I also got a salad. My salad came out quick, and I thought that was strange since we didn't get our apps yet (we ordered 2 appetizers). So I asked my boyfriend to flag down the waiter next time we saw him in order to ask about our apps. This is where things went bad- we COULD have had our apps in time if our waiter was around to inquire about them!! However, we looked and looked and tried to enjoy our drinks and salad while also trying to keep an eye out for the waiter. 30 minutes went by before we finally saw our waiter again!! We asked him about our apps and he apologized and said he forgot. Well I was upset because I REALLY wanted to try my appetizer! I was all excited! :( And had he been around earlier we would have had enough time to remind him and have him bring them out. To ME, a normal standard is that if a restaurant forgets an app, they don't charge you and they bring the app out anyway. The manager did come over and apologize and told us our drinks were on her! KUDOS TO YOU AND GREAT JOB FOR THAT; however, I really did want the appetizers and never got them. We then noticed that other tables had bread. We didn't get any! If you look at my reviews, I feel like this happens all the time - I just cant seem to figure out how we always forget to be given bread whenever we go out. So throughout this long waiting game, we had no apps and no bread. We waited another 20 minutes for our waiter to come out again before I could ask for bread. It was a waiting game all night long. THE GOOD PART OF THIS REVIEW IS... the food is actually decent. My goat cheese raviolis were delicious; boyfriends steak and potatoes were just okay - I have had much better. At first we were not going to stay for dessert due to our poor experience; however with the manager coming over to apologize, we decided to give it a try and boy am I glad we did! We got the brownie sundae dessert and it was AMAZING! Overall, we prob will not be back due to the service and although the food was decent it is nothing to rave about or to risk customer service for.
(3)Molly F.
If I didn't live nearby I wouldn't go out of my way, but it's a great place to grab a late dinner as the kitchen is open late. That being said, they have one of the best burgers I've ever eaten. Their fries are bomb too.
(5)Joelle K.
I had an absolutely delicious brunch at Harvard garden today. I had the eggs Benedict. The portion size was enormous with a heaping pile of cheese flavored potatoes. The eggs were so yummy and served with prosciutto instead of Canadian bacon. Our waitress also brought us a basket of tasty coffee cake while we were waiting for our breakfast. I enjoyed coming here for brunch more than dinner and will definitely be back!
(4)Jack S.
On 07/09/2015, had a bizarre experience where at 9.30 pm, we walked into the place and checked for a seat at the bar. The bar area was full, and we were about to leave when the host asked if he could help. we told him that we just wanted to have a couple drinks. He said he would check whether it was possible, and then came back and said yes. We sat at a booth and 5 minutes later a waitress came over and upon discovering we only wanted to order drinks, kicked us out in a very rude fashion. Not entirely sure what the story was with the communication between host and waitstaff was but it was highly disconcerting given we had told the host exactly what we were looking for. Then the attitude of the waitress was rather hostile. Especially given that booths and tables were pretty much empty...
(1)Bron V.
Great place and simple. Never a line and believe it or not, one of my favorite things about it, is their food! Amazing brunches Appetizers are great And burgers are awesome. All while having reasonable prices. Bartenders and servers are great too. All nice people. Thanks for the great times!
(5)Mark B.
I ate there for brunch twice and is was fine (read: not memorable in good or bad territory). Last night, I had dinner there and it was not fine. The food was closer to not good (read : bland) and expensive for what you get. Harvard Gardens seems like a decent place to pop in for a drink in occasion, but not to eat. Two strikes of "meh" for brunch and one strike of "not good" for dinner and Harvard Gardens is out.
(2)Cristina R.
Moseyed in for lunch on a weekday. It was pretty empty, but the decor was nice and tastefully Halloween-y with orange lights hung up around the space. We were seated at one of the corner tables. Cozy. The soup of the day was butternut squash. It only comes in a bowl, so it could easily be your meal since it's filling. My friend and I split one as s starter, and I'd say this is the way to go. This stuff squashed most of the fall soups I've had! It was creamy but not overly heavy and very flavorful. Like a warm blanket for your insides. The ginger tones really kicked it up a notch! For my entree, I ordered the oven-roasted turkey sandwich. This sammie sounds splendid on the menu. Walnut-pecan bread surrounding turkey, cheese, Granny Smith apple slices, and cranberry sauce. Like Thanksgiving in sandwich form, right? Wrong. It comes cold! Which was a shock considering the "oven-roasted" declaration in the name. The bread is toasted, so was slightly warm and crispy, but all of the innards were refrigerator cold. Boo. After one unsatisfying bite, we asked the waiter if he could warm it up in the oven. He kindly obliged, and after about 10 very hungry minutes, came back with new sandwiches for us. It was MUCH better afterward, with the cheese melting on the turkey and the cranberry sauce soaking into the crispy bread. Although it sounds weird, I actually enjoyed the sandwich more the next day when I reheated the other half for lunch. Everything blended very well and made for a comforting meal. But I wouldn't order something just to be able to enjoy the leftovers! And considering the trouble and delay of getting it warmed up at the restaurant, I'd say to try out something else. The butternut squash soup is better'n most though! Jump on it (or in it) if it's offered.
(3)Tony S.
What an utter clash of expectations versus reality. I was expecting shitballs on ice when I walked into this place. Dark... boringly boxy... that typically stank and bored feel I get when entering some pub in the middle of nowhere Essex or Franklin county Massachusetts....... Rhode Island even... Then my group of 7 pulled up to the bar. The bartender, a very no-nonsense lady took our drink orders, and we settled into our conversation on girls, sports, toe fungus, and that "hawtie at work" that we all fantasize about doing lewd and crude things to... especially if and when she comes to work without panties (because we all know THAT happens). The a couple of us mustered up the courage to admit...... "hey..... shit..... we haven't eaten over the last few hours.... and that pantie-less co-worker fantasy has kinda got me hungry..... you guys want to...... gulp..... eat something here?" And that was it.... we clocked in our timecards into gastro purgatory, and asked for menus..... and even inquired if the bartender recommended anything..... .... what do you know? A spark in her eye suddenly ..... well..... sparkled. The must-tries were the kobe sliders (I think that's what they were called), and some chili shrimp dish. I expected NOTHING better than cat-ass burgers. I got NOTHING less than PURRFECTION!.. ... and this is where I lose my Boston tuff-guy persona and bring out my inner Martha Stewart. Good LORD the food was amazing. After my first few bites of either dish, I actually avoided sharing it with my friends.... my homies.... my brotherhood of awesomeness..... ... fuck that..... every man for himself. This food is MINE! You may lick the shrimp tails and meat grease off my plate, but NOTHING else!! I don't usually lose my cool when reviewing restaurants....... (Ok..... that's a lie.... I'm an LA drama queen at least twice a month...)..... but HOLY SHITBALLS I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!! Yeah...... this is a gem hidden in plain sight. You HAVE To come here.... and at the very least...... order the shrimp and kobe slider..... with the egg...... omg.... fook this ... I'm going out for more....
(4)Gordon C.
Excellent brunch spot! Make sure you get there early so you don't miss out on their corned beef hash. The best I've ever had. Best. Ever.
(4)Lynn J.
outstanding service... Hostess flew across the room to greet us! manager apologized for the noise at the bar. waiter came to take out order immediately. nice selection of beer, wine and scotch. a wide variety of bar bites, burgers and salads. The deal: college crowd and mgh staff... just down the block from the mgh T stop.
(5)Kalin M.
The food here is amazing. The bar staff is even better. My family and I have made this "our place" since our dads been at mass general. Diane has especially made us feel welcome and at home here. We will be back.
(5)Rebecca R.
Over-rated. The portions are tiny, tasty but nothing special. I had the ravioli which comes on a long plate, an illusion to make it seem as though you are getting a larger portion than what is essentially 5 measly bites. It wasn't terrible, but certainly not worth the price. I have to admit my enjoyment was tampered by the subpar service. My waitress never refilled my water and disappeared for the remainder of my meal. Also the longest I've ever waited for a check (with so many empty tables.)
(3)LoveYouToo L.
Friends at work recommended this spot for lunch since it's nearby. I recall only having had drinks at HG many years ago. This place was a pleasant surprise. We all ordered sandwiches (reuben, grilled chicken, hamburger, grilled cheese). Everyone seemed more than satisfied with his/her sandwich. The fries are really good and more like hand cut fries. I don't know what they have on the dinner menu, but lunch was really good, not expensive, and good value. Our waitress was very attentive. Also really like the music, and the retro lounge style decor.
(4)Kiki D.
Harvard Gardens was a great casual brunch spot on a Sunday mid-morning. There was no wait and the service was great. I got the brunch burrito and it was AMAZING not to mention the brunch potatoes were some of the best I've had, super crispy with parmesan and herbs. Highly recommend coming here for brunch if you want a chill but nice brunch atmosphere!
(5)Merrick M.
Great food. Good value for this area of Boston. Try the steak tips. They were wonderful.
(5)Julissa P.
I like this place because I live across the street and the guys who work there are extremely friendly and helpful. The women who work at the bar seem to always be in a bad mood. Learned this the hard way, also the food is not worth the price. It sucks to spend so much money in there and receive terrible service. I suggest going on the weekends, much more lively and the staff is much nicer.
(3)Reem K.
I went today for a brunch. Ordered French Toast. It was thick slices. Dry, tasteless, not crispy, not fluffy. Will not order this again. The place and the people were lovely.
(1)Richard H.
I've always walked by here on a brisk walk from Charles/MGH to North Station and decided to meet a colleague here on a Saturday for brunch. There was no problem getting a spot at the bar and later a table for brunch. Nothing special about this place, though I was impressed by the selection of brunch items at what at first appeared to be a typical pub on the outside. I enjoyed my eggs benedict (with prosciutto and asparagus) although I found that the side of potatoes had a bit too much Parmesan cheese to the point of being overwhelming. Coffee was your typical bland filter coffee. Other menu selections including the french toast looked good. Will return if I'm passing though, but won't go out of my way. Although, I would come back for a drink as the bar is nice and long, with plenty of room to stand or sit.
(3)Leanne E.
The truffle fries here are the stuff that dreams are made of. So hot, so much Parmesan, just so damn good. The grilled cheese is bomb, it comes with marinara and it's just perfect. I always get a bellini there, and it's awesome. Love it!
(4)Angela J.
We LOVED out brunch. Red velvet pancakes were fantastic!--- though definitely sweet. Might have been too much as a stand alone meal- we ordered as a side. Breakfast potatoes were crispy and flavorful and served with parmesan. Will gladly return.
(5)Gregg V.
I keep coming back to Harvard Gardens, and the reasons are obvious: great food, great service, great people. Well done HG!
(5)Ryan M.
Harvard Gardens is always a great alternative for a weekend night, or a great spot to enjoy some brunch on a weekend. Many a trip to BHP have been detoured into Harvard Gardens for a few beers and a large helping of their DELICIOUS truffle fries. If you come here without getting the fries you are truly missing out! Other than these tasty morsels, the full menu has many scrumptious options to consider. The bartenders are really cool people (though as mentioned they can be no-nonsense) and are always open to making a suggestion for you based on your tastes. I've been here on almost every day of the week and they have always greeted me with a smile and a delicious beverage. I have frequented HG much more often at night than during the day but I can also vouch for their brunch. It is especially a popular spot before events at the Garden so take this into consideration when making your brunch plans.
(4)Larry G.
After visiting our new granddaughter at MGH we walked across the street to HG. They accommodated us nicely with a booth as we had our 2 year old other granddaughter with us....she was quickly served a nice grilled cheese and fries....I got the steak frites, a very good version .....my wife got the southwestern chopped salad and it was the dish of the night....large flavorful with a nice mix of ingredients. I was going to give 5 stars but....I ordered the salad to go the next day and when I got home it was much smaller and missing several ingredients...too bad....I was very disappointed
(3)Ngan T.
omg the mac n cheese. the mac n cheese. THE MAC N CHEESE!!! we went here originally for lots of ginger ale and soup since the manfriend was having an upset stomach. I've been here for drinks a time or two but finally got to writing this review because of the mac n cheese (ohhh did I give it away already?) The bartenders are very accommodating. My boyfriend got them to put 7 cherries in my drink once just because I love those maraschinos so. Our waiter this time was awkwardly chatty but A for effort.. The lighting is very dim here and the music selection is strange. Everything from hip hop to country. haha sounds like they plugged my ipod in. Anyway, food is EXCELLENT. We've only tried the tomato soup and the mac n cheese thus far but considering how well those two went, we'll definitely be regulars. Mac n cheese sauce was just the right consistency. They used orecchiette pasta which meant mini scoops of the delicious truffle cheese sauce. The crumbs were a very nice touch. I want to spend the rest of my life eating this.
(4)Hayley B.
This place is down the st. from my Beacon Hill apartment and has become a go-to place for better than average bar food and a guaranteed seat any time of the week. I don't have much to say except the service is good, the food is good, and the truffle fries are outstanding. I would probably be satisfied just getting a few drinks with a friend and a large order of fries. YUM. Nothing fancy but this place exceeded my expectations. I have also ordered the Bib Salad a few times and was honestly impressed. It was SO good! The best part by far was the maple goat cheese vinaigrette. I will definitely be back!
(4)Danae K.
Amazing brunch!!! Pleasant service, kind waitors. I had a lox combination and enjoyed it thoroughly.
(5)Kathryn R.
I give this five stars not for the drinks or for the surprisingly delicious bar food but for the fact that it is my local bar. This is the place I come when I want to know the bar tenders, have a consistently good meal and either a Stella or one of their latest seasonal beers on tap. A few favorites include the pumpkin in October and the Harpoon Summer that's currently being served. Brunch is solid - try the blueberry pancakes and bacon and if your adventurous get a red velvet pancake to share. For dinner the Parmesan truffle fries are a great way to start your experience followed by one of the chicken dishes. Simple but quells my cravings every time. This is a neighborhood place that feels like home. I just keep coming back!
(5)Jay M.
Mmm... Corned beef hash, 2 eggs over easy, side of home fries, side of bacon. Best way to kick off a Sunday morning!
(5)Marcus M.
I have been here a number of times and I have always enjoyed the atmosphere. The drinks are cool too. Tonight, I had the salmon for a second time-- and I am convinced that this is some of the best salmon I've ever had. And that is saying a TON since I'm from the Great Northwest! (Go Hawks!) I know about salmon. But this is so tender and juicy with a perfect flake. It's not overcooked in the slightest. In addition, the service tonight was fantastic. And as an extra bonus, it's right near Mass General Hospital so you have a great chance of meeting an attractive doctor or nurse! I recommend you stop in to Harvard Gardens sometime. Doooooo iiitttt!
(4)Madison M.
AMAZING BRUNCH! I'm giving them 5 stars because 3.5 stars does not do their Sunday brunch justice. HIGHLY recommend the French Toast (that bananas foster sauce is ridiculously good) and the Eggs Benedict. The potatoes were also delicious. Will definitely return.
(5)Angela M.
We were headed to the hospital for business, so we got there early enough to grab a bite here. We were seated at the banquette against the back wall. TV's in the corners and above the bar kept us updated with the Aaron Hernandez story as we perused the menu. I chose the BLT with fries, until the server offered 50/50 to my coworker. I then opted for the BLT with 50/50, since I really only want a few fries for the flavor and the salad to feel healthier. The server advised that this is really the best deal, since you end up getting almost as much salad and fries as you would if you got only one. The meals came promptly. The BLT featured thick cut applewood smoked bacon, tomato, lettuce, and herbed mayo on lightly smoked sourdough. The bacon was thick and tasty, but a little tough, so you essentially got the whole slice of bacon in a bite, rather than having it break into a crispy bite. The tomato was juicy, not mealy, and the lettuce was crisp. I would've preferred less mayo and more toast on the bread, but that didn't stop me from eating the whole sandwich. There was a nice mix of greens in the salad, which was dressed with overly sweet balsamic vinaigrette. The fries were a tad soggy, good motivation to leave them on the plate. Check in on Yelp and get 15% off your bill!
(3)Jordan W.
So this does not get lost in the review: THE TRUFFLE FRIES ARE LEGENDARY. ORDER THEM. HarGar, as I've come to call it, is my go-to dinner or after work drinks place. Unpretentious, relaxed, but still good food. It fills up with nurses and doctors at the end of MGH shifts, so there are some random-seeming times of day when it is super busy. Good brunch on Sundays, great burgers for lunch or dinner, and all around a pretty great place to hang out and grab a drink and snack with friends or colleagues.
(4)Paul W.
Heard they had an awesome Chicken Bacon Avacado Sandwich, went there had one and it was awesome. Will be back for that sandwich!
(4)Rachael L.
Sept 2013- This place earns its 3 stars solely for the grilled chicken sandwich. AMAZING!! All else was less than par, especially the service. The girl waiting on those in the dining area seemed great and attentive. The bartender, however, who was responsible for the high tops next to the bar, was rude and focused solely upon flirting with the old men giving her attention at the bar. We had to go get our own menus, wave her down for waters. She was annoyed to even have to serve us. They were out of several things (the beer we ordered and the lobster mac and cheese). Server thought she would just bring us regular mac and cheese....um no. There is a reason one orders SEAFOOD mac and cheese. She was snotty about us pointing out that we did not want it. Anyway, come for the chicken sandwich if you must come at all.
(3)Matthew F.
Great neighborhood bar/restaurant. The food is surprisingly good, good quality drinks and nice enough interior.I had the steak frites and truffle fries which were excellent. Good selection of beer and liquors. I would go back any time for a casual dinner and drinks
(4)S M.
This place was fun. The inside is VERY dark and set up using candles. But the bar staff is very nice. Lots of medical staff from Mass General hang out here as well.
(4)Mary F.
Came here for brunch while staying in Beacon Hill. Wonderful service from hostess to waiter, our drinks were never empty, and the breakfast portions were huge and delicious! Also, if you come here during breakfast and don't try the red velvet pancakes, you've made a huge mistake. They. Are. Amazing.
(5)Ramin S.
Great food, friendly staff and all around a pleasant experience. This place can serve as a place to grab a casual lunch, fancy dinner or a quick drink. I have been there on weekend nights too and have had a great time. The menu is always changing so it keeps everything fresh and new. I enjoyed the California club the last couple times and think they're food is really great.
(5)Jeremy K.
I've had a few meals at Harvard Gardens, mostly out of convenience as I'm headed to a Bruins game. Whether it was brunch of dinner, I have yet to be wowed by my experience there. While the location is great and the place spacious and clean, the food just falls short if you ask me. I've found that they seem to take a focus on the quantity more than the quality of the food there and despite the pretty affordable prices, I've always managed to leave in the place in a starch-induced food coma, even when only eating about half of the portion. The selection on the meu is solid, but somehow it all gets ruined by the prices and portion size. The prices are a bit higher than most places, especially compared to other places nearby but it is Beacon Hill after all and I've only had spotty service there at best. Sometimes good service, sometimes horrendous. The kitchen always seems to be on the slow side of things and whether it was for brunch or dinner, I just have not been impressed. As far as their beer selection there, it's nothing amazing but it's pretty decent - they do however seem to run out of brews quite often, at least on my visits. The one beer that I always want to get there always seems to run out. Frustrating. All in all, the place is pretty decent but nothing amazing. It's conveniently located right next to the Charles/MGH T stop and offers a wise-array of dishes. Just be careful when you order as you might end up having a food coma as you walk out...
(3)Kimmy B.
I would give them zero if I have a way to do so. Absolutely horrible service and hardly edible food: Got there around 5 on Tuesday evening and sat at the bar. An overweight in the mid-section bartender who has a snobbish attitude for no reason took 15 min to take my order (it was not crowded at all then). I ordered steak tips cooked MEDIUM (I personally feel cooking beef more than medium is being disrespectful to the cow) with French fries (it comes with garlic mashed potato but I did not want to take a chance with anything mashed there. You don't know what's going to be "mashed in" there). Ok (sigh) so the food came after quite a while, first, the beef looked burned outside and when I cut in the middle, it was completely cooked all the way and the soggy French fries were almost wet to the touch because they piled grilled vegetables and tips on top of them. I took a bite of the meat. It tasted and smelled like the meat was not fresh. And that was it for me. I am not sure how they stay in business (in "restaurant" business, unless they have something else going on behind lol). My conclusion: You've got to have a pretty sad life to want to hang out at that place!
(1)Matt C.
Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Rancheros, Huevos Rancheros. Brunch at Harvard Gardens is worth a trip simply for the Huevos Rancheros. Huevos is my go-to anytime I am out to brunch and I can't recall a better version than Harvard Gardens'. Overall the brunch menu is vast and everything looked appetizing and we will definitely return.
(4)Veronica P.
I wish I could marry this establishment. And their lemon drop martinis. EVERYTHING.
(5)Rick L.
Love, love, love Harvard Gardens. The food is pleasantly pretty good, but I go for the music and drinks. I'm not sure who puts together their playlist, but within an hour I hear everything from Curtis Mayfield to The Clash. Shazam gets a good workout at Harvard Gardens. I also love the white leather decor...it feels like I'm in a Madmen scene.
(4)Corey L.
Last night I thoroughly enjoyed the steak tips w veggies and truffle fries. Veggies were buttered but not too heavily. Fries were solid. All was quite tasty and excellent. And I still like the king professional crowd. Oh! Our waitress was awesome too
(4)Eudaemonius ..
Looking for late night eats, we stumbled into Harvard Gardens not knowing what a treat it would be. At that point we were just looking for something on a Sunday night, and a libation to side car the meal. We found both! MaiTai - Delish Fish Tacos - Delish Shrimp in Chili Sauce - Delish Oysters on the Half Shell - Delish The drinks flowed and so the night went. We could not seem to order the shrimp or drinks fast enough. A worth stop on the north side of town!
(4)Jackie C.
The food was great! I had the chicken sandwich and it was very good! The drinks were rough, not quite spot on. We will definitely be back, it was a great place but drinks need a little work.
(3)Stephanie Y.
Came here for lunch while visiting MGH. This is definitely a decent and adequate place super close to the hospital. Was it the best meal ever? For salads negative. We actually started off with some delicious polenta fries. They were actually not what we expected at all but rather were these thick polenta blocks deep fried. One minus of this app was the lack of sauce that was included. C'mon now fries especially of the polenta variety are always better when accompanied with lots of slammin' sauces/condiments. My family and I all ordered salads. The cobb salad was ok. Presentation was amazing with a large thin cucumber serving as the bowl, with mixed greens, some bacon bits and tomatoes as the filling. Overall, nothing too crazy, and to be honest that sentiment could be replicated across all salads. My bf had the caesar which he said was super tasty but, it was super small. Side salad styz not entree status. Salads were all about $12. No protein included. Overall, I would bypass the salads and maybe stick with a sammy or a burger or maybe explore some more options in Boston but again, if you are in a bind and at the hospital and nearby and need a quick place to dine, this isn't a bad option.
(3)L N.
3 stars because the food is really good. Drinks? That's a no-go. And it is a bar so........ U can make that choice.
(3)Krissy K.
I stopped by for dinner here before the July 3 Pops rehearsal concert at The Esplanade. We got parking right in front, which was perfect for our evening plans. The menu here is not extensive, but I don't see that as a negative. I got the HG burger with fries. Another person in my group got the HG burger with salad, and someone else got a salad with salmon. There was a small hiccup, because the dressing was not brought on the side as requested. However, our server was extremely apologetic, and the situation was remedied quickly. I also impressed my dinner companions with the Yelp check-in offer. :p Being attached to your phone does have its occasional benefits! I wouldn't go out of my way to return the next time I'm in town, but Harvard Gardens was a pleasant experience that I would not mind repeating, either.
(3)Jennifer P.
I work across the street from Harvard Gardens, so I come here often for after-work cocktails, but I had the unfortunate displeasure of having dinner alongside my cocktails last week. I ordered the baked brie appetizer and the goat cheese ravioli. The baked brie was just that - nothing more, nothing less. The goat cheese ravioli, on the other hand was a complete mess. The dish was more olive oil than anything else. I could barely take a bite without having oil dribbling down my chin. It was a sad experience, and I don't see myself coming back here for food (which is also overpriced - a bit of a slap to the face after such a dismal eating experience).
(1)Anna R.
When I worked at MGH, I loved meeting friends after work at Harvard Gardens. It was the closest, nicest joint you could walk into while still wearing scrubs. An added bonus was chatting up some of the other cuties in scrubs ;) Although slightly pricey, I loved the steak-frites with a good (local) beer. It was really delicious and hit the spot after a rough shift. But because HG isn't very big, there is definitely a line on weekend nights so you may have to wait for a spot. But, hey, it's Boston - there's always a line on weekends.
(4)Jacob V.
Great Brunch the corned beef and hash was awesome and the bloody mary is a must. Cool atmosphere and in a great location. Enjoy
(4)Chris B.
Disappointed -- underwhelmed. Firecracker shrimp was not shelled, mushroom stuffed ravioli was pedestrian -- all items al a carte and overpriced relative to quality -- even the Malbec was diffused. Better options in immediate area.
(2)S.s. B.
Great place for brunch. Coffee was very good and my steak and eggs were delicious. Nice atmosphere with lots of booths and privacy. Out waitress was pleasant and attentive. Would definitely recommend this place for breakfast or brunch. Hoping to come back soon and try dinner.
(5)Eric S.
Nice atmosphere. Great drinks! Stopped in for a late evening bite to eat and some drinks. My girlfriend had the grilled cheese (she liked it a lot), and I had the scallops (somewhat chewy in the center; would have expected a little better for a New England restaurant). I had the HG Doli (great pineapple flavor; a little lighter flavor than other Doli's I've had), and I had the Dark Blossom (?) (it had tequila and was a bit strong). Overall, a great location to sit and relax with some cocktails!
(4)Judy K.
If you wanna drink - fine. Otherwise skip this place. Horrible cobb salad was had here. Expensive too. Yes, it was huge. But size does not always matter! The salad was doused in a cheap vinegar - vinegar alone is not a vinaigrette! I asked the waiter (who had a snobby attitude) for some olive oil because the salad was so acidic and he brought me a bottle of some indeterminate stuff. I drizzled it on - it helped a little but not much. I sat with my plate untouched for quite along time waiting for it to be removed. The waiter buzzed by our table a couple of times so quickly I didn't catch him to ask him to take my plate - not that I should have had to. Finally I piled my napkin on top along with some other articles - and he took my hint. Duh. Nope. Ain't goin' back. Ever.
(1)Fernanda P.
I ordered a BLT and it was AMAZING. The bread was so crispy and delicious. I ordered a salad instead of fries and it came with italian dressing on the side. I asked for honey mustard. Everyone in my party loved the meal. They had the creamy potato soup, grilled chicken sandwich and classic reuben. The fries were tasty and crispy.
(4)Robyn B.
I've heard that the brunch here is awesome (red velvet pancakes?!?!?! must. try.), but the (dinner) food that I've tried is kind of meh. Last time, my friends ordered the cobb salad and a burger, both were fine. I got a bowl of the french onion soup. Good but a little too salty/cheesy for me. But I guess that's what french onion soup is kind of supposed to be. Anyways, the gin and tonics here are awesome.
(3)Xiao Z.
Decent bar with a fancy late-night bar menu (the kobe beef w/quail egg sliders were a nice touch) and they made some of the best Old Fashions I've had in a while.
(3)Melissa B.
This place a a surprisingly great brunch. I had the prosciutto and goat cheese omelet and it was delicious. The breakfast potatoes where even better. They are crispy potato wedges with parmigiano cheese sprinkled over them. I only gave it 4 of 5 stars because I always feel this place is dark on the inside, but a comfortable set up none the less.
(4)Maureen D.
I love that this relatively small urban bar/restaurant uses Open table for reservations. I made the reservation for 8 people less than a week ahead of time. I received an email reminder. We arrived a few minutes late, but the table was available. Our waiter was polite, got our drink and food orders right, and popped in plenty of times to see how we were doing. Generally people enjoyed their meals, which included pork chop with polenta 'fries', salmon, cobb salad, mac and cheese, and asparagus ravioli. The one flop was the Bibb salad, which our server said was big enough for a meal, but was actually quite small. There was a fairly average noise level, with a vibrant crowd at the bar. I liked being seated in the back, where there was a little less traffic and I could mostly hear my dining companions when they spoke loudly. The place is a little overpriced, but this is a city.
(4)Adam F.
If you take the douchiness factor from Jersey Shore and combine it with college students who are all wannabe doctors, then mix in a few desperate girls you come up with a place like this. Don't worry, the staff factored in the quality of the patrons they would have, and play the music at a decibel level that prevents you from having that awkward conversation with the popped collar pre-med student. Something positive...the drinks are good, albeit expensive, and the staff is nice.
(2)Adrienne M.
Great food, great service, great ambiance -- morning, noon or night -- with a date, big group of friends, or alone. I love Harvard Gardens the most for their brunch. (Killer bloody mary!) This is definitely one of my favorite spots in Boston--I can always count on a good experience! The service is what makes it stand out the most--even at their busiest. I'm gluten free and the servers are always helpful and accommodating so that I can have a delicious meal. They rotate the menus (and cocktails) pretty frequently, so it's always fun to try something new even though I come here all the time.
(4)Saige B.
We came here on a Saturday afternoon and had a similar experience to when I've come at night or for lunch. The bartenders make delicious drinks for the Boston price. I had the Cranberry Margherita and my friend had the Red Line and both were awesome. The food, on the other hand, is just mediocre. They try very hard to put some things out that you wouldn't find at a typical Boston bar. We had the truffled mac'n'cheese (overcooked but still pretty good) and the polenta "fries" (these were seriously logs of fried polenta with very little flavor and a weird consistency). The atmosphere is a tad Grey's Anatomy with all the hospital staff spillovers but it's an okay spot to move to from downtown. I don't mind coming here for a great drink but the atmosphere is a little metro/stuffy and the food gets a 'C' for effort.
(3)Chris S.
I'v gone here for lunch and for night life. Both times I was pretty disappointed. The food for lunch was tasteless and the bread was not fresh for my sandwich. I have gone here for drinks at night and when I went the place was packed. I had to deal w/ some immature patrons and all in all it was not a place I see myself going back to. The prices were not that bad but my experiences were. I gave it two stars because I was with friends at night and still had fun but I like I said I probably wont be going back.
(2)A B.
This is my favorite bar on Beacon Hill. Yes, I'm partial to the name. It is also the closest bar to my front door, so please take that under advisement. It has great atmosphere and a friendly vibe. It looks a bit divey on the outside, but the inside is modern. The only thing saving it from a full 5 stars is that the food is not what it could be. The food is fine, yes, but given how good everything else is, I wish I could say I love the food. I think they would be better off with a simpler, more basic bar menu then striving for heights that sometimes they don't hit. That said, overall, this place is great. I hope to see you there!
(4)Tiff M.
As a Beacon Hill resident who's tried all the local spots... this is definitely not my go-to restaurant for dinner. It's overpriced, and there are several better options for quality food. The weekend night scene... avoid it at all costs. The only times I venture here are for a drink mid-week... it works well in that setting.
(2)George L.
I was staying at the Jefferson boarding house just down the street and this was the first place I tried during my very first night in Boston (there for an academic conference). Let's just say, I had no idea a place in Boston could make such great calamari. They used the small squid, not the rings, which I prefer and it was flash fried with peppers and it came with roasted peanuts and some sort of, what I think, was a soy sauce/vinegar based sauce but bottom line, blew me away. I was with an old friend, also attending the conference, and he was also blown away. I also had an arugula side salad which had a nice, light olive oil and vinegar dressing, if i remember correctly, but the bottom line was that it was incredibly fresh and crisp. I don't remember what I drink, I think a Harpoon IPA (good beer Boston!) but a nice, light satisfying meal. I was hoping to go back but I was only in town for a few days and Boston is one city with way too many good restaurants to back to the same one twice. Bottom line, if you are in the area, I think it is worth checking out. :-)
(4)J B.
I have had dreams about the Kobe Sliders. The quail egg is unique and a great pairing with the beef and bacon aioli. They serve Moscow Mules in copper cups, the way it should be served. I would have given them 5 stars, but they don't seem to have enough of the copper cups if a bunch of people order the drink. I also felt like they thought I was going to steal it and wouldn't give me a second drink in the same cup. Annoying.
(4)Jessica M.
Open late with great service! Ordered the chicken sandwich with fries to split with my boyfriend. They brought out separate plates for us and didn't charge any extra. It was late so the bartender was also waiting on the few tables there were. They played good music and were very attentive! Super yummy for late night eats!
(4)Kristy G.
Firework shrimp and Steak Tips, yum! Came here in a slow snowy night, and it was delightful. Along with a glass of Rogue beer, I'd definitely come back.
(4)Ida G.
Best casual restaurant in this neck of the woods in that it is not Italian like the ones on Charles Street and not a dive like the neighboring bars. The truffle fries are to die for and the HG burger is great, too. Perfect for date night or dinner out with friends.
(5)Elizabeth S.
I'd never heard of Harvard Gardens, so I was pleasantly surprised when I sat down and (finally) got some food that it was, well, awesome. It's sort of a bar slash restaurant. We had a party of eight, no reservation, no problem. The only problem came when I got my meal 20 minutes after everyone else got theirs. Honestly! If pumpkin ravioli takes 20 extra minutes to make (really??) then put a note on the menu, or at least give me a heads up - I was starving, inebriated, and in the mood for anything edible, and you betcha I would've ordered something else. I was so famished by the time I got my decently sized but too small for my state of hunger meal, that I finished my few pieces of pumpkin ravioli (very sugary - definitely didn't want any more than the portion I had) and ate half of another member of our party's mac and cheese (much bigger portion, no sugar to be found).
(3)James H.
Do they pump beer through the ventilation here? This place is always awash with drunken doctors, nurses, locals, vagrants, dogs - you name it, its probably drunk here right now. Drinks are guzzled so fast that taste isn't an issue, nor is the slow service resulting from the overworked bartenders attempting to placate this parade of insatiable inebriates.
(2)Thomas L.
Enjoyed lunch here with the wife and some relatives. Service was great, ambiance was pleasant, and food was decent. I went with the burger and fries. The pickle that came with the burger was the best thing about the meal. The fries were the next best thing, as they were fresh, crunchy, and with just the right amount of salt. The burger arrived as I ordered it - medium - but it wasn't that sexy. Had a slice of tomato and lettuce on top of the burger; both were fresh and delicious. However, that's it. Nothing else going on with the burger. I was a bit disappointed and was hoping for more. Again, want to highlight the service as our waitress was attentive and speedy.
(3)Anna L.
I've been here multiple times for drinks, dinner and brunch. The staff is very friendly - and have always been really great about accommodating my gluten-free food needs. My girlfriends and I come here regularly for wine and their truffle fries - which are amazing! The bartender recently suggested we order a side of bacon aioli (that comes on their burger) to dip our fries in - great idea for taste, bad for the arteries!
(4)Couldbe A.
Great food, comfortable banquette seating and friendly staff. Young crowd at the bar, seems to be a mix of MGH, neighborhood regulars and tourists. Good spot for casual after work drinks.
(5)Rich T.
Stopped over for lunch during the US vs Canada hockey game because the Hill Tavern was packed. This place was empty and now I know why. The bartender Dianne was probably the worst bartender I have had in years. Took 10 minutes to get a drink had to ask for a menu and when my food came I had asked for the bill since I only get an hour lunch and time was quickly passing I started eating my sandwich and when she came back with the bill she abruptley takes my plate with 3/4ths of the meal still left. If you go in see if Dianne is working and if she is walk right back out!!!
(1)Brian D.
Okay, I'm going to talk in acronyms. I've lived in BH for 5+ years or so, and have enjoyed HG for many of those years. Good people here, good scene, and the food is good too, especially the fries. This is a great spot for a date, as I've been on a couple here with mixed success. It has great, romantic light for that sort of thing and the whole ambiance is good for a date. My only wish is that there was more room around the bar area, as it can get quite packed on a busy Saturday night. I've always liked coming here, and will continue to do so as long as I live in the Boston area. HG in BH, enjoy it.
(4)Alyssa J.
This review is for the night time atmosphere. OOOOH Doggy! I think I have a huge, pretty sexual crush, on Harvard Gardens. I went last night, apres The Sevens, and the place was somewhat crowded...we still scored a table. And then we scored on some drinks. Like really scored. I am always surprised that the drinks are so reasonably priced at HG. I still spend too much money there....But! I always know that I could spend more at a much more douchey establishment. Anyway, the ambience is great, the lighting is awesome, a couple of gin martinis make the lambs stop screaming and they play the Cee-Lo "Fuck You" song at least twice a night. loveloveLOVE.
(4)Megan B.
I was pleasantly surprised by this place. Came here for brunch last Sunday after a couple other beacon hill restaurants were packed. We were seated right away, had great service and had a great brunch! I was not impressed by the menu at first, but the food was great! Definitely try this place for brunch. I think this place was better than the other restaurants people wait an hour for.
(4)Nadia K.
This is for brunch: It was a rainy sunday morning and the bf and I decided to go for brunch somewhere new for me, this turned out to be the spot and I'm so glad it was because the rosemary hollandaise on the eggs benedict blew my mind. Normally hollandaise sauce is too rich for me, this stuff, I was dipping their delicious home fries in (crispy and brown, soft in the middle and came with sautéd onions and a light dusting of parm cheese). Heaven. The corned beef that the bf had looked great too- large pieces of flaky corned beef and a lot of it. I would have tried it, but before I could get to it he was smart enough to defile the plate with ketchup. Gross. Anyways, looked epic. I'll be back Harvard Gardens, even though your name sounds like a retirement community.
(4)Elizabeth D.
Their pamesan truffle fries are very good. So much flavor! However, it ended up working against me this time as they made my HG mac and cheese taste bland. I took the rest home though and the next day the mac and cheese tasted much better. There was a very odd smell when we first walked it. I should hope it was from the people at the crowded bar and not the establishment itself.
(3)Ben D.
Not too bad! I stopped here with some friends as a sort of going-away lunch. Right in Boston made it convenient for everyone to get to and the food selection was nice. It was a little dark inside, which made for a strange atmosphere for lunch.
(3)Mary T.
To use the infamous Yelp cliche, I wanted to like it more but I couldn't. I was staying down the street and in need of some dinner, enter Harvard Gardens. It's a nice place, but has a touch of an identity crisis. Most patrons were more casual than one would expect when comparing it to the menu and decor. The space is nice; oblong with lots of dark wood and red-hued lighting. It's sleek and sexy, except for the two plasmas in the bar area. The menu is sophisticated, not your stereotypical bar fare. When I entered, I immediately suspected they were understaffed. It wasn't crowded, but there was only one server and one bartender on duty; no host or anything. By the time I left, the place was slammed and despite their best efforts, service suffered. I ordered a few Stellas and the spinach-artichoke appetizer. The appetizer was just ok, a touch bland but salt gave it the boost it needed. I think that they could have 86'd the parmesan on the tortilla strips, by the time I got one into the dip all of the grated cheese had fallen off. I contemplated ordering the tuna tartare appetizer, but am glad I passed. It looks mouth-watering on the website, but was plated completely differently when delivered to the people next to me. Watching them struggle to eat it from this awkward paint palette-like plate made me glad I decided to pass. This place is decent and the drink prices were quite reasonable, $4.25 for a pint of Stella was great! If I lived in the area I'd probably give it a second shot, and hope that the understaffing was a fluke.
(3)Michael C.
Not sure why some of the super negative reviews on Harvard Garden have been written given my experience and those of friends. Service today was fast and attentive. The waitress quickly filled up empty drinks without prompting. The tomato, mozzarella and basil sandwich was excellent. Being a very good lad, I opted for salad instead of fries. The salad was simply a bunch of greens. I think these guys can do better than that. The Wagya burger, at least according to my friend, was excellent. Fries looked awfully good which contributed to my grumpiness about the salad. Food envy is a terrible thing. Nice atmosphere, reasonable prices.
(4)Michael G.
I remember the first time I stood outside of Harvard Gardens. It was summertime, and I was looking at their food menu. Seems so weird now that I think about it. What I love about Harvard Gardens is that it is ALWAYS a scene inside and out. Outside people are arguing with the bouncer and the manager about who knows what. Inside you are usually packed like sardines near the bar and can't really move. I always have enjoyed my time at Harvard Gardens. I have eaten the food, but it was not memorable enough to be good nor bad. Also, Love that HG is far enough away so the north and south shore don't know where it is! HUGE PLUS!
(4)Jonathan C.
This place is surprisingly good considering the price of the food. The Omelette of the day with the Home Fries (amazing) is a good deal. Last night I was surprised to find that they have pizza! I split the squash pizza with a friend. We added prosciutto and it was excellent. It was better than Flatbreads or Upper Crust (which are both over-rated in my opinion). Granted, they don't have a large selection of pizzas, but that is OK with me. Also, the service was good both times I went.
(4)Eric S.
GREAT SPOT AFTER A LONG DAY @MGH. Last night my girlfriend and I went here after finally hearing mom will out of recovery in two hours. We asked the information clerk what was good to eat, and he told us a lot of MGH staff go to Harvard Gardens for a beer and something to eat after work. It was a dark lil place packed with people, and the Bruins game was on, so it was good right out of the gates. The Russian Standard Mule was a great drink. Our waitress Ashley was awesome, she knew her menu, and descriptions were spot on. I ordered the Wagyu burger, which I heard were really good, but never tried. The way it was offered with a fried egg, bacon mayonnaise, and asparagus was interesting to me so I ordered that, or you can get it with plain cheese, both served on a nice big roll. I was also interested in the mac-n-cheese, which was which was a four cheese combo, Romano, Parmesan, Fontina, Mozzarella, they had an option you can get that with peas and prosciutto description so I ordered a side of that as well. My better half ordered the steak frites, which was a nice portion of steak with some awesome hand cut fries. The steak was cooked as she asked and had a nice juicyness to it. The Wagyu burger was awesome, and as soon as the Mrs. saw it she quickly claimed she needed a bite of it, because it looked so awesome. The whole burger and fried egg thing was awesome, the flavor of the beef and the soft texture of the egg was great. Personally the asparagus didn't woo me, and would have just as enjoyable without it. The side of mac-n-cheese was so impressive, after the second bite I asked Ashley for an order to go. The description of the mac and cheese with the prosciutto and peas might make people think Carbonara, but no this was nice and cheesey, they used small shells, which has tendency of getting filled up with cheese sauce in the little slit, and it was like little heavenly cheese explosions eating this stuff. My girl makes home made mac-n-cheese when I ask her to and it is awesome she was very impressed by this. I'm on the way to go visit mom at MGH now, and am already thinking of what time I will go there for lunch. The service - awesome ask for Ashley she'll come by to make sure you water is full, will ask if everything is fine, and actually served the table with a smile; I know unbelievable; the price $75 for three meals (I had the take home order of mac-n-cheese), was very reasonable, and the atmosphere was nice. I'll be back again!!!
(5)Melissa M.
David the Bartender is the MAN! I would go here everyday if I still lived on the Hill. I went in last night on a Tuesday night. I got a liter of Pellegrino, cuz das how I roll. My fiance got two cocktails, and we had a great time. David was charming, genuine, and just an all around pleasantly nice person to chat with. The place has some delicious aromas circulating throughout the establishment. Smells like truffled fries, or something equally delicious. I used to come here all the time back in my college days over a decade ago! This place hasn't changed and it's a nice thing! We will be back since it's just oh so conveniently located steps from the Charles Street T Stop. This place is my cozy lil home away from home!
(4)Steve S.
Visited it on a Saturday nite, bar was packed, restaurant was moderately busy but found an open table. Really enjoyed having a couple appetizers and a drink as a late nite dinner.
(4)David L.
Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast! Everything. Was. Amazing! For $8 u get omelet, Bacon, toast, home fries, fruit! Everything is gourmet and very reasonably. Very quint has full bar And great service. Can't say enough good things!!! I just wish it was a little closer to me in Brighton :(
(5)Harri S.
You know those places that are sooooo loud you can't hear, and then you realize you aren't at a concert? This is it! Got there 930ish, and wanted to tell everyone to shut the eff up, so I could hear the people next to me. On the upside, their water was delicious.
(2)Ash C.
Harvard Gardens has become my favorite hangout place after my Friday clinical. Bartenders are friendly and attentive. I will definitely try their foods soon!
(4)Mike M.
Went there on a date one night and wasn't too sure what to expect. I tried to do some research online to be prepared. You walk in and to the right you have the bar area which is of decent length with a good amount of high top tables. I got there around 7ish on a Thursday and it was pretty busy. The crowd was of mostly after work crowd and Beacon Hill locals and Harvard Students. The wait for a table was right away, which I wasn't anticipating. My date was about 10 minutes away so I was seated alone. Pretty sure she was late. I ordered 2 water just so I didn't look weird. I also asked for two menus of course. When she had arrived we ordered drinks and food. I had Stoli Blue w Soda and she had a Vodka Soda. The drinks were well poured, but the glass was kind of small. But after 3 or 4 whats the difference? For food I had no idea what to get. I ended up just keeping it simple and got some Boneless BBQ wings. Kinda of random, but I really had no idea what I wanted. I always hate to get a burger or something messy on a first date. You never wanna belch. But the wings were great. Great sauce and nice crispness to it. My date got a salad which was of good size and she enjoyed it, but it would never of filled me up. The atmosphere is very dark and cozy. The bar area is lively and the tables and dining are give you great privacy to be intimate and alone. The server was very sweet and attentive and very friendly. I will probably be back, but nothing really stuck out that would make me go out of my way to. The service is great and the food/drinks were all superb. The crowd can be a little much but in the end, it's a bar and as long as it has liquor, they are doing something right.
(4)Irene R.
The portions are very large. Brunch was good. Their breakfast pizza is big enough for 2 or 3 people to split. We had a pretty large group and they were very accommodating. The prices were good. Even better when you consider the large portions. The lose a star because they don't have any non-egg brunch options(and my spouse is allergic to eggs). He had a croissant, hash browns and some bacon, so at least he found something to eat. 6 hours after brunch and I'm still stuffed.
(4)Brian G.
I rarely go out specifically to Harvard Gardens but often end up stopping in or staying here because it's a great place to go grab a drink. It's set up really well and feels upscale without going overboard and the bar area is big enough to move around in most of the time. The bartenders do a great job of keeping up and I rarely finding myself desperately trying to flag one down. The food I've had here is good but I've never eaten dinner here myself, but many of the dishes I've seen pass by look great. I'd suggest coming in for brunch as well and trying the breakfast pizza which is great. What brings me back here over and over is the big strong drinks they pour. They type of martinis that are trickily strong and taste great which is harder than it seems. I've seen a friend have one or two and forget the better part of her walk home. The drink list isn't huge or as in depth as you'd get at some of the more welkin cocktail places in Boston but it's one of the better upscale places in Beacon Hill to enjoy some time with friends who are looking to be "out" somewhere.
(4)Jason M.
UGH. Maybe its just me. Maybe its just my delicate nature. Maybe its just that I'm a judgmental fool. But damn, this place smells of tools and low self-esteem. It's the kind of place that I feel requires the female bartenders to wear skimpy tank tops, the men to encourage the women to get overly drunk and everyone to act a fool after 11pm. Having walked by the front door more times than I care to admit, I can say I won't do it again. 1 star for simply having Rogue Dead Guy Ale on tap. 1 star for the ugliest sign ever. Really? Who, other than Google+, still uses circles on their signage?
(2)Laura K.
Meh. Harvard Gardens. Closer to Man's Greatest Hospital, more expensive than most other bars within walking distance. Can you hear that? It's the I'd-rather-be-at-The-Sevens-or-Red-Hat murmur of my dive-bar heart. BUT WAIT. After years of hemming and hawing over which item on the lunch menu would leave me the least dissatisfied, I showed up for dinner last night and, after a quick perusal of the menu, decided to play it safe. "I'll take a Bombay Sapphire Martini straight-up with a twist and an order of the Mac and Cheese." HOLY. COWS. MILKED. IN. THE. CHEESEMAKING. PROCESS. The enormous portion of stringey, gooey, creamy heaben topped with a crispy crust -- fashioned from a fusion of breadcrumbs and more cheese -- made me wonder why my hell-no-if-it-ain't-homecooked mom hadn't told me about her new job. Normally, I would say this was the gin talking, but I completely ignored my martini as I struggled to consume as much of this manna as possible - horribly burning my mouth in the process. WORTH IT. OK, $12 for a BS Gin Martini and $14 for (at least) two reasonable portions of mac and cheese? Not bad considering quality. Still more expensive than my favorite dives on the hill - but also significantly less divey. I'll be back. I'll have back. Again, worth it.
(4)Deirdre S.
Had dinner with a my friend to celebrate the birth of his son at MGH. The food was good, not great. The calamari appetizer was tasty but the portion was skimpy. The mac & cheese was delish. We arrived before 5 and sat at a high-top in the bar area so we were first served by the super busy bartender. She was friendly but not super attentive; not her fault as she was trying to attend to around 25 patrons all by herself. After a round of drinks and our appetizer, we were transferred to a new bartender for the rest of our meal. Bottom-line, it was a pleasant experience but nothing to write home about. I'd return if I was visiting MGH but wouldn't make a special trip as there are many other choices with similar menu items, competitive price points, and better ambiance.
(3)Tom K.
Brunch Review! So maybe its about expectations, but walking into this place at 11am on a Sunday for brunch left me not expecting too much. The place was almost completely empty and looked like it was decorated in the 70s and not touched since. Fortunately for me, this place is a standout. The food here was great. We started with the Truffle Parmesan Fries and, although it goes terribly with both coffee or a mimosa, it was delicious. The Breakfast Pizza was very good as well, almost surprisingly so. Its such a simple concept but it works so well. Finally, the Eggs Benedict, while not something I'd write home about, were very good as well. Served on top of giant piece of delicious bread, I almost wished I had more eggs to go with it! So why 4-stars and not 5? There are fruit flies. I noticed them around the bar when I first walked in and another while we were eating. There's really no excuse for this at a restaurant. And while it doesn't particularly bother me, if you have an aversion to bugs at places you dine, you might want to skip HG.
(4)Mel b.
Came here after the marathon for a bittersweet post race celebration. Wanted to thank the staff for the impressive service we received. I hadn't realized until after the fact how lucky we were to have a comfortable space to gather with family and friends-- I'm sure everyone working would have liked to do the same. I'll definitely be coming back in the future.
(5)Tory H.
most people seem to think of this place as a going out spot but i went for dinner and it was awesome! Shared a bunch of apps with friends, we had the kobe sliders (awesome), mac and cheese (awesome), ceaser salad (not great), and the french onion soup (awesome). Will be back for sure!!
(4)Brad M.
Loved it!!! Great atmosphere and food at reasonable prices.
(4)Kathy A.
This is a nice place to go for a casual dinner or drinks with friends and family. It's a very relaxed environment with good service. They offer many good appetizers and entrees as well as some delicious sandwich choices. The turkey sandwich with apple chutney is awesome and the butternut squash pizza is pretty good too. However, for the caliber of the restaurant I would say they are a bit overpriced.
(3)Karibeth M.
A group of 6 of us went to brunch on Sunday. The food was absolutely sinful. Our group started with the Truffle Parmesan Fries (yes, for breakfast), which wasn't a mistake. The basket was gone almost instantly and we kept looking for more. The Breakfast Sandwich was very messy to eat due to the hollandaise sauce (probably don't order this on a first brunch date), but was definitely worth the extra napkin as it was devilishly good. The portions were huge - a generous portion of homefries and fruit. From looking around the table at the Nutella and Banana French Toast, Omelette, Breakfast Pizza, and Eggs Benedict we were all struggling to clean our plates and there was plenty left on each plate to share and let other try as well. The service was a little slow and I drink that I had ordered that was not available that morning was still on the bill, but the waitress was very apologetic and took it off immediately when I found it. Definitely a place that I will go back to for brunch!
(4)George M.
HG rocks! Great drinks are reasonably priced and served by goddesses. What's not to like? On the other side of the bar, the chick scene is pretty nice! I used to think the food was so-so, but things have changed. The food is now quite excellent. Brunch is uncrowded and relaxed. Check it out!
(4)Denise M.
Went here on a Friday night with a group of four girls. We had a fabulous time - the food was delicious and the martinis were great. The environment was hip, but not too loud. The place would have gotten five stars if the food was a little less expensive and / or the service was a little bit better. There were periods of time that we didn't see the waitress for a long time and were left without knowing when our food would next arrive.
(4)Roni E.
So I actually went all day without eating anything else after having brunch here. Literally... after my brunch, all I had was a Pumpkin Spice Latte from the 'bux and a LOT of wine later that evening, but no lunch or dinner for me. Now THAT's how brunch should be done. It should be able to keep you full and happy all day. And Harvard Gardens was able to do that. For $8 I enjoyed a Spinach, Tomato, Mozzarella and Basil Omelette. And for an extra $8.50 - my alcoholic cravings were fulfilled by the Raspberry Sangrita, which had freshly muddled raspberries making it look like a glass of Orbitz with the floating bits. I especially liked the home fries, which were slices of potatoes baked and topped with parmesan. The eggs had a good portion ratio between the ingredients. However, the egg itself seemed too fluffy for my taste, like not real eggs. Still delicious, but not my style. I'm actually quite surprised this place wasn't packed for a Saturday brunch, but maybe that's because no one knows what they are. Blair had mentioned that he thought it was a brothel for a long time based on the outside. And maybe that's why they're not getting the business they could be getting. *shrugs* Also, huge props to the family next to us that offered to move down a table with no hesitation.
(4)Jessica P.
This is a great go-to place for pretty much any time of day: brunch, lunch, happy hour, and dinner - all really great food, never really have to wait too long for a table and always a good experience. I recently went with some friends on a Saturday night for dinner. We went at 745 and the restaurant part wasn't completely full but the bar area always seems to be packed even though its not that big of an area. The music was pretty fun and the lighting was dark enough that you actually felt like you were out for the night. I've been here many times and the service has always been decent, not really memorable (I guess thats good?) but this time the server seemed a bit annoyed to be there and alittle too "i dont give a shit." It didn't bother the meal too bad except he would ask half the group if they wanted another drink but not the rest so we'd have to call after him, as he quickly to turned to leave, about the rest of the drinks needed. Also at the end of the meal he asked if we wanted a shot to finish it up with? Strange, outta place? Yes I think so considering he was pretty distant the whole night, but anyways... The food is always really yummy, though it did seem to take a loong time to get there but no bother cause we weren't in a rush to go anywhere or that hungry. I had the Roasted Pork sandwich, sans fried onions, it was alittle under salted for me but over all really a great sandwich. Very moist and the cheese and brocoli rabe really made it come together. I love how they let you choose salad for a side instead of fries for no charge, always a plus. We also ordered the turkey sandwich, which was also really good, the apple chutney was a nice touch, and the butternut squash pizza with prosciutto added was awesome. Everyone at the table tried a piece and it was a hit. Just the right amount of sweet salty and cheesy, great choice. Bibb lettuce salad was unmemorable but decent size for a appetizer salad. Beers and drinks are reasonably priced. Not your usual selection though for restuarant for that area - no Octoberfest or BlueMoon? weird I've had the brunch here and it is really good and huuuge portions. The omelets are humungous and come with a ton of homefries. it does get pretty busy though.
(4)Katie W.
Love this place to meet friends for drinks if I don't want to deal with the crowds of the Sevens or the smell of BHP. Lounge vibe inside with decent food which caught me off guard on my first visit and great drinks. Love the truffle fries and Mac and Cheese. My favorite drink-- the Cherry Lemonade: Lemonade, soda and black cherry vodka=deliciously deadly
(4)Thomas N.
We often stop in for a beer here after walking around boston as it is neat the mgh stop, drinks are good and some different and interesting, we had lunch here saturday and everything was good, the mac and cheese very good, my tuna melt ok ( a little boring) and a caesars salad pretty good, fries were a little soft, overall a good place to stop for a drink and an ok place for a meal.............
(3)David B.
Surprisingly good food overshadowed by other issues. My first thought was that it is a bar that tacked on a restaurant as an afterthought. As a bar, it's been around for a long time and it might not be worth a special trip but they do a reasonable job. It was a busy Thursday night and our reservation for six was maneuvering with difficulty for the maitresse d'hotel. She was apologetic and eventually parked us at a comfortable table. That's when we started running into problems. Our waitress was smart and friendly but it was clear that this evening some members of the waitstaff hadn't shown up because it took a long time to get a drink and an appetizer, not because the waitstaff wasn't working hard, but simply because there weren't enough of them. The appetizers arrived after about 20 minutes. The Pork Dumplings were steamed rather than pan-seared, but they were great. The special Duck Spring Rolls were surprisingly good. The main course took an epoch to get to the table. We spoke to our waitress twice and even considered bailing out but it was clearly not her fault. Finally, two weeks after she put the order in, the food arrived and it was...terrific. Almost worth waiting for. We had a mixed assortment of things and each one was perfectly done and better than we had expected. Clearly the kitchen team knows how to cook, if not how to expedite. This would have been a much better evening with the right amount of waitstaff and one or two more people in the kitchen. Unfortunately the one thing that will remain in all our memories is how overwhelmed the entire staff was. If we hadn't kept prodding our overworked waitress, we'd probably still be there waiting.
(2)Jimbeau W.
We really like this place and try to stop by every couple of weeks. We usually eat at one of the hi tops in the bar area, just because at the after work time slot we show up this is the busiest area, however the dining area is very comfortable (lots of leather banquettes) and the servers are well trained and accomodating. We've tried a lot of dishes ranging from appetizers like grilled bacon wrapped dates stuffed with blue cheese and almonds to fire cracker shrimp (really good!) and Kobi sliders. All great! We've tried the entrees such as the burger (one of the best in Boston), pan roasted chicken and steak frites. All good, flavorful and decent portions. The only meh response I have is for the bolognese, which was just ordinary. When you add in the super drink menu, generous pours and friendly waitstaff, this place is a definite thumbs up.
(4)John S.
Harvard Gardens works the "dimly lit funky restaurant" angle perfectly. You feel cooler when you enter, and after conversing with the friendly and attentive wait staff, you get a sense like perhaps you somehow own the place. The food is tasty and unique (lobster roll sliders, anyone), if a touch overpriced. The drinks, given the number of people at the bar, were slung often and well. This is a date place that is slightly more than casual, so hold off until date #3 to take the lucky guy or girl there.
(4)Emme S.
This review is a response only to the brunch experience. I am usually a glass-half-full experiencer of untried restaurants and bars. However, Harvard Gardens was really disappointing when we went for brunch this past Sunday. The service, food and prices all left me feeling really unenthusiastic about the Harvard Gardens experience. Service: Our server was very sullen and inaudibly soft spoken. After every order - food or drink - he would bring us our check which was totally unsolicited and gave the impression that he was ready for us to vacate his booth. That is a serious no-no to me, particularly because we were continuing to order each time and the restaurant was not busy in the least. Maybe it wasn't the server - is that HG policy? Either way, the management should squash that practice ASAP. Food: The portion size of my expensive (more on that later) huevos rancheros was tiny. The eggs benedict tasted like the frying pan's plastic coating and the hollandaise had zero flavor. Neither dishes were particularly delicious, which was distressing given the cost. I was excited to try their raved about truffle fries - but they were never delivered without an explanation. Lastly, if you are going to name your Bloody Mary, you better make sure it's good. Theirs was not. Price: Boston has a wide variety of AWESOME brunch places that charge $10 for a delicious brunch. For that reason, I was really surprised by the expense of the breakfast items on the menu. Huevos rancheros consist of some very cheap ingredients - eggs, beans, tortillas - and the expensive ingredients used by HG were doled out in a very small portion - avocado, cotijo cheese. For $15, I would expect enough huevos to feed two people and be amazing. These barely fed one and were meh. I work in Beacon Hill and have always wanted to try Harvard Gardens. However, after our brunch experience, it's unlikely that I will fight the crowd for dinner or drinks.
(2)Paul B.
Food is always good. Waitstaff and bartenders are always nice and do a great job. Has the feel of a much more expensive place. Very comfortable.
(4)Karen K.
Had to add one more thing, Moscow Mule, try one, thank me later.
(5)Mark T.
Had a really good burger there - just the plain cheeseburger for $10 was quite impressive.
(4)Terry C.
It really should be a 2.5 star, but I'm feeling generous today. Service: Ehh...it was OK. The hostess was really nice and friendly but our waiter was OK. My friend wanted a drink that they no longer have and when she asked for a recommendation, he wasn't too helpful. He was also distracted every time someone walked in the door and did not check to see if our food was OK. Food: The parmesan truffle fries are SOOOOOOOOOO good, one of the best I've had. I'm drooling just thinking about it! I ordered a turkey wrap and it was extremely bland. I mean, how exciting can a turkey wrap be right? but this just wasn't great. One of my friends ordered the ribs as an entree and I think they serve the entire pig's rib cage as one entree! - the portion was ginormous! I would not go out of my way to try this place, but its not a bad place for a drink and some fries.
(3)Sara S.
Harvard Garden's gourmet pizzas are delicious. Their fontina and butternut squash pizza with caramelized onions is a great blend of flavors, which I've also been a fan of their mushroom pizza (seems not to be on the menu anymore?!) Also, their truffle fries are amazing late-night! The bar scene here is just that... an effing scene. Doctors from MGH, former frat boys after work from the Financial District, and Lily Pulitzer-clad, David Yurman wearing, manicured young ladies. If you want to be hit on, come here. The drinks are strong, and their cocktail menu isn't bad, either. Three stars (really 3.5, but rounding down) because I really don't like the layout of the bar area. It is so freaking cramped and narrow, it's hard to hang out with a group of friends or make yourself through the mob to talk to someone new. However, it's a solid neighborhood spot for food and drinks.
(3)John L.
I'm kind of split on Harvard Gardens, particularly as a brunch location. It's got some pluses and minuses, but the pluses eventually outweigh the minuses. A bunch of fun and exciting Yelpers converged upon Harvard Gardens after our original destination's wait was too long. After a walk that included the sighting of an intramural Quidditch match (there should be more of these, but that's another discussion for another day), we arrived at Harvard Gardens, ready to have some grub. Considering that it was relatively quiet, the staff was ready, able, and willing to sit our larger group, and with a major assist from the group sitting next to us (who moved over, and given the opportunity, I would give 5 stars to), we all plopped down, ready to eat and drink. On the drinks, I ended up with a mimosa, which was quite good (the OJ and champagne mixed quite well). The waiter was also quick to check and confirm that the pear bellini was not available. A little inconvenient, considering it's on the menu, but the fact he checked before he finished the drink orders was a plus. On the downside, after that point and the food orders, we didn't see much of our waiter. I didn't get my water refilled until after I had started on the food. Not the worst thing in the world, but still not ideal. As for the food, it was right on target. I ordered the omelet with homefries and bacon and toast. This resulted in getting a good amount of homefries and bacon, and a decently sized omelet. As for the taste itself, the omelet was good, not the greatest I've ever had, but very good nonetheless, and the bacon was a little tough for my own desire. The homefries, however, were amazing. They were little potato wedges, and not only were they well-seasoned, they were generally yummy. Overall, I'm waffling between 3 and 4 stars. It's not the most exquisite brunch I've had in the course of the series (Gaslight wins that), but I'd put it in second place as of now. While I kind of wish the server was around a little bit more, I can understand, and the fact that they did a good job of fitting us all in without a reservation merits that 4th star.
(4)Ashley P.
Ok I need to break this up into sections.... Lunch: My coworkers and I love going here at lunch time. 90% of the time the service is great and fast. The food is always divine and much better than most of the other lunch places in the area. For lunch, I love the lobster roll, any of the pizzas and the french fries are amazing. Dinner: I came here for dinner for a birthday celebration with a group of girlfriends. Other than the obnoxious guy at the bar hitting on us the whole time, it was great. Our waiter was very helpful and did not make us feel pressured when we hung around for a very long time. I love the martini's and all the food that we had was great. Drinks/Bar: The bar area is very fun and relaxed. We were there on a Friday night so it was pretty busy, but we didn't have a problem getting a table. The atmosphere was nice and the people there seemed cool. The only reason that I deducted a star from HG is because when we sat at the table during the bar hours, we asked if we should go up to the bar to get our drinks (which we didn't mind doing) or if we were going to have a waitress. We were told we had a waitress, but she was extremely slow and we ended up going to the bar anyways. But I am definitely in love with this place and will continue to dine there often!
(4)Evelyn S.
Nice service. Decent food and good drinks.
(3)Kaitlin M.
Good local bar for me and my roommates to spend the night or stumble into late night. We've had their late night pizza a few times, and despite burning my mouth on it once, its delicious. They let us order a basket f fries right as the kitchen was closing one night too, and they were amazing. And not just because we had been drinking all night. The crowd is usually chill and fun. Top 40s music bumpin. But no one dancing It does get packed, and is kind of not sure what kind of bar it is. But its always reliable for a good time and good food, at any time. The bartenders and staff are always friendly and attentive as well.
(4)Ali A.
I am an HG junkie - can't get enough! I've never been disappointed by the food, be it brunch, lunch, dinner or bar bites. For those later meals: One of my most favorite salads in the world is from Harvard Gardens - the Boston Bibb. Mmmmmm, I could have that every day and die a happy girl. The Pizzas are also delish and on a chilly fall/winter day, that Pumpkin Ravioli hits the spot! For those early meals: The omelets are fab. (Although you can really order anything that comes with the homefries because that is the real star of the plate.) The Pumpkin muffins come in twos are are hot out of the oven. But the best part of brunch here is that you can always get a table. No reservation, no waiting - something almost unheard of on a Sunday morning in this town. For those drinks: The bar scene is always lively and the cocktails are good. While the Dark & Stormy is no longer on the cocktail menu, order it because they make a delicious one!
(4)EricaLynn J.
I've gone on Friday nights after about 9pm or so with a rather large crowd. They're usually able to handle the whole slew of us, and normally do so without fuss. Not a huge fan of the space; it's a little crowded for my taste, but then again, I'm the one who shows up with 15 people in tow, so I have no room to complain. Literally. But figuratively, too. Food is not worth the expensive price tag. I'd probably be happier if my friends chose a different place to go, but for the convenience factor, I'll remain in tow for the time being. Unless I'm hungry. Then it's a whole other story.
(3)Adam G.
This is a nice bar to grab a drink, take in a game or get a sandwich off the menu if you're in the area. This is a good staple in a neighborhood where the options are sort of limited. In a city where inflated prices and terrible service could be lurking around any corner, this is a refreshing safe haven.
(4)Blair H.
Here's my theory on the evolution of events which have led to the current situation at Harvard Gardens (HG). 1930- Good looking surgical resident at MGH, with well-defined facial features and English accent, fancies a pint. Finds HG suiting of his needs. Lets call him, Dr Cox. - Becomes a regular after 36hr rotations in clinic removing kidney stones with a rusty hammer. 1932- HG becomes a local hang-out for doctors. 1935- A gaggle of bachelorettes wanders through Beacon Hill and one breaks her ankle after slipping in vomit on North Grove Street, just adjacent to Cambridge Street. The Docs, having a Baywatch themed party, run out in slow motion to tend to the distressed broad. - 11 of the 13 bachelorettes wed the 6 physicians. The 12th and 13th end up together. All 13 end in divorce or mysterious disappearances. 1960s- For twenty years, physicians, gold-diggers, and cougars intermingle at HG, until... 1962- Douchebags discover HG. - Douchebags pretend to be physicians, lawyers, and pilots, attracting even more slutty women. The cycle propogates as douchebags and skanks multiply in number. - Physicians/Residents, hampered by their increasing work load and reimbursement cutbacks, leave HG. 2009- Cougars and gold-diggers still go to HG in search of docs. Instead, they are only met by douchebags pretending to be docs. To this day, HG is the place to watch Friday night fireworks as the two sexes vie for position. Fri/Sat nights are for those under 32 with waist sizes to match. For professionals in the area, lunch time is the time to go. For $15, a decent meal. For Brunch, mind the vomit around the corner, but rewards be had in the form of eggs benedict and morning cocktails.
(3)TIM O.
This place earns extra points for a nostalgic decor and attentive service to match. The premium burger was great as a rare treat.
(4)Peter G.
Been here twice, once for drinks and once for lunch. Service and quality of food were good. Bartender was friendly enough without being too over top as is the case in some places. My wife had the quails eggs and I had a breakfast. Both were slightly different to be genuinely interesting and tasty without being pretentious. The quails eggs were the best ever and the breakfast consisted of ample portions of good home food. We'll be back there on our next pub crawl! Well done guys!
(4)Kim K.
I. Freaking. Love. Harvard. Gardens. Where to begin? First, this place is bustling. It's got a huge bar right up front and tables lining the walls and in the back. It's dimly lit, has huge HD TVs, and a constant buzz of noise. That all said, I find the atmosphere of this place incredibly sexy. It's just exactly what I've ever wanted in a date restaurant. One of the best appetizers I have ever had came from here: lobster roll sliders. They were creamy, the lobster was delicious (and I'm not a lobster person), and the bread was buttery and yummy. Entrees: The sandwiches are my go to here. And every one I've ever had has been exquisite. The pulled pork was smoky and delicious and the tuna melt was perfectly cooked panini style. The salads are great here, super fresh. The fries are yummy too. The service has always been awesome when I've gone, the waitstaff is a bunch of really cool folks. Anyways, just do yourself a favor and go to Harvard Gardens on your next date night, ok?
(4)Leah M.
I like HG. It has a good atmosphere and the food is decent but I feel it is extremely over priced for what you get. A simple side salad is $8, which is pretty ridiculous if you ask me. Plus when I was there the manager (Im assuming was the manager, an older Hispanic gentleman) was extremely rude not just to me and my party but to the staff. It's the service industry, cracking a smile wouldn't kill you... just saying
(3)Nick G.
So I don't really know what all the fuss is about. HG is a pricey bar/restaurant that that tries very hard to be something it's not. The food is mediocre at best . Service seem slow and at 10PM on a Thursday maybe it just wasn't firing on all cylinders. You can find better on Cambridge Street.
(1)Christopher L.
Delightful brunch with the best huevos rancheros in the city! Red velvet are good for when you're in a decadent sort of mood. Lunch and dinner options are also very good and are well above the standard boston bar food.
(4)Courtney H.
So I've been here twice now, once for a very early dinner with the fam and once for drinks on my bday before going to another bar. I enjoyed both times. It really is the most convenient bar I think to MGH, which is why I've stopped by both times really. Drinks and food aren't too pricey for the Beacon Hill area. I had the margherita pizza and it was very tasty. I also liked their mac & cheese. When I came for drinks, I just got my regular but it was good. Everything about this place screams Ok, but not awesome. If you are in the area and looking for a decent place then you should stop by. If you are looking for some awesome place to drink, maybe stop by Alibi across the street.
(3)Deepa C.
The ever fabu Yelp book club met here last month to fair reviews. Service - good but not spectacular. Our waitress WAS patient with our group and didn't make many mistakes but had somewhat bad timing. Not a huge deal though - 12 chattering girls can prove to be a challenge to corral when all you want to do it get drink orders. The selection - LOTS of egg-based dishes, no French Toast? No Pancakes? Really? The did have sandwiches and all that, but when you meet at 11, a burger seems not quite right. That said, the salads looked amazing and the omelets were large and filling. The potatoes were not my cup of tea, but everything else seemed to love them. The atmosphere - surprisingly empty when we left around 12:30/1 on a Saturday. Other than that, it was pretty basic, tables, chairs, bar, floor. Nothing crazy, but still not boring and sparse. Will I be back? With all the other brunch places that I have yet to try, I may not be back anytime soon. That said, if I find myself int he area at brunch time and hungry, yes, I would probably stop in.
(3)Leighann F.
Good for large groups. Not so much for Eggs Benedict. I've eaten a lot of Eggs Benedict in my adult life and this version of the dish was near the bottom of my list. The eggs were undercooked, the dill-infused Hollandaise was very watery and the English muffins were soggy. The salmon was thickly sliced and not smoked, which did not add much to the overall flavor of the dish. The potatoes, on the other were amazing and came in a giant pile on my plate! Thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned, light on the cheese and onions. I could have done without the Benedict and simply have eaten the potatoes. If you don't mind sacrificing some quality for portion size, Harvard Gardens is definitely the spot for you! I don't think one person in our entire party finished their meal!
(3)A N.
The reason for 1 star would be the service... the place wasn't even half way full. service took forever... but even worse, we ordered an app so once my meal came i was barely hungry, took literally 2 bites and asked for it to be packed to go... so the server figured it would be ok to throw away all the french fries and the half of sandwhich with 2 bites taken out of it... ridiculous, if your that dumb ask specifically what i want packed. now i know why they dont do take out... they would throw half your meal away before packing it.
(1)Danielle E.
So my coworkers and I USED to dine here at least once a month.. We would get together and dish as girlfriends usually do over burgers and fries...the food was pretty good--seeing as we selected very simple entrees... but the last few times we have eaten here the food was disugusting...Especially this past Thursday. We ALL order burgers, but everyone but me asked for theirs well done... note that I asked for mine to be medium. ALL of our burgers tasted like charcoal, not to mention my fries and their parm fries were soggy and overcooked. We are talking basic All-American cuisine--and they screwed it up! I could have given half a star more because he did take the 5 (burgers) out of the 7 meals ordered off of the bill but I went home hungry :(
(1)Rick L.
My wife and I had a great dinner here. The tuna tartar was excellent(great quality tuna) and the truffle fries were amazing. The steak frite was just ok. Service was also just ok. That's why the 4 stars. Portions are a generous size.
(4)Cleopatra P.
I braved the elements last Saturday morning to dine at Harvard Gardens with some fellow Yelpers for the monthly book club brunch. The conversation and company were impressive--the food unfortunately, not so much. I knew that something was up as soon as I opened up my menu to see nary a mention of French toast or pancakes among my brunch options. Come to think of it, there was a serious lack of simple carb-filled options for a meal which is one of the best excuses out there to carbo-load. What was really messed up was that, going by the other offerings on the menu, the basic ingredients for French toast were clearly lying around the kitchen (eggs, milk, cinnamon, bread, etc.), but there was not one meal that included my favorite brunch staple. Since I hate omelettes and most other egg-centered dishes, I decided to be lame and order a cheeseburger. Bad idea. My cheeseburger ended up being a mean, rather sad-looking affair--a small, dry, and oh-so-tasteless beef patty overwhelmed by a large, stiff bun and topped off with a perfunctory sprinkling of shredded mozzarella. The fries that came with my meal were very good, but not nearly good enough to make up for the hunk of ill-prepared and poorly-outfitted meat on my plate. Between the menu weirdness and the lackluster food, I doubt that I'll be back at Harvard Gardens on my own dime any time soon.
(2)Katie B.
I went in to Harvard Gardens and found they have a deliciously updated menu created by a new chef. Some of the same bar-food staples remain (the Kobe Sliders are amazing) but the dinner menu has greatly improved. I had the Lemon and Sea Salt Crusted Pan Roasted Chicken with rosemary prosciutto gnocchi and caramelized cauliflower. The chef seemingly uses French cooking methods because the chicken breast was mouth wateringly tender on the inside and the skin was perfectly crisped on the outside. I was in taste bud heaven! The chef even sent over a complementary blueberry cobbler with vanilla bean ice cream for dessert... The only thing I miss very dearly from the old menu is the Edamame with Sesame oil, but with all these new treats to try, I will forget it soon enough! If it's been a while, give Harvard Gardens another try for a nice dinner out!
(4)d f.
Had lunch here on a rainy August Monday afternoon after appointments at MGH. Service was exceptional - thanks to Jackie who was bartending/serving. The truffled mac & cheese was great and atmosphere was relaxing as there were only a few customers on this particular day and time. The cost was typical for Boston: $7 for a beer and $20 for Mac & Cheese. I enjoyed the food and conversation with other patrons and Jackie.
(4)John E.
Very simple - the Kobe beef sliders w/ bacon infused may topped off with a quail egg is one of the best things I have ever had
(5)Mike N.
Lots of pretentious people who really shouldn't be. Otherwise the truffle fries ahhh manifique
(3)Jordan G.
Happening Bar, Delicious Food and Phenomenal Service, need I say more? Okay okay, apparently I do. Don't be fooled by the outer appearance of the restaurant. When me and my ladies arrived by cab, the exterior looked like a diner. But boy, were we in for a surprise. The bar was hopping and the game was on in the background. While we weren't seated promptly, the manager comped our drinks while apologizing profusely. Glad to see that they cared. The food... oh where do I start? The Tuna and the Lobster Quesadilla were delectable. I am a huge fan of the wagyu burger (SMOTHERED with onion rings) while my friends raved about the bibb salad and the pumpkin ravioli. And you must order the truffle parmesan fries. My carb-conscious friends couldn't resist seconds, thirds and fourths. All in all, the experience was great. The only reason why I didn't give the full 5 stars was due to the bar being a little too noisy and spilling into the dining area. Difficult to control since there's only a small divider between the two.
(4)Travis K.
My wife and I had a nice dinner here. The burger was great and the Mac and cheese was outstanding.
(4)G S.
I met a friend here for drinks last night before going out for the night. The way she described it was "There are always a lot of cute but uninteresting men here." The men here last night were not cute or interesting. A lot of short, Beacon Hill "young professionals"...no thanks. The drinks are good and the staff is friendly. It can get a bit crowded, but there's usually room to stand or sit at the bar.
(3)Patrick C.
Harvard Gardens is close by, so my girlfriend and I went a few times when we first moved in. Three attempts resulted in disappointment. We ordered Lobster Ragoons (sounded good!) but sent them back because they were just bad. They cooked us a new batch and were very nice about it. Unfortunately, we were wrong. It wasn't that they were cooked incorrectly, by their standards; it was that Harvard Gardens makes horrible Lobster Ragoons! - If you want to drink: Go to Beacon Hill Pub, around the corner - If you want to eat: Go to The Hill Tavern, down the street - If you want to eat, then drink: Go to The Hill Tavern then Beacon Hill Pub
(1)Christina G.
I've been here a few times. Once for brunch and twice for dinner mainly just because its close. Brunch was pretty good here, but dinner has never wowed me. The menu is not that impressive and neither is the food to be honest. I'm sure its great if you are just going out for drinks though. I like the Hill Tavern Better.
(2)Jeff W.
I've been here a few times. Brunch, Lunch, and most recently drinks and a few appetizers. Food was decent - may not win awards, but I won't complain. What gives this place the 4 stars are the bar tenders. Attentive, Friendly, and Honest. What else could you ask for? Cheers to this place --- I'll be back for sure!
(4)Michelle L.
A great bar for casual drinks and apps. Especially great if you aren't really in the mood to go out, but can't imagine sitting at home. Harvard Gardens has seating for dinner and standing room for drinking bar-side. Nothing better than that.
(3)Purvi R.
A good place to meet up with people given its proximity to the train station and MGH. Went here on a weeknight once and met up with a friend and some of her MGH colleagues. I actually was surprised - the interior looked a lot nicer than I had expected - I don't know what I was expecting and why, but I somehow thought it'd be more like Hill Tavern or even just a step up from the BHP. Anyways, we passed a couple of appitizers - in particular note was the grilled naan and onions and chutney. Random but pretty good. For dinner, I had the ravioli - warning - it is VERY rich. I might almost suggest asking to go easy on the sauce, as it is very buttery. It was good, but not sure I would order it again. Friends at the table were sharing some pizzas and they were also delicious - but definitely shareable! One menu item that was memorable was the fries. Great stand-alone snackability. The other thing that surprised me (less after I saw the interior of the place) was price. Somewhat pricey for some items, but they have such a wide range, it's possible to get out of there without emptying your wallet. Just choose wisely. Would I come here again? I don't think I would be opposed but I might eat beforehand. Fun atmosphere, yes, but don't see myself getting overly excited to go there.
(3)Adam M.
We had a fantastic brunch and a great overall experience. The food was unique and tasty; even the breakfast potatos were excellent. The selections included some very healthful options. We were in a rush to get to a Bruins game; they got us in and out in 45 minutes, no problem. Service was friendly and attentive. I'm amazed that such a happening nighttime spot would do such a great job with brunch.
(5)angela g.
I had a decent time here last night. We went for dinner and drinks. I liked the cozy lighting and modern environment. From the outside, i was expecting something divier. Sat down around 9:30 and left just before cosing. The drink list is interesting, but i found that everything i tried lacked the proper amount of alcohol. 2 out of 3 of us had great meals, I had the seared tuna salad and grilled asparagus. YUM. i could eat some right now. However, my fiance had the mac and cheese. What a disappointment, as one reviewer said previously, tasted like heavy cream was poured onto soggy noddles and topped with bread crumbs. bummer. the waitress while she seemed disinterested in any of our antics, was pretty reliable and kept the booze flowing. the only complaint i have is the high percentage of douche bags that seem to fill this place. but hey i can forgive that. i would be back.
(4)Christine C.
Well, I have never eaten here since the only time I go is after 11 on weeknights... however... They serve dark and stormies. They are convienient to my job. They have ample seating and fun music (not good, fun). I plan on trying the late night snacks ( I really love snacks) tonight and will review more later... (building up anticipation!) UPDATE- Love the late night menu! Really quirky items that turned out to be really yummy!
(4)Michael A.
A definite big step up from all the pubs in the area. Always a good crowd there. Good menu good food. Nice staff.
(4)Lauren D.
A good, good friend took me to Harvard Gardens twice. Once for lunch and once for brunch. Both meals were delicious. The restaurant has a great ambiance - dim lighting, and a great music selection. The TVs at the bar usually showing whatever game is on at the moment. For lunch I had the Grilled Chicken with Fresh Mozzarella, Thick Tomato, Smoked Bacon & Basil Pesto Mayo (so yummy!), and for brunch I had an Omelet which was the special - smoked tomato, bacon, and cheese. Alongside the omelet were arguably some of the best home fries I have ever had in my life. I'm still waiting to go back just to have those again. The orange juice was freshly squeezed, and even the coffee was good. Between the delicious food, the nice, relaxing atmosphere, good music being played, and the attentive, pleasant staff, you cannot go wrong with Harvard Gardens. I'm still thanking my friend for bring me there, even though I have been disappointed with most other home fries since my brunch there.
(5)Gail L.
Meh! Went for cocktails late on a Saturday, not impressed. Did not eat.
(2)Cee Cee S.
Average. Came here for lunch during orientation week at MGH. The food was ok, but the service was so slooooowwwwwww. No one came to refill my water glass or soda. Come on, we were there at noon and there were only 4 other tables with fellow lunchers. Come on, I'm a nurse, and I can totally do the "avoiding eye contact thing" but then again, I don't work for tips. The food: I had the oven roasted pork sandwich. It was like a cuban, but on better bread. The only downside is that I've been burping up banana peppers and pickles all afternoon. If they improve the service, I'd up the stars.
(3)Todd O.
I'm not sure why so many people are raving about brunch at this place. It's only OK at best. The food break down: 1. Breakfast Pizza. This was pretty much a bland quiche containing asparagus, bacon, goat cheese, and eggs. Salt was required and lots of it. On the bright side it might be an ideal dish if you hate tasty things. 2. Blueberry Pancakes w Side of Sausage. The stack was 5 high. Respectable. However they just lacked taste. I'm a huge pancake fan and I can only say that they were fine - the type of fine you experience with at-home pancake mix. Meh. A side of bacon comes with this meal and it is billed as apple smoked (or something to that effect). It was super bland! Who ever heard of bland bacon? The saving grace were the home fries. They were very tasty little potato chip style fries with parmesan. That was good. I ordered an extra side of sausage which was also very tasty. My girlfriend suggested that they may have contained some rosemary. They were good. Overall Harvard Gardens was just bland. If you are looking for a good brunch there are a ton to choose from in Boston, but this is not one. I've read good things about their lunch, but based on our brunch experience, we are not likely to come back.
(2)Sean J.
This place sucks. It's made to be a restaurant, not a bar, and yet they feel the need to cram as many people into it as possible. The result? A literal deadlock once you enter the door. You cannot make it from one side of the bar to the other because there are two rows of booths and everyone stands in the narrow aisle between them. The only thing harder than getting around in the bar is getting one of the bartenders to help you.
(1)Dan B.
I'll make this short and sweet. Ever since HG hired their new executive chef, this place has become my go-to spot. Awesome food, good portions, great atmosphere and a great staff!! Couple of recommendations for ya: pork dumplings (delicious). Had the Burger for my main course, pretty much melted in my mouth, cooked to perfection! Brilliant! My date ordered the special, an Asian style short rib dish with purple sweet potatos and fried green beans. Honestly, I've never seen her finish a meal in 7yrs until last night. Top it all off with their peanut butter chocolate molten cake for dessert and you're in business! Can't say enough about this place, classy yet also a good spot to unwind and watch a game! Prices are very reasonable. Even If you just feel like a beer and wings you'll be satisfied!! Well done HG, check this place out!
(5)J M.
I HEART DAVE! (enough said)....P.S. the mac and cheese and hot dog are pretty amazing!
(5)M M.
I came to Harvard Gardens after finally meeting up with one of my buddies who got stuck on the red line during the recent electrical failure. We were hungry as hell, and this place was the closest food venue we could find. It looked like a sports bar from the outside, so we expected cheap bar food and a younger crowd. Definitely not. It seemed like a place for professionals in their late 20s/early 30s to get together and enjoy the bar scene without dealing with stupid ass drunk kids. The food was not bad overall. I ordered the Atlantic salmon, which was really well prepared. The steak was a little tough, even for a sirloin. The mac and cheese was nothing memorable. The reason I give this place 4 stars is because I really enjoyed my dish and it seemed like most of the dishes held their value. The reason I don't give it a 5 stars is because service was a bit slow.
(4)Jennifer J.
Food is inexpensive and pretty good. Waiters were very nice. Has a divey feel. Easy to get a seat on a Thursday night.
(4)Tarah H.
First off, wine glasses as water glasses do not work. Yes, it looks classy and cool, but I'm not ordering water because I'm cheap, I want it because I'm thirsty, desire hydration and don't want the 200 calories a glass that accompanies soda. Whew. Glad I got that off my chest. So this place is a solid 3 to 3.5 star place. Basic bar fare done all fancy like as seems to be the trend. And they do an okay job of it. Sandwiches come with salad or fries or half and half. The dressing is a bit sweet for my taste, but okay. I wish they let the grilled asparagus stand on its own rather than drizzling balsamic all over it, but that's no great sin. The food is of good taste and good quality. The decor is that bistro bar look that seems to be more and more prevalent these days. A good vacuuming of the valance over the entry to the kitchen is needed. Speaking of which, I could see right into the kitchen without a half wall to hide even the most unavoidably unattractive part of the kitchen. I walked by this place at least a thousand times before ever entering. I was a Hill resident and thought this to be nothing more than an unimpressive bar with unimpressive food and unimpressive patrons. The food is better than I thought. Still undecided about the rests. It definitely gets crowded at night, but it's a solid lunch/dinner option, if not a little full of itself.
(3)Molly W.
Went here late-night with friends and had a good time! You can hang by the bar, or sit at the open tables. It was full, but not ridiculously so - it's popular, which is a good sign, and it's an interesting mix of people. I mean, it's Beacon Hill - so it's like law-school kids and people who work at the State House n junk. My friend really wanted to meet a hot lawyer or something, and it's like yeaaaahhhh... I don't think so. But hey - you never know, tomorrow's another night, right? Anyway, there was a late night dance party, and we were groovin', so I thought it was pretty fun. I like to go out and dance, but not have to go to a club. You know what I mean? So yeah. Cool.
(3)Trice B.
I think this place really has some good food, and the drinks are alright...not great. We had 3 rounds, and I still wasn't as buzzed as I like. But they tasted good going down. The prices are a little steep, and I think they believe they are more upscale than they appear. I mean it is a nice place, definitely a few notches up than the Hill Tavern down the street, but it's not the Liberty Hotel. Overall... would recommend this place if you are in the area, but dont go out of your way to eat here.
(3)Kristina F.
Raspberry Sangarita! I just like saying it, and drinking it. We went here one hot Saturday afternoon after a bunch of friends got finished playing kickball (yes kickball!) at the Teddy Ebersol fields across the street. We rolled in 14 people deep and I thought they were going to freak, but they welcomed us with open arms!! Bartender was super cool, as were the manager on duty - we even gave them kickball tee-shirts. (jealous, aren't you!) We ordered snacks - truffle fries were awesome. Other stuff was pretty basic, and good. Drinks were a flowing, shots and it was 3 in the afternoon. While I don't know how the rest of the patrons felt about a bunch of loud rowdy kickballers, I know we had a good time. Good times!
(3)Lowell H.
More of a bar with food. But the food was very good and a bit upscale. My wife had the ahi, which was great. I had the macaroni and cheese with ham and peas which was great. They had a lot of sandwiches on the menu about 4 pasta dishes and four entrees. Loud music, must be the latest music, because I never heard any of it before. My waitress was very good.
(4)Ali S.
3.25 I can practically see this place from my apt, so I've been there quite a few times by now, especially for last call. Unfortunately, that is probably the worst time to go here. At a certain point in the night, this place goes from chill restaurant lounge to a loud, abrasive pick-up joint. Not sure when that transformation happens but it does. The food here is good, but overpriced. Although, their scallop dish is worth trying at least once. The wait staff can be quite snippy, which I don't appreciate from anyone who literally works for tips. Overall, not the worse place to pick-up a drink, but the earlier you go the better the crowd and energy. Bottom Line: I like this place before 12:30 AM
(3)Arestia R.
A great place I drag myself to on a weekday evenings or for last call on the weekend. Beacon Hill singles sip on Sam Seasonal while mingling with old friends and even making some new ones. The space is a little cramped for my taste, but I like the vibe...almost like a speakeasy. The secret, though? BRUNCH. I know, I would never think of it either! But the potatoes are to die for and it's a nice place to enjoy my favorite meal with friends.
(3)Stu G.
Nice place. Got a great booth for five on short notice last Saturday night. Food and service were great. Had been here for drinks before. I was impressed with the dining. Not pretentious or busy. Will definitely return. Nice
(4)Matt P.
Never been disappointed with this place... I've eaten lunch and dinner here on numerous occasions and it's always rocked a decent 3.5/4 stars. It's a nice spot on the other side of the hill if you're looking for reasonable prices and more creative fare. Atmosphere wise and all that jazz... i've never been past probably 8 or-so so no clue what it'd be like on a Saturday night; but if you are in the neighborhood i'd try it at least once.
(4)Tom C.
Where do you eat on Sunday night and you're from out of town? Harvard Gardens is a must. Ron (bartender/manager) was very knowledgeable about his brews and friendly enough for this out of towner. Really nice moody atmosphere (dark with red lights except for the white(er) seating area in back). BTW a grilled chicken sandwich is more than it seems...get the salad not the fries.
(4)Simon G.
I've been very slow to review this place because I'm too lazy. This is a long time coming, I go here once or twice a month. The lunch and dinner menus are just a step above normal bar fare. The music is great. Would not expect animal collective or kings of leon to play at a yuppie-ish bar. Also, other good music that I generally recognize and am surprised to hear, but forget because... the drinks are excellent because they are strong... and the bartenders are top-notch. These guys are friendly and attentive. A great break from the overall shitty Boston customer service. Can be a bit cramped at the bar though.
(4)Colin G.
Solid Bar Joint for the Back Bay. food is surprisingly good and a great option if your looking for a place that is slightly more then just drinks in a night out. The mixed drinks are decent the the beers on tap is pretty good. It is most definitely a early 30's late 20's hang out. It is a good place for picking up someone of a decent background in the city.
(3)Jasmine T.
I've only been here for drinks a couple of times. Everytime I go in the are so many snooty people that always are looking down on you. The bartenders were a little rude and took a while to come over even though it was a Wednesday night. They do play really good music though.
(3)Cyndi H.
over priced and pretentious. Service was slow and host was obnoxious with an attitude. Work in the area and would not go back there
(1)Allison S.
Although their beer list could use some help, their food is yummy! It keeps me coming back... They are constantly changing their dinner menu, and most everything on there looked appetizing. I wanted it all. If only my stomach was as big as my eyes think they are.... Although it was super hot (my bf and I were sweating) and the fire alarm went off (which I think can be attributed to their renovations, but I'm not sure), we had a great meal - even if they didn't have any dessert. Recommendation: if you like pasta and/or goat cheese, get the orchiette. It has goat cheese, orchiette, peas, tomatos, and a creamy pesto-like sauce. YUM! I was also pleasantly surprised to find out that they have brunch until 3pm on the weekends. Nice.
(4)Ali E.
The brunch here is outstanding. On the pricier side, but the portions are monstrous. The HG Benny - Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon and asparagus is tremendous, both in size and yumminess. Whatever you do, though, make sure you get a side of hash browns - they're almost like thick-cut potato chips. Salty and perfect for a rough morning. The bar scene is most definitely of the meatmarket variety. But the music is great (Outkast/Killers/Kings of Leon) and the drinks aren't too expensive considering the clientele. EDIT: I just got back from lunch here and I'll reiterate my four-star rating. Our waiter was attentive and accomodating (and super cute). I ordered prociutto pizza and my fellow diner got the grilled chicken sandwich - a little expensive, but HUGE portions and very good, so justifiably so.
(4)M T.
Bad! Went in for a quick app and beer..calamari came with pickles and jalapeños and the bread part was soggy, near inedible! Beer was fine but honestly how can you mess that up! Be sure to pass this door and move on down the road...
(1)Kristina M.
We hit this place up for a last drink on our way home from Beacon Hill Pub (which is right next door). It is definitely way more trendy than the aforementioned pub (maybe trying a little too hard, though?), but the drinks weren't actually more expensive than next door (which was surprising). Music was ok, and the waiter was very nice. I don't think I would usually go here, but after the Beacon Hill this pace provided a pleasant conclusion of our night.
(3)heather F.
just fine. food okay - sliders were good.
(3)Greg D.
Good cheap place to drink (They serve food here?). I don't understand this place, is it an upscale dinner? It seems like a pretty party place and by 11pm people are starting to clear out. Good Service.
(3)Courtney B.
I love everything about this place and am also an HG junkie!!! It's my go to watering hole in the area. Great food, great drinks and the awesome service. Seriously, you need to try the parmesan truffle fries. The bartenders are super friendly, funny and knowledgable, and on top of all that make some seriously stiff and tasty drinks! The ambiance is upscale without being pretentious, perfect spot for after work drinks for young professionals, and also gets packed and crazy fun on Friday and Saturday nights. They also have an incredible brunch! One of my favorite places in Boston.
(5)Jessica S.
Just had a great birthday dinner at Harvard Gardens with the fam. The salads were fresh and sooo tasty (heirloom tomatoes and peach w/ balsamic glaze- total yum). The steak frite w/ parmesan truffle fries were unbelievable- definitely a table favorite. Reasonably priced for Boston and great service. Plus we were able to find on street parking on a Sat night- bonus!
(5)Connie R.
Love Harvard Gardens! Recently moved into B Hill and just walked to it thinking it was like a casual pub. We were suprised to see it was a bit more upscale. It was but not at all stuffy. The prices can get high if you are just stopping in for a quick after work meal or lunch but it really is good. I am over the moon for the chicken sandwich. The fries are the best I have ever had but if the waitress asks if you want your fries parmesan, just know there is a charge. Still, yum yum. The wine list and bar are great although I usually dont partake. Desserts I could take or leave but you will be too stuffed to eat them anyway. GO GO GO to Harvard Gardens! You will be happy with your choice!
(4)Meredith K.
When I walked in I observed this place had a cute, trendy decor/atmosphere. We were seated right away so I was happy there was no wait, but slightly concerned it would be one of trendy places with bad to mediocre food. They had decent beer / wine / drink selection and what looked to be a promising menu. The martinis were tasty - we were off to a good start. Our waitress was also very friendly and attentive. Food was ok. Not fantastic, but definitely not bad. I got steak frites. I had ordered the steak med. rare and it was more like med. well and was an ok piece of meat, but the fries with Parmesan cheese and truffle oil were soooo tasty, and the spinach was really good. Chicken was a little dry and unspecial. A friend had the pan seared tuna with pad thai noodles and loved it. So menu was a mixed bag. But for dinner and drinks out with friends - a good place to go.
(3)Don A.
I don't know why people rave about Harvard Gardens, the beer selection is decent, and their food is average, I don't understand why people would make a trip to go out to this place. If I lived in the neighborhood I would probably go to this bar, but it is definitely not a Boston destination. I went to meet some people, we sat at a high top table and had some fries, the chicken fingers and some macaroni and cheese. The mac and cheese was bad, not very cheesy, almost like someone poured heavy cream over soggy noodles and then threw the concoction in the oven with bread crumbs on top. The fries were soggy and didn't come out very hot, but still edible, the one saving grace was the chicken fingers, the meat was tender and tasty, and the outside had the perfect crunch. The selection of dipping sauces left something to be desired, they weren't very good with the exception the buffalo sauce which wasn't bad. The atmosphere of the place was decent, definitely a lot of people for drinks and a lot of people for dinner, the location isn't bad, across from MGH and the T station so at least it wasn't a long commute for me to get out there. All in all I would probably go back but this place is never going to be on the top of my mind when I think of Beacon Hill Pubs.
(2)Kelly H.
I absolutely love Harvard Gardens! It is my favorite place to go in Beacon Hill! The food is always delicious especially the spinach and artichoke dip (I think its the amazing chips that makes this dish irresistible). The staff is wonderful and very helpful, even when it is a busy night the service is always spot on! Perfect place for a date or a night out with the girls!
(5)Dana L.
Talk amongst yourselves. I'll give you a topic: Harvard Gardens is neither a garden nor Harvard. A bit more upscale, perhaps, than BHP, but its less of a bar and more of a restaurant.
(3)June P.
Very disappointed with Harvard Gardens. This is a neighborhood bar, and I have had two poor experiences here. My coworkers and I were looking for a place to hang out and throw back a few after work. We came into HG, where no one greeted us. There were no seats at the bar but the rest of the place was empty. (I understand you can't sit unless you're eating). We asked if some seats might open up soon, and the waiters didn't respond. So we left. I should've known better after this experience, but I wanted to give it a shot. I went here on a weeknight with a friend. He wanted food, so we sat at the tables. The service started off fine but, as the night went on, it was quite clear that the waitress wanted us out. Our beers went empty, our water glasses empty, and our table... empty. At the end of the night, I split the bill with my friend but he had ordered more. So I left less "tip". I checked my statement a few days later, and she had overcharged me. Needless to say, I will not be back.
(1)John D.
The place is just another bar with decent food! So, why, oh pretentious hostess, did you think you had to ASK us TWICE whether we'd be having dinner? I said "a table for two for dinner" didn't I? Didn't you hear me the first time? Or did you really feel the need to ask me again on our way to a table? Maybe you get clientele who asks for a table and just drinks. What gave you the right to pool me into that category? You don't know me! When my date asked for a table different from the one we were put at, you snapped- "They are all reserved"! That's like McDonalds saving a table for those ordering an Angus Burger. Repeat after me: I just work at a mid-scale restaurant! Finally, after we settled in our seat, you came up once again, telling me which of the 4 seats at our table I should be sitting at because I'm blocking access to the bar area! Shouldn't you be cognizant of the fact that that table WAS blocking access and NOT set up a table there? I'm NOT sorry, that we just walked up and left. (That's brings me to the single star - yes, the water was refreshing and cold, so our waitress helped you earn that lone star) It was PRICELESS the way you went wide-eyed as we walked past you without a word exchanged! So... Get your act together, dear hostess... and stop pretending you are something you are not. The local restaurant up the road more than obliged us with a corner seat by the window, did not rush us despite constant flow of people, and all in all made us feel welcome.
(1)Ethan H.
I'll tell you what - say what you will about HG but this place has never disappointed me. I have never eaten here, but the drinks are good, and there are usually a bunch of pretty cool peeps up in there. Pretty low amount of douchbaggery and a pretty high fun quotient. I like this place. Not for any particular reason, but because it is what it is - a solid, honest bar with a pretty favorable girl:guy ratio.
(4)William P.
I went here with a friend and found that it was alright, a little crowded and when at capacity like it was the night I was in there it can be a little tough to move around. I will say that the bartenders were great because I never had a problem getting a drink. This would be a 3 star bar but the bartenders saved it one star.
(4)Caitlin C.
The HG is such a friendly bar and I almost always have a great time when I go. We usually end up heading there when we don't want to go too far from home, but we don't feel up for the Faneuil scene. Most recently we stopped in on our way home for a couple hours after the ball dropped on NYE. I was still fighting the effects of a serious food coma, but we managed to score a booth so I could sit and drink a beer while the girls did some dancing. Everybody wins!
(4)Lindsay D.
One star: Waitstaff is very attentive and will offer up suggestions One star: The mixed drinks are plenty strong One star: Proximity to my office and the T No star: The food. Really, Harvard Gardens, really? A house salad implies more than greens and dressing, especially when the price is so high. Also, the Truffled Parmesean fries were way overcooked and poor quality. No star: The drink timer. I have never in my life been to a bar that wouldn't let a partron order 2 rounds of shots in under 10 or 15 minutes. Weird... and not in a good way.
(3)Bob G.
I went there for drinks while waiting for another restaurant. Cool place, friendly staff. I can see this being a fun local place
(3)Colin N.
I've been to Harvard Gardens twice now. It's a much classier alternative to the BHP around the corner. However, the first time I went with my buddy ben, a drunk guy who claimed he just got out of prison was threatening to kill us. I bought him a drink and that still didn't calm him down. He claimed to know the bartender there, but that remains to be seen. Overall, I will go back. Women seem to love the place, and the times I've been have had a great girl / guy ratio.
(4)Dendra A.
Terrible experience. First off, we were given the wrong menus for the day. Our server got our drinks wrong [two sodas?] It took forEVER to get the food and the place maybe had three tables. She was really disinterested in serving us, and I was displeased. Vowed never to go back, and I haven't since.
(1)Felecia C.
Harvard Gardens, with its neon sign, looks from the outside like a cliche sports bar, and this is partially true. There is a bar along one wall and a couple screens showing the game du jour, but the seating area is dimly lit with candles, giving that part of the bar an almost romantic feel. HG does tack it up though - last time I was there, I noticed orange/pink string lights. Classy touch, HG. I usually hit this bar up right after work, when things are a bit slow. The clientele is mainly hospital folk or overflow from the Hill, so things do pick up later in the evening, but that has a negative effect on the service. Even though the waitstaff can be slow, I have always enjoyed my drinks - esp the admittedly girly Raspberry Sangrita. The music doesn't suck and neither does the food (according to the people I'm with who eat it). But I wish there were more space devoted to the bar instead of the dark dining area. Maybe I should be generous with the 4th star, since I am here often enough and it is generally a good time, but there is something about this bar that doesn't give a cohesive feel.
(3)Emily O.
Stopped by here for dinner and drinks with another couple on a Friday night. Great appetizers...would definitely recommend the calamari, it was delicious! Great service and perfect, casual atmosphere. Would definitely come back!
(4)M. Deloris D.
Harvard Gardens was surprisingly easy to get to by 11AM on a brisk Saturday morning. The brunch selections were a bit better than standard. The portions were superlative and the prices were reasonable. My HG Eggs Benedict was delicious. Eight of us brunching book club girls ordered and were served without much delay. No one complained about their food being cold, or an order being improperly prepared...except for Leighann who was incredulous at the idea that tomatoes should be included in eggs benedict... can't please everyone. I'd definitely return to HG. The value for the brunch dollar is pretty great.
(4)Zane G.
This place is a wonderful spot to grab abide for lunch and dinner. Great prices, better service, and delicious food! Their turkey sandwich for lunch is sublime.
(5)Renee B.
This is my Thursday night spot. Nice atmosphere, decently priced drinks, and lots of people to mingle with. It looks like a total hole-in-the wall from the outside but the interior is actually quite nice. The bar food is good. The french fries are tops on my list. If you're looking to meet somebody, this just might be the spot. Lots of young professional types. I have found (in my favor) that the ratio of men to women is a little high.
(4)Omoniyi A.
Ok, so i havent been here in some months. But it used to be my standard brunch place. I think it is so brunch perfect. Comfortable, not too crowded, affordable, nice large portions, accomodating of groups, and no rush to get out after you eat. The seasoned potatoes i also think were perfection (i cant vouch that they still are). Ive recommended it to many friends however who have had hit or miss experiences, but for me it's never failed to be fantastic.
(4)AustinSLin ..
Modernite twentythirtysomethings congregate in this restaurant lounge in Beacon Hill. Whereas most destinations of this sort end up getting caught in the schizophrenia of which customer base to focus on, Harvard Gardens handles both sides of the restaurant. Literally. A non-instrusive divider down the center of Harvard Gardens separates the lounge/bar from the dining area for the most part. On a Saturday night, the lounge/bar was cramming room only, while the dining area was less claustrophobic (though not by much). While groups of singles seem to predominate, there's still a nice balance in crowd makeup---but you're at a lounge, after all, so stop thinking so much and just, well, go lounge. But you're hungry, too, right? Problem solved. The best way to soak up the atmosphere and acclimate to the space is to take advantage of a dinner here. You'll be seated in a much less cramped space in a solid booth with plenty of personal space. You can soak up the ambience without worrying about spilling your Ketel Red Bull on your neighbor (leave that for when you squeeze your way to the other side...but more on that later). The lobster gnocchi ($17) was tasty with a balanced texture---not rubbery like when it's overcooked, nor like bits of mashed potatoes when it's not quite done. Of course with most pasta dishes that have the word "lobster" in them, one is always skeptical on the amount that's actually used in the preparation, but in Harvard Gardens' case, fresh breaks of lobster meat were well integrated throughout the dish (not a half lobster or anything, but more than the typical place, and enough to make you actually have enough to chew on and realize that you're paying for (some) lobster)). The Harvard Gardens' spin on mac and cheese ($8) is a generous portion that can be taken as a meal of its own, presented in a way that's right on track with the decor. Altogether, the meal for two, with wine, was just south of $50 without tip. The decor is modern urban and geometric. The soft seemingly fluroescent suggestions of reds, cremes, and orange colors radiating from the crevices add to the hip lounge feel, all the time making you wonder if the ghost of Dan Flavin is there for a drink himself. As the crowd increases, even basic conversation in the dining area becomes a shouting match, so the only resolution is to experience the other half of the room. Pay your dinner bill, then slide over to the lounge and start a tab. The lounge area gets extremely crowded, but isnt' that the point? It will be difficult to not overlap conversations and literally rub elbows (at a minimum) with the rest of your Constant Harvard Gardeners.
(3)Christian S.
Good for cocktails. Though no fancy bar and often too loud.
(4)David S.
I went for lunch the other day. I had an oven-roasted pork sandwich which I really really liked. It kind of reminded me a little of a Cubano but with extra flavor (not that a good Cubano needs extra flavor when done right). It was my first time there and I would go back. They had some interesting pastas and pizzas that I would like to try next time.
(4)Sara L.
This is one of my favorites for happy hour. The beer selection is great, I can almost always grab a seat at the bar, and they have this pizza on the menu that I love. I'm actually surprised no one has mentioned it in the reviews I've read, because I order it every time I go. It's the butternut squash and fontina pizza and it's strangely divine! I most recently hit up this place on Saturday afternoon, after lunch and before the dinner rush. There were only a few regulars in there, so my friend and I saddled up to the bar just as the Sox/Skankees game started. I have forgotten the bartender's name, but he was great for two important reasons: 1. Knowing how to make small talk. He offered just the right amount without being overbearing. Too often in Boston I get bartenders who only offer a grunt or a head nod and aren't able to make any well-educated recommendations. This guy knew his menu as well as the well-selected background music that was playing and he occasionally dropped into our conversation to offer up something interesting. A+ for people skills. 2. Attentive service. He refilled my beer and water glass at just the right times, made some stiff drinks for my whiskey-loving friend, and was generally pleasant and accommodating. I can't speak to how this place gets late night (and judging from the reviews by other Yelpers, it probably wouldn't be my cup of tea), but for me it's great for late afternoon and after work drinks. I must plan more 4pm work meetings on the Hill so that I can hit this place up more often.
(4)Stephen C.
Good food, fun atmosphere and, in our case, fantastic service. Ask for Virginia as your server.
(4)Wendy K.
I was here for a lunchtime hockey-watching experience with several other people on a Saturday. They were still serving brunch at 1:30! YAY! Our waitress was at first seemingly unpleasant, judging by her flat affect and tone (I think that was maybe just how she interacted with people) and not very attentive, but it seemed that she was also the bartender, so that could have been why. We ordered Bloody Marys (which were good, but not spicy enough for my taste) and brunch/lunch. My friend ordered the brunch burger, which was fantastically amazing, and I ordered the reuben, which was also extremely good. My only qualm with the food, was that the "salad" that you could substitute fries for was simply a spring mix dressed with a vinaigrette - no other veggies. It was good tasting, but it could have used a few tomatoes or some cucumber, especially for the extra $ one must pay to substitute for a healthier option. All in all, a good experience.
(4)Nicole M.
I always want to have a good time when I head to Harvard Gardens, but the night always ends up being a dud. I don't remember the food, which doesn't say much, the drinks are ok, the crowd is always so random. The plus, it's always loud and lively so at least it's not so bad that I find myself falling asleep!
(2)Lukas B.
Came to this place a couple of times for dinner and it was good - not amazing, but totally good enough to come back again. Tonight I had a friend in town visiting and needed a good place to grab a drink to launch the night. We walked into this place at 10:45 and it was packed big time. Like not a single place to stand, one of those excuse me, excuse me, type packed. So I was about to walk about and try another bar when a waitress out of nowhere says, "are you guys looking to have a drink?" We obviously said yes and she showed us to an empty back table and took our order, the whole time she was incredibly attentive and kind. Rarely in a crowded place like that can you get that kind of service. I enjoyed the night and would encourage others to go have a drink there without fear of the crowds. So thanks Harvard Gardens and cute waitress for a solid evening.
(4)Sarah C.
5 of my girlfriends and I went to HG to celebrate a recent engagement. I have never been to HG but suggested it as our dinner celebration spot. I made reservations through Opentable for 6pm. We were all running late and the hostess called to see if we were still planning on coming. I told her we were all running late and she immediately said no worries and that they just were just checking on us. The inside is pretty small but has a warm atmosphere. I think the menu is pretty pricey but as someone mentioned you are in Beacon Hill. Before I talk about the food I'll talk about our waitress. Our waitress was very attentive. I know us 6 girls can get loud sometimes but I must say, she was always filling up our water, taking drink orders and answering any questions we had about the menu and overall a great waitress. We also had a surprise engagement cake for our friend and she presented it at the end and then served us the cake as our dessert. I really appreciate when a waitress/waiter knows what they are doing. She was definitely getting pretty busy as the night went on but I never felt like she wasn't paying attention to our table. Now onto the food. The food was just EH.... While we were waiting for our friends to arrive we had some cornbread. It was jalapeno something or another cornbread. The bread was a little to moist and crumbly, had a weird taste but also it was very salty!!! And I like salt, so for me to say it's salty is pretty bad. For my meal, I got the burger with half fries and half salad. Once again, everything on my plate was VERY SALTY! Our waitress kept refilling my water. The burger was cooked medium well and I asked for it well done but it was okay. The taste of the burger was okay but very salty. It had an onion relish with blue cheese on it. The side mixed green salad had way too much dressing so that was salty. The side of fries was salty but also I had pieces of fries that looked black and inedible. So overall, I think I would go there for drinks and maybe some appetizers but not sure I would go there for my main meal.
(2)Justin C.
The food is OK - standard pub stuff - and the bar is usually pretty decently crowded. The layout of the bar is a little annoying - there's not much space between the bar itself and a rail with tables behind it, so it can get tight in there and kind of tough to order drinks. Crowd is a little random, from what I can tell - everything from cougars to docs from the MGH to locals from Beacon Hill. There tap beer selection is kind of unexciting.
(3)Pierre C.
I moved to san francisco about three years ago and I think what I miss most about Boston is HG. Close by so this was either where we met to start the night or where we returned to end the night. Great drinks and attentive service. Not sure if Karen and Jenny are still there, but when they are behind the bar I always had a great time. Crowd may certainly of changed, but I liked the reduced quotient of meathead and overly drunk college girl that you'd be hard pressed to find at neighboring establishments.
(5)Megan F.
I have been saying for years that one of these days I am going to write an article for some Boston Magazine about how great Harvard Gardens is...so for now, Yelp will have to do. I have been frequenting HG for several years now, always a great choice for whatever mood you are in. The food is great...the ingredients are high quality and fresh, the menu is a slightly modern twists on all your favorite comfort foods, the ambience is perfect for a cozy dinner at a booth or grabbing a drink at any hour. I will agree with a few of the other reviews that the service is rarely fast - but that is just sort of their gig - keeping things laid back despite the fast moving city that surrounds it. The drinks are affordable and well mixed and the parmesan truffle fries to die for!! HG is my oasis in the midst of so many other over crowded, over priced, too much attitude establishments. So if I were you, I would skip the lines and waits at almost every other place on a weekend night and grab a table at Harvard Gardens....and be sure to order a side of fries!
(5)Melissa A.
Great place to go if you want your ribs jammed by large, overstuffed men in tight-fitting t-shirts. Fortunately (or unfortunately), said large man's elbows where pretty high up, and did NOT meet my ribs. Rather, they met my shoulder blades more often than I can count, forcing me to spill my beverage all over my birthday-celebrating friend. A good thing to do in this situation is employ a boyfriend who has no shame. I told mine what to do and he did it. Captain Large Shoulders got a lougie on his back. Good times, good times. Star back on!
(2)Elizabeth G.
Uggghhh! I drop in here regularly for a late night drink but hadn't eaten here for a while until last week. The food in the past I thought was a little pricey but overall pretty good. I don't know what happened, but the prices were raised, the selection was poor and the food quality was just horrible as well as being exceptionally slow coming out of the kitchen despite few patrons. Portions were small (which I don't usually care as I am not a big eater...but at the price I thought I would take something home for later). Maybe the late-night bar menu is still reasonable but I'll never find out....the dinner was that bad.
(1)Amanda S.
The doorman is annoying. As we approached he announced "one in, one out", so me and my two girlfriends formed a three-person line, fairly certain that we were waiting just so the doorman could feel powerful for a few moments and of course so Harvard Gardens looked like "the place to be". Then 2 girls marched up to the door said they knew the owner, and breezed on in. I half-jokingly said, "hey man! what happened to one in one out? that was 2 in, zero out!" Then he said we could go in (even though, still, no one had left), but first he "prepped us" to "stay out of the way of the waitresses, and go straight to the back of the bar". Great prep talk. Wait staff was fairly attentive, drinks were decent, but they place was about 100 degrees, and the atmosphere is nothing unique.
(2)Jen S.
Doctors, Vomit, and Guys Getting Punched in the Face - Harvard Gardens Has It All After a long Tuesday at work, my friend Balison and I decided to head over to Harvard Gardens with a group of people, a place we had been only a few times previous. Little did we know what awaited us. (A) Pros: (1) Hot Bartender - this guy has been here every time I've been here (maybe 5 times total) and he's worth at least a star and a half of the 4 stars I'm giving HG. Go and check him out. (2) Secret not-on-the-menu chicken wings. Why wouldn't they put these on the menu? They are delicious. I put some in my mouth. (3) Doctors. Now this is a bit of a double edged sword. If you are in your 20s and single you probably wouldn't mind meeting a doctor. So the proximity to MGH and the amount of doctors clearly goes under "pros" - however, please see section (B)(1)(b) for the counterargument. (4) The hot bartender. (B) Cons (1) Vomit Another Yelp reviewer commented on the fact that she became oddly ill after drinking at HG. Now don't confuse what I am about to tell you with normal "I guzzled 5 glasses of whiskey and threw back 100 gross girly shot and now Im puking all over myself" sickness - HG has a weird way of making you sick off of a very small amount of booze. (a) 3 months ago I came here with friends, had maybe 3 glasses of wine and a cobb salad, almost puked in a cab and then got out of the cab and puked on my lovely winter white peacoat while standing on a street in the North End at 10pm on a Wednesday while people looked at me like I was a crazy wino. That was fun. (b) Last night my friend Balison had a few stiff ones - drinks that is (you never know with Balison) - and the next thing I know the hot bartender is very nicely asking me to help my friend. I turn around and Balison is asleep on a doctor's shoulder. Mouth hanging open, body heaving up and down with every deep sleepy breath she took. We wake her up and our other friend - let's call her "Melted Cheese" or "MC" for short - realizes she is about to vomit. As MC helps Balison to the bathroom, Balison begins to throw up - right into her own hand. She continues the puke festival across the bar, into the bathroom and I think eventually into the toilet. When she emerges she is covered in puke and says "I threw up on my shirt - and down my boobs." Sure enough, puke was down her boobs. This isn't ideal when you're trying to meet doctors. Last I checked, doctors don't call girls that puke into their own hand, and down their boobs. Watch out for the drinks. (2) Fistfights While Balison slept and vomited, MC and I were deep in serious conversation. Unfortunately, this random 40 yr old who we later found out was a regular at the bar did not care. He was so obnoxious that we wanted to roundhouse kick him, but being the sweethearts we are, we kept politely telling him that we were trying to finish a serious convo and would talk to him when we were done. That did not deter him. Finally this dude starts insulting us, and I get heated. Verbal banter ensues, and I am fabulously defending myself and telling this guy what a dbag he is. MC alerts the bartender to the guy's d-baggery and the bartender moves this guy away from us. Yet he returns and this time grabs me. I react with catlike reflexes and push him away, at which point I extend my pointer finger and instruct him not to touch me. He responds by biting my finger. At this point I almost certainly have rabies from this random guy biting my finger, and I respond by socking this guy in the face. Seriously, who does that. Harvard Gardens makes you crazy. I don't know what they are putting in those drinks, but I am not the girl who punches anyone in the face, especially some DUDE who probably could have knocked me into tomorrow. But yeah. Punched him in the face. Then I asked the doctor that Balison was sleeping on for Neosporin. In sum: Come here for hot bartenders, doctors, fistfights, and vomit. Do not come here for a normal, quiet night.
(4)Leys B.
Always great service. But, what happened to the duck spring rolls? Everything you have had to replace them so far has not lived up to those! And now you have changed the menu again - less fries and no pizza! Don't change what your regulars like just to make a buck :( The fries are half what they used to be and no cone!!
(2)Patrick K.
I would say that this place would be great for any single person looking to hook up with the opposite sex. Its packed to the rim and just feels like a sardine can. I went there for dinner and the food was surprising good but the atmosphere was brutal for dinner. If a bar is what you want its a viable option but DO NOT go in for dinner! You will regret it and feel over clothed if you are a lady.
(2)Michelle P.
Only 3 stars because trying to find something healthy on the menu is futile. On our last visit, our (16 yr old?) waitress didn't know how to serve a bottle of wine and there were tiny black flies buzzing around. But I keep coming back anyway....it must be the comfortable booths, yummy food, and a good mix of bar and restaurant atmosphere.
(3)Brendan M.
A relatively mellow bar/restaurant combo, HG apparently gets really busy during weekends. You can eat of the bar menu for $10-15; the more upscale restaurant menu will set you back $20-30. The wine list is reasonable. I had one of the pizzas, which was nice but nothing to write home about. One of my friends ordered a medium rare burger and wasn't impressed as it came well done.
(3)Lauren W.
3.5 stars -- good specialty cocktails, and asparagus ravioli was great. I'm rounding down just because the prices are pretty ridiculously high for what it is. Good service and atmosphere, though. I'd come back for sure (especially since it's right across the street from the Liberty Hotel, where I've stayed lately while in town).
(3)ms m.
I was pleasantly surprised the first time I walked into this place. It's nicely decorated with it's sleek white booths without looking tacky or pretentious. I'm always happy with the food here and it's definitely a step above your typical "bar food" offering things such as brie and mushroom pizza. The service is also always very good. Good place to go with a group or on a date.
(4)Enrique D.
i wasnt sure what to expect when i was outside... it seemed off... the decor looked office space-like or like commercial, not really a bar/restaurant, and the sign seemed diner-ish.. but im happy i walked in. the place is dark cozy and full of a good crowd. u can tell its big with regulars and locals. always a good sign... well depending on the area, but its beacon hill...so yea, its a good thing. the food? IMPRESSIVE. i wasnt expecting much.. i was suprised at how good it all was. from apps to dessert, i loved every bite. drinks were good, nice wine selection, and the waitstaff was terrific. the manager , i think his name was Freddy or Frederick, sorry, was gracious enough to walk over to us and make sure we were enjoying everything and just really made us feel like the place wants and cares for patrons to leave happy and return eagerly, i appreciated that.
(4)Stephen Y.
Still serving pizza at midnight ! Closes at 2 AM. We had a friendly bartender.... Good selection of beer on tap... Great 80- 90's music !!!!!! Best of all- short walk from home. Have to go there again in more sensible hours to try the food (pizza can only go so far) and other drinks....
(4)Jesse P.
You will not fit in here unless you own hospital scrubs or an assertive button down shirt. That said, the food is often very good, especially the brunch, and it is a suprisingly good place to meet people even if you've left your scrubs at the MGH laundry or your assertive shirt on the yacht. The service is good, and the bartenders are more observant than you'd expect in a place that gets so packed.
(4)Laura B.
Delicious brunch! Great service, huge portions and terrific value. They even take brunch reservations. I would definitely recommend it!
(5)Shelley G.
Love this place. You can get a great brunch for under $10 and they give you so much food! Definitely one of my favorite places in town.
(5)Michael N.
When you're two years outta college and you can't go to the BHP every night this is the spot to move to on thursday night to see if you can land some waaay classier broads....no ricca chics here. Just a slew of unmarried 30 year-old preps dying to let you into their lili pulitzers if you can convince them that you're having a tremendous year in the market....
(4)Alice B.
I was really excited to eat at Harvard Gardens until our food came. Everyone who ordered pizza or sandwiches had something delicious looking in front of them. But my salad was barely there. If you go to this place and want to have a good meal, be prepared to order something unhealthy.
(2)Meghan R.
Good food, good drinks, good service... be prepared to feel like you're in a preppy/yuppy meatmarket, but if you're willing to face the challenge, its a great place to hang with friends or meet some new hotties. HG flaunts a relatively established mid 20s-mid 30s scene with a trendy look, great atmosphere and a hot bartender on Thursday nights. It's one of my regular spots for after-work drinks!
(4)Jane H.
Kind of blah. Not really impressed by food or service. My boyfriend liked his macaroni and cheese but my sandwich was really greasy and flavorless (I absolutely do not recommend getting the French Dip). I have only been here for lunch so I am not sure what the afterwork bar scene is like. From what I saw the drinks are expensive and not that creative. I may consider giving this place a second try though since I work nearby.
(2)Brian S.
Had remarkably unpleasant service from a bartender on my only visit. She was miserable and hostile during a slow evening. I frankly prefer to be ignored than treated like a burden. Menu reads well, a seared tuna sandwich was good, not great. Salad greens were fresh and not over-dressed. Hopefully better service will up my opinion if I go back again. (3/07) On a return trip with friends: different bartender, same crap. finished our drinks and left, for good.
(2)Carolyn B.
had a fun time at dinner here while visiting friends in boston. great drinks - i enjoyed the french 75 (all 3 of them). its a fun atmosphere - loud, good music, fun crowd. food was good - i had the steak frites, cant go wrong with that. i thought the fries were just ok, but they steak was good. spinach was good too but there was too much.
(4)jkhkjh j.
I have mixed feelings. I've only been here once... for brunch. Maybe I was served lousy waffles... but honestly, this place wasn't all that great. The bacon tasted like cardboard; the only thing I liked were the home fries.
(3)Kelly W.
I will not go back here. A friend and I went for dinner and drinks on Saturday and it was horrible! The food was tasteless! We got the spinach and artichoke dip and it tasted like soup, very watery. I got the spinach/feta pizza and my friend got the brie pizza. Both of them were disgusting. Also, the sangria is not good. It tasted like bad lemonade. The service was also bad. Our bartender would not stand behind the bar because she was getting a back message from some dude. Very weird!
(1)Kathleen T.
Hot burgers, prices, drinks, atmosphere, staff and business men. Enough said.
(5)Ashley M.
by far my favorite local place to chill. this place can cover any part of your weekend (or weeknight). friday - wonderful dinner from tasty menu - get fish, its worth the prices. saturday - desert and/or drinks - both are wonderful. sunday morning BRUNCH - try the smoked salmon eggs benedict (made with fresh salmon) and the brunch bellinis. music's too loud for a first date dinner, but music's always good. great first place to hit up on your way out or last place to hit up on your way back home. you just can't lose.
(5)