1. Too expensive. I get that quality ingredients cost money, but this is price gauging. Oatmeal is like $8. It's hateful. 2. They can be rude. It's hard to imagine why people running an establishment would go through such trouble to make delicious food for a species they seem to loathe. 3. Everything is disposable. I'm not an enviro-nazi, but if you're staying to eat your sandwich or drink your coffee you shouldn't have to eat with paper and plastic. 4. Really uncomfortable seating, which only contributes to my theory that the people that run this place hate their customers. It's also really loud with timers and ovens going off and beeping. 5. No soy milk... 6. A ten dollar credit card minimum is against visa mastercard rules, and it's just plain ridiculous. What they sell is great. Everything else is frustrating and obnoxious.
(2)
Jason P.
This is just a placeholder review for a list I just made here yelp.com/list/most-arrog…
(1)
Tessa C.
Great place for casual good eats. Excellent tasty sandwiches - high prices, but good value if you split a sandwich with a friend. Even my mom who is an extremely picky eater and extremely frugal approved of this place. My favorite sandwich is Nat Queen's Cool? Sorry, I have a horrible memory. It's a pulled pork sandwich with a harrissa spread (spicy garlicy red pepper spread) layered with fresh avocado and tomato...Sigh, I get hungry thinking about this sandwich. For brunch - I absolutely adore their Green Eggs and Ham sandwich. Fried Egg on top of Candadian Bacon, with Sauteed Spinach on a potato roll. Yum! Love the almond coffee cake - rich and dense, filled with marzipan, and coated with a nice sugar glaze. Oatmeal is excellent - creamy, sweet, and studded with pecans and dried cherries. I personally like the staff - quirky and cool.
(5)
Rob D.
Yup - I'm in with everyone else. Amazing food - and bread that rivals (beats?) Iggy's...which is saying something. (The olive bread on Saturdays is really great.) Sandwiches are amazing, and its just really a nice place to hang out. Oh...and the wine. They sell inexpensive wine that is really really good. (Plus, its a short walk from my house, but that's just geography. I used to live on the other side of Cambridge, and I still drove to this place.) ...but the counterhelp: good lord. What's the word I want...surly? disinterested? drugged? (Oh, think I'm exaggerating? Check out the "I see dead people" smile on the woman who manages the place.) Anyway the place is this odd combination of "come in! have a seat! relax and enjoy!" and "get the fuck outta here! what are you LOOKING at? jeez, aren't you done YET?!" ...if the food ever takes a turn for the worse, I'm gone.
(3)
Anastasia L.
I've gotten bread, sandwiches, and the odd breakfast item here, and I've never experienced quite the g-d-awful service others seem to. Sure the staff aren't jumping thru hoops, but having worked in a bakery before and served a somewhat "academic"/"upscale" crowd, I know it ain't fun. As others have hinted, it's often the other patrons who are most aggravating (wealthy, cultured or pseudo-cultured, brainiacs, etc etc etc- comes with the territory). That aside, I support small (-ish) bakery operations with delicious homemade breads, yummy sandwiches with quality ingredients, fresh juice, and great baked goods (such as their fabled vanilla poundcake). The communal tables are a cool idea in theory, and I've shared them with cute bookworms as often as rude mommies. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth a try. Note that as with other businesses on Concord and Huron Aves, parking is a beeatch.
(5)
Robin E.
I live in Huron Village and on occasion stop by HR for this or that. The food is not that great. Some things are amazing, but the only reason I ever go there is convenience. The coffee sucks, not robust enough, but better than starbucks. Even one of the employees told me she thought the coffee wasn't that good. Bland. Nothing is very consistent except, as many have pointed out, the staff who consistently make an easy job (put stuff in a bag and ring it up then make some change) look very very hard. Maybe they just aren't that smart - the younger ones are a little easier to deal with most of the time. Those pigtailed older ladies with sparkles all over their eyes need to move on, just move out. Have you tried Sofra on Belmont Ave? Now that is one hip, friendly place with far more interesting food, much better coffee and a great wine shop. Plus they have a parking lot. Owned by the same person as Oleana, they are just as focused on high quality as HR. They even have their own farm, so everything is extremely fresh. It's harder for me to get there but well worth it. Why suffer through a tired old place with bad service when Sofra is so close?
(1)
Eve L.
Really good bread, but if you're Jewish, don't buy your challah here. It's challah-made-by-goyim -- that is, not sweet and way too bready. But, with the exception of their challah, their bread is excellent. Their sandwiches are amazing and creative. Their "Sin Sandwich" might just be the most decadent thing ever created. (Dark chocolate melted on brioche) However, they are expensive. It's not a sandwich joint. It's a "gourmet" sandwich joint.
(4)
carole k.
VERY SNOTTY STAFF...I'm so surprised that the management doesn't understand that they are losing customers. The wait staff are just not nice people. I'm embarrassed to live in Cambridge and imagine outsiders coming to this place from, let's say, the mid West, and running back to their home, telling anyone who will listen about the snobby people at the Cambridge restaurants. Please remember Hi Rise staff--we are paying you!--it's not the other way around.
(1)
April I.
The line is snaking almost to the door. There are 4 or 5 people behind the counter, moving around, though it isn't clear if any of them are doing anything other than looking busy. I am eyeing the grilled pb, nutella, and fluff sandwich. I am eyeing the rice crispy treats. I am eyeing everyone around me. Despite the mess of staff and the disorganization behind the counter everyone is really happy. We make our way to the front of the line -- order the grilled pb, nutella, and fluff sandwich as well as a hot dog on challah with lots of mustard and a cinnamon bun. All is good. Yes the staff seems kind of uninterested in their jobs or helping you or proving very good service, but the food is good. Yes it is pricey, but if I'm in the area I'll stop by...I just won't go out of my way to come here.
(3)
Rachael R.
It does not count to go the Harvard Square location. Unless it is down-pouring, it is worth the walk from the Square, and the walk itself is actually a nice exposure to old Cambridge. I usually order whatever sandwiches has the most, often involving a fried egg. Go knowing the sandwich will cost $10. You will be delighted by everything else.
(4)
C C.
I don't know why I haven't reviewed this place yet. It is simply incredible. As I always do in these situations, I will fully disclose my ties... this if the gf's new place of employment... she's now a baker there. But my love affair with Hi-Rise started about a two years before she started making dough there (oh snap! couldn't resist!). The sandwiches are great. All of them. Any of them. I can't imagine you'll be unhappy with you choice. Today I went all the way with the Sin Sandwich and a large Earl Grey. The counter-person was SO thrilled someone was ordering the nutella-and-chocolate work of art... apparently the name can be a deterrent for some. I beg of you... GO for it! Even if you do burn in hell for all eternity with the Backstreet Boys' "Millennium" album on repeat, it will have been well worth it. Delicious food aside, they have a great selection of tea and coffee drinks. For cold beverages, I recommend the Bright Blue Soda. Your experience isn't complete until you've tried their Gazpacho. Fresh baked bread and pastries will beckon you while you wait in line to order. They also offer a limited selection of quality liquor, $50 mixed cases of wine, and craft beers. This place is hot for omnivores, vegans, the picky, the hard-to-impress, and locavores alike. Just come ready to cozy up... the majority of seating is on benches at two long tables, so you'll likely have strangers at your side. Bonus points if you walk out with a new friend! Also, I should note that they have a $10 limit on credit/debit purchases. This is easy to meet, because the average sandwich price is $8-$10... so when you add in a drink you're most certainly there. Don't balk at the price... these aren't your momma's elementary school lunch-sack sandwiches... they are large portions of gourmet food served between two slices of fresh-baked heaven!
(5)
Ryan W.
This place has more rules than a Catholic semi-formal. No credit cards, no cell phones, no food after 3. Maybe I wouldn't care if a cup of coffee didn't take 7 minutes to drip into a cup. It's the most pretentious coffee prep I've ever witnessed (and I've been to Seattle). It used to be different here. Oh, and the soups are great but four dollars for a dixie cup of broth ain't worth it, know-what-i'm-sayin, John Q Internet?
(2)
Jen G.
Hi-Rise is a cute little bakery with outside patio seating. It's such cute little place. Their pastries are very yummy. The quiche and the lemon curd cake are some of the best food I ever tasted. I wish there's a pastry place like Hi-Rise Bread Company (but cheaper, Hi-Rise products are pricy) near my home so I can go there everyday. Though I was only in Boston/Cambridge for a few days, I couldn't help but to make repeat visits.
(4)
Dave M.
Amazing sandwiches, excellent food - unfortunately though, the staff is quite rude. It's clear that the management doesn't put any emphasis on customer service because I've been talked-down-to by three different employees on three different occasions. If the food weren't so damn good, we'd never come back! (if the service was even moderately good, I'd come every week and probably give High Rise 4 stars) Additionally, the management refuses to carry soy milk. With a dairy allergy, I would have ordered a coffee with every visit if they only had soy milk. I consistently get a condescending comment from the staff every time I ask whether or not they have soy milk. Strange.
(2)
Tracee D.
Great $$ sandwiches. The smell of the place is worth at least 5 dollars. Its fun to sit on church pews and watch people knead bread right? Good food and juice. They even have wines for you to take home. My only gripe is that the customer's (excluding some) are kind of crappy. They give off a stinky vibe that gets in the way of my bread sniffin' Went back yesterday for lunch. 10$$ for a salad or sandwich, I always thought salads were more $$. Had a tuna melt with bread and butter pickles, yay bread and butter pickles. Watched people eat an eggsalad sandwic and a chicken with bacon sandwich on corn bread. They looked happy. ps. the employee's are unusually unhappy (regardless of the weather)
(4)
Vanessa C.
before you complain about the price, you should know that all the meats are made IN HOUSE. fresh chicken, pork, turkey - all with no nitrates or yuckie preservatives? that is DEFINITELY worth the extra $2-$3 per sandwich for me and any other health conscious consumer who actually cares about what they are putting into their body. I feel good about the food I get from here, and that itself is worth the premium. I have not had any bad experience with the staff here, but honestly the food is so good that I dont think it would matter much. besides, its not like they get tips! lets be grown ups about this... the bread is phenomenal. the sandwiches are by far my favorite in the city (with volle nolle coming up second, but its like a pos/neg photo experience of hi-rise. totally different...) this location is not convenient to me by any means, and still I know if I want a sandwich in boston, I will not even think about going anywhere else first. I also really love the layout of the interior - you can watch bakers working hard at large tables off to the side preparing the dough. the tables are nice and the ceilings are high and spacious. I have a hard time understanding all the negative reviews, because I personally couldn't ask for anything more out of a sandwich shop - really, whats not to love here?
(5)
Erik S.
Solid bread products here. I've had both the green eggs and ham and the high rise and shine. Both were pretty good. The bread here is really good and I'd like to try more of their selection. It's a good bakery but it'll cost ya.
(4)
Katie P.
I will not set foot in this place again, despite living a few blocks away. Although I have read the review and update from Oliver P dated 5/19/11 that Hi-Rise is working on their customer service, my three trips here earlier in 2011 were enough to end my appetite for their food a few months ago. The staff, and their signs about cell phones, are rude and obnoxious (and note that I've never used my cell phone there, it's just that even the signs manage to be rude). The prices are high. The seating is limited. The atmosphere is distinctly "get the hell out" so we can go back to being cool. There are much better alternatives in the area, as well as in Harvard Square.
(1)
Julian H.
They make some fine tasting sandwiches, but don't go there for lunch unless you have nothing better to do with your entire afternoon. I'd speculate that maybe the entire staff was totally stoned, but then you'd think that if that were the case, they'd be happier and less rude to the customers. Then again, you'd also think that, given that you'd paid them $10 for one of thier precious sandwiches, they wouldn't get all surly when you asked them to hand it to you when it's clearly just sitting there...languishing...on the counter.. And don't make the same mistake I did, and think that the 1/2 hour you paid for on your parking meter will be enough time to pick up your sandwich to go. Unlike the folks at Hi Rise, the ticket writers in Cambridge are quite efficient.
(1)
Clara R.
Nine-dollar sandwiches!? Only this place can get away with that; I think they may have the best sandwiches I have ever eaten. High Rise isn't priced for regular visits, but we like to bring our weekend houseguests here to impress them with our classy neighborhood (that we can't quite afford). It's hard to get a table at weekend brunchtimes, though. In the spring, it's nice to start the day with a cheddar snail (NOT nine dollars) and iced tea that you can enjoy while waiting for the bus or walking to the square. Mmm. I did once see a mouse inside when I was walking home late at night, though -- unless it was a drunken hallucination?
(4)
Katie A.
Hi Rise staff has never surprised me by actually being nice or helpful. Today's expensive slap in the face was their refusal to slice a loaf of bread. There are plenty of great places in Cambridge for bread and sandwiches... and most of them also care about service. I'm tired of giving Hi Rise another chance to provide basic services.
(2)
Kate M.
Crazy good! I love going and its worth driving all the way from Philly to Mass. just for this. Admittedly I always order the same thing. But If I had to pick only one thing to eat for the rest of my life, for every meal. It would be their curry chicken salad sandwich.
(5)
Robert Z.
Hi - Rise is my category winner for "best restaurant when someone else is buying you lunch". Their inventively named sandwiches combine tasty ingredients with their fresh-baked bread, but $10 for just a sandwich is a little pricey for a mid-day meal. If you steer away from the sandwiches, Hi-Rise also offers a nice selection of low-priced European wines (take-out only), incredibly delicious desserts, and of course loaves of their delicious breads.
(3)
Heather H.
Okay, so I like to call this place Hi-Price, but in all honesty, I cannot stay away from their lemon curd cakes. LEMON CURD CAKE. Okay, besides their lemon curd cake, it's fun to watch surly hipsters bake things. And their sandwiches are pretty good. I'm a fan of the grilled cheese/tomato/spicy mustard sandwich. Seating is a bitch, but I was lucky enough to live just down the street from them.
(4)
Douglas G.
Without question Hi Rise employs the nastiest, most bitter, unprofessional staff in all the land. Eat a snowball off the street before entering this poor excuse for a neighborhood bakery.
(1)
Q T.
Fabulous food!!! Adorable Friendly Staff!!!
(5)
Kat L.
Fact: the owner is a pompous ass. Even the old ladies in the neighborhood know that he is quote "very conceited." The food is delicious, but pricey. I want to go there more often because their baked goods and sandwiches are interesting and delicious. But I really can't justify the price. Also, dealing with the staff is a major drag.
(2)
Julie A.
I LOVE the sweets. I like the bread. the sandwiches are so so. They are really nice, but oftentimes they are so busy it's hard to find a place to sit so I get it to go. the prices are a bit steep, but the quality is great every time and you can't get anything any fresher!
(3)
Renee H.
This is my favorite type of cafe that I look for all over.....just a little pricier. Everything is so fresh and delicious you just can't go wrong. Homemade soups, fresh sandwiches, great espresso drinks, yummy lemonade, clean, calming environment. Like I said, everything I look for in a cafe.
(4)
Emily L.
Hi-Rise -- yummy sandwiches, albeit a little expensive. Good options for the vegetarians and the meat eaters in my life. The kids menu isn't adventurous, but it makes my kid happy. Wish there was more seating and, especially, that they had high chairs. (The location closer to Harvard Law School does.)
(4)
Vivian W.
This review should be entitled "Why Hi-Rise Makes Me Sad". Aside from the fact that I'm currently livin' la vida low carb, I so badly want to love Hi-Rise. I want to be Hi-Rise's friend. They have amazing bread. The Cambridge location (on Concord Street, not the one on Brattle or thereabouts) brings in Cheryl Ann's Challah from Brookline (which is seriously the Brittney Spears of bread- rich, sinful, deliciously indulgent and really really bad for you). Unfortunately, I can't get over the fact that going to Hi-Rise is like getting on the green line outbound the afternoon of a Sox game. There are, simply put, too many people and it's really very unpleasant. At Hi-Rise, there's a line to place your order, a line to sit at one of the over-crowded picnic tables, a line for the bathroom... even a line to get a view at the menu written on chalkboards all around the place. Kind of feels like Disney World on school vacation. The only thing they're missing is a winding rope maze. After standing in so many lines, you want your sandwich to be earth shattering and usually it's fabulous, but certainly not the second coming. This gets three stars because the food is good- unquestionably and generally reliably good. But you NEED to go for take out because after you have an experience eating at the restaurant you won't be feeling any love toward your fellow man. Go to Hi-Rise, buy the bread, take it home and make your own damn sandwich. Much better plan and you still get the good grub. So Hi-Rise, get a better pad and then we can be friends. Right now, you're just too... well... too popular for me.
(3)
Andrea B.
The sandwiches - yes! The cookies - yes! The homemade Oreos - yes yes yes! The prices? Nah. That just about sums up Hi-Rise. I could gush and gush about how good my sandwich was, and how good the baked goods were. And I will do that. But twenty four dollars for a sandwich, three baked goods, and a lemonade??? OUCH!!! Now that we've got the complaints about wallet damage out of the way, let's talk about the food. I ordered #57 - braised short rib, cheddar, pickled onions, horseradish aioli, and arugula, all on a fresh baguette. It was epic. Incredible. So good. The meat was so juicy and tender. So full of flavor. The sandwich was gigantic though. I was full after just half, and I came there STARVING. They should consider selling half sandwiches, actually. Those little homemade Oreos are insanely good too. And you can watch them bake them fresh while you're there munching on the ones you just bought. They're not too sweet, they're just perfect. My chocolate chunk cookie didn't disappoint either, but it's the Oreos that I'd come back for. This Hi-Rise location is kind of in the middle of nowhere, but it is indeed bus accessible. Or you could just jog there like I did. Then you won't feel the slightest bit of guilt as you munch on all your treats! To sum up - hefty price tag, but overall, definitely worth the money and the trek.
(4)
Anya T.
Hi-Rise doesn't, I suppose, need me raving about it. Everyone knows how delicious it is. But I'm going to rave about it anyway. Here goes: I live around the corner from Hi-Rise--go to yoga across the street and am often at the library catty corner from it with my kids--and I come here way, way too often. Everything they offer is incredible. The coffee (Counter Culture) is the best in the neighborhood. They make a great Arnold Palmer and their straight lemonade is delicious. Their bread is my favorite, especially the flute. I love all the breakfast sandwiches, but especially the Green Eggs and Ham and the Counter Service. Their soups! In the winter, I eat their soups for lunch at least twice a week. And it's hard for me to go a day without buying a cookie (my favorites are the ginger molasses and the almond macaroon) or a piece of the beyond-the-scope-of-anything-you've-ever-tasted vanilla loaf cake. You have not lived until you've eaten it. I sometimes get take out meals from here, and love especially their roast chicken. Basically, I love this place. Including the incredibly sweet folks who work behind the counter and bake the bread, who are always giving my daughter dried apricots or a free muffin. And I love the owners, too, Cynthia and Rene, who are always around, with their beautiful, sweet daughter Lucy, and always have a "hello" for you. People who complain about the prices should bear in mind the love, and the care, that goes into every element of this business, which is truly a family enterprise, and one which I feel hugely grateful to have nearby!
(5)
Lara H.
Hi- Rise is my go to in the neighborhood, and all high-price jokes aside, its worth every penny. The coffee is good and strong, and their cheddar snails are possibly the only thing I will wake up early to go get on a cold Cambridge morning. Their sandwiches are delicious and there are no words to describe how good the vanilla bean loaf is. Attire: Wear your best sweats and morning outfits. Downsides: Their sizes of latte drinks seem to have diminished into one small/medium size with a very hi-price, and there are no soy-milk subs for our lactose- free friends. Also, NO WIFI. This is a big one for me.... but not big enough to stop me from grabbing the greatest bread in West Cambridge.
(3)
Matthew B.
If you want a coffee to go, I think you're missing out on what this place has to offer. Hi-Rise is a destination. Living slightly off the beaten path makes it a blessing if you want to sit with a book in the morning and enjoy a damn good cup of something warm. What makes them really stand out is the breakfast sandwich selection. While it's not inexpensive, you can pick up a bacon, spinach and egg sandwich on a potato bread bun that will make your morning. I consider it a treat worth dropping in. To date, they don't carry soy or almond milk. If lactose isn't your body's favorite compound, then you better stick to Americanos or a black cup of coffee. A random side note - they also have an incredible selection of bourbon on a shelf in there. I feel weird perusing it at 8am, so I have a plan to head back some eve and pick up a bottle. Wear your nicest puffy jacket there in the winter or you'll be a fish out of water. The clientele are often put together. It's not the place to walk to after rolling out of bed.
(4)
Jess S.
I stopped by Hi Rise without reading any of the reviews and now that I have, I am surprised so many say the staff are rude! Disappointing to hear. For me, everyone was actually perfectly nice. I asked for soy and the girl working politely said they don't have it but recommend the homemade almond milk instead. The almond milk was interesting. I've never had it of any sort before so I was caught off guard by the residue left in your mouth after you take a sip. Maybe this always happens? Anyway, the flavor was pleasant and it's kind of like getting a snack and a drink? Delicious cranberry cookies. Soft and fresh. Also enjoyed the coconut macaroons. And it smells heavenly inside. I like that you can watch the bakers do their thing, but they could definitely rework the seating and fit more in. Overall, I'd like to go back to try a sandwich!
(4)
Nicholas C.
Great food. Functional but sometimes very rude service. Snooty establishment, but still good.
I have been here a number of times over the years. The food is delicious if overpriced, but every visit I am astonished by how rude the employees are (at both locations.) This morning takes the cake. I walked in at 7:50am and was told that they wouldn't be open for another 10 min. I said "okay, I'll just take a seat and wait." The employee then told me I would have to wait outside. It is 5 degrees with a "Realfeel" of -18 this morning. I can see no reason on a morning such as this to make a customer wait outside for 10 minutes in dangerously cold weather. I won't ever be returning.
(1)
Fiona D.
The food is delicious (if over-priced), but the staff are not always particularly friendly and I have concerns about the hygiene of the place. I was once waiting at the bus stop out front during off hours and saw a mouse running around in the bakery window. I went back recently figuring maybe the problem had been resolved, and got a sandwich to go. I got home, opened the wrapping and discovered there was some sort of silver paint on the side of the bread. I might go there for a beverage but I'm not going back for food again.
(2)
Dave R.
Guys...can we talk? Guys. Can we talk for a minute? Guys, we need to make sure we know that 'corn bread' is not the same thing as 'cornbread.' Y'all just have white bread with corn in it.
(3)
Flounder R.
The food is good, don't get me wrong. My problems with this place is that they are over-priced and (more important) the workers are pretty obnoxious. I went in before work one day at around 7:40am. I ordered the Hi-Riser, their incredibly delicious version of an Egg McMuffin. The person behind the counter said that they didn't serve Hi-Risers until 9am. I then said, "Isn't the Hi-Riser a breakfast sandwich?" He reply, "No, it's a brunch sandwich." Seriously? Of course, this hasn't stopped me from going there a few times a year for the Hi-Riser but each time I shake my head at the pretentiousness of the staff.
(3)
Ronin O.
Pricey. Absolutely. But, the sandwiches, breads and desserts are simply among the best, if not the best, that I have ever tasted. The chocolate chunk cookie is so good that I cannot enjoy any other chocolate chip cookie. The staff is usually friendly. The coffee is very good.
(5)
Joanna F.
Three stars is for the food alone. I got an excellent, fresh veggie sandwich, my hubby got something resembling a Cuban and I sampled a bite of his very good chocolate chip cookie. However $11 for a veggie sandwich, $3 for a chocolate chip cookie and our order took TWENTY MINUTES even though it was not super busy. Granted, they did warn us it would take that long but HOW? And WHY? Not worth the price, not worth the wait. I'll be at Dave's Fresh Pasta next time I'm craving a sandwich.
(3)
Alexander L.
This place is awesome. All the food is always fresh and tastes awesome. The baked goods are top notch, especially the lemon meringue pie. I always go out of my way to get lunch for my office here and everyone is more than satisfied. They are helpful with accommodations for my large lunch orders i.e. food allergies etc.
(5)
Chloe B.
Hi-Rise is a lovely spot with excellent sweet treats and, from what I hear, great savory breakfast as well. The coffee is good enough and the interior is charming. The communal table nearly always has plenty of room during the week and it's my go to for a pastry and some coffee when I'm nearby.
(4)
Juliet A.
Nom nom nom. Came here with my husband and his family over the Christmas holidays for a quick brunch. There isn't a lot of seating to cater to big groups, but we managed to find room to squeeze all seven of our little tushies into seats. Service was relatively quick despite the Sunday afternoon crowd. All of the baked goods looked amazing, and I settled on a simple chocolate brioche and hot chocolate to fill my tummy. Both were absolutely delish - and the chocolate filling on the inside of the soft and flaky brioche was a nice surprise. My husband loved his egg sandwich so much that he polished it off before I could nab even a nibble, but he assured me it was "really, really tasty."
(4)
Gabriel R.
The first thing you need to know about High-Rise is that everything is very expensive. Cookies are 3 dollars or more and small cakes can exceed 8 dollars. Some of the larger tarts cost over 25 dollars. The Sandwiches are mostly in the 11-15 dollar range but they are quite tasty. The service is solid for the pastries but the sandwiches can take up to 15 minutes even if the line isn't that long. High-Rise is a nice place to sit down and get work done during its quieter hours. This place has a good amount of seats and you almost always can get a free seat since the majority of people get food to go. I have never had something bad from this place and if you go in the morning the bread is very fresh however, expect to spend around 50 dollars if you want to feed your family from this bakery.
(4)
Christine R.
I finally was able to stop in here, after many a morning stood gazing longingly into the window, since they don't open until after I have to be at work. Last night, I kicked off work early and decided to grab a sandwich and a pastry on my way home. I ordered a Georgia Reuben and an iced tea. As this came to over $15, I decided to forgo the pastry. Their menu for showed many wonderful coffee drinks, and I figured it would be good to come back another time for a coffee and a pastry. My Ruben was very, very good. The bread, of course was awesome - the turkey was wonderful - nice hand sliced pieces - flavorful and moist. The coleslaw, obviously made in store - was probably the best I've ever had. No overly mayonnaised, bland cabbage and carrots here! This had a light, tasty dressing with a combination of flavors that melded perfectly and made me want to lick the paper after I was done to get every wonderful drop. The cheese was definitely higher-quality - it had a wonderful bite and a light smoky flavor that set off the turkey perfectly. It was advertised as having Russian dressing - there wasn't any - but that's okay because the sandwich was wonderful as it was. I hadn't taken the time to look at this place up on Yelp, I figured that anywhere that had such wonderful looking bread and baked goods had to be good. Now, reading through - I see that I am not the only one that found their staff condescending and outright rude . After ordering, the gentleman at the bar handed over my iced tea. It had no lid, and I asked if I could please have one since I was taking it to go. He gestured impatiently towards the side of the restaurant - and looking over, I could see that there were plastic lids there. "I'm sorry -" I said - "right in front of me!" And smiled. He didn't respond, and I assumed that he didn't hear me since he appeared to be busy straightening something on the side of the register. Later, when he called me up to get my sandwich - I made a comment on how great the iced tea was. I said that, being from the south, finding a great glass of tea was sure to keep me coming back. I thanked him, smiled and took my sandwich. He looked at me with what I can only describe as a sneer - and said absolutely nothing. I stood there feeling like an absolute fool, until he rolled his eyes, turned and walked off. I just don't get it - why are you working in a customer service industry f you don't like customers? Yes, the food is good - albeit it a bit overpriced - yes you stock some wonderful wines and liquors and your baked goods appear to be heavenly- but you just can't treat people so rudely and expect them to keep coming back.
(2)
Iain T.
Just ordered take out short ribs, the guy said it was the last portion which is fine, but what he meant was: We only have a half portion left, which we will still sell you for full price, because you probably wont find out until you get home. 2 stars because the actual ribs are decent, thought I'll need to get something else after to fill my poor tum. Highrise: You owe me $6.50 for a half portion of ribs.
(2)
Allyson G.
Spinach croc sandwich was yummy. Mocha was fine, but not sweet or milky enough for my taste. Planned to do work there, so was disappointed that there was no wifi, it was really loud and full (granted, it was a Saturday morning), and my cute bench seat was too low to comfortably allow me to type at the table. Sandwiches are ridiculously expensive: the average sandwich is more than $11.00. Lots of families with kids there, which I found charming. I'd come back to chat with a friend for a half hour, but not to be productive or if I was hungry.
(3)
Faye G.
I used to be a regular at Hi-Rise before moving home to the Va. Recently went back to Mass for a visit and had to stop in to grab a few old favorites. Happy to say Hi-Rise has stayed as delicious as I remember. The Service was great, though busy -my friend and I were greeted, placed our order, and received our treats and coffees in no time at all. Lemon Meringue pie is pretty mindblowing, chocolate cake- superb. You really cant go wrong. Expect a bit of a wait during prime hours. Worth every moment.
(4)
Anna C.
Today is National Holocaust Remembrance Day, and I'm celebrating with the only thing I ever get at Hi-Rise -- challah. Their challah is different than most other ones I've had -- it only has a hint of sweetness, which I like. They offer plain or raisin (I've yet to try the raisin one), and it comes in a large loaf for $7 (it's huge!). Happy Challah-Day!
(4)
Garrett D.
Amazing baked goods, pricey but tasty sandwiches, and awful waits for lunch. I lived a block away for several years and visited the place 3 or 4 times for lunch. On a Thursday at 1 p.m. I waited close to 30 minutes for my sandwich to be made. They didn't forget my order - one of the other patrons was waiting even longer! The other times I've been there I've waited over 15 minutes as well.
(3)
Simon P.
A solid three stars! The bread is excellent usually, but the sandwiches and items in the case are hit-or-miss. Considering the high prices, the case items should always be top notch, as should the sandwiches. When in a pinch I'll visit, but normally I'll bypass Hi-Rise until they get more consistently excellent.
(3)
Lauren H.
I have such mixed feelings about this place. Their bread is excellent. Their sandwiches --though pricey -- are also good. But the service is chilly at best, and sometimes downright hostile. The staff makes you feel as if they are doing you a great favor by taking your order. Hi-Rise, I wish I knew how to quit you, but you are directly across the street from my house, and your breakfast sandwiches are a delight. How much of my dignity should I be willing to sacrifice for a quality egg and cheese?
(3)
briana p.
I saw the guy write down "no onions" so why was my sandwich COVERED in onions?!?! Not only are your reviews slipping your service is slipping too. I consider it a treat to go get lunch at Hi Rise especially when I get a cookie and lemonade total cost for lunch was $18?!?! If I pay that much for lunch the least you can do is get the order right?
(2)
Melissa W.
Coffee! Lattes! Steamed milk! Now, with additionally high prices, extra attitude, more foam, less milk (only place I know where "no foam, please" gets met with a sneer and a 12 oz "large" that has 1-2 inches of foam on top...), and a customer gritting her teeth again, vowing to Never Return Again... but the problem is, they're conveniently located across from a place where I have regularly scheduled meetings, and so I more or less have no choice. Grrrr.... I can not, in good conscience, recommend this place. I can recommend their baked goods (yes, the vanilla bean loaf is delicious, and the chocolate cork is about the right size and even a decent price for the product), their "crocs", and their fast-food dinner offerings, which are generously proportioned and tasty. But the (lack of) service is *abysmal*, and I hate-hate-hate giving any of my very hard earned moola to someone who is simply, at heart, *not friendly*. And I do just that every time I give this place any money. Ughh... the conundrum. Thank you, Yelp, for giving me the opportunity to vent.
(2)
Debbie C.
I see a lot of reviews referencing the attitude and the service. But I'm glad I didn't let that stop me from dropping by here yesterday morning. Yes, my waitperson was deadpan at best and in the face of my near-giddiness (I get that way around pastry) it should have been a bit of a downer. But I was prepared for attitude (thanks, yelpers) and ordered up a quiche Lorraine and a cappuccino. Despite the gloom behind the counter, the general vibe among the patrons was friendly and warm. I was able to grab a table by the baking area where I could watch the whole scene while I ate the best quiche Lorraine I have ever tasted: flavorful ham, creamy cheesy center, and flaky crust. The cappuccino was also above average. On balance I prefer a bit of distance in the morning to intrusive warmth. I'll be back - no need to greet me.
(5)
Melissa K.
Over priced, and not enough seating, but good. The sandwiches are enormous, enough for 2 people.
(3)
Jean Luc P.
youtube.com/watch?v=Yqa-… (youtube video) My mouth says yes, my wallet says no. The food here is excellent, too bad I can't afford anything serious. I live close by, so I am always tempted to get a treat here from time to time. Unusually, I would come by for the excellent coffee and lattes, and if I am feeling rich, I would get a cookie or a quiche. It's one of the best quiche I've ever had, it was surprising affordable, like 3.50 slice. The eggs were perfect dense, the ingredient were tasty, with no artificial flavoring. Everything here is made by hand. The few pieces of snacks can really add up though. The place is full for lunch hour and weekends, often there is a line to get in. If you are ever in the area, this a is great place to drop in. If you are a foodie, you would want to make a trip out here.
(5)
Ed G.
The sandwiches and soups are fantastic. The prices are horrible. I can't justify paying $11-$12 for a sandwich. The service is nothing special. Be prepared to wait an awful longtime for your sandwich. I'll be back when someone else is paying the tab and I have a significant amount of time to waste.
(3)
Tamarleigh G.
There are some really good things about this place - mostly, the food! It's very good. The problem is the service. Remember the old rhyme about the little girl with the little curl right in the middle of her forehead -- when she was good, she was very, very good, but when she was bad, she was horrid? The service at Hi-Rise is NEVER "very, very good". It is acceptable at best. At its worst, it's horrid. The staff have no qualms about being rude, about outright lying, about ignoring you, and just generally not doing what they should be doing. Here's an example. I was on my way to my dad's and thought I would pick up a couple of sandwiches for him and me--but I didn't have forever to wait. So I stopped at the Hi-Rise and ordered two sandwiches. Let it be noted that there was NO LINE WHATSOEVER. I walked straight up to the counter and ordered. And then waited. And waited. And waited. Twenty-three minutes later, I finally had the audacity to ask whether the sandwiches would be ready at some point soon. I was told that the kitchen is really busy right now. I said "Well, I've been waiting more than twenty minutes for two cold sandwiches. I'm not even complaining about the wait. But I do think that when there is no line, and therefore no reason for a customer to expect a lengthy wait, you might consider mentioning to the customer that the kitchen is really busy and that the sandwiches will take at least twenty minutes. Had I known it would take this long, I would not have ordered them. Again, I'm not complaining, but just suggesting that it would help your customers to have this kind of information at the ordering point." The aftermath of that one comment (which was delivered politely and in a friendly way - not all snippy and critical the way they apparently took it despite my efforts to be chill) was that the five (yes FIVE) employees who had been literally standing around doing nothing, chatting with one another, suddenly ganged up on me to give me a hard time for being so "impatient". I think waiting 23 minutes before making a polite suggestion is not exactly "impatient". One of them even walked away muttering insults semi-audibly at me, and then when I asked what had just been said, the others milling around blatantly lied to cover their coworker's rudeness. I had been a customer for nearly twenty years. Most of these staff recognized me from that. And did not even act the least bit friendly or understanding. This was far from the first time I'd felt that they didn't give a darn. But this was the last straw. This was about six months ago, and I have not been back, and I have no intention of going back. My big question is: if the darned kitchen is soooooo busy that customers are waiting nearly a half hour for a tunafish sandwich, why the heck are five people standing around doing nothing and yet ready to leap into action to give a long-time customer a hard time? I am DONE. There are plenty of other good places in Cambridge, and I will not continue to support a business when I feel as though the staff is giving us all the finger behind our backs. DONE.
(1)
Meg R.
I went in for the first time today and cannot wait to return. With the open kitchen, the calming ambiance, and the provisions, I am eagerly anticipating a quiet afternoon of tea and reading. I got a loaf of cornbread, two goodies (a cakey brownie and a scone), and a bottle of wine. The baked goods were delicious and quite generous (well worth the cost), and the wine selections are well-priced. There's a 6-bottle sampler for $55 that piqued my interest--I can't wait to try it out! I was also intrigued by their brunch offerings and weeknight take out dinners. To all those negative Nellies--please stop moaning about the service. It was just fine. I sincerely appreciate the cell phone policy--it is clearly posted everywhere, so don't be surprised when people ask you to finish your call before beginning your transaction. Also stop complaining about the prices. They're clearly posted and perfectly in line with their competitors (When Pigs Fly, Iggy's, and Sofra).
(4)
Beth G.
let's see what I love at High Rise.....the pecan scone, lemon meringue pie, pecan pie, corn bread, cookies, stollen bread at the holidays, and I LOVE the potato bread. I could go on and on - but you get the picture.
(5)
Bread Man S.
Service is not good. Manager made us wait outside for 10 minutes, while the door is open on sunday morning. I don't recommend the coffee at all. Good breads.
(1)
Gaunt Z.
I can't comment on the food, because I never received any. The service however is one star. I went in for a sandwich around noon on a Saturday. The place didn't look too busy, and the line at the register was short. 30 minutes later I still didn't have my sandwich, nor did the people who had been in line in front of me. Apparently they decided to put a new person in the kitchen for the Saturday lunch rush, and the results were a disaster. After 45 minutes I left and got a sandwich elsewhere.
(1)
Theresa M.
I could have definitely spent a lot of time and money in this place. Fortunately for my diet and my wallet I did not have a lot of time and I packed a healthy lunch. I treated myself to a chocolate chunk cookie that was superb. They had loads of interesting offerings and tempting treats. I would definitely return again and explore other options.
Sandwiches to write home about. Phenomenal selection. Fresh breads baked on the spot. Charming staff.
(5)
Ryan L.
Pretty much done with this place. I can accept the ridiculously high prices and the long waits for the food, because it's pretty great food. However, the customer service is absolutely miserable. Any day, anytime, any staff member, you can be assured you will receive the worst customer service in Cambridge.
(1)
Cath S.
Rating is for their Concord loaf bread, Lemon curd cake, and Chocolate fallen cake. All of which are perfect. They had made a small size Concord loaf, now they cut the large in half, for the smaller size. Workers very friendly. Outstanding.
(5)
MF B.
Here visiting from the west coast. Surprised to read the bad reviews for service and prices. A half sandwich here is the size of a whole sandwich most other places, costs under $7, and they use very high quality ingredients. Yes, the staff is a little odd but so what? The food is excellent. We went twice - breakfast and lunch. The cappuccino was great. The quiche was phenomenal. My husband had the hargo sandwich (or something like that, the one with short rib) and it was the best sandwich I've ever tasted. Seriously. Outrageous. Would be better with no cheese though. My son had the kid's grilled cheese - great kid sandwich, on challah bread. Cookies were tasty too. I rarely bother to write yelp reviews but this place rocked.
(5)
JF S.
Ouch. $17 for a breakfast sandwich, lg cappuccino and teeny (yet amazingly delicious) sandwich cookie. I will randomly stop here on my way to work every now and then, usually for a little treat and a small capp, and I've never particularly felt the financial punch in the gut before. However, today when I upped to a large beverage and breakfast sandwich I was shocked at the total. Never had a reason to complain about the service - everyone has always been nice enough to me. The food quality is high but so are the prices, which is why this will continue to just be an occasional stop for me.
(3)
Jodie P.
This place is the best!! Best bread in the Boston metro by far. The cranberry and blueberry scones are super yummy. Their iced or hot mocha my favorite in New England. Plus, the staff rules.
(5)
Liz L.
I can't remember the last time that bakery staff left me feeling so chilled or bakery decor left me feeling intimidated and teeny. I went here twice because it was convenient. The first time the food (which was supposed to be veggies on toasted bread) was much, much eggier than I expected from the description and I ended up tossing it out unfinished. The second time I got oatmeal and the ratio of extras to oatmeal was so high that I couldn't even get halfway through my expensive bowlful, and the oatmeal itself wasn't of a particularly remarkable taste or quality, AND even though I ordered it to eat there, it was served in a to-go cup, as if they couldn't wait to rush me out the door. On my second trip, I also got a latte, which was even more expensive than usual for metro Boston and of a poorer quality than I've had in many other area cafes. However on both days they were filled with a long line of people ordering coffee, some of whom appeared to be regulars, and several people (possibly regulars) were having breakfast. But after these two disappointing experiences, I have not returned.
The vanilla bean loaf here is dense, vanilla-y and addictive. The sandwiches are creative and delicious. The coffee is good. Long lines of Huron Villagers at lunch sometimes irk me, and I wish the place was open later. I try to seek these guys out at the farmers' markets: the homemade jam is spendy, but worth it.
(4)
Rachel E.
So I've only been here once when visiting a friend, but I'm still thinking about that mushroom sandwich 3 months later so I have to give them a good review. It was absolutely delicious!! I wouldn't mind if the prices were ever so slightly less though but now i'm looking mushroom sandwich recipes so maybe their prices are on point.
(4)
Lauren R.
The food and baked goods here are 5 stars. The service is 1. I don't know why, but the people here are SO mean! My husband and I love the breakfast sandwiches but we eat them only when we have mustered up enough courage to brave the bitchy counter staff. We prepare ourselves for their impoliteness, try to be extra sweet to them, abide by there no-cellphone rules, smile and still get a short and nasty reception every time. This last time, my husband walked in, said "good morning" and quickly and efficiently ordered our two sandwiches and two coffees. Blank stare from woman A. Then the woman A walks away with no reply. Woman B approaches, yells out 2 numbers and looks blankly at my husband. He was thrown off because the two numbers couldn't possibly be the cost of his order, so he takes a sec to process that those are the numbers on the menu for the sandwiches that he has ordered. He says, "yes" and she starts keying in the order on the cash register. Then he says, "oh and two coffees". To which she replies "I ALREADY RANG YOU UP" and shoves two free coffees his way even though there was no one else in the store and he had the cash in hand. I've worked as counter staff and I know it gets annoying dealing with customers one after the next, but IT IS YOUR JOB to be nice, or at least not rude. Hi Rise's owners should really do something about this problem. I will say the people at the new Harvard Law School location are a lot nicer than the people at the Fresh Pond location.
(3)
Gina B.
I've been to the location on Massechusetts Ave. twice, and both times, I got what I refer to as "hipster no-service." This is more than just bad service; it's a trend at places that want to give off an exclusive, hipsters-only vibe. The servers or barristas seem bothered by your presence, don't smile, and try to get you away from them before you somehow ruin their American Apparel. I typically don't experience "no-service" in the Boston area, but for whatever reason, it exists at HiRise. They seem to think that the quality food and pretty, skinny barristas will be enough to please customers. The food and coffee are excellent -- I will give them that. The service is not only bad but slow, too. And they require a $10 minimum for a credit/debit card transaction, which I have never seen at a bakery/coffee place before. Add a 50 cent processing fee, go cash-only, be a little nicer about it! There are plenty of other delightful coffee shops and bakeries in Cambridge, where using a credit card is not such a burden.
(2)
Colin F.
If you really want a dose of reality as to your lowly place on the economic ladder, give this place a try. Frequented mainly by trust-fund mamas enjoying idleness and comparing their progeny at most hours, at lunchtime it becomes an absolute zoo of cacophony as loads of people cram in the door, can't find a place to sit down, shout their order over an impossible stack of baked goods and then stand being jostled by the crowd for 20 minutes until the order arrives. Want something other than what's on the menu? Forget it. Service with a smile? Nope. Place to wait while they complete your order? Nope. Place to sit down? Either share a spot on hard wooden benches at the big table in the center of the room, or fight your way through the strollers to a tiny table covered with crumbs. If you're looking for fresh baked goods, try the Iggy's outlet in Cambridge. Much better stuff, at less cost and much less hassle.
(2)
S W.
Service: 4 Food Quality: 5,000,000 Food Price: 3 Mass Ave location Service was great! Maybe because I'm a young person and don't necessarily fit the aesthetic bill of "harvard student" (full disclosure: I'm not one.) They were really nice to me. I had to wait a while for my americano, but that's only because I witnessed some world-class entitlement. Two women cut everyone waiting for a drink (twice) because their drinks were not right. And they were totally rude about it. I get why the barista would not be happy most of the time. (Side note: who returns an americano because there's too much water in it?) Food Quality: My chocolate brioche was amazing. It's been 3 days since I went there and I'm still dreaming about it. Good thing I live close. I don't care if it was a little pricey. Pricing?: I would never buy a sandwich there. 8 dollars for a grilled cheese with glorified jelly on it? I'm a vegetarian and if you're going to charge me eight bucks for some food it better be amazing and there better be a buttload of it.
(4)
Jolene S.
I had awesome service at Hi-Rise today. My waitress (short black hair) put time and energy into stuffing my soup cup and I was so glad that I resisted the urge to save $$$ and just buy pizza for dinner. The turkey gumbo soup had chunks of chicken, a bit of sausage, rice and nice flavor--it came with a side of bread. Since it was in later in the evening, I was able to eat and read in peace. Hi-Rise charges fair prices. I think a lot of the agita that comes out in reviews has to do with the price point and some of the staff (one lady's kind of w*tchy). I agree that $2 for two little cookies is a lot, but Hi-Rise provides hearty, nutritious, and fresh food--soups/sandwiches that are fairly priced given the portion, time, and energy that it takes to make food to order. Look, I can't/won't eat here every day, but if I do come in, I know that the food will be worth it. I'd skip the quiches and pastries for the soups/sandwiches. And for the most part, the staff members are nice (just don't ask to use a debit/credit card on orders under $10).
(4)
allgimbel c.
While the Fern's Problem Solver remains a treat, my experiences with the service here have been routinely poor. My most recent was on Sunday. I ordered a slice of quiche, warmed up. "We don't usually warm the quiche." OK, fine. I'll deal. I order an iced coffee, proffer my credit card for payment. "We usually like customers to spend at least $10 to pay by credit card." I give her my debit card instead. "Actually, debit cards cost us more....," her voice trails off. Enough of this 'service'. So many other places to go and not be made to feel a burden. Onward!
(2)
Lisa W.
Working nearby, we come here a lot to pick up lunch or a loaf of bread to take home. Service: fine bread: great!! I recommend the concord and the huron loaves. I'm still working my way through all the types, but those two are my favorites. I think they're dense and good value, and stays fresh for a week or so. sandwiches: I think they're really good (a bit rich and greasy, hard to eat neatly) but a bit overpriced. ~$12 per sandwich soup: good, they give you two bread ends to go with the soup which makes it filling
(4)
Sarah H.
We came to hi rise because we live nearby and it always looked neat from the outside. However after an extremely disappointing experience, I logged into yelp to see if perhaps I was an isolated incident and could be placated by positive yelp reviews to return another day. What did I find? Vindication. Service is awful, food overpriced but good. The woman who took our order not only got it wrong, she was extremely rude, indifferent and impatient. Also it was our first time there and after I paid for three meals, three drinks she did not even explain where to pick up the food or coffee let alone a thank you. Excuse me for bringing business in and giving you money for overpriced food. If you can stomach the unpleasant service, the breakfast sandwiches were good. She got our order wrong but what saved this from being a one star was that what we ended up eating was good. I'd rather spend my money somewhere else for comparable food and exponentially better experience.
(2)
Johonna C.
Roasted shrimp salad on brioche is pure decadence on slices of heaven! Along with their tangy lemon curd cakes and a gorgeous wine selection, you'd have all the makings for a romantic summer picnic, just sayin'....
(4)
Simon L.
Holly ham croc-a-licious. Italian bred topped with roasted tomatoes, mushrooms and browned gruyere. Wrapped in tin foil and just waiting to be scarfed. Sandwiches here are pretty awesome too. Incredible variety of fresh bread and wine and specialty booze as well. Delicious sesame scali bread purchased still warm. You will not be disappointed - make this place rotational.
(4)
Kunal M.
My ALL-TIME favorite place regardless of cuisine, time of day, location etc.. I go to college in NY these days, but make it a point to stop by Hi-Rise whenever I am back in Boston. I won't give any recommendations as to what to try there because literally everything on their menu is perfect!
(5)
Will R.
Again, the vanilla-bean loaf is what to get. Just don't get the 'Thai Iced Tea'. I got it and it was 'Chai Iced Tea'. When I went to point this out all I got was a lot of attitude and basically 'you are wrong'. Now, as someone who brews their own Thai Tea, I sort of know the difference. I'm not sure the good food makes up for the crappy attitude.
(3)
Allison E.
The coconut orange scones are back! They are highly addictive and extremely good.
(5)
Thomas M.
I'm not a fan of unpleasant service. I wanted to share with the yelp readers some simple data I complied. Of the 151 reviews prior to my current post, 25 reviews contained the word "RUDE". Thats 16.3% of the reviews! Here are some other frequently used words Surly - 10 instances Slow - 5 instances Disinterested - 3 instances Appalling - 2 (1.32% of the reviews). Shocked was used 4 times but one person was 'shocked' that so many reviews were negative.
I've tried it a couple times now, and really, just no. The prices are entirely too high (basically all the sandwiches are over $10), and the baked goods I have had have always been dry and unflavorful. I'll go elsewhere.
(2)
Emily C.
I order a sandwich that includes avocado as a main ingredient. I am told they are out of avocado and they ask if I would l like something else on the sandwich - sure, how about cheese I say. The server asks me what kind of cheese and rings me up. I asked for a receipt and after reviewing it later I find out that they actually charged me extra for cheese. What?!?! That is some seriously terrible customer service. Go elsewhere.
(2)
Chronic C.
I wrote off Hi-rise a while ago. The superb food was not worth the price tag. I'm not talking money, I'm talking vibe. The bad attitude of the staff soils the experience every time. I should feel better when I leave my local coffee shop and bakery with yummies in hand, not worse. I stick with formaggios where the warmth of the staff matches the warmth of my coffee. Works for me cause I just take it black. If you want more complex drinks and breakfast sandwiches I recommend Simons on mass ave.
(2)
Drew B.
I don't know who makes a de facto redeye with steamed milk, but I'll tell you right now I don't like it one bit. You know, Hi-Rise has some tasty baked items - I will give them that - but I've always found a certain arrogance from the staff there. This afternoon's encounter has put me at the tipping point. See, a redeye is a simple drink to make - it's coffee with a shot of espresso, done. Well that's not trendy enough for Hi-Rise so if you go there and order one they will put steamed milk in your drink, without even asking. And you know what frustrates me? That generally when an establishment cares about its customers they'll make your purchase right at no extra cost, but not Hi-Rise. Instead they maintained that because their definition of a redeye was printed on their board, they weren't accountable for making it incorrectly - I the customer made the mistake! Seriously?! It's no secret that Hi-Rise's prices are excessive and generally the quality you get makes it worth it. So you'd think pouring a fresh cup of coffee and an espresso shot sans dairy wouldn't be a lot to ask for. Until Hi-Rise loses the arrogant act and starts treating its customers like reasonable people, I'll be happy spending my money elsewhere.
(1)
Tatsu I.
Would you like to know why my clothes smell like Baked Serotonin a lá Michelin star kitchen? Saturday, 8:26AM "Ugh, Sleep Hangover. Hey, can I get the 50 three-egg omelet with #00FF00 pepprs, Canada's best chedd, #FF0000 onion, avo, tomato, mustard, but with Concord Whole Wheat instead of Semolina, still grilled?" "Sure, anything else?" "Um, Big Coffee. Plz." Sunday, 1:00PM "Ugh, Hangover! Hey, can I get a 51, 1/4# of Spence smoked salmon, capers, #FF0000 onion, tarragon mayo, and iceberg on toasted Corn Bread? Eh, maybe I'll try it on Brioche today. And a 'plus fort' Krazy Kap, extra shot?" "Brioche, check. 3 shots, uh huh. For here?" "Um, Yeah." Monday, 10:06AM "Ugh, I'm late." *Sidestep sidestep* "Cheddar Snail, this Rosted Leek Quiche, and a coffee." "Large or Small?" "To go." "Lrg or Sm?" "To go. No, sorry, large! No bag either. Um, to go...?" "Excuse me?" Tuesday, 2:22PM "What would you like?" "Ugh, sleep. Hey, can I can I, get get a pint-sized Potato Carrot Leek soup only 3/5's of the way up with extra chives on top and a Potato Brd Roll if you have any?" "I'll check. What is three-fifths??" "Um, yea, like not *too* full, so I can mix in cracked #000000 pepper." "Next person, can I take your order!?" Wednesday, 6:00PM "Have you been helped?" "Um, hey! How bout a number 6 El Presidente, no chick'n, sub that silky hmmd hummus instead of grill chickn, harissa!, #000000 olive spread, to-mates, onion on Concord, grilled?" "Mmmm, sounds good! I do the same! Anything else?" "Yes, Irish Breakfast Tea with a Lemon Slice." Thursday, 7:36PM "What's this? Ohh, Guy's new '06 Mercerey Pinot Noir, oui oui, plus a few pats of Plugra s'il te plait, for that Irish Soda Bread special. And the Olive Loaf. Oh, any coffee left?" "Coffee, yes. Bakery closes at 8 you know." "Really?!" "Tatsu, how long have you been coming here? Ugh, Take home dinner, instead. We have 2 Chicken Pot Pies left, or 1 Grilled Steak Tip Roasted Potties and shrooms + Swiss Chard left." "Nah child, still vege, still strong!" *V Sign* Friday, All Day (2) 60-watt batteries, running on single core (CPU1), no BT, no LCD backlight, face the window, reading off reversed (ctrl-opt-cmd-8) liquid crystal type on a overcast day. "Anyway, so I have this Picnic tomorrow, give me box of every cookie and sweet thing you got!" "Ok, but what do you want?" "Oh I know exactly. *Dreams of future*
(5)
Amy J.
I have to say first that I did indeed walk through the doors of BOTH Hi-Rise bread shops today poised and ready to be treated unkindly. I found nothing of the caliber I expected. I observed a couple of quiet kids along with pretty friendly people. I got the vibe that some of them were simply shy or modest, but no one was rude. SECOND, and most importantly, the sandwiches, the bread, and the coffee are to die for. We drove down from New Hampshire, on yet another quest over the last year or so for great artisinal bread - and Hi-Rise wins the prize. It's 10:30 at night and I just ate probably 500 calories worth of little pieces that I kept getting up and saying "one more little piece"... It's just that good. Sandwiches - we tried the Cuban chicken, the Curried chicken with mango chutney, a #21 egg/bacon sandwich, and the kid's peanut butter, honey & banana on Challah. All were terrific. My only regret was not asking for the curried chicken and the kid's sandwich to be toasted or grilled. The product would be well worth some rude employees if there were any - I think the reputation on here is definitely inflated. Treat THEM with respect and see what happens. That's what we did!
(5)
Jennifer N.
Yes, the sandwiches are overpriced. Of course they are. But some of them are also really, really good (like Grace's Newest Nanny... delicious! And there are a fair number of veggie options which is also a real plus). The sweets are also overpriced, but delicious. The vanilla bean loaf is to die for, the chocolate chip cookies are filled with huge enormous bittersweet chocolate chunks, the banana bread is also amazing. And the soups... did I mention the soups?! Yummy. So yes, I open my wallet time and time again for this hi-priced place. Downside: the staff IS very rude. Well, on a good day, they are brusque. On a bad day, they are flat out rude.
(4)
Sarah G.
I live in the neighborhood and they have some really good bread. It is overall overpriced but that would be okay if the staff would at least be nice. Especially the girls are rude, unfriendly and not accommodating at all. You always have the feeling you are bugging them with your order. bad, bad, bad...
(2)
Katie R.
When I moved into Huron Village, I knew that walking by High Rise every day would help me attain a sort of inner balance. That is, the balance of a shrinking wallet and expanding waistline. The food is good enough to keep you coming back for more, especially if you're a carbohydrate junkie like yours truly. Pies? Meringues? Delicious breads? Brioche? Tarts? The list goes on. The sandwiches are really just a touch out of my price range. $10.25 for a sandwich? Maybe if I've got friends to impress or someone to split the bill with me, but thankfully these high prices have made it easy for me to resist stopping here on a daily basis. Because after a sandwich, a little something-something from the pastry counter, and a lovely espresso drink, we're looking at a $20 lunch. And this girl's not made of money, you know. Come here for brunch with your favorite folks. You can watch the bread being made, and if you're lucky you can score a private table so you don't have to be overrun by the elite masses of West Cambridge who actually *can* afford to eat here regularly. The waitstaff is (are?) super friendly, and even though the "No Cell Phone" signs bug me a bit, someone yapping on their phone in such close quarters would probably bug me more. Fresh, wholesome, delicious, feel-good food. Depression-inducing prices. Balance - you see?
(4)
Matt K.
I guess I'm just not sure how this place could be rated lower than a 5-4. It just won best cookie in the Best of Boston, which was well deserved because they are fantastic, and the sandwiches are all so original and on freshly baked bread. Try the Nat Queen Cool - pulled pork, avocado, cilantro, tomatoes - just genuine goodness. The sandwiches are a little bit on the pricey side, but they are huge, and can serve as more than one meal if you like - not for me of course. Highly recommended as a solid lunch spot.
(5)
Alex V.
Above average sandwich shop. Great food and atmosphere.
(4)
Sarah M.
I've been to Hi-Rise dozens of times over the past four or five years. I'm not local but its a quick drive down Rt 2 so I'll hit up Hi-Rise when I make my trip to Formaggio which is just around the corner. I can definitely see what people are saying about the service. The servers all act like they're doing you a bit of a favor by taking your order and getting your bread. Not usually outright rude, but no real effort to be friendly. I've never ordered anything complicated so I can't comment on the competency but the general lack of interest and the annoyed vibe is well, annoying. I asked the cashier (this past Sunday), when the website was going to be up. Her response was, "whenever, your total is $8.50." Not exactly a friendly reply. The food is great and yes, VERY overpriced. The prices of all the sandwiches hover around $9-12 and that always seems to be just a bit shocking. The sandwiches look really big but most of the size goes to the very generous size of the slices of the bread. All of the bread offerings are awesome. I'm not too crazy about the other baked goods like cookies and brownies. For $3, that medium sized chocolate chip cookie better blow my mind and it definitely does not. I would recommend buying your bread here and then walking around the corner to Formaggio for their daily sandwich specials which usually top out at $8 and the staff all falls all over themselves to help you and make you feel welcome. And credit cards are accepted for $10+ orders which really isn't that hard to do here. Hasn't anyone told them that its against VS/MC service agreements to require minimums on credit card purchases??
(2)
Lisa M. K.
Ok, down to 2 stars. I am trying to keep it local but I have probably visited HRBC for the last time. Asked if they'd make me a London Fog. They make them all over Cambridge. Starbucks sells them (I have heard). Employee said dubiously, "what's in it again". I told him the THREE very standard ingredients. He tells barrista. Barrista sneers, scoffs and rolls his eyes - all very obviously so I'd see him do so. Rude. Rather pathetic to think a simple tea drink is exotic and mock-worthy. At this point I am not even offended from a customer service standpoint but from a coffee shop standpoint. Shops shouldn't sell coffee/tea if they can't handle it and think they are above such things.
(2)
Liz H.
The service here is laughably bad. In fact, on the rare occasion that I brave being sassed to death while ordering a freaking sandwich, I have to laugh to keep from completely losing it. That being said, the food (BREAD om nom nom) is good- You get what you pay for. Don't waste your time on their meal bowls or whatever they're called- Just go for the starchy deliciousness that keeps this place thriving. It definitely isn't the service, that's for sure.
(3)
Barbara J S.
i was a regular lunch/dinner for 20 years. in that time there were only two nice servers. food is great, but hi rise is hi price with absolute rudeness among staff. i still go now and again for a take out half sandwich, but forget about hi rise and walk across to sarah's market for breakfast, lunch and dinner. barbaras
(2)
Alyne W.
Unfortunately the cons outweigh the pros at this establishment...the service is the worst I have ever experienced. We stopped by late last week and ordered the Vanilla Bean Slice which we loved. We thought the service clerk was just having a bad day so yeasterday when we had a craving for the vanilla bean slice we didn't think much of going back. MISTAKE! Whoever owns/manages this place needs to really rethink how they train their employees. Its hard to imagine that everyone in there is miserable all the time but my guess is the Top must not be too happy. Employees attitudes are usually indicitive of their superiors attitude. You guys have a great product, a wonderful space but gotta do something about the energy of the place. Oh and make sure you have cash if you are spending less than $10 if you decide to go and there is no sign that says so just a rude gal without a smile.
(2)
Deb L.
The sandwiches and baked goods are out of this world. I think it's the #4 that I usually get - grilled chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato on corn bread. Mouth watering as I write this. Love the cookie sandwiches (their own version of the oreo), vanilla pound cake, italian sodas - it's all delicious. Disclaimer that it's easy to pay $20 for a sandwich and a few cookies, but I would say all day it's worth it. If I could give 1 recommendation to management - how about a pickle with the sandwich and start selling some gourmet bags of chips? that woud be amazing!
(5)
Jules V.
This place was recommended by a friend so I was excited to check it out this past weekend. I toyed between 2 and 3 stars. My boyfriend and I went in around 215 this past Sunday. (They close at 3pm on Sundays) so we had plenty of time to order some sandwiches and sit and eat. The food (once we finally received it) was delicious. Fresh, flavorful and just what we were craving. Tons of choices and something on the menu for everyone. I have to agree with the other reviews that the service was not great. Although we did not have a speciific bad experience, we were clearly together ordering our sandwiches and when mine came out shortly after ordering, my BF's didn't come out until I was almost done. It took a very long time with not many people there at the time. Word of advice: they should shut their kitchen down an hour earlier than their closing time to allow people looking for only baked goods and coffee to buy. I had a hard time watching many people get turned away with all of us sitting inside still finishing up our lunches. Especially when the fresh baked goods are probably going to get thrown away at the end of the day anyway. All in all, delicious food just needs to work on their service to customers. A smile would be nice! You work in a delicious bakery! What could be better??
(3)
Thomas I.
I've been to Hi-Rise twice. Both times the baked goods that I purchased were fantastic (blueberry-lime bread and vanilla loaf). The coffee was wonderful. The employees were friendly to me. There is a $10 minimum on debit card purchases. The last time I went in the lady in front of me got really upset at the guy that was working because of the minimum on debit card purchases. The employee kept a cool head and just shrugged it off. I thought that he handled it really well, which is a sign of good customer service (in my opinion).
(5)
Yes P.
I have only been here once, while visiting Cambridge. I will definitely go back the next time I'm in town. I ordered an egg/spinach/fancy cheese breakfast sandwich. It was huge and absolutely delicious. I am an egg sandwich addict, and order them often. A common issue I have with my addiction is that my egg sandwiches/eggwiches/muffinwiches are sometimes too small, or too dry. NOT the case here! Gigantor and moisture balanced. The bread which cradled the eggs was bakery good and toasted to perfection. Why no 5 stars? One of the friends I was with failed to order the egg sandwich, and instead was stuck with yogurt parfait. He didn't finish it, claiming the fruit did not taste fresh and as a whole it was not that great. Also, it would be nice if the menu included more vegetarian options.
(4)
Tim P.
On a fence about this place; they bake awesome bread but staff has a bad entitled vibe about them and there are hipsters cutting in line. Ain't cheap, either - 2 sandwiches + coffee = $30 and change.
(3)
M. S.
The prices are ridiculously high and the service is consistently rude and slow. When I asked for coffee with a shot of espresso added the woman behind the counter said, "We don't recommend that." When I realized that this meant they wouldn't even make it, I asked why it wasn't recommended. She referred me to the barista who said, "We just don't recommend it." When I had the audacity to ask why again she said it was because the different types of coffee don't mix. Then she ended the discussion by saying "It's not on the menu." I ordered a coffee with a shot of espresso on the side, combined them myself and guess what? It tasted like coffee with espresso in it, which is what I expected from any red-eye anywhere. Life is too short to feel crummy: the next time I want a cup of coffee I'll go to Starbucks across the street where at the very least I can get civil service and feel better after I've purchased something instead of being chided and feeling worse.
(1)
Naomi U.
July 2010 Just to be clear, the "service" here is as surly as it ever was
(1)
Oliver P.
I wanted to post a quick update. Within hours of my initial post, the owners of Hi Rise contacted me with a thoughtful, heartfelt apology. They are a local family with a baby and are very eager to ensure Hi Rise is a welcoming place for all. The owner's wife noted they have been working on customer service for some time, and it seems they are now redoubling their efforts on that front. As I have trouble going more than a few days without a cheddar snail, I for one am willing to give them another try...
(3)
Sara G.
I have to admit, I read the previous reviews and entered the store in a bit of a defense mode, ready to battle off snooty little hipster workers. Well, pretty much, they are. But whatever, I ordered a small loaf of Concord bread, which was tasty and picked up some wine. But the overall "vibe" of the staff didn't sit particularly well with me. I lucked out on a street parking spot, but, in general parking here is a bear. I might return, might not.
(2)
Ashlee C.
This place can kiss my freakin' keister! Let's start with the vibe. The folks at Hi-Price, errr, I mean Hi-Rise, make you feel like they're doing you some sort of grand favor for selling you their wares. The employees suffer from what I like to call, "Cambridge syndrome". They have an air of superiority about them when you ask a simple question or make a request. They are wildly inefficient, slow, and not very friendly. Essentially, they're amongst the worst counter help you will find in this immediate area. On to the food. They offer a myriad of sandwiches, breads, and baked goods if you are willing to shell out the casheesh. Sandwiches are about 9-10 dollars each and a cinnamon roll came to nearly 3 dollars. The breads and pastries are all fresh daily, but really, with the lousy counter help and plethora of new mommies pushing their oversized strollers around, I just can't deal. Maybe I'm not sophisticated enough for Hi-Rise, I don't know what it is, but me and this place just don't jibe. There are so many cafes in Cambridge with friendly staff and fresh baked goods, that I see no reason to suffer through the aggravation at Hi-Rise.
(2)
Sandra V.
I'd actually say 3.5 stars, 'cause I'm a bit waffle-y about this one. I'd read some Yelp reviews before going, so I was forewarned about the poor service, etc. However, in my two times of going, I only got bad service one time--I was in line behind my friend to order, and once she moved away to pay, the barista behind the counter looked at me ... beat ... and then asked, "do you need help with something?" I mean, well yeah, I'd like to order. Why else would I be standing here? Anyway, aside from that, I thought the coffee beverages were acceptable caffeine delivery devices and the Hi Riser sandwich I ordered was tasty and satisfying. The only disappointing thing was the homemade Oreo sandwich cookie. I was expecting something more along the lines of a whoopie pie, but when I bit into it, all I tasted was sugar. No chocolate, no cream filling, just sugar. Ack! Avoid that one, even though it looks cute and tasty--it isn't.
(3)
JLH ..
wow, I was shocked to find out i was not allowed to alter my sandwich whatsoever because "we know what we're doing and we design our sandwiches a specific way" hmm, ok....could i please add hummus to my sandwich at least? "No, that would taste bad". Really??? I mean, it's MY sandwich and I plan on paying you money to make me what I want, so why such resistance? And then, to top it all off, the sandwich sucked and was so bland. I felt extremely uncomfortable in this place and I felt everyone working there was judging me which is something I never feel. Who do these people think they are? get the sticks out of your bums.
(2)
David P.
3.5 stars. Good to very good sandwiches (#18 and #22 both pulled pork sandwiches...#22 better) and good bread especially the olive bread. Kinda pricey but it's a small local business.
(3)
Lindsey B.
Can't deal with this place. The baked goods are pretty tasty, but it kills me to pay their prices for little crumb-sized cookie-lets. I've never tried the sandwiches because they cost as much as a nice sit-down lunch at a real restaurant. Top it off with the surly, cooler-than-you'll-ever-be counter staff, and High Rise is a pain in the ass. Good fresh-squeezed orange juice, though, if you're looking to burn five bucks.
(2)
Lauren E.
This place's reputation rests on its bread. But the rest, is kind of blah... The picture you see when you first walk in is promising. But then you get to the counter, try to get some service, and it's no good. But I think we all go because we love the bread. But honestly, it's turning out to NOT be my favorite bread. Sometimes the bread is too hard, so crusty that it's sort of painful to chew. The seeded multi-grain baguette has a funky taste (fennel? anise?). Not something I want to mix with a meal. Now I basically stick to the $4 daily bread, and get my whole grains elsewhere. And the prices are really high. Talk about high rise... But, it's close to home, and that one bread I tend to buy is very good, but I'm now on a quest for another source of local bread.
(3)
Laura C.
I have to agree with Melissa, this guy has just opened Bartlett Square in JP and today they had a "soft opening" I received a text from my boyfriendthis morning that they would be giving away free food all day until 7pm. They have had their son outside selling four flavors of ice cream and beverages all week and we have been dying to try some real food from there. I grab a friend and head over for lunch only to be told that they are closed-we missed lunch but will re-open from 5-7 and will be serving free dinner. We are told this by their son. So we decide to kill two hours and come back, there are many tables of people sitting on the patio-they all leave. We see people go up to the door at 5 and they are told they will open to serve ice cream in about ten minutes. I ask him if they are serving dinner and he says no,just ice cream. I tell him I was told by his son they were serving dinner from 5-7 and he glares at me and says 'he was mistaken!" Some soft opening and way to treat potential customers, guess he hasn't gotten the memo that JP is a people friendly place!!
(2)
Sonja W.
I don't like the service, I don't like the prices, I don't like the ambiance, but I love their sandwiches! When I lived in Huron Village, I always trekked to Hi-Rise during snow storms because I didn't have to work. Even though Hi-Rise is on the pricey side, it was worth it once and awhile. Great Green Eggs and Ham breakfast sandwich and I enjoy the gourmet grilled cheese sandwich with bacon.
(3)
Ye P.
Great sandwich, sometimes good coffee. Highly recommend the Nat Queen Cool
(4)
Penelope T.
I love this place. The bread is amazing. The baked goods are so right-on. Their seasonal cupcakes are the best cupcakes I have ever had and you can't eat one in a single sitting- they are so rich. The almond cake is my favorite cake ever; it has pieces of marizipan in it and it is oh so amazing. The baked goods are not too sweet, they are always just right and taste like high quality ingredients were used. I am not that big of a fan of the sandwiches and they are way overpriced for what you get. I realize that I am eating ten sticks of butter per visit, but I can't and don't want to stop.
(4)
N M.
I am a huge fan of Acme bread company in the bay area, and I've been looking for something that matches it on the east coast. This place is somewhat like that, but let me explain. They make their own bread, and the quality of the bread is pretty good. They don't have a lot of variety in the kinds of breads they make - but that's alright. The ambience and the staff are quite warm and welcoming. The smell of fresh bread wafts through the entire space. I got a salmon sandwich for breakfast, and it was perfectly done. It was delicious. The house coffee is also quite decent. If I lived in Cambridge, I would probably frequent this place. I guess it's on the pricey side (especially if you compare to Acme, which I mentioned earlier) - but considering that it's a unique place in an area where such bread companies aren't easy to find, I can ignore the price tag.
(4)
Tamar A.
Three stars are a deceptive mean. Some elements here are fantastic. Some are incredibly unpleasant. They don't cancel each other out. You pay a one-star price for a four-star sandwich. You wait in an incredibly awkward one-star line for a five-star loaf of bread. You co-mingle with rather rude two-star Harvard faculty to collectively inhale a delightful four-star bakery scent. And so it goes. Let me put it this way: I've only been here a few times, yet with every time I leave feeling inundated with BUT. The space is high and roomy, BUT way too cramped to be a cafe--there's never enough seating, and it's impossible to browse the colorful menu board without either backing into the dead-center picnic table or being asked at least five times if I'm in line. The sandwiches are fresh, on soft tasty bread and made with "real" ingredients (not a nitrate to be found in my turkey breast), BUT, as it has been mentioned, truly, ridiculously overpriced. And the Mr. and Mrs. Snob (the name of the sandwich, not the couple standing in line in front of me, HAR HAR!) mysteriously gave me a bellyache. Their high holiday challahs are outstanding, BUT...nothing. They're rad.
(3)
Joel P.
Phenomenal sandwiches. Best in Boston. The bread is also excellent, as are the wine 6-packs. But Pastry/cookie selection is weak for a bakery. It takes unreasonably long to get a sandwich. And the seating arrangements are downright silly considering how popular it is.
(4)
Kelly M.
Hi Rise... you are an enigma. You make delicious, delicious baked goods. You make really respectably good coffee, most of the time. You have a pretty staggering selection of unique, reasonably-priced wines. You roast totally excellent chickens at 6 pm, and include a thoughtful little container of roasted onions or gravy with each chicken (seriously, I will never ever buy a grocery store rotisserie chicken again after this discovery... thanks, Yelp)! You are also a real chore to visit, for the most part. I'm OK with the no cell phones policy; that's a reasonable request in a neighborhood cafe. And a $10 credit card minimum is quickly learned. The cobblestone/river rock/pea gravel/boulder floor means none of the tables and benches sit quietly or steadily for guests -- I'm not convinced this is not on purpose, but it's not going to stop me from visiting. The serious attitude, though, from a couple of the front-of-house staff members is one of the most off-putting things about you, Hi Rise. Everyone in the kitchen/bakery area is smiling and seems to be having a great time -- and really, how could they not, hip-deep in butter, cheese, vanilla, cocoa powder, and various other awesomeness -- so why is it that a couple of the people helping the guests are often so unpleasant? I'm not asking for some kind of creepy fake sunshine attitude 24/7, but maybe just... turn to face the wall before you roll your eyes at my request for an end slice of vanilla bean loaf? That's all I'm asking. I bring out-of-town guests here for two reasons: 1. a spinach croc and an Americano, and 2. to fully appreciate the "experience." I won't stop smiling at you, like a parent trying to remind a petulant child that really, it's not all THAT bad, if you promise never to stop making the roasted chickens and the poppyseed coffee cake.
(4)
Benjamin B.
Eating at high-rise is like negotiating with Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. There is a clear payoff but do not expect to come away unscathed. You will be belittled, made to feel unwelcome and will certainly come away with less than you expected for your efforts. The upside to all of this is that if you are patient you will have the pleasure of paying $12 for a sandwich... or $6 for a cup of fruit.... or $6 for a small breakfast sandwich. I have stood in line staring at the a member of the counter staff for upwards of three minutes before being served, only to be greeted with an aloof "have you been helped yet?". Generally this is followed by an equally long wait at the register as the counter staff talks, stands idly or is generally confused what to do to remedy the growing line. My wife and I typically have an argument over who has to walk to high-rise and suffer the aforementioned indignities just so we can enjoy some really fine baked goods. I guess the bottom line is that one of us always ends up going regardless, but I really wish they made the decision easier.
(2)
Melissa S.
I really like all the sandwich choices and they are well done with the greatest bread. I had a Turkey sandwich with avocado, swiss and russian dressing. It had been pressed and was absolutely delicious. The cookies are large and fresh with that just chewy texture. I like watching them make bread while waiting for my meal. You might find the prices a bit high, but all in all it's a value for what you get.
(4)
Mike G.
yup chicken w/ bacon on corn bread is delectable.
(3)
Alexandra F.
Walked here in a snow storm with my sister, a Cambridge resident and got a sandwich, lemonade and macaroons. At her house she had challah she'd gotten the night before. The bread is amazing! The lemonade is fantastic! THE MACAROONS!!!!!!! ARE OUT OF THIS WORLD!!!!! Yes, there is hardly anywhere to sit and the service is a little slow, but everything is homemade! I had no problems at all with the staff, but I was visiting from D.C. where EVERYONE is rude. I really don't think you can say the sandwiches are expensive because I would be hard-pressed to eat an entire sandwich alone. My sister and I shared an $11.00 sandwich (which I can't remember the name of; it was a vegetarian selection with slaw, cucumbers and avocado), so it was actually very reasonable. If I didn't have a companion along I'd have saved the rest for later...Seriously...If you want fast food, go to a fast food restaurant. I hear there are a lot of deals to be had at various establishments with the dollar menus.
(5)
Catherine B.
Walking into High Rise is like walking into American Apparel - you never quite feel cool enough to be there. I'm almost surprised the door man let me past the velvet ropes; it's a good thing I had Kate "Hipster 2.0" F with me to up my cred. We strolled in to a nearly empty bakery around 8:19 AM. After a quick scan of the menu choices, I approached the counter with great trepidation. "Have you been helped?" asked counter girl. "Good morning, can I please have a HiRiser breakfast sandwich?" "We don't serve breakfast sandwiches until 9." FOR REALZ?!? "Oh, ok, I'll just have an iced coffee then. Um, thanks for talking to me." I know the staff don't make the rules, but esssss....I was so ready to spend $7 on a single egg on some small bit of toast, and you're going to deny me that extravagance? In all seriousness though, I actually get quite a kick out of the fact that the food retains enough of a following to afford the staff a bit of customer-service leeway. It's probably an awesome place to work, you ain't got TIME to smile-fake for no lame foodie wannabes, and no one's gonna make you do it either! They'll keep crawling back, because the coffee's great and the bread is almost as good as Clearflour's!
(3)
Theo K.
The food is ok. A little on the pricey side of things. But as a few folks have pointed out, this place is super pretentious. The staff...ugh! Those hipster girls behind the counter can kiss my a**, seriously. The first time I went there, I thought it was just because it was busy. Went again today and I swear the girl taking my order looked at me like I was from another planet. Actually, I think SHE was ON another planet. And they all seemed like they couldn't be bothered with taking anyone's order. However, if you can stand the "community picnic table" set up (which just screams "yeah, we're trying very hard to be progressive") and all the cambridge mommies letting their kids run amuck while silently judging the other adults, the food is actually fairly tasty. Although, sometimes I just want a great sandwich, made on site with fresh ingredients and maybe grab some desert. And sometimes that sandwich I crave is a BLT. So when that happens, I head to FLOUR. It's everything Hi-Rise is not...humble.
(2)
Alex H.
I only go here when someone else is paying, because it's insane to me to spend $10-12 on a sandwich, but hot damn are they delish. Big thumbs up for the sandwiches and the bread.
(4)
Muttley D.
I love Hi-Rise, they've got great bread and baked goods, and excellent sandwiches with funny names like "James Phones In" and my favorite, "Mahatma Gloves", in my quest for the best chicken salad in the city, I have to say that this and Savenor's and Wilson Farms are some of the tops, but this one, is the whole sandwich, the other places are grocery stores and you end up making your own. The Mahatma Gloves is a masterpiece of curried chicken salad with cashews, served on a generous piece of bread...small mouths will have a tricky time getting this monster into their mouths. There are other things to enjoy besides the great sandwich selection. The breads, the smells, watching the master bakers kneed the dough before your very eyes...and watching the West Cambridge, power-yuppies come in by the droves...yes, there are some snooty snoot tweeded yuppies who frequent this establishment, don't let that stop you, it's a little bit pricey for some things, but I'll tell you the extra 2 or 3 dollars per sandwich over your pizzeria meatball sub will be well spent...and the extra few cents for the high quality baked goods will have you swearing off that Dunkin Donuts muffin for good! Unlike some, I've always found the staff here quite friendly and laid back....
(4)
becky b.
A discussion at our table over brunch at Hi Rise recently: "So, for about 400 dollars I think we could get everything on the menu." "If we split it, that would be 100 bucks a person." "I'm not joking" For serious, this place is soul deep satisfying, the breakfast sandwiches, cherry tart and lemon meringue were all top notch.
(5)
zul c.
If you're ever in Cambridge and want a semi-overpriced (perhaps its because it's in Cambridge) sandwich, head over to Hi-Rise! There's a Sin Lover Sandwich (the name could be wrong), but it has Nutella and chocolate on a brioche, and it is sugar coma delicious! The other sandwiches are good in their own respect as well. The service was okay, not very friendly unless you were a regular. I would go back here for sure if I was in the area, but probably wouldn't go out of my way.
(2)
David L.
Tastes great, less friendly. Snarky crew make you feel guilty for actually wanting to spend money there. While I actually appreciate the nicely divined mixed wine deals, with really pretty much never a loser, and the generally very good and consistent baked goods, it is hard to get past the sense that actually taking your money for product is a hassle and a great favor they are doing for you. Honestly, if the stuff didn't taste so good, they'd get only one star. Attitude? They got it. Adjustment? They should get one. Will they? No. It's been this way for many many years. And sadly for them, that's how long it's been since I said anything nice to anyone about Hi Rise. If you like the service at Gucci's store in Manhattan, you'll love this place, which means you likely won't like this place.
(1)
Bianca T.
Hi Rise Bread Company is a Great place ! Everything we ordered was very fresh and tasty ! We happened upon the bakery while driving around Cambridge ... it was such a treat ... the sandwiches were delicious - the bread was crusty and flavorful ! I love going to places where you can actually see where the food is made !! check this place out .... you won't be sorry !!
(4)
Marissa K.
I've lived in the Huron Village area for 3 years and have been to this place 3 times. Each time I go, I tell myself I will never go again. This time, I am truly done. The food is good, but the experience is so soured by the entitled hipster/hippie staff that is so unbelievably rude I can't believe people return to this place. It wasn't just once that I experienced the rudeness of this staff. Every time I go in there I am made to feel like I did something wrong, when all I'm doing is ordering food, paying for it, and waiting 30 minutes for my sandwich to come out! Yesterday we got dirty looks because my boyfriend asked them to add lettuce and tomato to his sandwich. The time before, he took out his Amex to pay for our overpriced food and the person behind the counter waved her index finger at him to "say" they don't take Amex. Seriously? Hmm, and the time before that, we were deciding whether to pay with cash or credit, and the girl behind the counter told another person working there that she didn't know what we were doing and that we were trying not to pay. Omg. The food takes forever to come out. Yesterday I got a salad and asked to add grilled chicken. Oh, rude girl behind the counter, how much will that cost? $5. My salad ended up being $16!! Never. Again!
(1)
Jonathan G.
Bread will be the theme for this brief review. 1) the bread is fantastic. 2) you get a lot of bread in the sandwich 3) between the bread, there is not a tremendous amount of filling - at least for the core of the sandwich (e.g turkey, chicken) 4) you will spend a lot of 'bread' here and without so much as a pickle on the side - most guys will be hungry within 15min. Oxford Spa has better sandwiches and an almost-as-good selection, and will cost much less. It's much less of a dare-I-say, snobby scene too. Good bread too. Montrose Spa's Cuban sandwich is my benchmark for value. If I can spend 7 bucks and barely finish it - it's a good value. This is more like 10 bucks and 'gee, I'm really missing that pickle now.'
(3)
Elizabeth L.
I guess it depends what you're after. I come to High Rise on Sunday mornings because a High Rise caffe au lait + the New York Times + eavesdropping on adorable/pretentious Huron Village yuppy families = a perfect Sunday morning for me. If that's not what you're into, you'll have to check High Rise out for yourself. I've never ordered a sandwich here because they're oh so pricy, but I don't think their baked goods are badly priced - a slice of quiche or coffee cake (esp. the poppy seed kind) cost exactly what I'd expect, and they're quite delicious. And the coffee is delicious. The few times I had their bread, I wasn't so impressed - I find it a bit greasy. But a Sunday morning here? Absolutely delicious.
(5)
Annie c.
Great fresh bread makes great sandwiches. Loved this place when I lived in Cambridge. It is cramped and difficult finding a seat at peak times - just take it to go and have a picnic It can be bit of a hike from Harvard Sq Yes, it is on the pricey side. Can't be coming here every day for lunch but it's a nice treat
(4)
Simi H.
I am giving High Horse (I mean, Rise) two stars because of the service. I think the sandwiches are very good and the bakery has a lot of great varieties. 2 stars because I just can't stand those hipster fuckers who think they're too cool to be nice. They work in a bakery for chrissake, no need to be such pricks.
(2)
Joe R.
The best grilled cheese sandwich in the city!! Starts with the bread, then the two kinds of cheeses they use. Tomato and mustard give it texture and a spice, and my mouth just loves it. And priced for success. Otherwise, I always split a sandwich with a fellow worker, and we love 'em. Again, priced to win. Generally get them to go, and always cruise by looking for a space around the four corners, and if one is available, I get my lunch here. If no...cruise on, no problem, and I will get to eat here some other date. They have universal papers for me to read while I wait, or if able, grab a chair and enjoy my sandwich there. The barista at the espresso machine is one of the best in town. They know what they are doing with an espresso machine, so I can get a great latte. Great place, fun to take out of town guest. And I can navigate the parking and seating, and leave my friends to enjoy the great food.
(4)
Dorise G.
beware, cash only or you will wait, wait, and wait yummy grilled cheese though
(3)
Dan S.
The complaints about the hipster disaffected counter help are true. However I don't go to a place like this for the help - I go for the bread. I don't go that often as it's a little bit out of the way, but their bread is usually pretty good (although pricey). Yesterday I bought two loaves of bread and when I got home, I realized they were pretty overcooked, almost burned on the bottom. Now, I've done my time baking my own bread - I don't keep a culture anymore because it's a lot of trouble - but I still kinda feel like if I'm going to shell out $4-5 for a loaf of bread it should be done right. I know it's not THAT hard to not burn your bread, and if you're a bread company and you DO burn your bread, make some more instead of selling the bad batch? Now I'm irritated and I don't know if I'll go back. As I said their bread is usually good but it's super-premium, so it should be good every time, not sporadically.
(3)
Philip G.
As noted by other folks, the attitude does tend to be variable. As a middle-aged computer programmer, I don't rate too highly on the "cool" scale, but I came here enough times with a documentary filmmaker friend (who is actually cool) that eventually I was accepted. Many of the sandwiches can be ordered in half size for a much lower price. Only a marathon runner needs a full Hi-Rise sandwich (though I did watch with astonishment while a 110 lb. Harvard undergraduate ate a whole Hi Rise sandwich). The soups are great. It would be five stars if they had a restroom.
(4)
Tella D.
The sandwiches, coffee, and pastries are excellent. (Try the HiRiser breakfast sandwich and the Fallen Chocolate Cake.) We have breakfast here most weekends, and the staff have always been friendly and helpful to us despite the fast pace. It helps to get there before they get overcrowded -- they start making warm sandwiches at 9 am. A point that I haven't seen mentioned in other reviews is that THIS IS THE PLACE TO GET YOUR THANKSGIVING TURKEY. Place your order about a week in advance, then pick up the turkey and your choice of trimmings on Thanksgiving Day. We did this last year because our stove was broken, but now plan to have a Hi Rise turkey every year -- it was the best turkey I've had, juicy and flavorful. Best of all, it allowed us to go for a hike instead of cooking all morning.
(4)
kathy r.
I'll grant them that the sandwich combinations are interesting. And the bread and coffee are good. However, after $12 sandwiches that aren't worth $12, and several times of them forgetting part of our order, I'm not a fan. I know some rabid "let's go to hi rise for breakfast" people but I've never gotten into it.
(2)
Margaret O.
Hi Rise is a short walk from my office, and I eat here about 3 times a week and sometimes more. I'm a big fan ... with some caveats. The sandwiches are fantastic, and huge. I love the sandwiches. Most of them can be ordered as a half sandwich - for a bit over 2/3 the full sandwich price. Some of the cookies - chocolate chunk, oatmeal - are really great, as are all of the pies and cakes I have tried. The salads are similarly very good, and a lot more interesting than your average lunch salad. The bread they serve with the salad is completely random - sometimes it complements the salad, and sometimes it's just a random bread end. The breakfast pastries are mediocre at best. If you want a croissant go to Iggy's, you can get muffins almost anywhere. The bread is ok but Iggy's is a lot better. The soups are ok but nothing special. I have not found the staff to be rude so much as disorganized and visibly bored. Within those parameters they are usually pretty friendly, but I am not entirely sure why being counter help at Hi Rise is so much more boring than being one anyplace else.
(4)
Kristie L.
I felt the need to write a review because some yelpers have complained about the staff being rude. I go to Hi-Rise at least once a week (albeit always on weekdays, never on busy weekends) and I have found the staff to be consistently polite and attentive. No complaints whatsoever. I stick with the oatmeal, soups, and baked goods and they are all delicious. Yes, the sandwiches are pricey, but if you think they are overpriced then don't order them! There are many other affordable things to choose from. So yeah, I'm a fan.
(4)
sang s.
Ok, many reviews have said this. But I'll say it again. Food is good but the price is ridiculously high. I will take my business to Iggy's, thank you very much. at least Iggys doesn't have a sandwich named Mr and Mrs Snob!
(3)
Emerick R.
Stopped in here today with my wife and 2-year-old, figuring that we could grab a couple of quick sandwiches and hit the road. While we stared at the sandwich board in wonder (everything sounded great), we were informed by a rude staff member that "we don't make sandwiches after 4pm". I looked at my watch: 4:01 - seriously. OKKKKK, then...sorry to inconvenience you with my crazy demands for a sandwich...in a sandwich shop! Let me just head over to Panera instead. There are a couple of things that annoy me about this: 1 - If you have a cut off time for certain items, that's fine. But don't be rude about it. Especially on the coldest day of the year when a person is 1 minute over your arbitrary "schedule". 2 - Why would a sandwich shop stop making sandwiches at 4pm on a Saturday? I could see if I dropped in and tried to order an omelet at that hour. But a sandwich? If you _must_ have a cutoff time for making sandwiches, make it much earlier, like 1 or 2pm. Not right before dinner! That's absurd... 3 - Think a bit before being rude to a customer. Not only did you lose my business today, but I'm going to think twice before stopping in there again, since I now have to wonder if I'll be hitting your "still making food" time frame. Not a wise way to run a business. Bottom line: you may have the best food in the world. If you have bad service, it just doesn't matter.
(1)
Eric M.
No doubt plenty of other reviewers have mentioned the unfortunate pun of "Hi-Price" with this bakery's name, but hey, they owners dug their own hole by choosing the name and subsequently fleecing their customers! Sorry, but $4.50 for a baguette sandwich that's smaller than a billiard ball is outrageous. The Tuscan chicken must have been ground to particulate matter and embedded in some hummus-like paste. It still tasted good, but not particularly better than Finagle a Bagel, where I can get a full sandwich for the same price. The triple-mushroom soup was tasty enough but seemed to borrow a French onion broth and only had about 3 mushrooms visibly large enough to be labeled mushrooms. Though I did order the Small portion of the soup, I was hoping for something bigger than a portion size that I could literally hold in my own cupped hands. The only item of reasonable size was the wedge of bread accompanying the soup, but rye seemed like an odd and controversial choice: though I like rye more than many people under 60 do, it seems an odd "default" bread to give to customers because it wouldn't necessarily accompany some soups very harmoniously. (BTW: Upstairs setting at the Brattle Street location is not handicapped accessible, nor good for anyone who struggles with narrow old stairwells.) In short, I was still hungry after an $8 lunch, and I ordered no drinks. Let the punning continue.
(2)
Natasha A.
Awesome breads and piled-high sandwiches. The place is packed however and the counter service is very slow as others have pointed out. Avoid it during the weekend brunch hours but otherwise its definitely worth a visit.
(3)
Daniela P.
Good sandwiches but overpriced and not much space to hang out (not fun when outside temperature is 39!!!!)
(3)
Bert L.
Pros: Neighborhood's excellent baker for cookies (Fancy and classics), breads hand picked wines and superlative though pricy sandwiches. Cons: *Horrendous coffee* (Think Dunkin Donuts 1985) I also tried the expresso: but it was served room temperature, right out of the machine. Maybe a rookie in need of practice...I tried the hot chocolate: Zero chocolate flavor, and I mean zero. Even my 10 YO daughter agreed. Swiss Miss tasted like Burdicks next to it. $3 for a cup of colored fluffy milk. Baffling!!! Why have fabulous pastries next to watered down "pre Coffee Connection" coffee standards? For "fun" I tried next doors' Sarah's MArket coffee, same watered coffee thing, but this time unsurprising: it is a local grocery store after all, with no coffee shop pretension. I had to walk all the way down to Sherman's street Starbuck to get a real cup of coffee with actual flavor and aroma. Very disappointed. May I speak with the artistic director? In this day and age, we have learned too much about coffee to accept hot water, sorry. I cannot believe folks are accepting this as coffee. Also watch out for explosions (Doors? Falling boards? Virile, strong men at work dropping heavy heavy things ?) and pair that with really loud oven electronic alarms : the Baker shop is in the same room, so enjoy the factory ambiance if you can.
(3)
Zaazaa M.
Hehe. All the reviews about hipster style service are funny to me...I've been going here for sooo long, I've seen about 20 incarnations of hipster High Rise staff cycle in and out. Some of them were even my friends in high school. So don't worry, these guys are just someones obnoxious old friend from high school...look 'em in the eye and tell 'em what you want. And I used to love coming here and eating the curry sandwich. But recently the food hasn't done it for me. It's all right, good variety, but...not that great. Exceptions are: Arnold Palmers and that brown bread with blueberries in it. Yum! Don't try to use your credit card at the Harvard Sq. location...Concord Ave, it's ok.
(3)
Cara P.
We stopped here on the way home to grab two sandwiches. OMG OMG OMG! This place rocks. Not for the carb wary, the second you step in, the smell of bread wafts through the air. HEAVEN! Yes, the sandwiches are expensive...but shit, what isn't these days. Plus it is made on fresh made bread and high quality ingredients. I wonder if people realize that they can leave when they take a look at the prices. No one is FORCING you to buy a sandwich for $9. Think about it ;p
(5)
Sunny S.
Lunch here on an Weds morning, 11am, and surprisingly the place isn't swamped with people. The staff were all busily working and cheerful. My sandwich "Power 10" tuna salad on rye was tasty and quick enough, so I'm rather pleased. I guess it merits the $10 price tag because it's no 'SUBWAY' kind of experience or fare. Local and fresh, this place is great!
(5)
Scarlett G.
Bread, desserts, and sandwiches here are all interesting and tasty especially if you are into 'crusty'. I feel like everything here has thick, usually tough crusts! but still i like this...just don't eat it in the car...crumbs, bleh! however, the staff here is a pain in the ass. they fuddle over arranging their precious baked goods while ignoring you there ready to order or pay for something. also, they never can just tell you straight about something. if you ask them to recommend, they can almost get it out....but for the most part the staff are stereotypical, cooler than you, dyed hair, no-eye-contact hipsters. also the quiche are yucky and cold....
(3)
Cory Q.
Great sandwiches and baked goods at high prices. Home of the $10.25 turkey sandwich and the $1.50 oreo cookie.
(4)
Heather P.
I am in love with Hi-Rise's cheddar-pepper bread! You know the bread is fresh, and it is fun to watch them baking. The sandwiches are tasty, though expensive. I've found the servers to be polite and quick, never rude. I'm not sure why so many other patrons have experienced bad service.
(5)
Anthony S.
Hi-Rise is a story of missed opportunity...and how hard it is to do food service well. The sandwiches and baked goods are very very good. But the service is abysmal: the staff are rude, and lacking in even basic courtesy. It's sad in a way - the owners would probably be exceptionally successful if they fixed the problem. But they're just satisfied with what they have. What a waste.
(2)
Noelle F.
I just purchased a $10 hummus sandwich from Hi-Rise and I'm feeling particularly stupid for having done so. But shame on this place for charging just as much for a vegetarian sandwich as they do for one with chicken and bacon. I guess I figured, at that price, it better blow my mind - it didn't. It's lettuce, hummus and onions. The bread was good but not 10-dollars-for-two-slices-good. I probably won't be back.
(3)
John B.
Hi-Rise, Huron Village, is the best thing about Huron Village.. To quibble about un-smiley help is silly... I find them civil, and efficient. I don't need strangers saying "Have a Nice Day".. Civility and efficiency are far more important. I only buy the bread, as I am a cheap-skate about what I pay for a meal, including a sandwich meal.. Theire cheddar-pepper is the best bread in the world.
(5)
R E.
I came here at 7:33 by their clock and asked for a sandwich and they said they stopped serving them at 7:30. Quaint little neighborhood sandwich shop my ass.
(2)
Chris G.
After some running around Fresh Pond, I came here with 2 friends. I proposed buying bread with walnuts and cranberries (perhaps because I am a bit nutty and a bit fruity) - which I bought. I proceeded to eat the whole loaf (no one else wanted any!) and enjoyed it. Great place but seating is a little tough...
(4)
Morris R.
I could eat sugary bread products with coffee drinks all day. And I do. That said: is it just me, or are the people making the bread in the open kitchen area having a ton of fun, while some of the people behind the counter persistently seem harried, flustered, and sometimes, even, sad, like their cat finally decamped for greener pastures, or someone just broke up with them, that morning - except it's that way every morning? I mean, really, how many ungrateful cats and disappointing boyfriends can one person have?
(4)
Blair H.
1) I don't care if the staff sucks, the bread/baked goods are the best I've found in Boston/Cambridge so far. Don't tip. 2) It's not too expensive. The price of flour is rising. Even bread at the grocery store is $3.50 a loaf. Also, some people are too cheap to spend extra on quality, then bitch when the shop disappears. 3) Try Flour near South Station for an alternative. They're nicer and better looking, and their goods are on par if not better.
(5)
Laura B.
The second I walked into this place, I thought of the SWPL blog post on expensive sandwiches: stuffwhitepeoplelike.com… So true! But I have to say, my hot turkey sandwich (with a cute name I can't remember) was good, despite the price, and the wait wasn't too bad. It was a warm and cozy spot to get out of the cold and get a hot coffee with my sandwich. The diverse selection of wine bottles on the side wall also intrigued me... I'll be back next time I'm in town visiting my sister.
(3)
Anna P.
Absolutely delicious baked goods - their brown bread with wild blueberries is to die for. They also make their iced mochas with warm milk - none of that watered down stuff. They lose a star for virtually no seating and for sandwich prices that I simply cannot justify. At $9.50 I could make my own nutella sandwich, thank you. But, if you know what to order - you can get good deals: A cup of oatmeal for breakfast or a cup of mushroom soup for lunch is filling, economical and tasty!
(4)
Megan B.
I stood in line next to Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck (with their adorable pigtailed daughter) at Hi-Rise yesterday. For the record, Ben ordered the Mahatma Gloves sandwich (curried chicken salad with cashews) and Jen ordered Fern's Problem Solver (turkey, avocado, etc) w/o Russian. Cambridge is so chill sometimes...Hi-Rise was packed but no one bothered them (no photos, autograph requests, staring). I work across the street and spend more than is judicious on their delicious salads, sandwiches, soups, and baked goods. It is pricey, but you are paying for top-notch ingredients. I recommend any sandwich with their pulled pork (Nat Queen Cool is a favorite), but really, you can't go wrong with anything here. While you wait, you can educate yourself a bit by reading the thoughtful descriptions above all of their carefully selected wines. And, as I learned yesterday, the people watching here ain't bad either. Contrary to some others' experiences, I have found the owner to be very charming and pleasant whenever he is filling in for staff by taking orders, etc.
(4)
Maiya S.
WHY ARE YOU PEOPLE SO GDDAMN RUDE? This used to be my favorite place in the neighborhood, when I lived here almost 3 years ago. Having just moved back, I was totally excited to eat here again. But then today's experience just left me speechless. I wish the spoiled bratty staff were openly hostile, so I could just be rude right back. But it's a kind of rudeness you don't catch onto right away. It's only after you walk away from the counter, you realize that you were disrespected. (The black haired girl with pigtails is the only nice one there. The asian guy needs to be sacked.) Oh, yeah, and just in case you wanted to stay awhile, the place even doesn't have bathrooms. Gonna have to make delicious meringues myself, because I'm never coming here again.
(1)
Laura A.
this place is incredible. the only reason why i'm giving it less than 5 stars is because of the pricing. i'm actually fairly shocked that so many people on here gave it poor reviews -- do you all have some sort of disorder where you don't have taste buds?? it is truly a foodie's kind of a place, because only a foodie with discriminating tastes would be cool with spending nearly $10 on a sandwich. it's kind of like quality over quantity: i'd rather have an amazing $10 sandwich than two shitty $5 sandwiches. they have options for vegetarians as well as meat-eaters, which is great. their grilled cheese is the most amazingly tasty grilled cheese i have ever eaten in my life. they make it on their own thick "concord" bread and grill it to toasty perfection, slathering it with high quality cheese, mustard (who knew that would taste so amazing in a grilled cheese??), tomato, and butter. i am sure it's really fattening, but who cares? the flavors are incredible. i can usually only finish half of the sandwich at a sitting because it's that filling. hi-rise was featured in amanda hesser (the food critic for the New York Times magazine)'s book a couple years ago and she absolutely raved about it. the people who taught her how to cook and appreciate good food live in cambridge and brought her here -- that can tell you what kind of place this is. i work fairly close by, and one time we had hi-rise for lunch, and one of my coworkers commented "this is not a sandwich meant to be eaten in front of another human being" -- you'll probably end up with food on your face, in your teeth, and on your clothes when you're done. but you will be full of tasty deliciousness. they also offer dessert, wine, and i believe various baked goods to-go. there is very minimal seating, so be forewarned. in the summer, visit their brattle st location in harvard square, get sandwiches to go, and go sit in the common or by the charles while you have your amazing lunch!
(4)
Jess L.
i was quite disappointed this morning - excited it was actually open at 9am, but i guess everyone knew that. the service was slow, and the decaf coffee was bad - and they initially didn't want to give a refund! the benches are weird - i guess i was expecting more individual tables, a more intimate setting... food was okay - a little too buttery, and my avocado was borderline bad. i guess next time i go i'll make sure i have more time and will take it to go.
(2)
Henry P.
Who knew bakers could be so damned pretentious? I mean seriously, I put these workers at the level of a supermarket employee in terms of servicing a community, but it's clear they think their poop smells like fresh asiago bread. Good dinner entrees though...hence the 2 stahs. :P
(2)
T M.
I have resisted joining Yelp for a long time, but the past three experiences at this establishment have convinced me to join. This bakery has great sandwiches and a unique wine selection. I usually would stop in a few times a week dropping around $25 bucks on each occasion. It's a little pricy but high quality is worth it. The poor service however is not. The staff is arrogant and rude. God forbid they exhibit professionalism and passion for their products. When you choose to patronize this establishment let it be made clear that they are doing you a favor. Some people have very negative opinions of large chains such as Starbucks. Granted, the quality you can't compare but they could take a few pointers. Is a pleasant greeting, please and thank you and a bag for your items too much to ask for? Save your money and your respect. After all these reviews it is clear they just don't get it or don't care. I believe its the latter.
(2)
Nathan E.
This is a high end rustic bakery with creative sandwiches, coffee, some savories and a fine little wine selection. My favorite is the quiche Lorraine. The owners do seem to have some blind spots such as parking their hideous white Ford delivery vans in front of the storefront thus preventing diners from seeing out the front windows and, obviously, obscuring their own signage--it's just bad feng shui and bad promotion. The counter help is frequently insolent and self-pitying. They're probably feeling overworked, but still, they need to suck it up like the rest of us grown-ups do and get on with serving. The coffee is frequently rough, not low quality, just too strong and I'm not a fairy about strong coffee. I'm telling you the coffee is often rough. This place is very small for the volume of business, and as a result, I get annoyed by the intense competition for personal space.
(4)
Owen E.
I really try hard to like this place but cannot. The service is provided by several very slow and disinterested individuals, who rarely use sanitary wax paper when handling food and look as is they could use a quick shower. The pastry allways tastes like sauteed onions and/or peppers..not very appealing in a choclate cake or other pastries. I think the ventialtion system where they saute out back is lacking. I thought the bread would be better, some is better than others. They could really use a guest comment box. I will say the coffee is good.
(1)
Max N.
Outlandishly good sandwiches, excellent breads; pastries are not very inspired. As some have noted, the service could be just a touch less rude. (I don't usually care much about that, but they really could try a little harder sometimes.) More expensive than its across-the-river rival in quality, Clear Flour. (And Clear Flour's pastries are much better, though the breads are about tied.)
(4)
ServethePeople I.
We had a wonderful experience at the bakery in Huron Village - open atmosphere, lively, Ritual coffee (yum), and a lemon blueberry muffin thing (double yum). Excited that it's right around the corner!
(5)
Sutanuka L.
everything here is excellent and FRESH. they have a unique wine collection too!
(5)
Tracy Y.
Three is being generous. I love their stuff and the Honey's mom always buys us bread there when we're in town but the prices are off the charts! Seriously $9 for a sandwich! The Honey's sis (love you Dr. E!) used to work there and bring pastries home so I never really PAID for them. We went there the last time back for the first time on our own. I got a Orange Coconut scone. Opened the bag in the car, took it out and said "where the hell's the rest of my scone?" $2+ and it's the size of my computer mouse. The Honey's cheddar snail was just as small and even pricier! If I lived in the Cambridge area, I'd picket the store because the prices are insane but the sad thing is people are paying them! 4 on quality 2 on pricing. Oh, the whole roasted chicken is super tasty. Just see if you can find a mom to buy it for you.
(3)
Mags L.
$7.25 for a grilled cheese sandwich - seriously? and it doesn't even come w/fries or fancy chips. to be fair, i saw the price and ordered it anyways. i only got through 1/3 of my sammich. i don't like sour dough. i was fooled 'cos they called the bread some other magical special name, but turns out it tasted like sour dough. i'm not sure who's more annoying: the "hipsters" that work there or the "boho" cambridge mommies w/their "boho" cambridge babies. but again, it's my fault, i knew all this and chose to go there anyways.
(2)
John S.
not terribly impressed 1 Waitstaf was annoying, we asked it for to go , we were given a sit down order, they seem disinterested totally unorganized 2 Ordered a mocha cappucino, half of the cup was pure millk foam 3 The sandwich was overpriced... and not very tasty at all and didnt even include the ingredients listed. no taste dry pulled pork 4 Four dollars for a cupcake? you're kidding me! Never going to go back except for a loaf of bread
(1)
Jim H.
What are we to make of this place? The bread, the baked goods especially, and the soups are fantastic. Buy an oatmeal coconut pecan cookie and you may have the intention of sharing it because of its size, but good luck--you'll probably eat two of them. Ditto the walnut bread, the gumbo, the lentil soup--goodness all around. And little mentioned but worth noting is the selection of wines, port and sparkling ciders. Somebody knows what they are doing on this front, the descriptions are actually helpful, and the prices are quite reasonable. But do we really need an $11 tuna sandwich that is mostly bread and really not all that special, in spite of the name? So yes, there are a few clunkers and the staff is, well... the staff is what you might expect for a place like this. Look, it's a bread oven with seating for 20 and you are ordering at the counter anyway. So, yes, you may encounter a less than helpful staff person, but it is more likely that they are just in their own head and shocked to find you in front of them asking a question that has nothing to do with post-modern impressionism. But honestly, wouldn't you rather have a little character in a place like this anyway, warts and all? Give me the quirks and the spotty service. If I want the competence that accompanies bland uniformity, I'll head to Panera--and regret it every time.
(4)
Brin L.
Once you try their lattes and cappuccinos, you will forever be turned off by starbucks and every other overprocessed cup of coffee out there. Unlike every other place I have tried, the coffee here is filtered through heart, not just capitalism. Sure, the barristas are not my cup of tea, or should I say coffee, when it comes to personality. Don't expect a smile or a "have a nice day". Do, however, expect them to be consistently meticulous with the temperature of your coffee, with how much they froth the milk, and with the little designs adorning the otherwise impersonal cardboard vessel. You may not feel the love, but you can certainly taste the love of their craft. In that sense, this is one of the few places on campus with a truly genuine image and product. Lets face it, sometimes you can do with the extra smiles because, well, sometimes what you really need is a really good cup of coffee!
(4)
Jeremy S.
Great sandwiches. Don't think it is open on the weekend, unfortunately.
(4)
Andre W.
Uh... first time on this site and was curious about certain places I frequent. This one I couldn't pass up. My long experience at Hi-Rise has shown that most of the people who get poor service there are uptight, self-entitled a**holes, and generally deserve the treatment they get. Remember, it's right up the street from a university whose reputation precedes it. I will say, there are times when you get behind one of these entitled West Cambridge souls in line and their bad mojo rubs off on everyone around them, sometimes causing the staff to forget that the next person in line might actually be sympatico. Food is exceptional in a Euro provincial setting. Excellent eclectic wines - organic and small producers (no super Tuscans, and forget about California). Even a couple killer Calvados and Cognacs and a great outlet for Nantucket Brewers' stuff. Oh, and the staff is among the friendliest I have ever encountered in a bakery or cafe anywhere. Just peak your head in and check the air for vampiric energy vacuum. If it's lurking, you can steel yourself, or always come back later.
(5)
Lindsey M.
Mixed feelings. Their food is excellent, that is undeniable. The mini apple pies, enormous fudge brownies, breads etc. are all so tempting every time i go in there. However, their prices are expensive. It's obvious that their jacked prices are pretty much paying their astronomical Harvard sq. rent! Anyways- amazing food never the less. it's sorta a matter of how much your willing to splurge..
(4)
Amy S.
Seriously the best baked goods...and we love the one in Harvard Square...super nice to kids and a great environment to chill.
(5)
Lindley E.
thank you zingerman's, for providing the (bakery and sandwich) model for Hi-Rise. Sure, some of the baked goods blow...but for the most part, the bread is great, the sandwiches are lovely, and the setting is ideal for the morning paper, a cup of coffee, and a plate of toast.
(4)
Barbara C.
Live a couple blocks from High Rise on Huron. Their baked goods are absolutely wonderful, rich ingredients but beautifully prepared and simple (no layers of hazelnut puree and raspberry filling everywhere like most places). Why less than 5 stars? Because this place has the most surly service and rude, uptight customers of anywhere in Cambridge. And it's been this way for years. You have to really want to buy something there to put up with it.
(3)
Jon W.
I go here occasionally. Mostly for the convenience, because I'm sometimes in that neighborhood. The sandwiches are good, but hugely overpriced. And be prepared to pay in more ways than one. The lines are long. The counter staff all look like they hate their jobs. I'm just waiting for them to spit on someone in disgust. All the soccer moms are so engrossed in trading stories of their kids that they don't even notice you're about to trip over their baby carriages haphazardly blocking the aisles. I don't know why I go here. I guess I'm a masochist.
(3)
John T.
#22 nat queen cool -- my all-time favourite sandwich. i used to drive up from Jersey to visit friends, and this would be my first stop. all the baked goods are top-notch. love the vanilla bean cake. soups and stews are standouts too. i dock them a star because it's difficult to get a seat on weekend mornings. they seem to let people linger at tables reading the paper long after they finish their meals. oh, the prices border on the stratospheric too.
(4)
Ryan B.
The rice crispy treat is one of my favorite deserts on this earth. My struggle is common amongst the other reviewers. The wait /counter staff can be rude and cold. Pricey high end products saturate the menu but do have great quality and are delicious. It is not a great value but if you crave a fresh gourmet sandwich and swank desert hit it up!
(3)
C S.
I love to come here during the summer to get their fresh limeade-- it tastes just like a virgin margarita! And their Cuban sandwich, although pricey, is huge and greasy and soooo yummy. They'd get 5 stars if their staff wasn't so persnickety (my husband refuses to come with me-- he got chewed out for trying to order off the menu once. Jeesh!) .
(4)
shannon m.
I love Hi-Rise, with its expensive sandwiches and hard to get seats at the communal table or cafe tables. It is exactly the type of place I want to meet friends at on a Sunday and enjoy brunch, pick up some fresh bread and after 12pm, some wine.
(4)
evonne w.
the georgia ruben is amazing (though i always stare at the gigantic sandwich blackboard for a minimum of 10 minutes). ok, it costs like $10, but it is pretty huge. mini lemon curd cakes=heaven. breads are yummy...too many to choose from! definitely pricey as hell (actually, their breads and some wines are pretty reasonable), but i do love it here!
(4)
Nichole C.
They take the "rude barrista" to an art form and let me tell you, it is not charming. The servers are consistantly ill-mannered, as you can tell from the zillions of reviews on this, which tells me this is not a case of a single disgruntled counter-person but is obviously a message from management that it is okay to treat customers like dirt. As a Cambridge local I was so embarrassed by the way a group of tourists were treated there yesterday that I actually offered to buy their drinks for them. The barrista half-filled their coffee cup, and when one asked politely if he could please add a bit more, the barrista sneered and replied that that was all the coffee he was going get. I couldn't believe what I'd heard. Between that and the other server yelling at customers for unstacking chairs on the patio - even though it was only 4PM and there was still an hour to go before closing, then being told not to point at the pasteries when ordering because is smears the plastic sneeze guard, my husband and I decided that was it - there are just too many places in the city that serve good coffee and baked goods and manage to do it all - gasp - while making you feel as if they appreciate your business. We'll never go there again.
(1)
Heather B.
I concur with the comments about the staff and the prices. However I must say I had their version of a Cuban here, and while it was not an authentic Cuban, it was one of the best sandwiches I have had in a while. The pork loin was so tender and juicy, the bread toasted (grilled?) to perfection and yummy melted cheese galore. I'm on the fence on how many stars to award, in my case the food weighs out over the service. We also had a really annoying co-customer sitting near us, she was looking at our food, asking us all kind of questions about the menu and interjecting comments and questions into our personal conversation. Really presumptuous and intrusive. Guess that's the risk with communal seating. I was there on a Saturday so it was def open that weekend.
(3)
Susy D.
Wonderful food but yuck service. While I've found the service to be haphazard and lacking friendliness it's never fussed me too much. However, the attitude that I saw on two recent visits was so abysmal that I'm put off going back. The first was a mother with two young children and VERY heavily pregnant who was eating with her family when her little girl said she needed the bathroom. The staff refused to let the girl go, and insisted that the mother would have to pack up her lunch and her two kids, and go to the library a few blocks away. The second was when a group of what seemed like work colleagues bought a big lemon meringue pie for an afternoon coffee meeting. They bought it from Hi-Rise and wanted to eat it there so they asked the staff if they would cut it as there as the paltry plastic forks weren't doing a good job of it. The staff refused. They then asked if they could borrow a knife from the kitchen. Again the staff refused saying that they didn't have anything suitable. This is a bakery for goodness sakes. What do you mean you don't have a knife that will cut a pie??? So sad to see staff thinking that this is okay, and so sad that management does nothing about it.
(2)
Melissa B.
I don't know who is ruder in this place, the staff or the customers. I've tried really hard to like this place because I hear they have good product, but after 4 visits or so, I just can't deal.
(1)
jason v.
We jokingly refer to this place as Hi-Price Bread Company but we really do like their bread. Their sandwiches aren't much to write home about but are better than average. They have a nice selection of wine that runs on the higher side, but some of it you won't find many other places. But the best reason to go there is for the bread. Their raisin pecan loaf and Boston brown bread are amazing and probably the best deals in the house. If you ever try to make them yourself, you'll know why. The babka is a special treat. The punk staff are great if you're a regular.
(3)
Valerie W.
Really tasty sandwiches composed of very interesting ingredient combos (turkey, portobello and asparagus? yes please!) plus the baked goods are so cute! a nice list of drinks too... but why so expensive hi rise?? why??
(3)
Beth F.
Wow. If you like baked goods...and great coffee...this is the place to go. The chocolate molten cake is devine. Sat and Sunday mornings can be crazy.
(4)
Anonymous P.
They're lucky to get 3 stars. Highly inconsistent. Sometimes the chicken sandwich with tapenade and harissa can be dynamite. Other times the chicken is overcooked and there's not nearly enough spread. I don't care about the prices if the food is consistently good.
(3)
Joe R.
Hi-Rise just barely squeeks up to 5 stars in my book because my sandwich was made on (gasp - can it be?) cornbread. Fantastic. The staff were on the surly side, but such arrogance is usually the mark of a fine eatery.
(5)
jenny b.
i've been a hi-rise regular for years and don't know what i'd do without this place. the coffee is fantastic and the food (everything!) is delicious.
(5)
Arik C.
Not bad sandwiches but the bread is fabulous. Never seem ot have much left in the afternoons though. Just as good as Iggy's.
(4)
Jeannie C.
Do they have Chocolate Molton cake? If they do I'll give it a try. The baked goods are good some are very good. Coffee is also very good. But it really isn't anything you couldn't get at Panini's or Carberry's or other bakery cafe's.
(3)
Dan M.
Open on the weekend and is a very great family place. Very fast service but similarly very carefully selected. The oatmeal is great along with their myriads of deserts from cookies to brownies and cakes!
(5)
Denise K.
After having gone to Hi-Rise a couple times, I have to agree with the reviewers who say the service isn't so hot. The girl behind the counter was nice enough, but she never made the drink I ordered and I ended up standing there for 5 minutes, watching her take order after order. I finally had to ask for my drink to be made. The service has been slow everytime I've been there, and it's not always because there's a line. Also, sometimes the people are quite rude and they just don't want to give you the time of day. All that said, I have enjoyed some sandwiches there (grilled pork on corn bread), and I really like their almond danish (marzipan inside!). The bread seems pretty good. I've tried the brioche, corn bread, and pepper parmesan. All pretty nice. Today I went to Iggy's though for the first time, so we'll see if my opinion of their bread changes.
(3)
Anna S.
The sandwiches are good, nothing specially, especially for the extremely high prices. This place is a tad over rated. But the food is good. The service tends to be a bit rude as well. I also broke a tooth on a cranberry cookie of theirs... beware.
(2)
Buzz G.
This place is a must go to for breads, soups, sandwiches, salads, special baked products, etc. Your life is not complete without becoming a regular at Hi-Rise.
(5)
Germain W.
Not worth it. The sandwiches and baked goods were ok. But the prices... WHOAAAaaa... I mean, I just moved from S.F. where things are expensive. But this little shop in Cambridge shocked even me. I mean, come on... $9.50 for a freaking sandwich that consisted of two slices of bread and a sausage with a little mustard?? Give me a break. What are the owners thinking? What a ripoff. The red-haired teenage kid serving us was also a real put off. He had snot running down his face (yes, while serving customers, I kid you not). When he was picking up bread for me I wanted to hand him a tissue and say, "here, use it". Eeeeek. Gross!!! For sure, first and last visit.
(1)
Deepa C.
I love this place. The mixing, kneading, baking frenzy hits you as soon as you walk in. The smell and heat and yeastiess permeates the air, making it thick and swimmy. As you pass the baking section, a bouquet of baked goods preens on the counter: challah, cinnamon loafs, apple pies, pear tarts, wheat breads, burger buns, baguettes, big round loafs, sugar encrusted ones, loafs spotted with herbs and olives, you name it. The coffee is good as well, and they have soup and sandwiches, although I have yet to partake. The prices aren't insane for Cambridge, but not exactly cheap. Also, it can get crowded and there is limited seating. It's not exactly a quiet place to read a paper, but people were doing it. So local beers and good selection of wines, bustling atmosphere and a must visit for anyone who loves bread.
(5)
Nupur L.
Hi-Rise, get over yourself. Your bread is half as good as Iggy's and yet it's almost twice the price or sometimes more than that. For a store that is trying hard to ride the local wave, you can't even give friendly service to the people who have been visiting regularly for weeks (aka ME). Your tip jar is a form of extortion, capitalizing on the eagerness of good-hearted folks who will buy local even at your highway robbery prices. Also, your tarts suck. I was really excited for a while, laboring under the perception that I may be actually developing a relationship with the surly old hipsters who work behind the counter. Then we walked in at 7:34 one Monday evening and asked if we could have sandwiches. The sandwich service ends at 7:30. I buy local so that I can actually get decent service. Note that I'm not even asking for friendliness here. I thought it was entirely reasonable that they could make a sandwich at 7:34. I would have cut them slack if it had been 7:40, even. No. We had to buy their entrees or leave. To add insult to injury, the woman at the counter chirruped "No sandwiches, but we have SOUP!" Right, the same gazpacho that they have been peddling for weeks. I'm now done with Hi-Rise. The sandwiches don't taste that good after they leave holes in your wallet and heart.
(2)
P. J.
I went to Hi-Rise this afternoon. I had not been there in over a year. The prices, which had been high before, were even more outrageous, but my sandwich was excellent. Almost worth the $12. Several recent reviewers complained about the rude staff, but I must have gotten lucky: the young woman who took my order was cheerful and polite. What I found off-putting was the woman breast-feeding her baby in a very in-your-face "Look at me! Aren't I hip?" way. Another reviewer mentioned the annoying "boho" Cambridge mommies who frequent this place. Agreed: I recommend getting your sandwich or brownie to go.
(2)
Stephanie F.
I don't know why everyone had such a bad experience with the service. I guess I haven't had the bad experience yet. Anywho, the only useful thing you can get out of my review are the soups. The soups = tasty. The lentil soup was delicious; there were bits of parsley or cilantro (one of the fresh green herbs) that entertained my tongue. The bread to go along with it = fresh. I've been here when it was sort of crowded and when I was able to sit at the long lunch table without being elbow to elbow to anyone (this was on a Friday afternoon at about 4pm). I bought a sandwich for my boyfriend here, I can't remember what the name of it was, but it had an ingredient that I knew he didn't like but I knew I liked and surprisingly he didn't realize that dislikable ingredient was in his sandwich until I told him half-way through. I guess it goes to show that they know how to make their sandwiches! But I know this was only one sandwich... On the other hand, it was sort of overpriced... I would like to try some of their baked goods and local wines.
(4)
Steve L.
I think they have everyone you want from a bakery, whether you get their breads and pastries or sit down for one of the sandwiches. For me, some of the sandwiches don't actually hold together -- say the grilled portabello and asparagus -- the asparagus keeps rolling away. Or, the grilled cheese -- delicious individual ingredients, but the balance between the bread, cheese, mustard, pepper -- not that zen status that a perfect sandwich should have. Regardless, you won't get anything bland or sub-par here. Oh, and I never noticed any bad service.
(4)
Amy H.
good sandwiches. cute room to sit in and eat your sandwich. Bad attitude staff. overpriced. Here's a tip, go across the street to Sarah's and order a BLT. Cheaper, faster, and less eye rolling from those taking your order.
(3)
Thomas T.
Great coffee, bread, sandwiches and wine in a nice, phone free atmosphere. The service can be snotty or some of the nicest people ever, the staff definitely has their favorites and it varies from employee to employee. Prices are not cheap, but the hi riser egg sandwich and a large latte on a Saturday morning is close to heaven. Dinners are not bad either, the caramelized onions that come with the roast chicken are outstanding. Despite generally high prices the wine is affordable, especially the box of 6 mixed bottles which is consistently excellent. A bottle of wine and a loaf of bread in the afternoon makes for a great evening. Beware they are not open late.
(4)
Leo L.
Yes, the seating is lousy. And the sandwiches are expensive (but not much more than the other high end sandwich places like All Star or Parish Cafe). But they make the bread themselves. They roast the pork for the Cuban sandwiches (called the Havana Heaven, my favorite) themselves. They haven't disappointed once (OK, maybe once, when they took the Havana Heaven off the menu). Haters, just try the Fern's Problem Solver (real slices of roast turkey, yes, which they roasted themselves, with avocado) and tell me you can find a better sandwich in Greater Boston. I dare you.
(5)
Jared K.
Stopped by the Harvard Square location yesterday. Had a chocolate dipped coconut macaroon. It was pretty darn good! I know that they're well know for their breads and baked goods but they had a loaf of cake/bread for sale on the counter that costs $14. Really? Don't you think that's a little excessive? Whether or not it tastes amazing and the laborious process that goes into baking, $14 is just a little too much for me.
(3)
Ilona M.
Hi-Rise is as good as it gets. I've been going here since the place opened, and I've been a loyal customer from the beginning. Yes, the prices are (extremely, especially for a student) steep, but the occasional visit (i.e. whenever I can go) makes a worthwhile treat. The people at the counter are sometimes a bit short with customers, but the ones that have worked there the longest are generally really nice. I recommend everything here--the bread is excellent (but--be warned--very buttery), especially the potato bread. Also great are their sandwiches and soups, coffee (but the harvard square one makes much much better), and jams. Seating can be hard to find, but if you can find a corner they don't mind if you loiter a bit after you've finished.
(5)
Kerri O.
I'm giving these guys a terrific rating, because they make Brown Bread, in a Coffee Can. How old school! Actually, they do have a great bread selection. I've had soup there, and pastries, and loved them. I'm too cheap to spend $10 for a sammich, so I won't complain about the price; I just don't get the dang things there. Great vino selection. The lack of parking is vexing, but normal for Cambridge.
(5)
Robby T.
On a nice day, the shaded patio is great to enjoy some food/drink.....just not those of the Hi-Rise Bread Co. Not only did the "El Presidente" sandwich lack coherent ingredients, it tried to pass off what was essentially salsa for "red pepper pesto". What's more, my roasted tomato quiche would've been great for a hypertensive 80-year old, but I need a lil' salt!...and flavor. When I asked for the flavorless wedge to be heated up, the girl behind the counter denied that they had a microwave or an oven. They're a bakery. I write this off as sub-par food for relatively high prices w/ typical aloof, uninspired Boston service. Is it too much to ask for workers at an indy bakery to...CARE?!?!? This place would go under in one day, if it were operated on the West Coast. I'm willing to be proven wrong, but I'll continue to shoo friends away like flies from a dungpile. BTW, the single star was garnered for decent lemonade and said patio.
(1)
Kristen K.
I don't understand how anyone could give Hi-Rise Bread Company less than five stars. Hi-Rise is phenomenal. I am typing this as I eat a piece of their bread (a Flute loaf, so good) and on the drive home I wolfed down one of their Oreo cookies. I would have liked to savor it slowly, but that didn't happen. Do yourself a favor- ignore the bad reviews where people say the staff is rude. They're not. They're nice people. It's a great spot with communal tables, no cell phones allowed and absurdly good food. I highly recommend them.
(5)
Michelle S.
The bread of course would get 5 stars - it's amazing...and we visited with a Swiss baker, who really knows his stuff. But we also visited with our 5 year old, my husband, and my parents, who proceeded to order chaotically and speak foreign tongues, and immediately got "the look" from the staff, a red-haired girl, and a girl with green glasses. We ignored "the look" (sort of a "would you hurry up, I don't want to be here" look, we thought) and proceeded to buy 7 drinks, several pieces of bread and two entire cakes - we're talking serious $$$. My five year old son proceeded to spill his drink, so we politely requested paper towels, as we sopped up the mess. While there were many of us, we were in no way ornery. Would you think the wait staff would have offered to refill the five year old's drink on the house? FORGET IT. I say Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts all the way. Buy your goods, and eat them at home so you don't get indigestion.
(1)
Marcia W.
Surly experience # 963! I have been shopping here for years and went through a period several years back when I was there weekly. Lately, my visits have been sporadic at best, owing to the customer treatment plan employed by almost everyone who works there. This most recent experience, while not of great enormity in and of itself, has topped off the pile of reasons not to go there. Okay, the food is better than good but the attitude and the 'customer is always wrong' approach ruin the taste. "Can I please have such and such a sandwich on potato bread?" "Let me check" Much checking ensues. "No, you cannot." "Oh, do you have any rice krispie treats?" "No, not anymore." "You ran out of them for today or you don't make them anymore?" "They don't sell well." The sandwich in question, for the record, is one that I have ordered and gotten many times in the past. Not that that really matters. They will not have to deign to serve me again since that was my very last visit. I swear.
(1)
Cat M.
The bread is good, sure, but laughingly expensive. Go to Iggy's for the same quality at a reasonable price. I have enjoyed my sandwiches but only as take-out. There's very little seating in the cafe, people are constantly bumping into you, and you feel very very rushed. They also do not have a bathroom for customers to use, so I couldn't wash my hands before eating a finger food. Ew. I wish Hi Rise were bigger, cheaper, and at least had some Purell. Despite living close by, I'll travel the extra bit to Darwin's for all of those things.
(2)
Ari A.
Yes, there are some tasty things to be had a Hi Rise, and I get it, the bread is supposed to be peasant-y (though sometimes its just hard). But the prices are not. And the service.... well let's just say that you have to be rude to work here. The sandwiches are very good- as they should be for 10 bucks.
(2)
Suz B.
I'd give 5 stars (never eaten or drunk a thing I haven't loved), but the staff is so surly, it hurts me. Ladies, why must you be so unpleasant and superior?
(4)
Fran T.
Got the grilled turkey reuben. It was really good! I was pleasantly surprised they used actual roasted turkey and not that slimey deli turkey. Well done - yay! The bread was awesome too! I'll definitely be back to try their other sandwiches. Got potato leek soup and they threw in a couple chunks of bread - a meal in itself! Leftovers tomorrow. (ps...they don't accept AmEx, but Visa is good)
(5)
Joanna F.
Three stars is for the food alone. I got an excellent, fresh veggie sandwich, my hubby got something resembling a Cuban and I sampled a bite of his very good chocolate chip cookie. However $11 for a veggie sandwich, $3 for a chocolate chip cookie and our order took TWENTY MINUTES even though it was not super busy. Granted, they did warn us it would take that long but HOW? And WHY? Not worth the price, not worth the wait. I'll be at Dave's Fresh Pasta next time I'm craving a sandwich.
(3)
Alexander L.
This place is awesome. All the food is always fresh and tastes awesome. The baked goods are top notch, especially the lemon meringue pie. I always go out of my way to get lunch for my office here and everyone is more than satisfied. They are helpful with accommodations for my large lunch orders i.e. food allergies etc.
(5)
Chloe B.
Hi-Rise is a lovely spot with excellent sweet treats and, from what I hear, great savory breakfast as well. The coffee is good enough and the interior is charming. The communal table nearly always has plenty of room during the week and it's my go to for a pastry and some coffee when I'm nearby.
(4)
Juliet A.
Nom nom nom. Came here with my husband and his family over the Christmas holidays for a quick brunch. There isn't a lot of seating to cater to big groups, but we managed to find room to squeeze all seven of our little tushies into seats. Service was relatively quick despite the Sunday afternoon crowd. All of the baked goods looked amazing, and I settled on a simple chocolate brioche and hot chocolate to fill my tummy. Both were absolutely delish - and the chocolate filling on the inside of the soft and flaky brioche was a nice surprise. My husband loved his egg sandwich so much that he polished it off before I could nab even a nibble, but he assured me it was "really, really tasty."
(4)
Gabriel R.
The first thing you need to know about High-Rise is that everything is very expensive. Cookies are 3 dollars or more and small cakes can exceed 8 dollars. Some of the larger tarts cost over 25 dollars. The Sandwiches are mostly in the 11-15 dollar range but they are quite tasty. The service is solid for the pastries but the sandwiches can take up to 15 minutes even if the line isn't that long. High-Rise is a nice place to sit down and get work done during its quieter hours. This place has a good amount of seats and you almost always can get a free seat since the majority of people get food to go. I have never had something bad from this place and if you go in the morning the bread is very fresh however, expect to spend around 50 dollars if you want to feed your family from this bakery.
(4)
Christine R.
I finally was able to stop in here, after many a morning stood gazing longingly into the window, since they don't open until after I have to be at work. Last night, I kicked off work early and decided to grab a sandwich and a pastry on my way home. I ordered a Georgia Reuben and an iced tea. As this came to over $15, I decided to forgo the pastry. Their menu for showed many wonderful coffee drinks, and I figured it would be good to come back another time for a coffee and a pastry. My Ruben was very, very good. The bread, of course was awesome - the turkey was wonderful - nice hand sliced pieces - flavorful and moist. The coleslaw, obviously made in store - was probably the best I've ever had. No overly mayonnaised, bland cabbage and carrots here! This had a light, tasty dressing with a combination of flavors that melded perfectly and made me want to lick the paper after I was done to get every wonderful drop. The cheese was definitely higher-quality - it had a wonderful bite and a light smoky flavor that set off the turkey perfectly. It was advertised as having Russian dressing - there wasn't any - but that's okay because the sandwich was wonderful as it was. I hadn't taken the time to look at this place up on Yelp, I figured that anywhere that had such wonderful looking bread and baked goods had to be good. Now, reading through - I see that I am not the only one that found their staff condescending and outright rude . After ordering, the gentleman at the bar handed over my iced tea. It had no lid, and I asked if I could please have one since I was taking it to go. He gestured impatiently towards the side of the restaurant - and looking over, I could see that there were plastic lids there. "I'm sorry -" I said - "right in front of me!" And smiled. He didn't respond, and I assumed that he didn't hear me since he appeared to be busy straightening something on the side of the register. Later, when he called me up to get my sandwich - I made a comment on how great the iced tea was. I said that, being from the south, finding a great glass of tea was sure to keep me coming back. I thanked him, smiled and took my sandwich. He looked at me with what I can only describe as a sneer - and said absolutely nothing. I stood there feeling like an absolute fool, until he rolled his eyes, turned and walked off. I just don't get it - why are you working in a customer service industry f you don't like customers? Yes, the food is good - albeit it a bit overpriced - yes you stock some wonderful wines and liquors and your baked goods appear to be heavenly- but you just can't treat people so rudely and expect them to keep coming back.
(2)
Iain T.
Just ordered take out short ribs, the guy said it was the last portion which is fine, but what he meant was: We only have a half portion left, which we will still sell you for full price, because you probably wont find out until you get home. 2 stars because the actual ribs are decent, thought I'll need to get something else after to fill my poor tum. Highrise: You owe me $6.50 for a half portion of ribs.
(2)
Allyson G.
Spinach croc sandwich was yummy. Mocha was fine, but not sweet or milky enough for my taste. Planned to do work there, so was disappointed that there was no wifi, it was really loud and full (granted, it was a Saturday morning), and my cute bench seat was too low to comfortably allow me to type at the table. Sandwiches are ridiculously expensive: the average sandwich is more than $11.00. Lots of families with kids there, which I found charming. I'd come back to chat with a friend for a half hour, but not to be productive or if I was hungry.
(3)
Faye G.
I used to be a regular at Hi-Rise before moving home to the Va. Recently went back to Mass for a visit and had to stop in to grab a few old favorites. Happy to say Hi-Rise has stayed as delicious as I remember. The Service was great, though busy -my friend and I were greeted, placed our order, and received our treats and coffees in no time at all. Lemon Meringue pie is pretty mindblowing, chocolate cake- superb. You really cant go wrong. Expect a bit of a wait during prime hours. Worth every moment.
(4)
Anna C.
Today is National Holocaust Remembrance Day, and I'm celebrating with the only thing I ever get at Hi-Rise -- challah. Their challah is different than most other ones I've had -- it only has a hint of sweetness, which I like. They offer plain or raisin (I've yet to try the raisin one), and it comes in a large loaf for $7 (it's huge!). Happy Challah-Day!
(4)
Garrett D.
Amazing baked goods, pricey but tasty sandwiches, and awful waits for lunch. I lived a block away for several years and visited the place 3 or 4 times for lunch. On a Thursday at 1 p.m. I waited close to 30 minutes for my sandwich to be made. They didn't forget my order - one of the other patrons was waiting even longer! The other times I've been there I've waited over 15 minutes as well.
(3)
Simon P.
A solid three stars! The bread is excellent usually, but the sandwiches and items in the case are hit-or-miss. Considering the high prices, the case items should always be top notch, as should the sandwiches. When in a pinch I'll visit, but normally I'll bypass Hi-Rise until they get more consistently excellent.
(3)
Lauren H.
I have such mixed feelings about this place. Their bread is excellent. Their sandwiches --though pricey -- are also good. But the service is chilly at best, and sometimes downright hostile. The staff makes you feel as if they are doing you a great favor by taking your order. Hi-Rise, I wish I knew how to quit you, but you are directly across the street from my house, and your breakfast sandwiches are a delight. How much of my dignity should I be willing to sacrifice for a quality egg and cheese?
(3)
briana p.
I saw the guy write down "no onions" so why was my sandwich COVERED in onions?!?! Not only are your reviews slipping your service is slipping too. I consider it a treat to go get lunch at Hi Rise especially when I get a cookie and lemonade total cost for lunch was $18?!?! If I pay that much for lunch the least you can do is get the order right?
(2)
Melissa W.
Coffee! Lattes! Steamed milk! Now, with additionally high prices, extra attitude, more foam, less milk (only place I know where "no foam, please" gets met with a sneer and a 12 oz "large" that has 1-2 inches of foam on top...), and a customer gritting her teeth again, vowing to Never Return Again... but the problem is, they're conveniently located across from a place where I have regularly scheduled meetings, and so I more or less have no choice. Grrrr.... I can not, in good conscience, recommend this place. I can recommend their baked goods (yes, the vanilla bean loaf is delicious, and the chocolate cork is about the right size and even a decent price for the product), their "crocs", and their fast-food dinner offerings, which are generously proportioned and tasty. But the (lack of) service is *abysmal*, and I hate-hate-hate giving any of my very hard earned moola to someone who is simply, at heart, *not friendly*. And I do just that every time I give this place any money. Ughh... the conundrum. Thank you, Yelp, for giving me the opportunity to vent.
(2)
Debbie C.
I see a lot of reviews referencing the attitude and the service. But I'm glad I didn't let that stop me from dropping by here yesterday morning. Yes, my waitperson was deadpan at best and in the face of my near-giddiness (I get that way around pastry) it should have been a bit of a downer. But I was prepared for attitude (thanks, yelpers) and ordered up a quiche Lorraine and a cappuccino. Despite the gloom behind the counter, the general vibe among the patrons was friendly and warm. I was able to grab a table by the baking area where I could watch the whole scene while I ate the best quiche Lorraine I have ever tasted: flavorful ham, creamy cheesy center, and flaky crust. The cappuccino was also above average. On balance I prefer a bit of distance in the morning to intrusive warmth. I'll be back - no need to greet me.
(5)
Melissa K.
Over priced, and not enough seating, but good. The sandwiches are enormous, enough for 2 people.
(3)
Jean Luc P.
youtube.com/watch?v=Yqa-… (youtube video) My mouth says yes, my wallet says no. The food here is excellent, too bad I can't afford anything serious. I live close by, so I am always tempted to get a treat here from time to time. Unusually, I would come by for the excellent coffee and lattes, and if I am feeling rich, I would get a cookie or a quiche. It's one of the best quiche I've ever had, it was surprising affordable, like 3.50 slice. The eggs were perfect dense, the ingredient were tasty, with no artificial flavoring. Everything here is made by hand. The few pieces of snacks can really add up though. The place is full for lunch hour and weekends, often there is a line to get in. If you are ever in the area, this a is great place to drop in. If you are a foodie, you would want to make a trip out here.
(5)
Ed G.
The sandwiches and soups are fantastic. The prices are horrible. I can't justify paying $11-$12 for a sandwich. The service is nothing special. Be prepared to wait an awful longtime for your sandwich. I'll be back when someone else is paying the tab and I have a significant amount of time to waste.
(3)
Tamarleigh G.
There are some really good things about this place - mostly, the food! It's very good. The problem is the service. Remember the old rhyme about the little girl with the little curl right in the middle of her forehead -- when she was good, she was very, very good, but when she was bad, she was horrid? The service at Hi-Rise is NEVER "very, very good". It is acceptable at best. At its worst, it's horrid. The staff have no qualms about being rude, about outright lying, about ignoring you, and just generally not doing what they should be doing. Here's an example. I was on my way to my dad's and thought I would pick up a couple of sandwiches for him and me--but I didn't have forever to wait. So I stopped at the Hi-Rise and ordered two sandwiches. Let it be noted that there was NO LINE WHATSOEVER. I walked straight up to the counter and ordered. And then waited. And waited. And waited. Twenty-three minutes later, I finally had the audacity to ask whether the sandwiches would be ready at some point soon. I was told that the kitchen is really busy right now. I said "Well, I've been waiting more than twenty minutes for two cold sandwiches. I'm not even complaining about the wait. But I do think that when there is no line, and therefore no reason for a customer to expect a lengthy wait, you might consider mentioning to the customer that the kitchen is really busy and that the sandwiches will take at least twenty minutes. Had I known it would take this long, I would not have ordered them. Again, I'm not complaining, but just suggesting that it would help your customers to have this kind of information at the ordering point." The aftermath of that one comment (which was delivered politely and in a friendly way - not all snippy and critical the way they apparently took it despite my efforts to be chill) was that the five (yes FIVE) employees who had been literally standing around doing nothing, chatting with one another, suddenly ganged up on me to give me a hard time for being so "impatient". I think waiting 23 minutes before making a polite suggestion is not exactly "impatient". One of them even walked away muttering insults semi-audibly at me, and then when I asked what had just been said, the others milling around blatantly lied to cover their coworker's rudeness. I had been a customer for nearly twenty years. Most of these staff recognized me from that. And did not even act the least bit friendly or understanding. This was far from the first time I'd felt that they didn't give a darn. But this was the last straw. This was about six months ago, and I have not been back, and I have no intention of going back. My big question is: if the darned kitchen is soooooo busy that customers are waiting nearly a half hour for a tunafish sandwich, why the heck are five people standing around doing nothing and yet ready to leap into action to give a long-time customer a hard time? I am DONE. There are plenty of other good places in Cambridge, and I will not continue to support a business when I feel as though the staff is giving us all the finger behind our backs. DONE.
(1)
Meg R.
I went in for the first time today and cannot wait to return. With the open kitchen, the calming ambiance, and the provisions, I am eagerly anticipating a quiet afternoon of tea and reading. I got a loaf of cornbread, two goodies (a cakey brownie and a scone), and a bottle of wine. The baked goods were delicious and quite generous (well worth the cost), and the wine selections are well-priced. There's a 6-bottle sampler for $55 that piqued my interest--I can't wait to try it out! I was also intrigued by their brunch offerings and weeknight take out dinners. To all those negative Nellies--please stop moaning about the service. It was just fine. I sincerely appreciate the cell phone policy--it is clearly posted everywhere, so don't be surprised when people ask you to finish your call before beginning your transaction. Also stop complaining about the prices. They're clearly posted and perfectly in line with their competitors (When Pigs Fly, Iggy's, and Sofra).
(4)
Beth G.
let's see what I love at High Rise.....the pecan scone, lemon meringue pie, pecan pie, corn bread, cookies, stollen bread at the holidays, and I LOVE the potato bread. I could go on and on - but you get the picture.
(5)
Bread Man S.
Service is not good. Manager made us wait outside for 10 minutes, while the door is open on sunday morning. I don't recommend the coffee at all. Good breads.
(1)
Gaunt Z.
I can't comment on the food, because I never received any. The service however is one star. I went in for a sandwich around noon on a Saturday. The place didn't look too busy, and the line at the register was short. 30 minutes later I still didn't have my sandwich, nor did the people who had been in line in front of me. Apparently they decided to put a new person in the kitchen for the Saturday lunch rush, and the results were a disaster. After 45 minutes I left and got a sandwich elsewhere.
(1)
Theresa M.
I could have definitely spent a lot of time and money in this place. Fortunately for my diet and my wallet I did not have a lot of time and I packed a healthy lunch. I treated myself to a chocolate chunk cookie that was superb. They had loads of interesting offerings and tempting treats. I would definitely return again and explore other options.
Sandwiches to write home about. Phenomenal selection. Fresh breads baked on the spot. Charming staff.
(5)
Ryan L.
Pretty much done with this place. I can accept the ridiculously high prices and the long waits for the food, because it's pretty great food. However, the customer service is absolutely miserable. Any day, anytime, any staff member, you can be assured you will receive the worst customer service in Cambridge.
(1)
Cath S.
Rating is for their Concord loaf bread, Lemon curd cake, and Chocolate fallen cake. All of which are perfect. They had made a small size Concord loaf, now they cut the large in half, for the smaller size. Workers very friendly. Outstanding.
(5)
MF B.
Here visiting from the west coast. Surprised to read the bad reviews for service and prices. A half sandwich here is the size of a whole sandwich most other places, costs under $7, and they use very high quality ingredients. Yes, the staff is a little odd but so what? The food is excellent. We went twice - breakfast and lunch. The cappuccino was great. The quiche was phenomenal. My husband had the hargo sandwich (or something like that, the one with short rib) and it was the best sandwich I've ever tasted. Seriously. Outrageous. Would be better with no cheese though. My son had the kid's grilled cheese - great kid sandwich, on challah bread. Cookies were tasty too. I rarely bother to write yelp reviews but this place rocked.
(5)
JF S.
Ouch. $17 for a breakfast sandwich, lg cappuccino and teeny (yet amazingly delicious) sandwich cookie. I will randomly stop here on my way to work every now and then, usually for a little treat and a small capp, and I've never particularly felt the financial punch in the gut before. However, today when I upped to a large beverage and breakfast sandwich I was shocked at the total. Never had a reason to complain about the service - everyone has always been nice enough to me. The food quality is high but so are the prices, which is why this will continue to just be an occasional stop for me.
(3)
Lindsey B.
Can't deal with this place. The baked goods are pretty tasty, but it kills me to pay their prices for little crumb-sized cookie-lets. I've never tried the sandwiches because they cost as much as a nice sit-down lunch at a real restaurant. Top it off with the surly, cooler-than-you'll-ever-be counter staff, and High Rise is a pain in the ass. Good fresh-squeezed orange juice, though, if you're looking to burn five bucks.
(2)
Lauren E.
This place's reputation rests on its bread. But the rest, is kind of blah... The picture you see when you first walk in is promising. But then you get to the counter, try to get some service, and it's no good. But I think we all go because we love the bread. But honestly, it's turning out to NOT be my favorite bread. Sometimes the bread is too hard, so crusty that it's sort of painful to chew. The seeded multi-grain baguette has a funky taste (fennel? anise?). Not something I want to mix with a meal. Now I basically stick to the $4 daily bread, and get my whole grains elsewhere. And the prices are really high. Talk about high rise... But, it's close to home, and that one bread I tend to buy is very good, but I'm now on a quest for another source of local bread.
The vanilla bean loaf here is dense, vanilla-y and addictive. The sandwiches are creative and delicious. The coffee is good. Long lines of Huron Villagers at lunch sometimes irk me, and I wish the place was open later. I try to seek these guys out at the farmers' markets: the homemade jam is spendy, but worth it.
(4)
Rachel E.
So I've only been here once when visiting a friend, but I'm still thinking about that mushroom sandwich 3 months later so I have to give them a good review. It was absolutely delicious!! I wouldn't mind if the prices were ever so slightly less though but now i'm looking mushroom sandwich recipes so maybe their prices are on point.
(4)
Lauren R.
The food and baked goods here are 5 stars. The service is 1. I don't know why, but the people here are SO mean! My husband and I love the breakfast sandwiches but we eat them only when we have mustered up enough courage to brave the bitchy counter staff. We prepare ourselves for their impoliteness, try to be extra sweet to them, abide by there no-cellphone rules, smile and still get a short and nasty reception every time. This last time, my husband walked in, said "good morning" and quickly and efficiently ordered our two sandwiches and two coffees. Blank stare from woman A. Then the woman A walks away with no reply. Woman B approaches, yells out 2 numbers and looks blankly at my husband. He was thrown off because the two numbers couldn't possibly be the cost of his order, so he takes a sec to process that those are the numbers on the menu for the sandwiches that he has ordered. He says, "yes" and she starts keying in the order on the cash register. Then he says, "oh and two coffees". To which she replies "I ALREADY RANG YOU UP" and shoves two free coffees his way even though there was no one else in the store and he had the cash in hand. I've worked as counter staff and I know it gets annoying dealing with customers one after the next, but IT IS YOUR JOB to be nice, or at least not rude. Hi Rise's owners should really do something about this problem. I will say the people at the new Harvard Law School location are a lot nicer than the people at the Fresh Pond location.
(3)
Gina B.
I've been to the location on Massechusetts Ave. twice, and both times, I got what I refer to as "hipster no-service." This is more than just bad service; it's a trend at places that want to give off an exclusive, hipsters-only vibe. The servers or barristas seem bothered by your presence, don't smile, and try to get you away from them before you somehow ruin their American Apparel. I typically don't experience "no-service" in the Boston area, but for whatever reason, it exists at HiRise. They seem to think that the quality food and pretty, skinny barristas will be enough to please customers. The food and coffee are excellent -- I will give them that. The service is not only bad but slow, too. And they require a $10 minimum for a credit/debit card transaction, which I have never seen at a bakery/coffee place before. Add a 50 cent processing fee, go cash-only, be a little nicer about it! There are plenty of other delightful coffee shops and bakeries in Cambridge, where using a credit card is not such a burden.
(2)
Colin F.
If you really want a dose of reality as to your lowly place on the economic ladder, give this place a try. Frequented mainly by trust-fund mamas enjoying idleness and comparing their progeny at most hours, at lunchtime it becomes an absolute zoo of cacophony as loads of people cram in the door, can't find a place to sit down, shout their order over an impossible stack of baked goods and then stand being jostled by the crowd for 20 minutes until the order arrives. Want something other than what's on the menu? Forget it. Service with a smile? Nope. Place to wait while they complete your order? Nope. Place to sit down? Either share a spot on hard wooden benches at the big table in the center of the room, or fight your way through the strollers to a tiny table covered with crumbs. If you're looking for fresh baked goods, try the Iggy's outlet in Cambridge. Much better stuff, at less cost and much less hassle.
(2)
S W.
Service: 4 Food Quality: 5,000,000 Food Price: 3 Mass Ave location Service was great! Maybe because I'm a young person and don't necessarily fit the aesthetic bill of "harvard student" (full disclosure: I'm not one.) They were really nice to me. I had to wait a while for my americano, but that's only because I witnessed some world-class entitlement. Two women cut everyone waiting for a drink (twice) because their drinks were not right. And they were totally rude about it. I get why the barista would not be happy most of the time. (Side note: who returns an americano because there's too much water in it?) Food Quality: My chocolate brioche was amazing. It's been 3 days since I went there and I'm still dreaming about it. Good thing I live close. I don't care if it was a little pricey. Pricing?: I would never buy a sandwich there. 8 dollars for a grilled cheese with glorified jelly on it? I'm a vegetarian and if you're going to charge me eight bucks for some food it better be amazing and there better be a buttload of it.
(4)
Jolene S.
I had awesome service at Hi-Rise today. My waitress (short black hair) put time and energy into stuffing my soup cup and I was so glad that I resisted the urge to save $$$ and just buy pizza for dinner. The turkey gumbo soup had chunks of chicken, a bit of sausage, rice and nice flavor--it came with a side of bread. Since it was in later in the evening, I was able to eat and read in peace. Hi-Rise charges fair prices. I think a lot of the agita that comes out in reviews has to do with the price point and some of the staff (one lady's kind of w*tchy). I agree that $2 for two little cookies is a lot, but Hi-Rise provides hearty, nutritious, and fresh food--soups/sandwiches that are fairly priced given the portion, time, and energy that it takes to make food to order. Look, I can't/won't eat here every day, but if I do come in, I know that the food will be worth it. I'd skip the quiches and pastries for the soups/sandwiches. And for the most part, the staff members are nice (just don't ask to use a debit/credit card on orders under $10).
(4)
allgimbel c.
While the Fern's Problem Solver remains a treat, my experiences with the service here have been routinely poor. My most recent was on Sunday. I ordered a slice of quiche, warmed up. "We don't usually warm the quiche." OK, fine. I'll deal. I order an iced coffee, proffer my credit card for payment. "We usually like customers to spend at least $10 to pay by credit card." I give her my debit card instead. "Actually, debit cards cost us more....," her voice trails off. Enough of this 'service'. So many other places to go and not be made to feel a burden. Onward!
(2)
Lisa W.
Working nearby, we come here a lot to pick up lunch or a loaf of bread to take home. Service: fine bread: great!! I recommend the concord and the huron loaves. I'm still working my way through all the types, but those two are my favorites. I think they're dense and good value, and stays fresh for a week or so. sandwiches: I think they're really good (a bit rich and greasy, hard to eat neatly) but a bit overpriced. ~$12 per sandwich soup: good, they give you two bread ends to go with the soup which makes it filling
(4)
Sarah H.
We came to hi rise because we live nearby and it always looked neat from the outside. However after an extremely disappointing experience, I logged into yelp to see if perhaps I was an isolated incident and could be placated by positive yelp reviews to return another day. What did I find? Vindication. Service is awful, food overpriced but good. The woman who took our order not only got it wrong, she was extremely rude, indifferent and impatient. Also it was our first time there and after I paid for three meals, three drinks she did not even explain where to pick up the food or coffee let alone a thank you. Excuse me for bringing business in and giving you money for overpriced food. If you can stomach the unpleasant service, the breakfast sandwiches were good. She got our order wrong but what saved this from being a one star was that what we ended up eating was good. I'd rather spend my money somewhere else for comparable food and exponentially better experience.
(2)
Johonna C.
Roasted shrimp salad on brioche is pure decadence on slices of heaven! Along with their tangy lemon curd cakes and a gorgeous wine selection, you'd have all the makings for a romantic summer picnic, just sayin'....
(4)
Simon L.
Holly ham croc-a-licious. Italian bred topped with roasted tomatoes, mushrooms and browned gruyere. Wrapped in tin foil and just waiting to be scarfed. Sandwiches here are pretty awesome too. Incredible variety of fresh bread and wine and specialty booze as well. Delicious sesame scali bread purchased still warm. You will not be disappointed - make this place rotational.
(4)
Kunal M.
My ALL-TIME favorite place regardless of cuisine, time of day, location etc.. I go to college in NY these days, but make it a point to stop by Hi-Rise whenever I am back in Boston. I won't give any recommendations as to what to try there because literally everything on their menu is perfect!
(5)
Will R.
Again, the vanilla-bean loaf is what to get. Just don't get the 'Thai Iced Tea'. I got it and it was 'Chai Iced Tea'. When I went to point this out all I got was a lot of attitude and basically 'you are wrong'. Now, as someone who brews their own Thai Tea, I sort of know the difference. I'm not sure the good food makes up for the crappy attitude.
(3)
Allison E.
The coconut orange scones are back! They are highly addictive and extremely good.
(5)
Thomas M.
I'm not a fan of unpleasant service. I wanted to share with the yelp readers some simple data I complied. Of the 151 reviews prior to my current post, 25 reviews contained the word "RUDE". Thats 16.3% of the reviews! Here are some other frequently used words Surly - 10 instances Slow - 5 instances Disinterested - 3 instances Appalling - 2 (1.32% of the reviews). Shocked was used 4 times but one person was 'shocked' that so many reviews were negative.
I've tried it a couple times now, and really, just no. The prices are entirely too high (basically all the sandwiches are over $10), and the baked goods I have had have always been dry and unflavorful. I'll go elsewhere.
(2)
Emily C.
I order a sandwich that includes avocado as a main ingredient. I am told they are out of avocado and they ask if I would l like something else on the sandwich - sure, how about cheese I say. The server asks me what kind of cheese and rings me up. I asked for a receipt and after reviewing it later I find out that they actually charged me extra for cheese. What?!?! That is some seriously terrible customer service. Go elsewhere.
(2)
Chronic C.
I wrote off Hi-rise a while ago. The superb food was not worth the price tag. I'm not talking money, I'm talking vibe. The bad attitude of the staff soils the experience every time. I should feel better when I leave my local coffee shop and bakery with yummies in hand, not worse. I stick with formaggios where the warmth of the staff matches the warmth of my coffee. Works for me cause I just take it black. If you want more complex drinks and breakfast sandwiches I recommend Simons on mass ave.
(2)
Drew B.
I don't know who makes a de facto redeye with steamed milk, but I'll tell you right now I don't like it one bit. You know, Hi-Rise has some tasty baked items - I will give them that - but I've always found a certain arrogance from the staff there. This afternoon's encounter has put me at the tipping point. See, a redeye is a simple drink to make - it's coffee with a shot of espresso, done. Well that's not trendy enough for Hi-Rise so if you go there and order one they will put steamed milk in your drink, without even asking. And you know what frustrates me? That generally when an establishment cares about its customers they'll make your purchase right at no extra cost, but not Hi-Rise. Instead they maintained that because their definition of a redeye was printed on their board, they weren't accountable for making it incorrectly - I the customer made the mistake! Seriously?! It's no secret that Hi-Rise's prices are excessive and generally the quality you get makes it worth it. So you'd think pouring a fresh cup of coffee and an espresso shot sans dairy wouldn't be a lot to ask for. Until Hi-Rise loses the arrogant act and starts treating its customers like reasonable people, I'll be happy spending my money elsewhere.
(1)
Tatsu I.
Would you like to know why my clothes smell like Baked Serotonin a lá Michelin star kitchen? Saturday, 8:26AM "Ugh, Sleep Hangover. Hey, can I get the 50 three-egg omelet with #00FF00 pepprs, Canada's best chedd, #FF0000 onion, avo, tomato, mustard, but with Concord Whole Wheat instead of Semolina, still grilled?" "Sure, anything else?" "Um, Big Coffee. Plz." Sunday, 1:00PM "Ugh, Hangover! Hey, can I get a 51, 1/4# of Spence smoked salmon, capers, #FF0000 onion, tarragon mayo, and iceberg on toasted Corn Bread? Eh, maybe I'll try it on Brioche today. And a 'plus fort' Krazy Kap, extra shot?" "Brioche, check. 3 shots, uh huh. For here?" "Um, Yeah." Monday, 10:06AM "Ugh, I'm late." *Sidestep sidestep* "Cheddar Snail, this Rosted Leek Quiche, and a coffee." "Large or Small?" "To go." "Lrg or Sm?" "To go. No, sorry, large! No bag either. Um, to go...?" "Excuse me?" Tuesday, 2:22PM "What would you like?" "Ugh, sleep. Hey, can I can I, get get a pint-sized Potato Carrot Leek soup only 3/5's of the way up with extra chives on top and a Potato Brd Roll if you have any?" "I'll check. What is three-fifths??" "Um, yea, like not *too* full, so I can mix in cracked #000000 pepper." "Next person, can I take your order!?" Wednesday, 6:00PM "Have you been helped?" "Um, hey! How bout a number 6 El Presidente, no chick'n, sub that silky hmmd hummus instead of grill chickn, harissa!, #000000 olive spread, to-mates, onion on Concord, grilled?" "Mmmm, sounds good! I do the same! Anything else?" "Yes, Irish Breakfast Tea with a Lemon Slice." Thursday, 7:36PM "What's this? Ohh, Guy's new '06 Mercerey Pinot Noir, oui oui, plus a few pats of Plugra s'il te plait, for that Irish Soda Bread special. And the Olive Loaf. Oh, any coffee left?" "Coffee, yes. Bakery closes at 8 you know." "Really?!" "Tatsu, how long have you been coming here? Ugh, Take home dinner, instead. We have 2 Chicken Pot Pies left, or 1 Grilled Steak Tip Roasted Potties and shrooms + Swiss Chard left." "Nah child, still vege, still strong!" *V Sign* Friday, All Day (2) 60-watt batteries, running on single core (CPU1), no BT, no LCD backlight, face the window, reading off reversed (ctrl-opt-cmd-8) liquid crystal type on a overcast day. "Anyway, so I have this Picnic tomorrow, give me box of every cookie and sweet thing you got!" "Ok, but what do you want?" "Oh I know exactly. *Dreams of future*
(5)
Maiya S.
WHY ARE YOU PEOPLE SO GDDAMN RUDE? This used to be my favorite place in the neighborhood, when I lived here almost 3 years ago. Having just moved back, I was totally excited to eat here again. But then today's experience just left me speechless. I wish the spoiled bratty staff were openly hostile, so I could just be rude right back. But it's a kind of rudeness you don't catch onto right away. It's only after you walk away from the counter, you realize that you were disrespected. (The black haired girl with pigtails is the only nice one there. The asian guy needs to be sacked.) Oh, yeah, and just in case you wanted to stay awhile, the place even doesn't have bathrooms. Gonna have to make delicious meringues myself, because I'm never coming here again.
(1)
Amy J.
I have to say first that I did indeed walk through the doors of BOTH Hi-Rise bread shops today poised and ready to be treated unkindly. I found nothing of the caliber I expected. I observed a couple of quiet kids along with pretty friendly people. I got the vibe that some of them were simply shy or modest, but no one was rude. SECOND, and most importantly, the sandwiches, the bread, and the coffee are to die for. We drove down from New Hampshire, on yet another quest over the last year or so for great artisinal bread - and Hi-Rise wins the prize. It's 10:30 at night and I just ate probably 500 calories worth of little pieces that I kept getting up and saying "one more little piece"... It's just that good. Sandwiches - we tried the Cuban chicken, the Curried chicken with mango chutney, a #21 egg/bacon sandwich, and the kid's peanut butter, honey & banana on Challah. All were terrific. My only regret was not asking for the curried chicken and the kid's sandwich to be toasted or grilled. The product would be well worth some rude employees if there were any - I think the reputation on here is definitely inflated. Treat THEM with respect and see what happens. That's what we did!
(5)
Jennifer N.
Yes, the sandwiches are overpriced. Of course they are. But some of them are also really, really good (like Grace's Newest Nanny... delicious! And there are a fair number of veggie options which is also a real plus). The sweets are also overpriced, but delicious. The vanilla bean loaf is to die for, the chocolate chip cookies are filled with huge enormous bittersweet chocolate chunks, the banana bread is also amazing. And the soups... did I mention the soups?! Yummy. So yes, I open my wallet time and time again for this hi-priced place. Downside: the staff IS very rude. Well, on a good day, they are brusque. On a bad day, they are flat out rude.
(4)
Sarah G.
I live in the neighborhood and they have some really good bread. It is overall overpriced but that would be okay if the staff would at least be nice. Especially the girls are rude, unfriendly and not accommodating at all. You always have the feeling you are bugging them with your order. bad, bad, bad...
(2)
Katie R.
When I moved into Huron Village, I knew that walking by High Rise every day would help me attain a sort of inner balance. That is, the balance of a shrinking wallet and expanding waistline. The food is good enough to keep you coming back for more, especially if you're a carbohydrate junkie like yours truly. Pies? Meringues? Delicious breads? Brioche? Tarts? The list goes on. The sandwiches are really just a touch out of my price range. $10.25 for a sandwich? Maybe if I've got friends to impress or someone to split the bill with me, but thankfully these high prices have made it easy for me to resist stopping here on a daily basis. Because after a sandwich, a little something-something from the pastry counter, and a lovely espresso drink, we're looking at a $20 lunch. And this girl's not made of money, you know. Come here for brunch with your favorite folks. You can watch the bread being made, and if you're lucky you can score a private table so you don't have to be overrun by the elite masses of West Cambridge who actually *can* afford to eat here regularly. The waitstaff is (are?) super friendly, and even though the "No Cell Phone" signs bug me a bit, someone yapping on their phone in such close quarters would probably bug me more. Fresh, wholesome, delicious, feel-good food. Depression-inducing prices. Balance - you see?
(4)
Sarah M.
I've been to Hi-Rise dozens of times over the past four or five years. I'm not local but its a quick drive down Rt 2 so I'll hit up Hi-Rise when I make my trip to Formaggio which is just around the corner. I can definitely see what people are saying about the service. The servers all act like they're doing you a bit of a favor by taking your order and getting your bread. Not usually outright rude, but no real effort to be friendly. I've never ordered anything complicated so I can't comment on the competency but the general lack of interest and the annoyed vibe is well, annoying. I asked the cashier (this past Sunday), when the website was going to be up. Her response was, "whenever, your total is $8.50." Not exactly a friendly reply. The food is great and yes, VERY overpriced. The prices of all the sandwiches hover around $9-12 and that always seems to be just a bit shocking. The sandwiches look really big but most of the size goes to the very generous size of the slices of the bread. All of the bread offerings are awesome. I'm not too crazy about the other baked goods like cookies and brownies. For $3, that medium sized chocolate chip cookie better blow my mind and it definitely does not. I would recommend buying your bread here and then walking around the corner to Formaggio for their daily sandwich specials which usually top out at $8 and the staff all falls all over themselves to help you and make you feel welcome. And credit cards are accepted for $10+ orders which really isn't that hard to do here. Hasn't anyone told them that its against VS/MC service agreements to require minimums on credit card purchases??
(2)
Lisa M. K.
Ok, down to 2 stars. I am trying to keep it local but I have probably visited HRBC for the last time. Asked if they'd make me a London Fog. They make them all over Cambridge. Starbucks sells them (I have heard). Employee said dubiously, "what's in it again". I told him the THREE very standard ingredients. He tells barrista. Barrista sneers, scoffs and rolls his eyes - all very obviously so I'd see him do so. Rude. Rather pathetic to think a simple tea drink is exotic and mock-worthy. At this point I am not even offended from a customer service standpoint but from a coffee shop standpoint. Shops shouldn't sell coffee/tea if they can't handle it and think they are above such things.
(2)
Liz H.
The service here is laughably bad. In fact, on the rare occasion that I brave being sassed to death while ordering a freaking sandwich, I have to laugh to keep from completely losing it. That being said, the food (BREAD om nom nom) is good- You get what you pay for. Don't waste your time on their meal bowls or whatever they're called- Just go for the starchy deliciousness that keeps this place thriving. It definitely isn't the service, that's for sure.
(3)
Alyne W.
Unfortunately the cons outweigh the pros at this establishment...the service is the worst I have ever experienced. We stopped by late last week and ordered the Vanilla Bean Slice which we loved. We thought the service clerk was just having a bad day so yeasterday when we had a craving for the vanilla bean slice we didn't think much of going back. MISTAKE! Whoever owns/manages this place needs to really rethink how they train their employees. Its hard to imagine that everyone in there is miserable all the time but my guess is the Top must not be too happy. Employees attitudes are usually indicitive of their superiors attitude. You guys have a great product, a wonderful space but gotta do something about the energy of the place. Oh and make sure you have cash if you are spending less than $10 if you decide to go and there is no sign that says so just a rude gal without a smile.
(2)
Deb L.
The sandwiches and baked goods are out of this world. I think it's the #4 that I usually get - grilled chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato on corn bread. Mouth watering as I write this. Love the cookie sandwiches (their own version of the oreo), vanilla pound cake, italian sodas - it's all delicious. Disclaimer that it's easy to pay $20 for a sandwich and a few cookies, but I would say all day it's worth it. If I could give 1 recommendation to management - how about a pickle with the sandwich and start selling some gourmet bags of chips? that woud be amazing!
(5)
zul c.
If you're ever in Cambridge and want a semi-overpriced (perhaps its because it's in Cambridge) sandwich, head over to Hi-Rise! There's a Sin Lover Sandwich (the name could be wrong), but it has Nutella and chocolate on a brioche, and it is sugar coma delicious! The other sandwiches are good in their own respect as well. The service was okay, not very friendly unless you were a regular. I would go back here for sure if I was in the area, but probably wouldn't go out of my way.
(2)
Jules V.
This place was recommended by a friend so I was excited to check it out this past weekend. I toyed between 2 and 3 stars. My boyfriend and I went in around 215 this past Sunday. (They close at 3pm on Sundays) so we had plenty of time to order some sandwiches and sit and eat. The food (once we finally received it) was delicious. Fresh, flavorful and just what we were craving. Tons of choices and something on the menu for everyone. I have to agree with the other reviews that the service was not great. Although we did not have a speciific bad experience, we were clearly together ordering our sandwiches and when mine came out shortly after ordering, my BF's didn't come out until I was almost done. It took a very long time with not many people there at the time. Word of advice: they should shut their kitchen down an hour earlier than their closing time to allow people looking for only baked goods and coffee to buy. I had a hard time watching many people get turned away with all of us sitting inside still finishing up our lunches. Especially when the fresh baked goods are probably going to get thrown away at the end of the day anyway. All in all, delicious food just needs to work on their service to customers. A smile would be nice! You work in a delicious bakery! What could be better??
(3)
Thomas I.
I've been to Hi-Rise twice. Both times the baked goods that I purchased were fantastic (blueberry-lime bread and vanilla loaf). The coffee was wonderful. The employees were friendly to me. There is a $10 minimum on debit card purchases. The last time I went in the lady in front of me got really upset at the guy that was working because of the minimum on debit card purchases. The employee kept a cool head and just shrugged it off. I thought that he handled it really well, which is a sign of good customer service (in my opinion).
(5)
Barbara J S.
i was a regular lunch/dinner for 20 years. in that time there were only two nice servers. food is great, but hi rise is hi price with absolute rudeness among staff. i still go now and again for a take out half sandwich, but forget about hi rise and walk across to sarah's market for breakfast, lunch and dinner. barbaras
(2)
Yes P.
I have only been here once, while visiting Cambridge. I will definitely go back the next time I'm in town. I ordered an egg/spinach/fancy cheese breakfast sandwich. It was huge and absolutely delicious. I am an egg sandwich addict, and order them often. A common issue I have with my addiction is that my egg sandwiches/eggwiches/muffinwiches are sometimes too small, or too dry. NOT the case here! Gigantor and moisture balanced. The bread which cradled the eggs was bakery good and toasted to perfection. Why no 5 stars? One of the friends I was with failed to order the egg sandwich, and instead was stuck with yogurt parfait. He didn't finish it, claiming the fruit did not taste fresh and as a whole it was not that great. Also, it would be nice if the menu included more vegetarian options.
(4)
Tim P.
On a fence about this place; they bake awesome bread but staff has a bad entitled vibe about them and there are hipsters cutting in line. Ain't cheap, either - 2 sandwiches + coffee = $30 and change.
(3)
M. S.
The prices are ridiculously high and the service is consistently rude and slow. When I asked for coffee with a shot of espresso added the woman behind the counter said, "We don't recommend that." When I realized that this meant they wouldn't even make it, I asked why it wasn't recommended. She referred me to the barista who said, "We just don't recommend it." When I had the audacity to ask why again she said it was because the different types of coffee don't mix. Then she ended the discussion by saying "It's not on the menu." I ordered a coffee with a shot of espresso on the side, combined them myself and guess what? It tasted like coffee with espresso in it, which is what I expected from any red-eye anywhere. Life is too short to feel crummy: the next time I want a cup of coffee I'll go to Starbucks across the street where at the very least I can get civil service and feel better after I've purchased something instead of being chided and feeling worse.
(1)
Naomi U.
July 2010 Just to be clear, the "service" here is as surly as it ever was
(1)
Oliver P.
I wanted to post a quick update. Within hours of my initial post, the owners of Hi Rise contacted me with a thoughtful, heartfelt apology. They are a local family with a baby and are very eager to ensure Hi Rise is a welcoming place for all. The owner's wife noted they have been working on customer service for some time, and it seems they are now redoubling their efforts on that front. As I have trouble going more than a few days without a cheddar snail, I for one am willing to give them another try...
(3)
Sara G.
I have to admit, I read the previous reviews and entered the store in a bit of a defense mode, ready to battle off snooty little hipster workers. Well, pretty much, they are. But whatever, I ordered a small loaf of Concord bread, which was tasty and picked up some wine. But the overall "vibe" of the staff didn't sit particularly well with me. I lucked out on a street parking spot, but, in general parking here is a bear. I might return, might not.
(2)
Matt K.
I guess I'm just not sure how this place could be rated lower than a 5-4. It just won best cookie in the Best of Boston, which was well deserved because they are fantastic, and the sandwiches are all so original and on freshly baked bread. Try the Nat Queen Cool - pulled pork, avocado, cilantro, tomatoes - just genuine goodness. The sandwiches are a little bit on the pricey side, but they are huge, and can serve as more than one meal if you like - not for me of course. Highly recommended as a solid lunch spot.
(5)
Alex V.
Above average sandwich shop. Great food and atmosphere.
(4)
Ashlee C.
This place can kiss my freakin' keister! Let's start with the vibe. The folks at Hi-Price, errr, I mean Hi-Rise, make you feel like they're doing you some sort of grand favor for selling you their wares. The employees suffer from what I like to call, "Cambridge syndrome". They have an air of superiority about them when you ask a simple question or make a request. They are wildly inefficient, slow, and not very friendly. Essentially, they're amongst the worst counter help you will find in this immediate area. On to the food. They offer a myriad of sandwiches, breads, and baked goods if you are willing to shell out the casheesh. Sandwiches are about 9-10 dollars each and a cinnamon roll came to nearly 3 dollars. The breads and pastries are all fresh daily, but really, with the lousy counter help and plethora of new mommies pushing their oversized strollers around, I just can't deal. Maybe I'm not sophisticated enough for Hi-Rise, I don't know what it is, but me and this place just don't jibe. There are so many cafes in Cambridge with friendly staff and fresh baked goods, that I see no reason to suffer through the aggravation at Hi-Rise.
(2)
Sandra V.
I'd actually say 3.5 stars, 'cause I'm a bit waffle-y about this one. I'd read some Yelp reviews before going, so I was forewarned about the poor service, etc. However, in my two times of going, I only got bad service one time--I was in line behind my friend to order, and once she moved away to pay, the barista behind the counter looked at me ... beat ... and then asked, "do you need help with something?" I mean, well yeah, I'd like to order. Why else would I be standing here? Anyway, aside from that, I thought the coffee beverages were acceptable caffeine delivery devices and the Hi Riser sandwich I ordered was tasty and satisfying. The only disappointing thing was the homemade Oreo sandwich cookie. I was expecting something more along the lines of a whoopie pie, but when I bit into it, all I tasted was sugar. No chocolate, no cream filling, just sugar. Ack! Avoid that one, even though it looks cute and tasty--it isn't.
(3)
JLH ..
wow, I was shocked to find out i was not allowed to alter my sandwich whatsoever because "we know what we're doing and we design our sandwiches a specific way" hmm, ok....could i please add hummus to my sandwich at least? "No, that would taste bad". Really??? I mean, it's MY sandwich and I plan on paying you money to make me what I want, so why such resistance? And then, to top it all off, the sandwich sucked and was so bland. I felt extremely uncomfortable in this place and I felt everyone working there was judging me which is something I never feel. Who do these people think they are? get the sticks out of your bums.
(2)
David P.
3.5 stars. Good to very good sandwiches (#18 and #22 both pulled pork sandwiches...#22 better) and good bread especially the olive bread. Kinda pricey but it's a small local business.
(3)
Laura C.
I have to agree with Melissa, this guy has just opened Bartlett Square in JP and today they had a "soft opening" I received a text from my boyfriendthis morning that they would be giving away free food all day until 7pm. They have had their son outside selling four flavors of ice cream and beverages all week and we have been dying to try some real food from there. I grab a friend and head over for lunch only to be told that they are closed-we missed lunch but will re-open from 5-7 and will be serving free dinner. We are told this by their son. So we decide to kill two hours and come back, there are many tables of people sitting on the patio-they all leave. We see people go up to the door at 5 and they are told they will open to serve ice cream in about ten minutes. I ask him if they are serving dinner and he says no,just ice cream. I tell him I was told by his son they were serving dinner from 5-7 and he glares at me and says 'he was mistaken!" Some soft opening and way to treat potential customers, guess he hasn't gotten the memo that JP is a people friendly place!!
(2)
Sonja W.
I don't like the service, I don't like the prices, I don't like the ambiance, but I love their sandwiches! When I lived in Huron Village, I always trekked to Hi-Rise during snow storms because I didn't have to work. Even though Hi-Rise is on the pricey side, it was worth it once and awhile. Great Green Eggs and Ham breakfast sandwich and I enjoy the gourmet grilled cheese sandwich with bacon.
(3)
Ye P.
Great sandwich, sometimes good coffee. Highly recommend the Nat Queen Cool
(4)
Penelope T.
I love this place. The bread is amazing. The baked goods are so right-on. Their seasonal cupcakes are the best cupcakes I have ever had and you can't eat one in a single sitting- they are so rich. The almond cake is my favorite cake ever; it has pieces of marizipan in it and it is oh so amazing. The baked goods are not too sweet, they are always just right and taste like high quality ingredients were used. I am not that big of a fan of the sandwiches and they are way overpriced for what you get. I realize that I am eating ten sticks of butter per visit, but I can't and don't want to stop.
(4)
N M.
I am a huge fan of Acme bread company in the bay area, and I've been looking for something that matches it on the east coast. This place is somewhat like that, but let me explain. They make their own bread, and the quality of the bread is pretty good. They don't have a lot of variety in the kinds of breads they make - but that's alright. The ambience and the staff are quite warm and welcoming. The smell of fresh bread wafts through the entire space. I got a salmon sandwich for breakfast, and it was perfectly done. It was delicious. The house coffee is also quite decent. If I lived in Cambridge, I would probably frequent this place. I guess it's on the pricey side (especially if you compare to Acme, which I mentioned earlier) - but considering that it's a unique place in an area where such bread companies aren't easy to find, I can ignore the price tag.
(4)
Tamar A.
Three stars are a deceptive mean. Some elements here are fantastic. Some are incredibly unpleasant. They don't cancel each other out. You pay a one-star price for a four-star sandwich. You wait in an incredibly awkward one-star line for a five-star loaf of bread. You co-mingle with rather rude two-star Harvard faculty to collectively inhale a delightful four-star bakery scent. And so it goes. Let me put it this way: I've only been here a few times, yet with every time I leave feeling inundated with BUT. The space is high and roomy, BUT way too cramped to be a cafe--there's never enough seating, and it's impossible to browse the colorful menu board without either backing into the dead-center picnic table or being asked at least five times if I'm in line. The sandwiches are fresh, on soft tasty bread and made with "real" ingredients (not a nitrate to be found in my turkey breast), BUT, as it has been mentioned, truly, ridiculously overpriced. And the Mr. and Mrs. Snob (the name of the sandwich, not the couple standing in line in front of me, HAR HAR!) mysteriously gave me a bellyache. Their high holiday challahs are outstanding, BUT...nothing. They're rad.
(3)
Joel P.
Phenomenal sandwiches. Best in Boston. The bread is also excellent, as are the wine 6-packs. But Pastry/cookie selection is weak for a bakery. It takes unreasonably long to get a sandwich. And the seating arrangements are downright silly considering how popular it is.
(4)
Kelly M.
Hi Rise... you are an enigma. You make delicious, delicious baked goods. You make really respectably good coffee, most of the time. You have a pretty staggering selection of unique, reasonably-priced wines. You roast totally excellent chickens at 6 pm, and include a thoughtful little container of roasted onions or gravy with each chicken (seriously, I will never ever buy a grocery store rotisserie chicken again after this discovery... thanks, Yelp)! You are also a real chore to visit, for the most part. I'm OK with the no cell phones policy; that's a reasonable request in a neighborhood cafe. And a $10 credit card minimum is quickly learned. The cobblestone/river rock/pea gravel/boulder floor means none of the tables and benches sit quietly or steadily for guests -- I'm not convinced this is not on purpose, but it's not going to stop me from visiting. The serious attitude, though, from a couple of the front-of-house staff members is one of the most off-putting things about you, Hi Rise. Everyone in the kitchen/bakery area is smiling and seems to be having a great time -- and really, how could they not, hip-deep in butter, cheese, vanilla, cocoa powder, and various other awesomeness -- so why is it that a couple of the people helping the guests are often so unpleasant? I'm not asking for some kind of creepy fake sunshine attitude 24/7, but maybe just... turn to face the wall before you roll your eyes at my request for an end slice of vanilla bean loaf? That's all I'm asking. I bring out-of-town guests here for two reasons: 1. a spinach croc and an Americano, and 2. to fully appreciate the "experience." I won't stop smiling at you, like a parent trying to remind a petulant child that really, it's not all THAT bad, if you promise never to stop making the roasted chickens and the poppyseed coffee cake.
(4)
Benjamin B.
Eating at high-rise is like negotiating with Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. There is a clear payoff but do not expect to come away unscathed. You will be belittled, made to feel unwelcome and will certainly come away with less than you expected for your efforts. The upside to all of this is that if you are patient you will have the pleasure of paying $12 for a sandwich... or $6 for a cup of fruit.... or $6 for a small breakfast sandwich. I have stood in line staring at the a member of the counter staff for upwards of three minutes before being served, only to be greeted with an aloof "have you been helped yet?". Generally this is followed by an equally long wait at the register as the counter staff talks, stands idly or is generally confused what to do to remedy the growing line. My wife and I typically have an argument over who has to walk to high-rise and suffer the aforementioned indignities just so we can enjoy some really fine baked goods. I guess the bottom line is that one of us always ends up going regardless, but I really wish they made the decision easier.
(2)
Alexandra F.
Walked here in a snow storm with my sister, a Cambridge resident and got a sandwich, lemonade and macaroons. At her house she had challah she'd gotten the night before. The bread is amazing! The lemonade is fantastic! THE MACAROONS!!!!!!! ARE OUT OF THIS WORLD!!!!! Yes, there is hardly anywhere to sit and the service is a little slow, but everything is homemade! I had no problems at all with the staff, but I was visiting from D.C. where EVERYONE is rude. I really don't think you can say the sandwiches are expensive because I would be hard-pressed to eat an entire sandwich alone. My sister and I shared an $11.00 sandwich (which I can't remember the name of; it was a vegetarian selection with slaw, cucumbers and avocado), so it was actually very reasonable. If I didn't have a companion along I'd have saved the rest for later...Seriously...If you want fast food, go to a fast food restaurant. I hear there are a lot of deals to be had at various establishments with the dollar menus.
(5)
Catherine B.
Walking into High Rise is like walking into American Apparel - you never quite feel cool enough to be there. I'm almost surprised the door man let me past the velvet ropes; it's a good thing I had Kate "Hipster 2.0" F with me to up my cred. We strolled in to a nearly empty bakery around 8:19 AM. After a quick scan of the menu choices, I approached the counter with great trepidation. "Have you been helped?" asked counter girl. "Good morning, can I please have a HiRiser breakfast sandwich?" "We don't serve breakfast sandwiches until 9." FOR REALZ?!? "Oh, ok, I'll just have an iced coffee then. Um, thanks for talking to me." I know the staff don't make the rules, but esssss....I was so ready to spend $7 on a single egg on some small bit of toast, and you're going to deny me that extravagance? In all seriousness though, I actually get quite a kick out of the fact that the food retains enough of a following to afford the staff a bit of customer-service leeway. It's probably an awesome place to work, you ain't got TIME to smile-fake for no lame foodie wannabes, and no one's gonna make you do it either! They'll keep crawling back, because the coffee's great and the bread is almost as good as Clearflour's!
(3)
Theo K.
The food is ok. A little on the pricey side of things. But as a few folks have pointed out, this place is super pretentious. The staff...ugh! Those hipster girls behind the counter can kiss my a**, seriously. The first time I went there, I thought it was just because it was busy. Went again today and I swear the girl taking my order looked at me like I was from another planet. Actually, I think SHE was ON another planet. And they all seemed like they couldn't be bothered with taking anyone's order. However, if you can stand the "community picnic table" set up (which just screams "yeah, we're trying very hard to be progressive") and all the cambridge mommies letting their kids run amuck while silently judging the other adults, the food is actually fairly tasty. Although, sometimes I just want a great sandwich, made on site with fresh ingredients and maybe grab some desert. And sometimes that sandwich I crave is a BLT. So when that happens, I head to FLOUR. It's everything Hi-Rise is not...humble.
(2)
Alex H.
I only go here when someone else is paying, because it's insane to me to spend $10-12 on a sandwich, but hot damn are they delish. Big thumbs up for the sandwiches and the bread.
(4)
Melissa S.
I really like all the sandwich choices and they are well done with the greatest bread. I had a Turkey sandwich with avocado, swiss and russian dressing. It had been pressed and was absolutely delicious. The cookies are large and fresh with that just chewy texture. I like watching them make bread while waiting for my meal. You might find the prices a bit high, but all in all it's a value for what you get.
(4)
Muttley D.
I love Hi-Rise, they've got great bread and baked goods, and excellent sandwiches with funny names like "James Phones In" and my favorite, "Mahatma Gloves", in my quest for the best chicken salad in the city, I have to say that this and Savenor's and Wilson Farms are some of the tops, but this one, is the whole sandwich, the other places are grocery stores and you end up making your own. The Mahatma Gloves is a masterpiece of curried chicken salad with cashews, served on a generous piece of bread...small mouths will have a tricky time getting this monster into their mouths. There are other things to enjoy besides the great sandwich selection. The breads, the smells, watching the master bakers kneed the dough before your very eyes...and watching the West Cambridge, power-yuppies come in by the droves...yes, there are some snooty snoot tweeded yuppies who frequent this establishment, don't let that stop you, it's a little bit pricey for some things, but I'll tell you the extra 2 or 3 dollars per sandwich over your pizzeria meatball sub will be well spent...and the extra few cents for the high quality baked goods will have you swearing off that Dunkin Donuts muffin for good! Unlike some, I've always found the staff here quite friendly and laid back....
(4)
becky b.
A discussion at our table over brunch at Hi Rise recently: "So, for about 400 dollars I think we could get everything on the menu." "If we split it, that would be 100 bucks a person." "I'm not joking" For serious, this place is soul deep satisfying, the breakfast sandwiches, cherry tart and lemon meringue were all top notch.
(5)
David L.
Tastes great, less friendly. Snarky crew make you feel guilty for actually wanting to spend money there. While I actually appreciate the nicely divined mixed wine deals, with really pretty much never a loser, and the generally very good and consistent baked goods, it is hard to get past the sense that actually taking your money for product is a hassle and a great favor they are doing for you. Honestly, if the stuff didn't taste so good, they'd get only one star. Attitude? They got it. Adjustment? They should get one. Will they? No. It's been this way for many many years. And sadly for them, that's how long it's been since I said anything nice to anyone about Hi Rise. If you like the service at Gucci's store in Manhattan, you'll love this place, which means you likely won't like this place.
(1)
Bianca T.
Hi Rise Bread Company is a Great place ! Everything we ordered was very fresh and tasty ! We happened upon the bakery while driving around Cambridge ... it was such a treat ... the sandwiches were delicious - the bread was crusty and flavorful ! I love going to places where you can actually see where the food is made !! check this place out .... you won't be sorry !!
(4)
Marissa K.
I've lived in the Huron Village area for 3 years and have been to this place 3 times. Each time I go, I tell myself I will never go again. This time, I am truly done. The food is good, but the experience is so soured by the entitled hipster/hippie staff that is so unbelievably rude I can't believe people return to this place. It wasn't just once that I experienced the rudeness of this staff. Every time I go in there I am made to feel like I did something wrong, when all I'm doing is ordering food, paying for it, and waiting 30 minutes for my sandwich to come out! Yesterday we got dirty looks because my boyfriend asked them to add lettuce and tomato to his sandwich. The time before, he took out his Amex to pay for our overpriced food and the person behind the counter waved her index finger at him to "say" they don't take Amex. Seriously? Hmm, and the time before that, we were deciding whether to pay with cash or credit, and the girl behind the counter told another person working there that she didn't know what we were doing and that we were trying not to pay. Omg. The food takes forever to come out. Yesterday I got a salad and asked to add grilled chicken. Oh, rude girl behind the counter, how much will that cost? $5. My salad ended up being $16!! Never. Again!
(1)
Jonathan G.
Bread will be the theme for this brief review. 1) the bread is fantastic. 2) you get a lot of bread in the sandwich 3) between the bread, there is not a tremendous amount of filling - at least for the core of the sandwich (e.g turkey, chicken) 4) you will spend a lot of 'bread' here and without so much as a pickle on the side - most guys will be hungry within 15min. Oxford Spa has better sandwiches and an almost-as-good selection, and will cost much less. It's much less of a dare-I-say, snobby scene too. Good bread too. Montrose Spa's Cuban sandwich is my benchmark for value. If I can spend 7 bucks and barely finish it - it's a good value. This is more like 10 bucks and 'gee, I'm really missing that pickle now.'
(3)
Elizabeth L.
I guess it depends what you're after. I come to High Rise on Sunday mornings because a High Rise caffe au lait + the New York Times + eavesdropping on adorable/pretentious Huron Village yuppy families = a perfect Sunday morning for me. If that's not what you're into, you'll have to check High Rise out for yourself. I've never ordered a sandwich here because they're oh so pricy, but I don't think their baked goods are badly priced - a slice of quiche or coffee cake (esp. the poppy seed kind) cost exactly what I'd expect, and they're quite delicious. And the coffee is delicious. The few times I had their bread, I wasn't so impressed - I find it a bit greasy. But a Sunday morning here? Absolutely delicious.
(5)
Annie c.
Great fresh bread makes great sandwiches. Loved this place when I lived in Cambridge. It is cramped and difficult finding a seat at peak times - just take it to go and have a picnic It can be bit of a hike from Harvard Sq Yes, it is on the pricey side. Can't be coming here every day for lunch but it's a nice treat
(4)
Simi H.
I am giving High Horse (I mean, Rise) two stars because of the service. I think the sandwiches are very good and the bakery has a lot of great varieties. 2 stars because I just can't stand those hipster fuckers who think they're too cool to be nice. They work in a bakery for chrissake, no need to be such pricks.
(2)
Joe R.
The best grilled cheese sandwich in the city!! Starts with the bread, then the two kinds of cheeses they use. Tomato and mustard give it texture and a spice, and my mouth just loves it. And priced for success. Otherwise, I always split a sandwich with a fellow worker, and we love 'em. Again, priced to win. Generally get them to go, and always cruise by looking for a space around the four corners, and if one is available, I get my lunch here. If no...cruise on, no problem, and I will get to eat here some other date. They have universal papers for me to read while I wait, or if able, grab a chair and enjoy my sandwich there. The barista at the espresso machine is one of the best in town. They know what they are doing with an espresso machine, so I can get a great latte. Great place, fun to take out of town guest. And I can navigate the parking and seating, and leave my friends to enjoy the great food.
(4)
Dorise G.
beware, cash only or you will wait, wait, and wait yummy grilled cheese though
(3)
Anthony S.
Hi-Rise is a story of missed opportunity...and how hard it is to do food service well. The sandwiches and baked goods are very very good. But the service is abysmal: the staff are rude, and lacking in even basic courtesy. It's sad in a way - the owners would probably be exceptionally successful if they fixed the problem. But they're just satisfied with what they have. What a waste.
(2)
Dan S.
The complaints about the hipster disaffected counter help are true. However I don't go to a place like this for the help - I go for the bread. I don't go that often as it's a little bit out of the way, but their bread is usually pretty good (although pricey). Yesterday I bought two loaves of bread and when I got home, I realized they were pretty overcooked, almost burned on the bottom. Now, I've done my time baking my own bread - I don't keep a culture anymore because it's a lot of trouble - but I still kinda feel like if I'm going to shell out $4-5 for a loaf of bread it should be done right. I know it's not THAT hard to not burn your bread, and if you're a bread company and you DO burn your bread, make some more instead of selling the bad batch? Now I'm irritated and I don't know if I'll go back. As I said their bread is usually good but it's super-premium, so it should be good every time, not sporadically.
(3)
Philip G.
As noted by other folks, the attitude does tend to be variable. As a middle-aged computer programmer, I don't rate too highly on the "cool" scale, but I came here enough times with a documentary filmmaker friend (who is actually cool) that eventually I was accepted. Many of the sandwiches can be ordered in half size for a much lower price. Only a marathon runner needs a full Hi-Rise sandwich (though I did watch with astonishment while a 110 lb. Harvard undergraduate ate a whole Hi Rise sandwich). The soups are great. It would be five stars if they had a restroom.
(4)
Tella D.
The sandwiches, coffee, and pastries are excellent. (Try the HiRiser breakfast sandwich and the Fallen Chocolate Cake.) We have breakfast here most weekends, and the staff have always been friendly and helpful to us despite the fast pace. It helps to get there before they get overcrowded -- they start making warm sandwiches at 9 am. A point that I haven't seen mentioned in other reviews is that THIS IS THE PLACE TO GET YOUR THANKSGIVING TURKEY. Place your order about a week in advance, then pick up the turkey and your choice of trimmings on Thanksgiving Day. We did this last year because our stove was broken, but now plan to have a Hi Rise turkey every year -- it was the best turkey I've had, juicy and flavorful. Best of all, it allowed us to go for a hike instead of cooking all morning.
(4)
kathy r.
I'll grant them that the sandwich combinations are interesting. And the bread and coffee are good. However, after $12 sandwiches that aren't worth $12, and several times of them forgetting part of our order, I'm not a fan. I know some rabid "let's go to hi rise for breakfast" people but I've never gotten into it.
(2)
Heather P.
I am in love with Hi-Rise's cheddar-pepper bread! You know the bread is fresh, and it is fun to watch them baking. The sandwiches are tasty, though expensive. I've found the servers to be polite and quick, never rude. I'm not sure why so many other patrons have experienced bad service.
(5)
Margaret O.
Hi Rise is a short walk from my office, and I eat here about 3 times a week and sometimes more. I'm a big fan ... with some caveats. The sandwiches are fantastic, and huge. I love the sandwiches. Most of them can be ordered as a half sandwich - for a bit over 2/3 the full sandwich price. Some of the cookies - chocolate chunk, oatmeal - are really great, as are all of the pies and cakes I have tried. The salads are similarly very good, and a lot more interesting than your average lunch salad. The bread they serve with the salad is completely random - sometimes it complements the salad, and sometimes it's just a random bread end. The breakfast pastries are mediocre at best. If you want a croissant go to Iggy's, you can get muffins almost anywhere. The bread is ok but Iggy's is a lot better. The soups are ok but nothing special. I have not found the staff to be rude so much as disorganized and visibly bored. Within those parameters they are usually pretty friendly, but I am not entirely sure why being counter help at Hi Rise is so much more boring than being one anyplace else.
(4)
Emerick R.
Stopped in here today with my wife and 2-year-old, figuring that we could grab a couple of quick sandwiches and hit the road. While we stared at the sandwich board in wonder (everything sounded great), we were informed by a rude staff member that "we don't make sandwiches after 4pm". I looked at my watch: 4:01 - seriously. OKKKKK, then...sorry to inconvenience you with my crazy demands for a sandwich...in a sandwich shop! Let me just head over to Panera instead. There are a couple of things that annoy me about this: 1 - If you have a cut off time for certain items, that's fine. But don't be rude about it. Especially on the coldest day of the year when a person is 1 minute over your arbitrary "schedule". 2 - Why would a sandwich shop stop making sandwiches at 4pm on a Saturday? I could see if I dropped in and tried to order an omelet at that hour. But a sandwich? If you _must_ have a cutoff time for making sandwiches, make it much earlier, like 1 or 2pm. Not right before dinner! That's absurd... 3 - Think a bit before being rude to a customer. Not only did you lose my business today, but I'm going to think twice before stopping in there again, since I now have to wonder if I'll be hitting your "still making food" time frame. Not a wise way to run a business. Bottom line: you may have the best food in the world. If you have bad service, it just doesn't matter.
(1)
Noelle F.
I just purchased a $10 hummus sandwich from Hi-Rise and I'm feeling particularly stupid for having done so. But shame on this place for charging just as much for a vegetarian sandwich as they do for one with chicken and bacon. I guess I figured, at that price, it better blow my mind - it didn't. It's lettuce, hummus and onions. The bread was good but not 10-dollars-for-two-slices-good. I probably won't be back.
(3)
John B.
Hi-Rise, Huron Village, is the best thing about Huron Village.. To quibble about un-smiley help is silly... I find them civil, and efficient. I don't need strangers saying "Have a Nice Day".. Civility and efficiency are far more important. I only buy the bread, as I am a cheap-skate about what I pay for a meal, including a sandwich meal.. Theire cheddar-pepper is the best bread in the world.
(5)
Eric M.
No doubt plenty of other reviewers have mentioned the unfortunate pun of "Hi-Price" with this bakery's name, but hey, they owners dug their own hole by choosing the name and subsequently fleecing their customers! Sorry, but $4.50 for a baguette sandwich that's smaller than a billiard ball is outrageous. The Tuscan chicken must have been ground to particulate matter and embedded in some hummus-like paste. It still tasted good, but not particularly better than Finagle a Bagel, where I can get a full sandwich for the same price. The triple-mushroom soup was tasty enough but seemed to borrow a French onion broth and only had about 3 mushrooms visibly large enough to be labeled mushrooms. Though I did order the Small portion of the soup, I was hoping for something bigger than a portion size that I could literally hold in my own cupped hands. The only item of reasonable size was the wedge of bread accompanying the soup, but rye seemed like an odd and controversial choice: though I like rye more than many people under 60 do, it seems an odd "default" bread to give to customers because it wouldn't necessarily accompany some soups very harmoniously. (BTW: Upstairs setting at the Brattle Street location is not handicapped accessible, nor good for anyone who struggles with narrow old stairwells.) In short, I was still hungry after an $8 lunch, and I ordered no drinks. Let the punning continue.
(2)
Natasha A.
Awesome breads and piled-high sandwiches. The place is packed however and the counter service is very slow as others have pointed out. Avoid it during the weekend brunch hours but otherwise its definitely worth a visit.
(3)
Daniela P.
Good sandwiches but overpriced and not much space to hang out (not fun when outside temperature is 39!!!!)
(3)
Bert L.
Pros: Neighborhood's excellent baker for cookies (Fancy and classics), breads hand picked wines and superlative though pricy sandwiches. Cons: *Horrendous coffee* (Think Dunkin Donuts 1985) I also tried the expresso: but it was served room temperature, right out of the machine. Maybe a rookie in need of practice...I tried the hot chocolate: Zero chocolate flavor, and I mean zero. Even my 10 YO daughter agreed. Swiss Miss tasted like Burdicks next to it. $3 for a cup of colored fluffy milk. Baffling!!! Why have fabulous pastries next to watered down "pre Coffee Connection" coffee standards? For "fun" I tried next doors' Sarah's MArket coffee, same watered coffee thing, but this time unsurprising: it is a local grocery store after all, with no coffee shop pretension. I had to walk all the way down to Sherman's street Starbuck to get a real cup of coffee with actual flavor and aroma. Very disappointed. May I speak with the artistic director? In this day and age, we have learned too much about coffee to accept hot water, sorry. I cannot believe folks are accepting this as coffee. Also watch out for explosions (Doors? Falling boards? Virile, strong men at work dropping heavy heavy things ?) and pair that with really loud oven electronic alarms : the Baker shop is in the same room, so enjoy the factory ambiance if you can.
(3)
Zaazaa M.
Hehe. All the reviews about hipster style service are funny to me...I've been going here for sooo long, I've seen about 20 incarnations of hipster High Rise staff cycle in and out. Some of them were even my friends in high school. So don't worry, these guys are just someones obnoxious old friend from high school...look 'em in the eye and tell 'em what you want. And I used to love coming here and eating the curry sandwich. But recently the food hasn't done it for me. It's all right, good variety, but...not that great. Exceptions are: Arnold Palmers and that brown bread with blueberries in it. Yum! Don't try to use your credit card at the Harvard Sq. location...Concord Ave, it's ok.
(3)
Cara P.
We stopped here on the way home to grab two sandwiches. OMG OMG OMG! This place rocks. Not for the carb wary, the second you step in, the smell of bread wafts through the air. HEAVEN! Yes, the sandwiches are expensive...but shit, what isn't these days. Plus it is made on fresh made bread and high quality ingredients. I wonder if people realize that they can leave when they take a look at the prices. No one is FORCING you to buy a sandwich for $9. Think about it ;p
(5)
Sunny S.
Lunch here on an Weds morning, 11am, and surprisingly the place isn't swamped with people. The staff were all busily working and cheerful. My sandwich "Power 10" tuna salad on rye was tasty and quick enough, so I'm rather pleased. I guess it merits the $10 price tag because it's no 'SUBWAY' kind of experience or fare. Local and fresh, this place is great!
(5)
Kristie L.
I felt the need to write a review because some yelpers have complained about the staff being rude. I go to Hi-Rise at least once a week (albeit always on weekdays, never on busy weekends) and I have found the staff to be consistently polite and attentive. No complaints whatsoever. I stick with the oatmeal, soups, and baked goods and they are all delicious. Yes, the sandwiches are pricey, but if you think they are overpriced then don't order them! There are many other affordable things to choose from. So yeah, I'm a fan.
(4)
sang s.
Ok, many reviews have said this. But I'll say it again. Food is good but the price is ridiculously high. I will take my business to Iggy's, thank you very much. at least Iggys doesn't have a sandwich named Mr and Mrs Snob!
(3)
Scarlett G.
Bread, desserts, and sandwiches here are all interesting and tasty especially if you are into 'crusty'. I feel like everything here has thick, usually tough crusts! but still i like this...just don't eat it in the car...crumbs, bleh! however, the staff here is a pain in the ass. they fuddle over arranging their precious baked goods while ignoring you there ready to order or pay for something. also, they never can just tell you straight about something. if you ask them to recommend, they can almost get it out....but for the most part the staff are stereotypical, cooler than you, dyed hair, no-eye-contact hipsters. also the quiche are yucky and cold....
(3)
Cory Q.
Great sandwiches and baked goods at high prices. Home of the $10.25 turkey sandwich and the $1.50 oreo cookie.
(4)
R E.
I came here at 7:33 by their clock and asked for a sandwich and they said they stopped serving them at 7:30. Quaint little neighborhood sandwich shop my ass.
(2)
Chris G.
After some running around Fresh Pond, I came here with 2 friends. I proposed buying bread with walnuts and cranberries (perhaps because I am a bit nutty and a bit fruity) - which I bought. I proceeded to eat the whole loaf (no one else wanted any!) and enjoyed it. Great place but seating is a little tough...
(4)
Mike G.
yup chicken w/ bacon on corn bread is delectable.
(3)
Morris R.
I could eat sugary bread products with coffee drinks all day. And I do. That said: is it just me, or are the people making the bread in the open kitchen area having a ton of fun, while some of the people behind the counter persistently seem harried, flustered, and sometimes, even, sad, like their cat finally decamped for greener pastures, or someone just broke up with them, that morning - except it's that way every morning? I mean, really, how many ungrateful cats and disappointing boyfriends can one person have?
(4)
Blair H.
1) I don't care if the staff sucks, the bread/baked goods are the best I've found in Boston/Cambridge so far. Don't tip. 2) It's not too expensive. The price of flour is rising. Even bread at the grocery store is $3.50 a loaf. Also, some people are too cheap to spend extra on quality, then bitch when the shop disappears. 3) Try Flour near South Station for an alternative. They're nicer and better looking, and their goods are on par if not better.
(5)
Laura B.
The second I walked into this place, I thought of the SWPL blog post on expensive sandwiches: stuffwhitepeoplelike.com… So true! But I have to say, my hot turkey sandwich (with a cute name I can't remember) was good, despite the price, and the wait wasn't too bad. It was a warm and cozy spot to get out of the cold and get a hot coffee with my sandwich. The diverse selection of wine bottles on the side wall also intrigued me... I'll be back next time I'm in town visiting my sister.
(3)
Anna P.
Absolutely delicious baked goods - their brown bread with wild blueberries is to die for. They also make their iced mochas with warm milk - none of that watered down stuff. They lose a star for virtually no seating and for sandwich prices that I simply cannot justify. At $9.50 I could make my own nutella sandwich, thank you. But, if you know what to order - you can get good deals: A cup of oatmeal for breakfast or a cup of mushroom soup for lunch is filling, economical and tasty!
(4)
Megan B.
I stood in line next to Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck (with their adorable pigtailed daughter) at Hi-Rise yesterday. For the record, Ben ordered the Mahatma Gloves sandwich (curried chicken salad with cashews) and Jen ordered Fern's Problem Solver (turkey, avocado, etc) w/o Russian. Cambridge is so chill sometimes...Hi-Rise was packed but no one bothered them (no photos, autograph requests, staring). I work across the street and spend more than is judicious on their delicious salads, sandwiches, soups, and baked goods. It is pricey, but you are paying for top-notch ingredients. I recommend any sandwich with their pulled pork (Nat Queen Cool is a favorite), but really, you can't go wrong with anything here. While you wait, you can educate yourself a bit by reading the thoughtful descriptions above all of their carefully selected wines. And, as I learned yesterday, the people watching here ain't bad either. Contrary to some others' experiences, I have found the owner to be very charming and pleasant whenever he is filling in for staff by taking orders, etc.
(4)
Buzz G.
This place is a must go to for breads, soups, sandwiches, salads, special baked products, etc. Your life is not complete without becoming a regular at Hi-Rise.
(5)
Germain W.
Not worth it. The sandwiches and baked goods were ok. But the prices... WHOAAAaaa... I mean, I just moved from S.F. where things are expensive. But this little shop in Cambridge shocked even me. I mean, come on... $9.50 for a freaking sandwich that consisted of two slices of bread and a sausage with a little mustard?? Give me a break. What are the owners thinking? What a ripoff. The red-haired teenage kid serving us was also a real put off. He had snot running down his face (yes, while serving customers, I kid you not). When he was picking up bread for me I wanted to hand him a tissue and say, "here, use it". Eeeeek. Gross!!! For sure, first and last visit.
(1)
Deepa C.
I love this place. The mixing, kneading, baking frenzy hits you as soon as you walk in. The smell and heat and yeastiess permeates the air, making it thick and swimmy. As you pass the baking section, a bouquet of baked goods preens on the counter: challah, cinnamon loafs, apple pies, pear tarts, wheat breads, burger buns, baguettes, big round loafs, sugar encrusted ones, loafs spotted with herbs and olives, you name it. The coffee is good as well, and they have soup and sandwiches, although I have yet to partake. The prices aren't insane for Cambridge, but not exactly cheap. Also, it can get crowded and there is limited seating. It's not exactly a quiet place to read a paper, but people were doing it. So local beers and good selection of wines, bustling atmosphere and a must visit for anyone who loves bread.
(5)
Nupur L.
Hi-Rise, get over yourself. Your bread is half as good as Iggy's and yet it's almost twice the price or sometimes more than that. For a store that is trying hard to ride the local wave, you can't even give friendly service to the people who have been visiting regularly for weeks (aka ME). Your tip jar is a form of extortion, capitalizing on the eagerness of good-hearted folks who will buy local even at your highway robbery prices. Also, your tarts suck. I was really excited for a while, laboring under the perception that I may be actually developing a relationship with the surly old hipsters who work behind the counter. Then we walked in at 7:34 one Monday evening and asked if we could have sandwiches. The sandwich service ends at 7:30. I buy local so that I can actually get decent service. Note that I'm not even asking for friendliness here. I thought it was entirely reasonable that they could make a sandwich at 7:34. I would have cut them slack if it had been 7:40, even. No. We had to buy their entrees or leave. To add insult to injury, the woman at the counter chirruped "No sandwiches, but we have SOUP!" Right, the same gazpacho that they have been peddling for weeks. I'm now done with Hi-Rise. The sandwiches don't taste that good after they leave holes in your wallet and heart.
(2)
P. J.
I went to Hi-Rise this afternoon. I had not been there in over a year. The prices, which had been high before, were even more outrageous, but my sandwich was excellent. Almost worth the $12. Several recent reviewers complained about the rude staff, but I must have gotten lucky: the young woman who took my order was cheerful and polite. What I found off-putting was the woman breast-feeding her baby in a very in-your-face "Look at me! Aren't I hip?" way. Another reviewer mentioned the annoying "boho" Cambridge mommies who frequent this place. Agreed: I recommend getting your sandwich or brownie to go.
(2)
Stephanie F.
I don't know why everyone had such a bad experience with the service. I guess I haven't had the bad experience yet. Anywho, the only useful thing you can get out of my review are the soups. The soups = tasty. The lentil soup was delicious; there were bits of parsley or cilantro (one of the fresh green herbs) that entertained my tongue. The bread to go along with it = fresh. I've been here when it was sort of crowded and when I was able to sit at the long lunch table without being elbow to elbow to anyone (this was on a Friday afternoon at about 4pm). I bought a sandwich for my boyfriend here, I can't remember what the name of it was, but it had an ingredient that I knew he didn't like but I knew I liked and surprisingly he didn't realize that dislikable ingredient was in his sandwich until I told him half-way through. I guess it goes to show that they know how to make their sandwiches! But I know this was only one sandwich... On the other hand, it was sort of overpriced... I would like to try some of their baked goods and local wines.
(4)
Q T.
Fabulous food!!! Adorable Friendly Staff!!!
(5)
Kat L.
Fact: the owner is a pompous ass. Even the old ladies in the neighborhood know that he is quote "very conceited." The food is delicious, but pricey. I want to go there more often because their baked goods and sandwiches are interesting and delicious. But I really can't justify the price. Also, dealing with the staff is a major drag.
(2)
Steve L.
I think they have everyone you want from a bakery, whether you get their breads and pastries or sit down for one of the sandwiches. For me, some of the sandwiches don't actually hold together -- say the grilled portabello and asparagus -- the asparagus keeps rolling away. Or, the grilled cheese -- delicious individual ingredients, but the balance between the bread, cheese, mustard, pepper -- not that zen status that a perfect sandwich should have. Regardless, you won't get anything bland or sub-par here. Oh, and I never noticed any bad service.
(4)
Amy H.
good sandwiches. cute room to sit in and eat your sandwich. Bad attitude staff. overpriced. Here's a tip, go across the street to Sarah's and order a BLT. Cheaper, faster, and less eye rolling from those taking your order.
(3)
Thomas T.
Great coffee, bread, sandwiches and wine in a nice, phone free atmosphere. The service can be snotty or some of the nicest people ever, the staff definitely has their favorites and it varies from employee to employee. Prices are not cheap, but the hi riser egg sandwich and a large latte on a Saturday morning is close to heaven. Dinners are not bad either, the caramelized onions that come with the roast chicken are outstanding. Despite generally high prices the wine is affordable, especially the box of 6 mixed bottles which is consistently excellent. A bottle of wine and a loaf of bread in the afternoon makes for a great evening. Beware they are not open late.
(4)
Leo L.
Yes, the seating is lousy. And the sandwiches are expensive (but not much more than the other high end sandwich places like All Star or Parish Cafe). But they make the bread themselves. They roast the pork for the Cuban sandwiches (called the Havana Heaven, my favorite) themselves. They haven't disappointed once (OK, maybe once, when they took the Havana Heaven off the menu). Haters, just try the Fern's Problem Solver (real slices of roast turkey, yes, which they roasted themselves, with avocado) and tell me you can find a better sandwich in Greater Boston. I dare you.
(5)
Jared K.
Stopped by the Harvard Square location yesterday. Had a chocolate dipped coconut macaroon. It was pretty darn good! I know that they're well know for their breads and baked goods but they had a loaf of cake/bread for sale on the counter that costs $14. Really? Don't you think that's a little excessive? Whether or not it tastes amazing and the laborious process that goes into baking, $14 is just a little too much for me.
(3)
Ilona M.
Hi-Rise is as good as it gets. I've been going here since the place opened, and I've been a loyal customer from the beginning. Yes, the prices are (extremely, especially for a student) steep, but the occasional visit (i.e. whenever I can go) makes a worthwhile treat. The people at the counter are sometimes a bit short with customers, but the ones that have worked there the longest are generally really nice. I recommend everything here--the bread is excellent (but--be warned--very buttery), especially the potato bread. Also great are their sandwiches and soups, coffee (but the harvard square one makes much much better), and jams. Seating can be hard to find, but if you can find a corner they don't mind if you loiter a bit after you've finished.
(5)
Kerri O.
I'm giving these guys a terrific rating, because they make Brown Bread, in a Coffee Can. How old school! Actually, they do have a great bread selection. I've had soup there, and pastries, and loved them. I'm too cheap to spend $10 for a sammich, so I won't complain about the price; I just don't get the dang things there. Great vino selection. The lack of parking is vexing, but normal for Cambridge.
(5)
Robby T.
On a nice day, the shaded patio is great to enjoy some food/drink.....just not those of the Hi-Rise Bread Co. Not only did the "El Presidente" sandwich lack coherent ingredients, it tried to pass off what was essentially salsa for "red pepper pesto". What's more, my roasted tomato quiche would've been great for a hypertensive 80-year old, but I need a lil' salt!...and flavor. When I asked for the flavorless wedge to be heated up, the girl behind the counter denied that they had a microwave or an oven. They're a bakery. I write this off as sub-par food for relatively high prices w/ typical aloof, uninspired Boston service. Is it too much to ask for workers at an indy bakery to...CARE?!?!? This place would go under in one day, if it were operated on the West Coast. I'm willing to be proven wrong, but I'll continue to shoo friends away like flies from a dungpile. BTW, the single star was garnered for decent lemonade and said patio.
(1)
Kristen K.
I don't understand how anyone could give Hi-Rise Bread Company less than five stars. Hi-Rise is phenomenal. I am typing this as I eat a piece of their bread (a Flute loaf, so good) and on the drive home I wolfed down one of their Oreo cookies. I would have liked to savor it slowly, but that didn't happen. Do yourself a favor- ignore the bad reviews where people say the staff is rude. They're not. They're nice people. It's a great spot with communal tables, no cell phones allowed and absurdly good food. I highly recommend them.
(5)
Michelle S.
The bread of course would get 5 stars - it's amazing...and we visited with a Swiss baker, who really knows his stuff. But we also visited with our 5 year old, my husband, and my parents, who proceeded to order chaotically and speak foreign tongues, and immediately got "the look" from the staff, a red-haired girl, and a girl with green glasses. We ignored "the look" (sort of a "would you hurry up, I don't want to be here" look, we thought) and proceeded to buy 7 drinks, several pieces of bread and two entire cakes - we're talking serious $$$. My five year old son proceeded to spill his drink, so we politely requested paper towels, as we sopped up the mess. While there were many of us, we were in no way ornery. Would you think the wait staff would have offered to refill the five year old's drink on the house? FORGET IT. I say Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts all the way. Buy your goods, and eat them at home so you don't get indigestion.
(1)
Marcia W.
Surly experience # 963! I have been shopping here for years and went through a period several years back when I was there weekly. Lately, my visits have been sporadic at best, owing to the customer treatment plan employed by almost everyone who works there. This most recent experience, while not of great enormity in and of itself, has topped off the pile of reasons not to go there. Okay, the food is better than good but the attitude and the 'customer is always wrong' approach ruin the taste. "Can I please have such and such a sandwich on potato bread?" "Let me check" Much checking ensues. "No, you cannot." "Oh, do you have any rice krispie treats?" "No, not anymore." "You ran out of them for today or you don't make them anymore?" "They don't sell well." The sandwich in question, for the record, is one that I have ordered and gotten many times in the past. Not that that really matters. They will not have to deign to serve me again since that was my very last visit. I swear.
(1)
Cat M.
The bread is good, sure, but laughingly expensive. Go to Iggy's for the same quality at a reasonable price. I have enjoyed my sandwiches but only as take-out. There's very little seating in the cafe, people are constantly bumping into you, and you feel very very rushed. They also do not have a bathroom for customers to use, so I couldn't wash my hands before eating a finger food. Ew. I wish Hi Rise were bigger, cheaper, and at least had some Purell. Despite living close by, I'll travel the extra bit to Darwin's for all of those things.
(2)
Ari A.
Yes, there are some tasty things to be had a Hi Rise, and I get it, the bread is supposed to be peasant-y (though sometimes its just hard). But the prices are not. And the service.... well let's just say that you have to be rude to work here. The sandwiches are very good- as they should be for 10 bucks.
(2)
Suz B.
I'd give 5 stars (never eaten or drunk a thing I haven't loved), but the staff is so surly, it hurts me. Ladies, why must you be so unpleasant and superior?
(4)
Fran T.
Got the grilled turkey reuben. It was really good! I was pleasantly surprised they used actual roasted turkey and not that slimey deli turkey. Well done - yay! The bread was awesome too! I'll definitely be back to try their other sandwiches. Got potato leek soup and they threw in a couple chunks of bread - a meal in itself! Leftovers tomorrow. (ps...they don't accept AmEx, but Visa is good)
(5)
Heather H.
Okay, so I like to call this place Hi-Price, but in all honesty, I cannot stay away from their lemon curd cakes. LEMON CURD CAKE. Okay, besides their lemon curd cake, it's fun to watch surly hipsters bake things. And their sandwiches are pretty good. I'm a fan of the grilled cheese/tomato/spicy mustard sandwich. Seating is a bitch, but I was lucky enough to live just down the street from them.
(4)
Douglas G.
Without question Hi Rise employs the nastiest, most bitter, unprofessional staff in all the land. Eat a snowball off the street before entering this poor excuse for a neighborhood bakery.
(1)
Kelly C.
1. Too expensive. I get that quality ingredients cost money, but this is price gauging. Oatmeal is like $8. It's hateful. 2. They can be rude. It's hard to imagine why people running an establishment would go through such trouble to make delicious food for a species they seem to loathe. 3. Everything is disposable. I'm not an enviro-nazi, but if you're staying to eat your sandwich or drink your coffee you shouldn't have to eat with paper and plastic. 4. Really uncomfortable seating, which only contributes to my theory that the people that run this place hate their customers. It's also really loud with timers and ovens going off and beeping. 5. No soy milk... 6. A ten dollar credit card minimum is against visa mastercard rules, and it's just plain ridiculous. What they sell is great. Everything else is frustrating and obnoxious.
(2)
Jason P.
This is just a placeholder review for a list I just made here yelp.com/list/most-arrog…
(1)
Tessa C.
Great place for casual good eats. Excellent tasty sandwiches - high prices, but good value if you split a sandwich with a friend. Even my mom who is an extremely picky eater and extremely frugal approved of this place. My favorite sandwich is Nat Queen's Cool? Sorry, I have a horrible memory. It's a pulled pork sandwich with a harrissa spread (spicy garlicy red pepper spread) layered with fresh avocado and tomato...Sigh, I get hungry thinking about this sandwich. For brunch - I absolutely adore their Green Eggs and Ham sandwich. Fried Egg on top of Candadian Bacon, with Sauteed Spinach on a potato roll. Yum! Love the almond coffee cake - rich and dense, filled with marzipan, and coated with a nice sugar glaze. Oatmeal is excellent - creamy, sweet, and studded with pecans and dried cherries. I personally like the staff - quirky and cool.
(5)
Rob D.
Yup - I'm in with everyone else. Amazing food - and bread that rivals (beats?) Iggy's...which is saying something. (The olive bread on Saturdays is really great.) Sandwiches are amazing, and its just really a nice place to hang out. Oh...and the wine. They sell inexpensive wine that is really really good. (Plus, its a short walk from my house, but that's just geography. I used to live on the other side of Cambridge, and I still drove to this place.) ...but the counterhelp: good lord. What's the word I want...surly? disinterested? drugged? (Oh, think I'm exaggerating? Check out the "I see dead people" smile on the woman who manages the place.) Anyway the place is this odd combination of "come in! have a seat! relax and enjoy!" and "get the fuck outta here! what are you LOOKING at? jeez, aren't you done YET?!" ...if the food ever takes a turn for the worse, I'm gone.
(3)
Jen G.
Hi-Rise is a cute little bakery with outside patio seating. It's such cute little place. Their pastries are very yummy. The quiche and the lemon curd cake are some of the best food I ever tasted. I wish there's a pastry place like Hi-Rise Bread Company (but cheaper, Hi-Rise products are pricy) near my home so I can go there everyday. Though I was only in Boston/Cambridge for a few days, I couldn't help but to make repeat visits.
(4)
Anastasia L.
I've gotten bread, sandwiches, and the odd breakfast item here, and I've never experienced quite the g-d-awful service others seem to. Sure the staff aren't jumping thru hoops, but having worked in a bakery before and served a somewhat "academic"/"upscale" crowd, I know it ain't fun. As others have hinted, it's often the other patrons who are most aggravating (wealthy, cultured or pseudo-cultured, brainiacs, etc etc etc- comes with the territory). That aside, I support small (-ish) bakery operations with delicious homemade breads, yummy sandwiches with quality ingredients, fresh juice, and great baked goods (such as their fabled vanilla poundcake). The communal tables are a cool idea in theory, and I've shared them with cute bookworms as often as rude mommies. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth a try. Note that as with other businesses on Concord and Huron Aves, parking is a beeatch.
(5)
Robin E.
I live in Huron Village and on occasion stop by HR for this or that. The food is not that great. Some things are amazing, but the only reason I ever go there is convenience. The coffee sucks, not robust enough, but better than starbucks. Even one of the employees told me she thought the coffee wasn't that good. Bland. Nothing is very consistent except, as many have pointed out, the staff who consistently make an easy job (put stuff in a bag and ring it up then make some change) look very very hard. Maybe they just aren't that smart - the younger ones are a little easier to deal with most of the time. Those pigtailed older ladies with sparkles all over their eyes need to move on, just move out. Have you tried Sofra on Belmont Ave? Now that is one hip, friendly place with far more interesting food, much better coffee and a great wine shop. Plus they have a parking lot. Owned by the same person as Oleana, they are just as focused on high quality as HR. They even have their own farm, so everything is extremely fresh. It's harder for me to get there but well worth it. Why suffer through a tired old place with bad service when Sofra is so close?
(1)
Eve L.
Really good bread, but if you're Jewish, don't buy your challah here. It's challah-made-by-goyim -- that is, not sweet and way too bready. But, with the exception of their challah, their bread is excellent. Their sandwiches are amazing and creative. Their "Sin Sandwich" might just be the most decadent thing ever created. (Dark chocolate melted on brioche) However, they are expensive. It's not a sandwich joint. It's a "gourmet" sandwich joint.
(4)
carole k.
VERY SNOTTY STAFF...I'm so surprised that the management doesn't understand that they are losing customers. The wait staff are just not nice people. I'm embarrassed to live in Cambridge and imagine outsiders coming to this place from, let's say, the mid West, and running back to their home, telling anyone who will listen about the snobby people at the Cambridge restaurants. Please remember Hi Rise staff--we are paying you!--it's not the other way around.
(1)
April I.
The line is snaking almost to the door. There are 4 or 5 people behind the counter, moving around, though it isn't clear if any of them are doing anything other than looking busy. I am eyeing the grilled pb, nutella, and fluff sandwich. I am eyeing the rice crispy treats. I am eyeing everyone around me. Despite the mess of staff and the disorganization behind the counter everyone is really happy. We make our way to the front of the line -- order the grilled pb, nutella, and fluff sandwich as well as a hot dog on challah with lots of mustard and a cinnamon bun. All is good. Yes the staff seems kind of uninterested in their jobs or helping you or proving very good service, but the food is good. Yes it is pricey, but if I'm in the area I'll stop by...I just won't go out of my way to come here.
(3)
Rachael R.
It does not count to go the Harvard Square location. Unless it is down-pouring, it is worth the walk from the Square, and the walk itself is actually a nice exposure to old Cambridge. I usually order whatever sandwiches has the most, often involving a fried egg. Go knowing the sandwich will cost $10. You will be delighted by everything else.
(4)
C C.
I don't know why I haven't reviewed this place yet. It is simply incredible. As I always do in these situations, I will fully disclose my ties... this if the gf's new place of employment... she's now a baker there. But my love affair with Hi-Rise started about a two years before she started making dough there (oh snap! couldn't resist!). The sandwiches are great. All of them. Any of them. I can't imagine you'll be unhappy with you choice. Today I went all the way with the Sin Sandwich and a large Earl Grey. The counter-person was SO thrilled someone was ordering the nutella-and-chocolate work of art... apparently the name can be a deterrent for some. I beg of you... GO for it! Even if you do burn in hell for all eternity with the Backstreet Boys' "Millennium" album on repeat, it will have been well worth it. Delicious food aside, they have a great selection of tea and coffee drinks. For cold beverages, I recommend the Bright Blue Soda. Your experience isn't complete until you've tried their Gazpacho. Fresh baked bread and pastries will beckon you while you wait in line to order. They also offer a limited selection of quality liquor, $50 mixed cases of wine, and craft beers. This place is hot for omnivores, vegans, the picky, the hard-to-impress, and locavores alike. Just come ready to cozy up... the majority of seating is on benches at two long tables, so you'll likely have strangers at your side. Bonus points if you walk out with a new friend! Also, I should note that they have a $10 limit on credit/debit purchases. This is easy to meet, because the average sandwich price is $8-$10... so when you add in a drink you're most certainly there. Don't balk at the price... these aren't your momma's elementary school lunch-sack sandwiches... they are large portions of gourmet food served between two slices of fresh-baked heaven!
(5)
Ryan W.
This place has more rules than a Catholic semi-formal. No credit cards, no cell phones, no food after 3. Maybe I wouldn't care if a cup of coffee didn't take 7 minutes to drip into a cup. It's the most pretentious coffee prep I've ever witnessed (and I've been to Seattle). It used to be different here. Oh, and the soups are great but four dollars for a dixie cup of broth ain't worth it, know-what-i'm-sayin, John Q Internet?
(2)
Dave M.
Amazing sandwiches, excellent food - unfortunately though, the staff is quite rude. It's clear that the management doesn't put any emphasis on customer service because I've been talked-down-to by three different employees on three different occasions. If the food weren't so damn good, we'd never come back! (if the service was even moderately good, I'd come every week and probably give High Rise 4 stars) Additionally, the management refuses to carry soy milk. With a dairy allergy, I would have ordered a coffee with every visit if they only had soy milk. I consistently get a condescending comment from the staff every time I ask whether or not they have soy milk. Strange.
(2)
Tracee D.
Great $$ sandwiches. The smell of the place is worth at least 5 dollars. Its fun to sit on church pews and watch people knead bread right? Good food and juice. They even have wines for you to take home. My only gripe is that the customer's (excluding some) are kind of crappy. They give off a stinky vibe that gets in the way of my bread sniffin' Went back yesterday for lunch. 10$$ for a salad or sandwich, I always thought salads were more $$. Had a tuna melt with bread and butter pickles, yay bread and butter pickles. Watched people eat an eggsalad sandwic and a chicken with bacon sandwich on corn bread. They looked happy. ps. the employee's are unusually unhappy (regardless of the weather)
(4)
Vanessa C.
before you complain about the price, you should know that all the meats are made IN HOUSE. fresh chicken, pork, turkey - all with no nitrates or yuckie preservatives? that is DEFINITELY worth the extra $2-$3 per sandwich for me and any other health conscious consumer who actually cares about what they are putting into their body. I feel good about the food I get from here, and that itself is worth the premium. I have not had any bad experience with the staff here, but honestly the food is so good that I dont think it would matter much. besides, its not like they get tips! lets be grown ups about this... the bread is phenomenal. the sandwiches are by far my favorite in the city (with volle nolle coming up second, but its like a pos/neg photo experience of hi-rise. totally different...) this location is not convenient to me by any means, and still I know if I want a sandwich in boston, I will not even think about going anywhere else first. I also really love the layout of the interior - you can watch bakers working hard at large tables off to the side preparing the dough. the tables are nice and the ceilings are high and spacious. I have a hard time understanding all the negative reviews, because I personally couldn't ask for anything more out of a sandwich shop - really, whats not to love here?
(5)
Erik S.
Solid bread products here. I've had both the green eggs and ham and the high rise and shine. Both were pretty good. The bread here is really good and I'd like to try more of their selection. It's a good bakery but it'll cost ya.
(4)
Katie P.
I will not set foot in this place again, despite living a few blocks away. Although I have read the review and update from Oliver P dated 5/19/11 that Hi-Rise is working on their customer service, my three trips here earlier in 2011 were enough to end my appetite for their food a few months ago. The staff, and their signs about cell phones, are rude and obnoxious (and note that I've never used my cell phone there, it's just that even the signs manage to be rude). The prices are high. The seating is limited. The atmosphere is distinctly "get the hell out" so we can go back to being cool. There are much better alternatives in the area, as well as in Harvard Square.
(1)
Julian H.
They make some fine tasting sandwiches, but don't go there for lunch unless you have nothing better to do with your entire afternoon. I'd speculate that maybe the entire staff was totally stoned, but then you'd think that if that were the case, they'd be happier and less rude to the customers. Then again, you'd also think that, given that you'd paid them $10 for one of thier precious sandwiches, they wouldn't get all surly when you asked them to hand it to you when it's clearly just sitting there...languishing...on the counter.. And don't make the same mistake I did, and think that the 1/2 hour you paid for on your parking meter will be enough time to pick up your sandwich to go. Unlike the folks at Hi Rise, the ticket writers in Cambridge are quite efficient.
(1)
Clara R.
Nine-dollar sandwiches!? Only this place can get away with that; I think they may have the best sandwiches I have ever eaten. High Rise isn't priced for regular visits, but we like to bring our weekend houseguests here to impress them with our classy neighborhood (that we can't quite afford). It's hard to get a table at weekend brunchtimes, though. In the spring, it's nice to start the day with a cheddar snail (NOT nine dollars) and iced tea that you can enjoy while waiting for the bus or walking to the square. Mmm. I did once see a mouse inside when I was walking home late at night, though -- unless it was a drunken hallucination?
(4)
Katie A.
Hi Rise staff has never surprised me by actually being nice or helpful. Today's expensive slap in the face was their refusal to slice a loaf of bread. There are plenty of great places in Cambridge for bread and sandwiches... and most of them also care about service. I'm tired of giving Hi Rise another chance to provide basic services.
(2)
Kate M.
Crazy good! I love going and its worth driving all the way from Philly to Mass. just for this. Admittedly I always order the same thing. But If I had to pick only one thing to eat for the rest of my life, for every meal. It would be their curry chicken salad sandwich.
(5)
Robert Z.
Hi - Rise is my category winner for "best restaurant when someone else is buying you lunch". Their inventively named sandwiches combine tasty ingredients with their fresh-baked bread, but $10 for just a sandwich is a little pricey for a mid-day meal. If you steer away from the sandwiches, Hi-Rise also offers a nice selection of low-priced European wines (take-out only), incredibly delicious desserts, and of course loaves of their delicious breads.
(3)
Julie A.
I LOVE the sweets. I like the bread. the sandwiches are so so. They are really nice, but oftentimes they are so busy it's hard to find a place to sit so I get it to go. the prices are a bit steep, but the quality is great every time and you can't get anything any fresher!
(3)
Renee H.
This is my favorite type of cafe that I look for all over.....just a little pricier. Everything is so fresh and delicious you just can't go wrong. Homemade soups, fresh sandwiches, great espresso drinks, yummy lemonade, clean, calming environment. Like I said, everything I look for in a cafe.
(4)
Vivian W.
This review should be entitled "Why Hi-Rise Makes Me Sad". Aside from the fact that I'm currently livin' la vida low carb, I so badly want to love Hi-Rise. I want to be Hi-Rise's friend. They have amazing bread. The Cambridge location (on Concord Street, not the one on Brattle or thereabouts) brings in Cheryl Ann's Challah from Brookline (which is seriously the Brittney Spears of bread- rich, sinful, deliciously indulgent and really really bad for you). Unfortunately, I can't get over the fact that going to Hi-Rise is like getting on the green line outbound the afternoon of a Sox game. There are, simply put, too many people and it's really very unpleasant. At Hi-Rise, there's a line to place your order, a line to sit at one of the over-crowded picnic tables, a line for the bathroom... even a line to get a view at the menu written on chalkboards all around the place. Kind of feels like Disney World on school vacation. The only thing they're missing is a winding rope maze. After standing in so many lines, you want your sandwich to be earth shattering and usually it's fabulous, but certainly not the second coming. This gets three stars because the food is good- unquestionably and generally reliably good. But you NEED to go for take out because after you have an experience eating at the restaurant you won't be feeling any love toward your fellow man. Go to Hi-Rise, buy the bread, take it home and make your own damn sandwich. Much better plan and you still get the good grub. So Hi-Rise, get a better pad and then we can be friends. Right now, you're just too... well... too popular for me.
(3)
Max N.
Outlandishly good sandwiches, excellent breads; pastries are not very inspired. As some have noted, the service could be just a touch less rude. (I don't usually care much about that, but they really could try a little harder sometimes.) More expensive than its across-the-river rival in quality, Clear Flour. (And Clear Flour's pastries are much better, though the breads are about tied.)
(4)
ServethePeople I.
We had a wonderful experience at the bakery in Huron Village - open atmosphere, lively, Ritual coffee (yum), and a lemon blueberry muffin thing (double yum). Excited that it's right around the corner!
(5)
Sutanuka L.
everything here is excellent and FRESH. they have a unique wine collection too!
(5)
Laura A.
this place is incredible. the only reason why i'm giving it less than 5 stars is because of the pricing. i'm actually fairly shocked that so many people on here gave it poor reviews -- do you all have some sort of disorder where you don't have taste buds?? it is truly a foodie's kind of a place, because only a foodie with discriminating tastes would be cool with spending nearly $10 on a sandwich. it's kind of like quality over quantity: i'd rather have an amazing $10 sandwich than two shitty $5 sandwiches. they have options for vegetarians as well as meat-eaters, which is great. their grilled cheese is the most amazingly tasty grilled cheese i have ever eaten in my life. they make it on their own thick "concord" bread and grill it to toasty perfection, slathering it with high quality cheese, mustard (who knew that would taste so amazing in a grilled cheese??), tomato, and butter. i am sure it's really fattening, but who cares? the flavors are incredible. i can usually only finish half of the sandwich at a sitting because it's that filling. hi-rise was featured in amanda hesser (the food critic for the New York Times magazine)'s book a couple years ago and she absolutely raved about it. the people who taught her how to cook and appreciate good food live in cambridge and brought her here -- that can tell you what kind of place this is. i work fairly close by, and one time we had hi-rise for lunch, and one of my coworkers commented "this is not a sandwich meant to be eaten in front of another human being" -- you'll probably end up with food on your face, in your teeth, and on your clothes when you're done. but you will be full of tasty deliciousness. they also offer dessert, wine, and i believe various baked goods to-go. there is very minimal seating, so be forewarned. in the summer, visit their brattle st location in harvard square, get sandwiches to go, and go sit in the common or by the charles while you have your amazing lunch!
(4)
Jess L.
i was quite disappointed this morning - excited it was actually open at 9am, but i guess everyone knew that. the service was slow, and the decaf coffee was bad - and they initially didn't want to give a refund! the benches are weird - i guess i was expecting more individual tables, a more intimate setting... food was okay - a little too buttery, and my avocado was borderline bad. i guess next time i go i'll make sure i have more time and will take it to go.
(2)
Henry P.
Who knew bakers could be so damned pretentious? I mean seriously, I put these workers at the level of a supermarket employee in terms of servicing a community, but it's clear they think their poop smells like fresh asiago bread. Good dinner entrees though...hence the 2 stahs. :P
(2)
Brin L.
Once you try their lattes and cappuccinos, you will forever be turned off by starbucks and every other overprocessed cup of coffee out there. Unlike every other place I have tried, the coffee here is filtered through heart, not just capitalism. Sure, the barristas are not my cup of tea, or should I say coffee, when it comes to personality. Don't expect a smile or a "have a nice day". Do, however, expect them to be consistently meticulous with the temperature of your coffee, with how much they froth the milk, and with the little designs adorning the otherwise impersonal cardboard vessel. You may not feel the love, but you can certainly taste the love of their craft. In that sense, this is one of the few places on campus with a truly genuine image and product. Lets face it, sometimes you can do with the extra smiles because, well, sometimes what you really need is a really good cup of coffee!
(4)
Jeremy S.
Great sandwiches. Don't think it is open on the weekend, unfortunately.
(4)
Andre W.
Uh... first time on this site and was curious about certain places I frequent. This one I couldn't pass up. My long experience at Hi-Rise has shown that most of the people who get poor service there are uptight, self-entitled a**holes, and generally deserve the treatment they get. Remember, it's right up the street from a university whose reputation precedes it. I will say, there are times when you get behind one of these entitled West Cambridge souls in line and their bad mojo rubs off on everyone around them, sometimes causing the staff to forget that the next person in line might actually be sympatico. Food is exceptional in a Euro provincial setting. Excellent eclectic wines - organic and small producers (no super Tuscans, and forget about California). Even a couple killer Calvados and Cognacs and a great outlet for Nantucket Brewers' stuff. Oh, and the staff is among the friendliest I have ever encountered in a bakery or cafe anywhere. Just peak your head in and check the air for vampiric energy vacuum. If it's lurking, you can steel yourself, or always come back later.
(5)
Lindsey M.
Mixed feelings. Their food is excellent, that is undeniable. The mini apple pies, enormous fudge brownies, breads etc. are all so tempting every time i go in there. However, their prices are expensive. It's obvious that their jacked prices are pretty much paying their astronomical Harvard sq. rent! Anyways- amazing food never the less. it's sorta a matter of how much your willing to splurge..
(4)
Amy S.
Seriously the best baked goods...and we love the one in Harvard Square...super nice to kids and a great environment to chill.
(5)
Lindley E.
thank you zingerman's, for providing the (bakery and sandwich) model for Hi-Rise. Sure, some of the baked goods blow...but for the most part, the bread is great, the sandwiches are lovely, and the setting is ideal for the morning paper, a cup of coffee, and a plate of toast.
(4)
Barbara C.
Live a couple blocks from High Rise on Huron. Their baked goods are absolutely wonderful, rich ingredients but beautifully prepared and simple (no layers of hazelnut puree and raspberry filling everywhere like most places). Why less than 5 stars? Because this place has the most surly service and rude, uptight customers of anywhere in Cambridge. And it's been this way for years. You have to really want to buy something there to put up with it.
(3)
Jon W.
I go here occasionally. Mostly for the convenience, because I'm sometimes in that neighborhood. The sandwiches are good, but hugely overpriced. And be prepared to pay in more ways than one. The lines are long. The counter staff all look like they hate their jobs. I'm just waiting for them to spit on someone in disgust. All the soccer moms are so engrossed in trading stories of their kids that they don't even notice you're about to trip over their baby carriages haphazardly blocking the aisles. I don't know why I go here. I guess I'm a masochist.
(3)
John T.
#22 nat queen cool -- my all-time favourite sandwich. i used to drive up from Jersey to visit friends, and this would be my first stop. all the baked goods are top-notch. love the vanilla bean cake. soups and stews are standouts too. i dock them a star because it's difficult to get a seat on weekend mornings. they seem to let people linger at tables reading the paper long after they finish their meals. oh, the prices border on the stratospheric too.
(4)
Ryan B.
The rice crispy treat is one of my favorite deserts on this earth. My struggle is common amongst the other reviewers. The wait /counter staff can be rude and cold. Pricey high end products saturate the menu but do have great quality and are delicious. It is not a great value but if you crave a fresh gourmet sandwich and swank desert hit it up!
(3)
C S.
I love to come here during the summer to get their fresh limeade-- it tastes just like a virgin margarita! And their Cuban sandwich, although pricey, is huge and greasy and soooo yummy. They'd get 5 stars if their staff wasn't so persnickety (my husband refuses to come with me-- he got chewed out for trying to order off the menu once. Jeesh!) .
(4)
shannon m.
I love Hi-Rise, with its expensive sandwiches and hard to get seats at the communal table or cafe tables. It is exactly the type of place I want to meet friends at on a Sunday and enjoy brunch, pick up some fresh bread and after 12pm, some wine.
(4)
evonne w.
the georgia ruben is amazing (though i always stare at the gigantic sandwich blackboard for a minimum of 10 minutes). ok, it costs like $10, but it is pretty huge. mini lemon curd cakes=heaven. breads are yummy...too many to choose from! definitely pricey as hell (actually, their breads and some wines are pretty reasonable), but i do love it here!
(4)
Nichole C.
They take the "rude barrista" to an art form and let me tell you, it is not charming. The servers are consistantly ill-mannered, as you can tell from the zillions of reviews on this, which tells me this is not a case of a single disgruntled counter-person but is obviously a message from management that it is okay to treat customers like dirt. As a Cambridge local I was so embarrassed by the way a group of tourists were treated there yesterday that I actually offered to buy their drinks for them. The barrista half-filled their coffee cup, and when one asked politely if he could please add a bit more, the barrista sneered and replied that that was all the coffee he was going get. I couldn't believe what I'd heard. Between that and the other server yelling at customers for unstacking chairs on the patio - even though it was only 4PM and there was still an hour to go before closing, then being told not to point at the pasteries when ordering because is smears the plastic sneeze guard, my husband and I decided that was it - there are just too many places in the city that serve good coffee and baked goods and manage to do it all - gasp - while making you feel as if they appreciate your business. We'll never go there again.
(1)
Heather B.
I concur with the comments about the staff and the prices. However I must say I had their version of a Cuban here, and while it was not an authentic Cuban, it was one of the best sandwiches I have had in a while. The pork loin was so tender and juicy, the bread toasted (grilled?) to perfection and yummy melted cheese galore. I'm on the fence on how many stars to award, in my case the food weighs out over the service. We also had a really annoying co-customer sitting near us, she was looking at our food, asking us all kind of questions about the menu and interjecting comments and questions into our personal conversation. Really presumptuous and intrusive. Guess that's the risk with communal seating. I was there on a Saturday so it was def open that weekend.
(3)
Susy D.
Wonderful food but yuck service. While I've found the service to be haphazard and lacking friendliness it's never fussed me too much. However, the attitude that I saw on two recent visits was so abysmal that I'm put off going back. The first was a mother with two young children and VERY heavily pregnant who was eating with her family when her little girl said she needed the bathroom. The staff refused to let the girl go, and insisted that the mother would have to pack up her lunch and her two kids, and go to the library a few blocks away. The second was when a group of what seemed like work colleagues bought a big lemon meringue pie for an afternoon coffee meeting. They bought it from Hi-Rise and wanted to eat it there so they asked the staff if they would cut it as there as the paltry plastic forks weren't doing a good job of it. The staff refused. They then asked if they could borrow a knife from the kitchen. Again the staff refused saying that they didn't have anything suitable. This is a bakery for goodness sakes. What do you mean you don't have a knife that will cut a pie??? So sad to see staff thinking that this is okay, and so sad that management does nothing about it.
(2)
Melissa B.
I don't know who is ruder in this place, the staff or the customers. I've tried really hard to like this place because I hear they have good product, but after 4 visits or so, I just can't deal.
(1)
jason v.
We jokingly refer to this place as Hi-Price Bread Company but we really do like their bread. Their sandwiches aren't much to write home about but are better than average. They have a nice selection of wine that runs on the higher side, but some of it you won't find many other places. But the best reason to go there is for the bread. Their raisin pecan loaf and Boston brown bread are amazing and probably the best deals in the house. If you ever try to make them yourself, you'll know why. The babka is a special treat. The punk staff are great if you're a regular.
(3)
Valerie W.
Really tasty sandwiches composed of very interesting ingredient combos (turkey, portobello and asparagus? yes please!) plus the baked goods are so cute! a nice list of drinks too... but why so expensive hi rise?? why??
(3)
Beth F.
Wow. If you like baked goods...and great coffee...this is the place to go. The chocolate molten cake is devine. Sat and Sunday mornings can be crazy.
(4)
Anonymous P.
They're lucky to get 3 stars. Highly inconsistent. Sometimes the chicken sandwich with tapenade and harissa can be dynamite. Other times the chicken is overcooked and there's not nearly enough spread. I don't care about the prices if the food is consistently good.
(3)
Joe R.
Hi-Rise just barely squeeks up to 5 stars in my book because my sandwich was made on (gasp - can it be?) cornbread. Fantastic. The staff were on the surly side, but such arrogance is usually the mark of a fine eatery.
(5)
jenny b.
i've been a hi-rise regular for years and don't know what i'd do without this place. the coffee is fantastic and the food (everything!) is delicious.
(5)
Arik C.
Not bad sandwiches but the bread is fabulous. Never seem ot have much left in the afternoons though. Just as good as Iggy's.
(4)
Jeannie C.
Do they have Chocolate Molton cake? If they do I'll give it a try. The baked goods are good some are very good. Coffee is also very good. But it really isn't anything you couldn't get at Panini's or Carberry's or other bakery cafe's.
(3)
Dan M.
Open on the weekend and is a very great family place. Very fast service but similarly very carefully selected. The oatmeal is great along with their myriads of deserts from cookies to brownies and cakes!
(5)
Denise K.
After having gone to Hi-Rise a couple times, I have to agree with the reviewers who say the service isn't so hot. The girl behind the counter was nice enough, but she never made the drink I ordered and I ended up standing there for 5 minutes, watching her take order after order. I finally had to ask for my drink to be made. The service has been slow everytime I've been there, and it's not always because there's a line. Also, sometimes the people are quite rude and they just don't want to give you the time of day. All that said, I have enjoyed some sandwiches there (grilled pork on corn bread), and I really like their almond danish (marzipan inside!). The bread seems pretty good. I've tried the brioche, corn bread, and pepper parmesan. All pretty nice. Today I went to Iggy's though for the first time, so we'll see if my opinion of their bread changes.
(3)
Anna S.
The sandwiches are good, nothing specially, especially for the extremely high prices. This place is a tad over rated. But the food is good. The service tends to be a bit rude as well. I also broke a tooth on a cranberry cookie of theirs... beware.
(2)
Jodie P.
This place is the best!! Best bread in the Boston metro by far. The cranberry and blueberry scones are super yummy. Their iced or hot mocha my favorite in New England. Plus, the staff rules.
(5)
Liz L.
I can't remember the last time that bakery staff left me feeling so chilled or bakery decor left me feeling intimidated and teeny. I went here twice because it was convenient. The first time the food (which was supposed to be veggies on toasted bread) was much, much eggier than I expected from the description and I ended up tossing it out unfinished. The second time I got oatmeal and the ratio of extras to oatmeal was so high that I couldn't even get halfway through my expensive bowlful, and the oatmeal itself wasn't of a particularly remarkable taste or quality, AND even though I ordered it to eat there, it was served in a to-go cup, as if they couldn't wait to rush me out the door. On my second trip, I also got a latte, which was even more expensive than usual for metro Boston and of a poorer quality than I've had in many other area cafes. However on both days they were filled with a long line of people ordering coffee, some of whom appeared to be regulars, and several people (possibly regulars) were having breakfast. But after these two disappointing experiences, I have not returned.
(2)
T M.
I have resisted joining Yelp for a long time, but the past three experiences at this establishment have convinced me to join. This bakery has great sandwiches and a unique wine selection. I usually would stop in a few times a week dropping around $25 bucks on each occasion. It's a little pricy but high quality is worth it. The poor service however is not. The staff is arrogant and rude. God forbid they exhibit professionalism and passion for their products. When you choose to patronize this establishment let it be made clear that they are doing you a favor. Some people have very negative opinions of large chains such as Starbucks. Granted, the quality you can't compare but they could take a few pointers. Is a pleasant greeting, please and thank you and a bag for your items too much to ask for? Save your money and your respect. After all these reviews it is clear they just don't get it or don't care. I believe its the latter.
(2)
Nathan E.
This is a high end rustic bakery with creative sandwiches, coffee, some savories and a fine little wine selection. My favorite is the quiche Lorraine. The owners do seem to have some blind spots such as parking their hideous white Ford delivery vans in front of the storefront thus preventing diners from seeing out the front windows and, obviously, obscuring their own signage--it's just bad feng shui and bad promotion. The counter help is frequently insolent and self-pitying. They're probably feeling overworked, but still, they need to suck it up like the rest of us grown-ups do and get on with serving. The coffee is frequently rough, not low quality, just too strong and I'm not a fairy about strong coffee. I'm telling you the coffee is often rough. This place is very small for the volume of business, and as a result, I get annoyed by the intense competition for personal space.
(4)
Owen E.
I really try hard to like this place but cannot. The service is provided by several very slow and disinterested individuals, who rarely use sanitary wax paper when handling food and look as is they could use a quick shower. The pastry allways tastes like sauteed onions and/or peppers..not very appealing in a choclate cake or other pastries. I think the ventialtion system where they saute out back is lacking. I thought the bread would be better, some is better than others. They could really use a guest comment box. I will say the coffee is good.
(1)
Tracy Y.
Three is being generous. I love their stuff and the Honey's mom always buys us bread there when we're in town but the prices are off the charts! Seriously $9 for a sandwich! The Honey's sis (love you Dr. E!) used to work there and bring pastries home so I never really PAID for them. We went there the last time back for the first time on our own. I got a Orange Coconut scone. Opened the bag in the car, took it out and said "where the hell's the rest of my scone?" $2+ and it's the size of my computer mouse. The Honey's cheddar snail was just as small and even pricier! If I lived in the Cambridge area, I'd picket the store because the prices are insane but the sad thing is people are paying them! 4 on quality 2 on pricing. Oh, the whole roasted chicken is super tasty. Just see if you can find a mom to buy it for you.
(3)
Mags L.
$7.25 for a grilled cheese sandwich - seriously? and it doesn't even come w/fries or fancy chips. to be fair, i saw the price and ordered it anyways. i only got through 1/3 of my sammich. i don't like sour dough. i was fooled 'cos they called the bread some other magical special name, but turns out it tasted like sour dough. i'm not sure who's more annoying: the "hipsters" that work there or the "boho" cambridge mommies w/their "boho" cambridge babies. but again, it's my fault, i knew all this and chose to go there anyways.
(2)
John S.
not terribly impressed 1 Waitstaf was annoying, we asked it for to go , we were given a sit down order, they seem disinterested totally unorganized 2 Ordered a mocha cappucino, half of the cup was pure millk foam 3 The sandwich was overpriced... and not very tasty at all and didnt even include the ingredients listed. no taste dry pulled pork 4 Four dollars for a cupcake? you're kidding me! Never going to go back except for a loaf of bread
(1)
Jim H.
What are we to make of this place? The bread, the baked goods especially, and the soups are fantastic. Buy an oatmeal coconut pecan cookie and you may have the intention of sharing it because of its size, but good luck--you'll probably eat two of them. Ditto the walnut bread, the gumbo, the lentil soup--goodness all around. And little mentioned but worth noting is the selection of wines, port and sparkling ciders. Somebody knows what they are doing on this front, the descriptions are actually helpful, and the prices are quite reasonable. But do we really need an $11 tuna sandwich that is mostly bread and really not all that special, in spite of the name? So yes, there are a few clunkers and the staff is, well... the staff is what you might expect for a place like this. Look, it's a bread oven with seating for 20 and you are ordering at the counter anyway. So, yes, you may encounter a less than helpful staff person, but it is more likely that they are just in their own head and shocked to find you in front of them asking a question that has nothing to do with post-modern impressionism. But honestly, wouldn't you rather have a little character in a place like this anyway, warts and all? Give me the quirks and the spotty service. If I want the competence that accompanies bland uniformity, I'll head to Panera--and regret it every time.
(4)
Emily L.
Hi-Rise -- yummy sandwiches, albeit a little expensive. Good options for the vegetarians and the meat eaters in my life. The kids menu isn't adventurous, but it makes my kid happy. Wish there was more seating and, especially, that they had high chairs. (The location closer to Harvard Law School does.)
(4)
Flounder R.
The food is good, don't get me wrong. My problems with this place is that they are over-priced and (more important) the workers are pretty obnoxious. I went in before work one day at around 7:40am. I ordered the Hi-Riser, their incredibly delicious version of an Egg McMuffin. The person behind the counter said that they didn't serve Hi-Risers until 9am. I then said, "Isn't the Hi-Riser a breakfast sandwich?" He reply, "No, it's a brunch sandwich." Seriously? Of course, this hasn't stopped me from going there a few times a year for the Hi-Riser but each time I shake my head at the pretentiousness of the staff.
(3)
Andrea B.
The sandwiches - yes! The cookies - yes! The homemade Oreos - yes yes yes! The prices? Nah. That just about sums up Hi-Rise. I could gush and gush about how good my sandwich was, and how good the baked goods were. And I will do that. But twenty four dollars for a sandwich, three baked goods, and a lemonade??? OUCH!!! Now that we've got the complaints about wallet damage out of the way, let's talk about the food. I ordered #57 - braised short rib, cheddar, pickled onions, horseradish aioli, and arugula, all on a fresh baguette. It was epic. Incredible. So good. The meat was so juicy and tender. So full of flavor. The sandwich was gigantic though. I was full after just half, and I came there STARVING. They should consider selling half sandwiches, actually. Those little homemade Oreos are insanely good too. And you can watch them bake them fresh while you're there munching on the ones you just bought. They're not too sweet, they're just perfect. My chocolate chunk cookie didn't disappoint either, but it's the Oreos that I'd come back for. This Hi-Rise location is kind of in the middle of nowhere, but it is indeed bus accessible. Or you could just jog there like I did. Then you won't feel the slightest bit of guilt as you munch on all your treats! To sum up - hefty price tag, but overall, definitely worth the money and the trek.
(4)
Ronin O.
Pricey. Absolutely. But, the sandwiches, breads and desserts are simply among the best, if not the best, that I have ever tasted. The chocolate chunk cookie is so good that I cannot enjoy any other chocolate chip cookie. The staff is usually friendly. The coffee is very good.
(5)
Anya T.
Hi-Rise doesn't, I suppose, need me raving about it. Everyone knows how delicious it is. But I'm going to rave about it anyway. Here goes: I live around the corner from Hi-Rise--go to yoga across the street and am often at the library catty corner from it with my kids--and I come here way, way too often. Everything they offer is incredible. The coffee (Counter Culture) is the best in the neighborhood. They make a great Arnold Palmer and their straight lemonade is delicious. Their bread is my favorite, especially the flute. I love all the breakfast sandwiches, but especially the Green Eggs and Ham and the Counter Service. Their soups! In the winter, I eat their soups for lunch at least twice a week. And it's hard for me to go a day without buying a cookie (my favorites are the ginger molasses and the almond macaroon) or a piece of the beyond-the-scope-of-anything-you've-ever-tasted vanilla loaf cake. You have not lived until you've eaten it. I sometimes get take out meals from here, and love especially their roast chicken. Basically, I love this place. Including the incredibly sweet folks who work behind the counter and bake the bread, who are always giving my daughter dried apricots or a free muffin. And I love the owners, too, Cynthia and Rene, who are always around, with their beautiful, sweet daughter Lucy, and always have a "hello" for you. People who complain about the prices should bear in mind the love, and the care, that goes into every element of this business, which is truly a family enterprise, and one which I feel hugely grateful to have nearby!
(5)
Lara H.
Hi- Rise is my go to in the neighborhood, and all high-price jokes aside, its worth every penny. The coffee is good and strong, and their cheddar snails are possibly the only thing I will wake up early to go get on a cold Cambridge morning. Their sandwiches are delicious and there are no words to describe how good the vanilla bean loaf is. Attire: Wear your best sweats and morning outfits. Downsides: Their sizes of latte drinks seem to have diminished into one small/medium size with a very hi-price, and there are no soy-milk subs for our lactose- free friends. Also, NO WIFI. This is a big one for me.... but not big enough to stop me from grabbing the greatest bread in West Cambridge.
(3)
Matthew B.
If you want a coffee to go, I think you're missing out on what this place has to offer. Hi-Rise is a destination. Living slightly off the beaten path makes it a blessing if you want to sit with a book in the morning and enjoy a damn good cup of something warm. What makes them really stand out is the breakfast sandwich selection. While it's not inexpensive, you can pick up a bacon, spinach and egg sandwich on a potato bread bun that will make your morning. I consider it a treat worth dropping in. To date, they don't carry soy or almond milk. If lactose isn't your body's favorite compound, then you better stick to Americanos or a black cup of coffee. A random side note - they also have an incredible selection of bourbon on a shelf in there. I feel weird perusing it at 8am, so I have a plan to head back some eve and pick up a bottle. Wear your nicest puffy jacket there in the winter or you'll be a fish out of water. The clientele are often put together. It's not the place to walk to after rolling out of bed.
(4)
Jess S.
I stopped by Hi Rise without reading any of the reviews and now that I have, I am surprised so many say the staff are rude! Disappointing to hear. For me, everyone was actually perfectly nice. I asked for soy and the girl working politely said they don't have it but recommend the homemade almond milk instead. The almond milk was interesting. I've never had it of any sort before so I was caught off guard by the residue left in your mouth after you take a sip. Maybe this always happens? Anyway, the flavor was pleasant and it's kind of like getting a snack and a drink? Delicious cranberry cookies. Soft and fresh. Also enjoyed the coconut macaroons. And it smells heavenly inside. I like that you can watch the bakers do their thing, but they could definitely rework the seating and fit more in. Overall, I'd like to go back to try a sandwich!
(4)
Nicholas C.
Great food. Functional but sometimes very rude service. Snooty establishment, but still good.
I have been here a number of times over the years. The food is delicious if overpriced, but every visit I am astonished by how rude the employees are (at both locations.) This morning takes the cake. I walked in at 7:50am and was told that they wouldn't be open for another 10 min. I said "okay, I'll just take a seat and wait." The employee then told me I would have to wait outside. It is 5 degrees with a "Realfeel" of -18 this morning. I can see no reason on a morning such as this to make a customer wait outside for 10 minutes in dangerously cold weather. I won't ever be returning.
(1)
Fiona D.
The food is delicious (if over-priced), but the staff are not always particularly friendly and I have concerns about the hygiene of the place. I was once waiting at the bus stop out front during off hours and saw a mouse running around in the bakery window. I went back recently figuring maybe the problem had been resolved, and got a sandwich to go. I got home, opened the wrapping and discovered there was some sort of silver paint on the side of the bread. I might go there for a beverage but I'm not going back for food again.
(2)
Dave R.
Guys...can we talk? Guys. Can we talk for a minute? Guys, we need to make sure we know that 'corn bread' is not the same thing as 'cornbread.' Y'all just have white bread with corn in it.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Kelly C.
1. Too expensive. I get that quality ingredients cost money, but this is price gauging. Oatmeal is like $8. It's hateful. 2. They can be rude. It's hard to imagine why people running an establishment would go through such trouble to make delicious food for a species they seem to loathe. 3. Everything is disposable. I'm not an enviro-nazi, but if you're staying to eat your sandwich or drink your coffee you shouldn't have to eat with paper and plastic. 4. Really uncomfortable seating, which only contributes to my theory that the people that run this place hate their customers. It's also really loud with timers and ovens going off and beeping. 5. No soy milk... 6. A ten dollar credit card minimum is against visa mastercard rules, and it's just plain ridiculous. What they sell is great. Everything else is frustrating and obnoxious.
(2)Jason P.
This is just a placeholder review for a list I just made here yelp.com/list/most-arrog…
(1)Tessa C.
Great place for casual good eats. Excellent tasty sandwiches - high prices, but good value if you split a sandwich with a friend. Even my mom who is an extremely picky eater and extremely frugal approved of this place. My favorite sandwich is Nat Queen's Cool? Sorry, I have a horrible memory. It's a pulled pork sandwich with a harrissa spread (spicy garlicy red pepper spread) layered with fresh avocado and tomato...Sigh, I get hungry thinking about this sandwich. For brunch - I absolutely adore their Green Eggs and Ham sandwich. Fried Egg on top of Candadian Bacon, with Sauteed Spinach on a potato roll. Yum! Love the almond coffee cake - rich and dense, filled with marzipan, and coated with a nice sugar glaze. Oatmeal is excellent - creamy, sweet, and studded with pecans and dried cherries. I personally like the staff - quirky and cool.
(5)Rob D.
Yup - I'm in with everyone else. Amazing food - and bread that rivals (beats?) Iggy's...which is saying something. (The olive bread on Saturdays is really great.) Sandwiches are amazing, and its just really a nice place to hang out. Oh...and the wine. They sell inexpensive wine that is really really good. (Plus, its a short walk from my house, but that's just geography. I used to live on the other side of Cambridge, and I still drove to this place.) ...but the counterhelp: good lord. What's the word I want...surly? disinterested? drugged? (Oh, think I'm exaggerating? Check out the "I see dead people" smile on the woman who manages the place.) Anyway the place is this odd combination of "come in! have a seat! relax and enjoy!" and "get the fuck outta here! what are you LOOKING at? jeez, aren't you done YET?!" ...if the food ever takes a turn for the worse, I'm gone.
(3)Anastasia L.
I've gotten bread, sandwiches, and the odd breakfast item here, and I've never experienced quite the g-d-awful service others seem to. Sure the staff aren't jumping thru hoops, but having worked in a bakery before and served a somewhat "academic"/"upscale" crowd, I know it ain't fun. As others have hinted, it's often the other patrons who are most aggravating (wealthy, cultured or pseudo-cultured, brainiacs, etc etc etc- comes with the territory). That aside, I support small (-ish) bakery operations with delicious homemade breads, yummy sandwiches with quality ingredients, fresh juice, and great baked goods (such as their fabled vanilla poundcake). The communal tables are a cool idea in theory, and I've shared them with cute bookworms as often as rude mommies. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth a try. Note that as with other businesses on Concord and Huron Aves, parking is a beeatch.
(5)Robin E.
I live in Huron Village and on occasion stop by HR for this or that. The food is not that great. Some things are amazing, but the only reason I ever go there is convenience. The coffee sucks, not robust enough, but better than starbucks. Even one of the employees told me she thought the coffee wasn't that good. Bland. Nothing is very consistent except, as many have pointed out, the staff who consistently make an easy job (put stuff in a bag and ring it up then make some change) look very very hard. Maybe they just aren't that smart - the younger ones are a little easier to deal with most of the time. Those pigtailed older ladies with sparkles all over their eyes need to move on, just move out. Have you tried Sofra on Belmont Ave? Now that is one hip, friendly place with far more interesting food, much better coffee and a great wine shop. Plus they have a parking lot. Owned by the same person as Oleana, they are just as focused on high quality as HR. They even have their own farm, so everything is extremely fresh. It's harder for me to get there but well worth it. Why suffer through a tired old place with bad service when Sofra is so close?
(1)Eve L.
Really good bread, but if you're Jewish, don't buy your challah here. It's challah-made-by-goyim -- that is, not sweet and way too bready. But, with the exception of their challah, their bread is excellent. Their sandwiches are amazing and creative. Their "Sin Sandwich" might just be the most decadent thing ever created. (Dark chocolate melted on brioche) However, they are expensive. It's not a sandwich joint. It's a "gourmet" sandwich joint.
(4)carole k.
VERY SNOTTY STAFF...I'm so surprised that the management doesn't understand that they are losing customers. The wait staff are just not nice people. I'm embarrassed to live in Cambridge and imagine outsiders coming to this place from, let's say, the mid West, and running back to their home, telling anyone who will listen about the snobby people at the Cambridge restaurants. Please remember Hi Rise staff--we are paying you!--it's not the other way around.
(1)April I.
The line is snaking almost to the door. There are 4 or 5 people behind the counter, moving around, though it isn't clear if any of them are doing anything other than looking busy. I am eyeing the grilled pb, nutella, and fluff sandwich. I am eyeing the rice crispy treats. I am eyeing everyone around me. Despite the mess of staff and the disorganization behind the counter everyone is really happy. We make our way to the front of the line -- order the grilled pb, nutella, and fluff sandwich as well as a hot dog on challah with lots of mustard and a cinnamon bun. All is good. Yes the staff seems kind of uninterested in their jobs or helping you or proving very good service, but the food is good. Yes it is pricey, but if I'm in the area I'll stop by...I just won't go out of my way to come here.
(3)Rachael R.
It does not count to go the Harvard Square location. Unless it is down-pouring, it is worth the walk from the Square, and the walk itself is actually a nice exposure to old Cambridge. I usually order whatever sandwiches has the most, often involving a fried egg. Go knowing the sandwich will cost $10. You will be delighted by everything else.
(4)C C.
I don't know why I haven't reviewed this place yet. It is simply incredible. As I always do in these situations, I will fully disclose my ties... this if the gf's new place of employment... she's now a baker there. But my love affair with Hi-Rise started about a two years before she started making dough there (oh snap! couldn't resist!). The sandwiches are great. All of them. Any of them. I can't imagine you'll be unhappy with you choice. Today I went all the way with the Sin Sandwich and a large Earl Grey. The counter-person was SO thrilled someone was ordering the nutella-and-chocolate work of art... apparently the name can be a deterrent for some. I beg of you... GO for it! Even if you do burn in hell for all eternity with the Backstreet Boys' "Millennium" album on repeat, it will have been well worth it. Delicious food aside, they have a great selection of tea and coffee drinks. For cold beverages, I recommend the Bright Blue Soda. Your experience isn't complete until you've tried their Gazpacho. Fresh baked bread and pastries will beckon you while you wait in line to order. They also offer a limited selection of quality liquor, $50 mixed cases of wine, and craft beers. This place is hot for omnivores, vegans, the picky, the hard-to-impress, and locavores alike. Just come ready to cozy up... the majority of seating is on benches at two long tables, so you'll likely have strangers at your side. Bonus points if you walk out with a new friend! Also, I should note that they have a $10 limit on credit/debit purchases. This is easy to meet, because the average sandwich price is $8-$10... so when you add in a drink you're most certainly there. Don't balk at the price... these aren't your momma's elementary school lunch-sack sandwiches... they are large portions of gourmet food served between two slices of fresh-baked heaven!
(5)Ryan W.
This place has more rules than a Catholic semi-formal. No credit cards, no cell phones, no food after 3. Maybe I wouldn't care if a cup of coffee didn't take 7 minutes to drip into a cup. It's the most pretentious coffee prep I've ever witnessed (and I've been to Seattle). It used to be different here. Oh, and the soups are great but four dollars for a dixie cup of broth ain't worth it, know-what-i'm-sayin, John Q Internet?
(2)Jen G.
Hi-Rise is a cute little bakery with outside patio seating. It's such cute little place. Their pastries are very yummy. The quiche and the lemon curd cake are some of the best food I ever tasted. I wish there's a pastry place like Hi-Rise Bread Company (but cheaper, Hi-Rise products are pricy) near my home so I can go there everyday. Though I was only in Boston/Cambridge for a few days, I couldn't help but to make repeat visits.
(4)Dave M.
Amazing sandwiches, excellent food - unfortunately though, the staff is quite rude. It's clear that the management doesn't put any emphasis on customer service because I've been talked-down-to by three different employees on three different occasions. If the food weren't so damn good, we'd never come back! (if the service was even moderately good, I'd come every week and probably give High Rise 4 stars) Additionally, the management refuses to carry soy milk. With a dairy allergy, I would have ordered a coffee with every visit if they only had soy milk. I consistently get a condescending comment from the staff every time I ask whether or not they have soy milk. Strange.
(2)Tracee D.
Great $$ sandwiches. The smell of the place is worth at least 5 dollars. Its fun to sit on church pews and watch people knead bread right? Good food and juice. They even have wines for you to take home. My only gripe is that the customer's (excluding some) are kind of crappy. They give off a stinky vibe that gets in the way of my bread sniffin' Went back yesterday for lunch. 10$$ for a salad or sandwich, I always thought salads were more $$. Had a tuna melt with bread and butter pickles, yay bread and butter pickles. Watched people eat an eggsalad sandwic and a chicken with bacon sandwich on corn bread. They looked happy. ps. the employee's are unusually unhappy (regardless of the weather)
(4)Vanessa C.
before you complain about the price, you should know that all the meats are made IN HOUSE. fresh chicken, pork, turkey - all with no nitrates or yuckie preservatives? that is DEFINITELY worth the extra $2-$3 per sandwich for me and any other health conscious consumer who actually cares about what they are putting into their body. I feel good about the food I get from here, and that itself is worth the premium. I have not had any bad experience with the staff here, but honestly the food is so good that I dont think it would matter much. besides, its not like they get tips! lets be grown ups about this... the bread is phenomenal. the sandwiches are by far my favorite in the city (with volle nolle coming up second, but its like a pos/neg photo experience of hi-rise. totally different...) this location is not convenient to me by any means, and still I know if I want a sandwich in boston, I will not even think about going anywhere else first. I also really love the layout of the interior - you can watch bakers working hard at large tables off to the side preparing the dough. the tables are nice and the ceilings are high and spacious. I have a hard time understanding all the negative reviews, because I personally couldn't ask for anything more out of a sandwich shop - really, whats not to love here?
(5)Erik S.
Solid bread products here. I've had both the green eggs and ham and the high rise and shine. Both were pretty good. The bread here is really good and I'd like to try more of their selection. It's a good bakery but it'll cost ya.
(4)Katie P.
I will not set foot in this place again, despite living a few blocks away. Although I have read the review and update from Oliver P dated 5/19/11 that Hi-Rise is working on their customer service, my three trips here earlier in 2011 were enough to end my appetite for their food a few months ago. The staff, and their signs about cell phones, are rude and obnoxious (and note that I've never used my cell phone there, it's just that even the signs manage to be rude). The prices are high. The seating is limited. The atmosphere is distinctly "get the hell out" so we can go back to being cool. There are much better alternatives in the area, as well as in Harvard Square.
(1)Julian H.
They make some fine tasting sandwiches, but don't go there for lunch unless you have nothing better to do with your entire afternoon. I'd speculate that maybe the entire staff was totally stoned, but then you'd think that if that were the case, they'd be happier and less rude to the customers. Then again, you'd also think that, given that you'd paid them $10 for one of thier precious sandwiches, they wouldn't get all surly when you asked them to hand it to you when it's clearly just sitting there...languishing...on the counter.. And don't make the same mistake I did, and think that the 1/2 hour you paid for on your parking meter will be enough time to pick up your sandwich to go. Unlike the folks at Hi Rise, the ticket writers in Cambridge are quite efficient.
(1)Clara R.
Nine-dollar sandwiches!? Only this place can get away with that; I think they may have the best sandwiches I have ever eaten. High Rise isn't priced for regular visits, but we like to bring our weekend houseguests here to impress them with our classy neighborhood (that we can't quite afford). It's hard to get a table at weekend brunchtimes, though. In the spring, it's nice to start the day with a cheddar snail (NOT nine dollars) and iced tea that you can enjoy while waiting for the bus or walking to the square. Mmm. I did once see a mouse inside when I was walking home late at night, though -- unless it was a drunken hallucination?
(4)Katie A.
Hi Rise staff has never surprised me by actually being nice or helpful. Today's expensive slap in the face was their refusal to slice a loaf of bread. There are plenty of great places in Cambridge for bread and sandwiches... and most of them also care about service. I'm tired of giving Hi Rise another chance to provide basic services.
(2)Kate M.
Crazy good! I love going and its worth driving all the way from Philly to Mass. just for this. Admittedly I always order the same thing. But If I had to pick only one thing to eat for the rest of my life, for every meal. It would be their curry chicken salad sandwich.
(5)Robert Z.
Hi - Rise is my category winner for "best restaurant when someone else is buying you lunch". Their inventively named sandwiches combine tasty ingredients with their fresh-baked bread, but $10 for just a sandwich is a little pricey for a mid-day meal. If you steer away from the sandwiches, Hi-Rise also offers a nice selection of low-priced European wines (take-out only), incredibly delicious desserts, and of course loaves of their delicious breads.
(3)Heather H.
Okay, so I like to call this place Hi-Price, but in all honesty, I cannot stay away from their lemon curd cakes. LEMON CURD CAKE. Okay, besides their lemon curd cake, it's fun to watch surly hipsters bake things. And their sandwiches are pretty good. I'm a fan of the grilled cheese/tomato/spicy mustard sandwich. Seating is a bitch, but I was lucky enough to live just down the street from them.
(4)Douglas G.
Without question Hi Rise employs the nastiest, most bitter, unprofessional staff in all the land. Eat a snowball off the street before entering this poor excuse for a neighborhood bakery.
(1)Q T.
Fabulous food!!! Adorable Friendly Staff!!!
(5)Kat L.
Fact: the owner is a pompous ass. Even the old ladies in the neighborhood know that he is quote "very conceited." The food is delicious, but pricey. I want to go there more often because their baked goods and sandwiches are interesting and delicious. But I really can't justify the price. Also, dealing with the staff is a major drag.
(2)Julie A.
I LOVE the sweets. I like the bread. the sandwiches are so so. They are really nice, but oftentimes they are so busy it's hard to find a place to sit so I get it to go. the prices are a bit steep, but the quality is great every time and you can't get anything any fresher!
(3)Renee H.
This is my favorite type of cafe that I look for all over.....just a little pricier. Everything is so fresh and delicious you just can't go wrong. Homemade soups, fresh sandwiches, great espresso drinks, yummy lemonade, clean, calming environment. Like I said, everything I look for in a cafe.
(4)Emily L.
Hi-Rise -- yummy sandwiches, albeit a little expensive. Good options for the vegetarians and the meat eaters in my life. The kids menu isn't adventurous, but it makes my kid happy. Wish there was more seating and, especially, that they had high chairs. (The location closer to Harvard Law School does.)
(4)Vivian W.
This review should be entitled "Why Hi-Rise Makes Me Sad". Aside from the fact that I'm currently livin' la vida low carb, I so badly want to love Hi-Rise. I want to be Hi-Rise's friend. They have amazing bread. The Cambridge location (on Concord Street, not the one on Brattle or thereabouts) brings in Cheryl Ann's Challah from Brookline (which is seriously the Brittney Spears of bread- rich, sinful, deliciously indulgent and really really bad for you). Unfortunately, I can't get over the fact that going to Hi-Rise is like getting on the green line outbound the afternoon of a Sox game. There are, simply put, too many people and it's really very unpleasant. At Hi-Rise, there's a line to place your order, a line to sit at one of the over-crowded picnic tables, a line for the bathroom... even a line to get a view at the menu written on chalkboards all around the place. Kind of feels like Disney World on school vacation. The only thing they're missing is a winding rope maze. After standing in so many lines, you want your sandwich to be earth shattering and usually it's fabulous, but certainly not the second coming. This gets three stars because the food is good- unquestionably and generally reliably good. But you NEED to go for take out because after you have an experience eating at the restaurant you won't be feeling any love toward your fellow man. Go to Hi-Rise, buy the bread, take it home and make your own damn sandwich. Much better plan and you still get the good grub. So Hi-Rise, get a better pad and then we can be friends. Right now, you're just too... well... too popular for me.
(3)Andrea B.
The sandwiches - yes! The cookies - yes! The homemade Oreos - yes yes yes! The prices? Nah. That just about sums up Hi-Rise. I could gush and gush about how good my sandwich was, and how good the baked goods were. And I will do that. But twenty four dollars for a sandwich, three baked goods, and a lemonade??? OUCH!!! Now that we've got the complaints about wallet damage out of the way, let's talk about the food. I ordered #57 - braised short rib, cheddar, pickled onions, horseradish aioli, and arugula, all on a fresh baguette. It was epic. Incredible. So good. The meat was so juicy and tender. So full of flavor. The sandwich was gigantic though. I was full after just half, and I came there STARVING. They should consider selling half sandwiches, actually. Those little homemade Oreos are insanely good too. And you can watch them bake them fresh while you're there munching on the ones you just bought. They're not too sweet, they're just perfect. My chocolate chunk cookie didn't disappoint either, but it's the Oreos that I'd come back for. This Hi-Rise location is kind of in the middle of nowhere, but it is indeed bus accessible. Or you could just jog there like I did. Then you won't feel the slightest bit of guilt as you munch on all your treats! To sum up - hefty price tag, but overall, definitely worth the money and the trek.
(4)Anya T.
Hi-Rise doesn't, I suppose, need me raving about it. Everyone knows how delicious it is. But I'm going to rave about it anyway. Here goes: I live around the corner from Hi-Rise--go to yoga across the street and am often at the library catty corner from it with my kids--and I come here way, way too often. Everything they offer is incredible. The coffee (Counter Culture) is the best in the neighborhood. They make a great Arnold Palmer and their straight lemonade is delicious. Their bread is my favorite, especially the flute. I love all the breakfast sandwiches, but especially the Green Eggs and Ham and the Counter Service. Their soups! In the winter, I eat their soups for lunch at least twice a week. And it's hard for me to go a day without buying a cookie (my favorites are the ginger molasses and the almond macaroon) or a piece of the beyond-the-scope-of-anything-you've-ever-tasted vanilla loaf cake. You have not lived until you've eaten it. I sometimes get take out meals from here, and love especially their roast chicken. Basically, I love this place. Including the incredibly sweet folks who work behind the counter and bake the bread, who are always giving my daughter dried apricots or a free muffin. And I love the owners, too, Cynthia and Rene, who are always around, with their beautiful, sweet daughter Lucy, and always have a "hello" for you. People who complain about the prices should bear in mind the love, and the care, that goes into every element of this business, which is truly a family enterprise, and one which I feel hugely grateful to have nearby!
(5)Lara H.
Hi- Rise is my go to in the neighborhood, and all high-price jokes aside, its worth every penny. The coffee is good and strong, and their cheddar snails are possibly the only thing I will wake up early to go get on a cold Cambridge morning. Their sandwiches are delicious and there are no words to describe how good the vanilla bean loaf is. Attire: Wear your best sweats and morning outfits. Downsides: Their sizes of latte drinks seem to have diminished into one small/medium size with a very hi-price, and there are no soy-milk subs for our lactose- free friends. Also, NO WIFI. This is a big one for me.... but not big enough to stop me from grabbing the greatest bread in West Cambridge.
(3)Matthew B.
If you want a coffee to go, I think you're missing out on what this place has to offer. Hi-Rise is a destination. Living slightly off the beaten path makes it a blessing if you want to sit with a book in the morning and enjoy a damn good cup of something warm. What makes them really stand out is the breakfast sandwich selection. While it's not inexpensive, you can pick up a bacon, spinach and egg sandwich on a potato bread bun that will make your morning. I consider it a treat worth dropping in. To date, they don't carry soy or almond milk. If lactose isn't your body's favorite compound, then you better stick to Americanos or a black cup of coffee. A random side note - they also have an incredible selection of bourbon on a shelf in there. I feel weird perusing it at 8am, so I have a plan to head back some eve and pick up a bottle. Wear your nicest puffy jacket there in the winter or you'll be a fish out of water. The clientele are often put together. It's not the place to walk to after rolling out of bed.
(4)Jess S.
I stopped by Hi Rise without reading any of the reviews and now that I have, I am surprised so many say the staff are rude! Disappointing to hear. For me, everyone was actually perfectly nice. I asked for soy and the girl working politely said they don't have it but recommend the homemade almond milk instead. The almond milk was interesting. I've never had it of any sort before so I was caught off guard by the residue left in your mouth after you take a sip. Maybe this always happens? Anyway, the flavor was pleasant and it's kind of like getting a snack and a drink? Delicious cranberry cookies. Soft and fresh. Also enjoyed the coconut macaroons. And it smells heavenly inside. I like that you can watch the bakers do their thing, but they could definitely rework the seating and fit more in. Overall, I'd like to go back to try a sandwich!
(4)Nicholas C.
Great food. Functional but sometimes very rude service. Snooty establishment, but still good.
(3)Jenny R.
I love their treats!! Their coffee is some of the best and the environment is very sweet. To be honest, I enjoyed their first location better as I used to nanny around the corner a number of years ago and it was more rustic and homey. They have done a decent job with the new place and it's all shiny and new, but I miss the picnic table and benches. I also had a no wifi problem. As a writer who frequents cafés, I would say that's a minor glitch. If you're looking for AMAZING coffee & treats come on by....just don't expect to do anything other than chat with your adoring friends and loved ones, you won't be working here!!
(4)Sarah B.
I have been here a number of times over the years. The food is delicious if overpriced, but every visit I am astonished by how rude the employees are (at both locations.) This morning takes the cake. I walked in at 7:50am and was told that they wouldn't be open for another 10 min. I said "okay, I'll just take a seat and wait." The employee then told me I would have to wait outside. It is 5 degrees with a "Realfeel" of -18 this morning. I can see no reason on a morning such as this to make a customer wait outside for 10 minutes in dangerously cold weather. I won't ever be returning.
(1)Fiona D.
The food is delicious (if over-priced), but the staff are not always particularly friendly and I have concerns about the hygiene of the place. I was once waiting at the bus stop out front during off hours and saw a mouse running around in the bakery window. I went back recently figuring maybe the problem had been resolved, and got a sandwich to go. I got home, opened the wrapping and discovered there was some sort of silver paint on the side of the bread. I might go there for a beverage but I'm not going back for food again.
(2)Dave R.
Guys...can we talk? Guys. Can we talk for a minute? Guys, we need to make sure we know that 'corn bread' is not the same thing as 'cornbread.' Y'all just have white bread with corn in it.
(3)Flounder R.
The food is good, don't get me wrong. My problems with this place is that they are over-priced and (more important) the workers are pretty obnoxious. I went in before work one day at around 7:40am. I ordered the Hi-Riser, their incredibly delicious version of an Egg McMuffin. The person behind the counter said that they didn't serve Hi-Risers until 9am. I then said, "Isn't the Hi-Riser a breakfast sandwich?" He reply, "No, it's a brunch sandwich." Seriously? Of course, this hasn't stopped me from going there a few times a year for the Hi-Riser but each time I shake my head at the pretentiousness of the staff.
(3)Ronin O.
Pricey. Absolutely. But, the sandwiches, breads and desserts are simply among the best, if not the best, that I have ever tasted. The chocolate chunk cookie is so good that I cannot enjoy any other chocolate chip cookie. The staff is usually friendly. The coffee is very good.
(5)Joanna F.
Three stars is for the food alone. I got an excellent, fresh veggie sandwich, my hubby got something resembling a Cuban and I sampled a bite of his very good chocolate chip cookie. However $11 for a veggie sandwich, $3 for a chocolate chip cookie and our order took TWENTY MINUTES even though it was not super busy. Granted, they did warn us it would take that long but HOW? And WHY? Not worth the price, not worth the wait. I'll be at Dave's Fresh Pasta next time I'm craving a sandwich.
(3)Alexander L.
This place is awesome. All the food is always fresh and tastes awesome. The baked goods are top notch, especially the lemon meringue pie. I always go out of my way to get lunch for my office here and everyone is more than satisfied. They are helpful with accommodations for my large lunch orders i.e. food allergies etc.
(5)Chloe B.
Hi-Rise is a lovely spot with excellent sweet treats and, from what I hear, great savory breakfast as well. The coffee is good enough and the interior is charming. The communal table nearly always has plenty of room during the week and it's my go to for a pastry and some coffee when I'm nearby.
(4)Juliet A.
Nom nom nom. Came here with my husband and his family over the Christmas holidays for a quick brunch. There isn't a lot of seating to cater to big groups, but we managed to find room to squeeze all seven of our little tushies into seats. Service was relatively quick despite the Sunday afternoon crowd. All of the baked goods looked amazing, and I settled on a simple chocolate brioche and hot chocolate to fill my tummy. Both were absolutely delish - and the chocolate filling on the inside of the soft and flaky brioche was a nice surprise. My husband loved his egg sandwich so much that he polished it off before I could nab even a nibble, but he assured me it was "really, really tasty."
(4)Gabriel R.
The first thing you need to know about High-Rise is that everything is very expensive. Cookies are 3 dollars or more and small cakes can exceed 8 dollars. Some of the larger tarts cost over 25 dollars. The Sandwiches are mostly in the 11-15 dollar range but they are quite tasty. The service is solid for the pastries but the sandwiches can take up to 15 minutes even if the line isn't that long. High-Rise is a nice place to sit down and get work done during its quieter hours. This place has a good amount of seats and you almost always can get a free seat since the majority of people get food to go. I have never had something bad from this place and if you go in the morning the bread is very fresh however, expect to spend around 50 dollars if you want to feed your family from this bakery.
(4)Christine R.
I finally was able to stop in here, after many a morning stood gazing longingly into the window, since they don't open until after I have to be at work. Last night, I kicked off work early and decided to grab a sandwich and a pastry on my way home. I ordered a Georgia Reuben and an iced tea. As this came to over $15, I decided to forgo the pastry. Their menu for showed many wonderful coffee drinks, and I figured it would be good to come back another time for a coffee and a pastry. My Ruben was very, very good. The bread, of course was awesome - the turkey was wonderful - nice hand sliced pieces - flavorful and moist. The coleslaw, obviously made in store - was probably the best I've ever had. No overly mayonnaised, bland cabbage and carrots here! This had a light, tasty dressing with a combination of flavors that melded perfectly and made me want to lick the paper after I was done to get every wonderful drop. The cheese was definitely higher-quality - it had a wonderful bite and a light smoky flavor that set off the turkey perfectly. It was advertised as having Russian dressing - there wasn't any - but that's okay because the sandwich was wonderful as it was. I hadn't taken the time to look at this place up on Yelp, I figured that anywhere that had such wonderful looking bread and baked goods had to be good. Now, reading through - I see that I am not the only one that found their staff condescending and outright rude . After ordering, the gentleman at the bar handed over my iced tea. It had no lid, and I asked if I could please have one since I was taking it to go. He gestured impatiently towards the side of the restaurant - and looking over, I could see that there were plastic lids there. "I'm sorry -" I said - "right in front of me!" And smiled. He didn't respond, and I assumed that he didn't hear me since he appeared to be busy straightening something on the side of the register. Later, when he called me up to get my sandwich - I made a comment on how great the iced tea was. I said that, being from the south, finding a great glass of tea was sure to keep me coming back. I thanked him, smiled and took my sandwich. He looked at me with what I can only describe as a sneer - and said absolutely nothing. I stood there feeling like an absolute fool, until he rolled his eyes, turned and walked off. I just don't get it - why are you working in a customer service industry f you don't like customers? Yes, the food is good - albeit it a bit overpriced - yes you stock some wonderful wines and liquors and your baked goods appear to be heavenly- but you just can't treat people so rudely and expect them to keep coming back.
(2)Iain T.
Just ordered take out short ribs, the guy said it was the last portion which is fine, but what he meant was: We only have a half portion left, which we will still sell you for full price, because you probably wont find out until you get home. 2 stars because the actual ribs are decent, thought I'll need to get something else after to fill my poor tum. Highrise: You owe me $6.50 for a half portion of ribs.
(2)Allyson G.
Spinach croc sandwich was yummy. Mocha was fine, but not sweet or milky enough for my taste. Planned to do work there, so was disappointed that there was no wifi, it was really loud and full (granted, it was a Saturday morning), and my cute bench seat was too low to comfortably allow me to type at the table. Sandwiches are ridiculously expensive: the average sandwich is more than $11.00. Lots of families with kids there, which I found charming. I'd come back to chat with a friend for a half hour, but not to be productive or if I was hungry.
(3)Faye G.
I used to be a regular at Hi-Rise before moving home to the Va. Recently went back to Mass for a visit and had to stop in to grab a few old favorites. Happy to say Hi-Rise has stayed as delicious as I remember. The Service was great, though busy -my friend and I were greeted, placed our order, and received our treats and coffees in no time at all. Lemon Meringue pie is pretty mindblowing, chocolate cake- superb. You really cant go wrong. Expect a bit of a wait during prime hours. Worth every moment.
(4)Anna C.
Today is National Holocaust Remembrance Day, and I'm celebrating with the only thing I ever get at Hi-Rise -- challah. Their challah is different than most other ones I've had -- it only has a hint of sweetness, which I like. They offer plain or raisin (I've yet to try the raisin one), and it comes in a large loaf for $7 (it's huge!). Happy Challah-Day!
(4)Garrett D.
Amazing baked goods, pricey but tasty sandwiches, and awful waits for lunch. I lived a block away for several years and visited the place 3 or 4 times for lunch. On a Thursday at 1 p.m. I waited close to 30 minutes for my sandwich to be made. They didn't forget my order - one of the other patrons was waiting even longer! The other times I've been there I've waited over 15 minutes as well.
(3)Simon P.
A solid three stars! The bread is excellent usually, but the sandwiches and items in the case are hit-or-miss. Considering the high prices, the case items should always be top notch, as should the sandwiches. When in a pinch I'll visit, but normally I'll bypass Hi-Rise until they get more consistently excellent.
(3)Lauren H.
I have such mixed feelings about this place. Their bread is excellent. Their sandwiches --though pricey -- are also good. But the service is chilly at best, and sometimes downright hostile. The staff makes you feel as if they are doing you a great favor by taking your order. Hi-Rise, I wish I knew how to quit you, but you are directly across the street from my house, and your breakfast sandwiches are a delight. How much of my dignity should I be willing to sacrifice for a quality egg and cheese?
(3)briana p.
I saw the guy write down "no onions" so why was my sandwich COVERED in onions?!?! Not only are your reviews slipping your service is slipping too. I consider it a treat to go get lunch at Hi Rise especially when I get a cookie and lemonade total cost for lunch was $18?!?! If I pay that much for lunch the least you can do is get the order right?
(2)Melissa W.
Coffee! Lattes! Steamed milk! Now, with additionally high prices, extra attitude, more foam, less milk (only place I know where "no foam, please" gets met with a sneer and a 12 oz "large" that has 1-2 inches of foam on top...), and a customer gritting her teeth again, vowing to Never Return Again... but the problem is, they're conveniently located across from a place where I have regularly scheduled meetings, and so I more or less have no choice. Grrrr.... I can not, in good conscience, recommend this place. I can recommend their baked goods (yes, the vanilla bean loaf is delicious, and the chocolate cork is about the right size and even a decent price for the product), their "crocs", and their fast-food dinner offerings, which are generously proportioned and tasty. But the (lack of) service is *abysmal*, and I hate-hate-hate giving any of my very hard earned moola to someone who is simply, at heart, *not friendly*. And I do just that every time I give this place any money. Ughh... the conundrum. Thank you, Yelp, for giving me the opportunity to vent.
(2)Debbie C.
I see a lot of reviews referencing the attitude and the service. But I'm glad I didn't let that stop me from dropping by here yesterday morning. Yes, my waitperson was deadpan at best and in the face of my near-giddiness (I get that way around pastry) it should have been a bit of a downer. But I was prepared for attitude (thanks, yelpers) and ordered up a quiche Lorraine and a cappuccino. Despite the gloom behind the counter, the general vibe among the patrons was friendly and warm. I was able to grab a table by the baking area where I could watch the whole scene while I ate the best quiche Lorraine I have ever tasted: flavorful ham, creamy cheesy center, and flaky crust. The cappuccino was also above average. On balance I prefer a bit of distance in the morning to intrusive warmth. I'll be back - no need to greet me.
(5)Melissa K.
Over priced, and not enough seating, but good. The sandwiches are enormous, enough for 2 people.
(3)Jean Luc P.
youtube.com/watch?v=Yqa-… (youtube video) My mouth says yes, my wallet says no. The food here is excellent, too bad I can't afford anything serious. I live close by, so I am always tempted to get a treat here from time to time. Unusually, I would come by for the excellent coffee and lattes, and if I am feeling rich, I would get a cookie or a quiche. It's one of the best quiche I've ever had, it was surprising affordable, like 3.50 slice. The eggs were perfect dense, the ingredient were tasty, with no artificial flavoring. Everything here is made by hand. The few pieces of snacks can really add up though. The place is full for lunch hour and weekends, often there is a line to get in. If you are ever in the area, this a is great place to drop in. If you are a foodie, you would want to make a trip out here.
(5)Ed G.
The sandwiches and soups are fantastic. The prices are horrible. I can't justify paying $11-$12 for a sandwich. The service is nothing special. Be prepared to wait an awful longtime for your sandwich. I'll be back when someone else is paying the tab and I have a significant amount of time to waste.
(3)Tamarleigh G.
There are some really good things about this place - mostly, the food! It's very good. The problem is the service. Remember the old rhyme about the little girl with the little curl right in the middle of her forehead -- when she was good, she was very, very good, but when she was bad, she was horrid? The service at Hi-Rise is NEVER "very, very good". It is acceptable at best. At its worst, it's horrid. The staff have no qualms about being rude, about outright lying, about ignoring you, and just generally not doing what they should be doing. Here's an example. I was on my way to my dad's and thought I would pick up a couple of sandwiches for him and me--but I didn't have forever to wait. So I stopped at the Hi-Rise and ordered two sandwiches. Let it be noted that there was NO LINE WHATSOEVER. I walked straight up to the counter and ordered. And then waited. And waited. And waited. Twenty-three minutes later, I finally had the audacity to ask whether the sandwiches would be ready at some point soon. I was told that the kitchen is really busy right now. I said "Well, I've been waiting more than twenty minutes for two cold sandwiches. I'm not even complaining about the wait. But I do think that when there is no line, and therefore no reason for a customer to expect a lengthy wait, you might consider mentioning to the customer that the kitchen is really busy and that the sandwiches will take at least twenty minutes. Had I known it would take this long, I would not have ordered them. Again, I'm not complaining, but just suggesting that it would help your customers to have this kind of information at the ordering point." The aftermath of that one comment (which was delivered politely and in a friendly way - not all snippy and critical the way they apparently took it despite my efforts to be chill) was that the five (yes FIVE) employees who had been literally standing around doing nothing, chatting with one another, suddenly ganged up on me to give me a hard time for being so "impatient". I think waiting 23 minutes before making a polite suggestion is not exactly "impatient". One of them even walked away muttering insults semi-audibly at me, and then when I asked what had just been said, the others milling around blatantly lied to cover their coworker's rudeness. I had been a customer for nearly twenty years. Most of these staff recognized me from that. And did not even act the least bit friendly or understanding. This was far from the first time I'd felt that they didn't give a darn. But this was the last straw. This was about six months ago, and I have not been back, and I have no intention of going back. My big question is: if the darned kitchen is soooooo busy that customers are waiting nearly a half hour for a tunafish sandwich, why the heck are five people standing around doing nothing and yet ready to leap into action to give a long-time customer a hard time? I am DONE. There are plenty of other good places in Cambridge, and I will not continue to support a business when I feel as though the staff is giving us all the finger behind our backs. DONE.
(1)Meg R.
I went in for the first time today and cannot wait to return. With the open kitchen, the calming ambiance, and the provisions, I am eagerly anticipating a quiet afternoon of tea and reading. I got a loaf of cornbread, two goodies (a cakey brownie and a scone), and a bottle of wine. The baked goods were delicious and quite generous (well worth the cost), and the wine selections are well-priced. There's a 6-bottle sampler for $55 that piqued my interest--I can't wait to try it out! I was also intrigued by their brunch offerings and weeknight take out dinners. To all those negative Nellies--please stop moaning about the service. It was just fine. I sincerely appreciate the cell phone policy--it is clearly posted everywhere, so don't be surprised when people ask you to finish your call before beginning your transaction. Also stop complaining about the prices. They're clearly posted and perfectly in line with their competitors (When Pigs Fly, Iggy's, and Sofra).
(4)Beth G.
let's see what I love at High Rise.....the pecan scone, lemon meringue pie, pecan pie, corn bread, cookies, stollen bread at the holidays, and I LOVE the potato bread. I could go on and on - but you get the picture.
(5)Bread Man S.
Service is not good. Manager made us wait outside for 10 minutes, while the door is open on sunday morning. I don't recommend the coffee at all. Good breads.
(1)Gaunt Z.
I can't comment on the food, because I never received any. The service however is one star. I went in for a sandwich around noon on a Saturday. The place didn't look too busy, and the line at the register was short. 30 minutes later I still didn't have my sandwich, nor did the people who had been in line in front of me. Apparently they decided to put a new person in the kitchen for the Saturday lunch rush, and the results were a disaster. After 45 minutes I left and got a sandwich elsewhere.
(1)Theresa M.
I could have definitely spent a lot of time and money in this place. Fortunately for my diet and my wallet I did not have a lot of time and I packed a healthy lunch. I treated myself to a chocolate chunk cookie that was superb. They had loads of interesting offerings and tempting treats. I would definitely return again and explore other options.
(3)Annette N.
This is a review of this shop's pain d'épices (spice bread), which I buy at their stands at farmer's markets around Cambridge. I allow myself only a few indulgences, and these include atayif from Massis Bakery, baklava from Sevan Bakery, and this spice bread from Hi-Rise. I also like Hi-Rise's gingerbread, which has hearty chunks of candied ginger baked in, and their Boston brown bread--also hearty. A strangely satisfying archaic food.
(5)Frank G.
Sandwiches to write home about. Phenomenal selection. Fresh breads baked on the spot. Charming staff.
(5)Ryan L.
Pretty much done with this place. I can accept the ridiculously high prices and the long waits for the food, because it's pretty great food. However, the customer service is absolutely miserable. Any day, anytime, any staff member, you can be assured you will receive the worst customer service in Cambridge.
(1)Cath S.
Rating is for their Concord loaf bread, Lemon curd cake, and Chocolate fallen cake. All of which are perfect. They had made a small size Concord loaf, now they cut the large in half, for the smaller size. Workers very friendly. Outstanding.
(5)MF B.
Here visiting from the west coast. Surprised to read the bad reviews for service and prices. A half sandwich here is the size of a whole sandwich most other places, costs under $7, and they use very high quality ingredients. Yes, the staff is a little odd but so what? The food is excellent. We went twice - breakfast and lunch. The cappuccino was great. The quiche was phenomenal. My husband had the hargo sandwich (or something like that, the one with short rib) and it was the best sandwich I've ever tasted. Seriously. Outrageous. Would be better with no cheese though. My son had the kid's grilled cheese - great kid sandwich, on challah bread. Cookies were tasty too. I rarely bother to write yelp reviews but this place rocked.
(5)JF S.
Ouch. $17 for a breakfast sandwich, lg cappuccino and teeny (yet amazingly delicious) sandwich cookie. I will randomly stop here on my way to work every now and then, usually for a little treat and a small capp, and I've never particularly felt the financial punch in the gut before. However, today when I upped to a large beverage and breakfast sandwich I was shocked at the total. Never had a reason to complain about the service - everyone has always been nice enough to me. The food quality is high but so are the prices, which is why this will continue to just be an occasional stop for me.
(3)Jodie P.
This place is the best!! Best bread in the Boston metro by far. The cranberry and blueberry scones are super yummy. Their iced or hot mocha my favorite in New England. Plus, the staff rules.
(5)Liz L.
I can't remember the last time that bakery staff left me feeling so chilled or bakery decor left me feeling intimidated and teeny. I went here twice because it was convenient. The first time the food (which was supposed to be veggies on toasted bread) was much, much eggier than I expected from the description and I ended up tossing it out unfinished. The second time I got oatmeal and the ratio of extras to oatmeal was so high that I couldn't even get halfway through my expensive bowlful, and the oatmeal itself wasn't of a particularly remarkable taste or quality, AND even though I ordered it to eat there, it was served in a to-go cup, as if they couldn't wait to rush me out the door. On my second trip, I also got a latte, which was even more expensive than usual for metro Boston and of a poorer quality than I've had in many other area cafes. However on both days they were filled with a long line of people ordering coffee, some of whom appeared to be regulars, and several people (possibly regulars) were having breakfast. But after these two disappointing experiences, I have not returned.
(2)Mason L.
I'm giving them two stars because while I feel the food-&-drink quality is at least a 4.5, their customer service is a 1.5. The staff I've encountered--most, but not all- generally imbue an air of, "Hey. Just give us your cash." So, with my mathematics, that's an average of 2. I've visited periodically, since, I don't know, 2006? 5? 4? 3? A while. Back in March 2012, I paid $7.75 for a triple-shot almond milk latté and that's with a quarter off for having my own tumbler. Cash, due to a $10 credit minimum. Granted, they press their own almond milk "in-house." But still, $8.00 dollars? Perhaps their adjustment for inflation is spot-on. Progress is slow. Maybe this is an introduction to giving consumers a higher quality / alternative product at a reasonable price. I'm just not ready. (Update: August 2013, same latté at Darwin's is $7.00 even.) And I used to be a barista. I've worked in a Starbucks, a Peet's, and a 1369. My favorite coffee shop is now Wired Puppy on Newbury Street, though, I have to add, the seating is scarce. A triple-shot almond milk latté there (again, with personal tumbler) is $6-something. No credit minimum. And they have a loyalty card program. And their chocolate chip muffins are off-the-chain at 8 a.m or 2nd-day. The customer service at Wired Puppy has been consistently top-notch; albeit some hiccups with trainees but that's to.. be... expected. I've been there over twenty times, and the consistent cordial service is rather un'expected coming from Newbury Street. They don't make a value judgment on you visually, as if making six figures, five figures or an hourly wage classifies you with a certain persona. They treat you as a human, even if you're a blinged-out, Vidal Sassoon'ed, middle-aged lady who shouts twenty feet towards the entrance while in line to ask what your smoker-friends want. Cashier didn't even give her the stink eye. Impressive. Hi-Rise? Whether at the Concord Ave or Mass Ave location, the service has always left me wanting. When ordering, they expect you to respond as if you were just pulled over for speeding by an officer. If you don't order in the fashion they want, they don't give you suggestions, they stand there like a robot, just waiting, no communication, crickets. If you *do* know what you want, per se, a "triple shot ... ," they'll give you a surprised look, no confirmation, just a blank canvas stare waiting for cash to be handed over. I'm on the boycott.
(2)M G.
The vanilla bean loaf here is dense, vanilla-y and addictive. The sandwiches are creative and delicious. The coffee is good. Long lines of Huron Villagers at lunch sometimes irk me, and I wish the place was open later. I try to seek these guys out at the farmers' markets: the homemade jam is spendy, but worth it.
(4)Rachel E.
So I've only been here once when visiting a friend, but I'm still thinking about that mushroom sandwich 3 months later so I have to give them a good review. It was absolutely delicious!! I wouldn't mind if the prices were ever so slightly less though but now i'm looking mushroom sandwich recipes so maybe their prices are on point.
(4)Lauren R.
The food and baked goods here are 5 stars. The service is 1. I don't know why, but the people here are SO mean! My husband and I love the breakfast sandwiches but we eat them only when we have mustered up enough courage to brave the bitchy counter staff. We prepare ourselves for their impoliteness, try to be extra sweet to them, abide by there no-cellphone rules, smile and still get a short and nasty reception every time. This last time, my husband walked in, said "good morning" and quickly and efficiently ordered our two sandwiches and two coffees. Blank stare from woman A. Then the woman A walks away with no reply. Woman B approaches, yells out 2 numbers and looks blankly at my husband. He was thrown off because the two numbers couldn't possibly be the cost of his order, so he takes a sec to process that those are the numbers on the menu for the sandwiches that he has ordered. He says, "yes" and she starts keying in the order on the cash register. Then he says, "oh and two coffees". To which she replies "I ALREADY RANG YOU UP" and shoves two free coffees his way even though there was no one else in the store and he had the cash in hand. I've worked as counter staff and I know it gets annoying dealing with customers one after the next, but IT IS YOUR JOB to be nice, or at least not rude. Hi Rise's owners should really do something about this problem. I will say the people at the new Harvard Law School location are a lot nicer than the people at the Fresh Pond location.
(3)Gina B.
I've been to the location on Massechusetts Ave. twice, and both times, I got what I refer to as "hipster no-service." This is more than just bad service; it's a trend at places that want to give off an exclusive, hipsters-only vibe. The servers or barristas seem bothered by your presence, don't smile, and try to get you away from them before you somehow ruin their American Apparel. I typically don't experience "no-service" in the Boston area, but for whatever reason, it exists at HiRise. They seem to think that the quality food and pretty, skinny barristas will be enough to please customers. The food and coffee are excellent -- I will give them that. The service is not only bad but slow, too. And they require a $10 minimum for a credit/debit card transaction, which I have never seen at a bakery/coffee place before. Add a 50 cent processing fee, go cash-only, be a little nicer about it! There are plenty of other delightful coffee shops and bakeries in Cambridge, where using a credit card is not such a burden.
(2)Colin F.
If you really want a dose of reality as to your lowly place on the economic ladder, give this place a try. Frequented mainly by trust-fund mamas enjoying idleness and comparing their progeny at most hours, at lunchtime it becomes an absolute zoo of cacophony as loads of people cram in the door, can't find a place to sit down, shout their order over an impossible stack of baked goods and then stand being jostled by the crowd for 20 minutes until the order arrives. Want something other than what's on the menu? Forget it. Service with a smile? Nope. Place to wait while they complete your order? Nope. Place to sit down? Either share a spot on hard wooden benches at the big table in the center of the room, or fight your way through the strollers to a tiny table covered with crumbs. If you're looking for fresh baked goods, try the Iggy's outlet in Cambridge. Much better stuff, at less cost and much less hassle.
(2)S W.
Service: 4 Food Quality: 5,000,000 Food Price: 3 Mass Ave location Service was great! Maybe because I'm a young person and don't necessarily fit the aesthetic bill of "harvard student" (full disclosure: I'm not one.) They were really nice to me. I had to wait a while for my americano, but that's only because I witnessed some world-class entitlement. Two women cut everyone waiting for a drink (twice) because their drinks were not right. And they were totally rude about it. I get why the barista would not be happy most of the time. (Side note: who returns an americano because there's too much water in it?) Food Quality: My chocolate brioche was amazing. It's been 3 days since I went there and I'm still dreaming about it. Good thing I live close. I don't care if it was a little pricey. Pricing?: I would never buy a sandwich there. 8 dollars for a grilled cheese with glorified jelly on it? I'm a vegetarian and if you're going to charge me eight bucks for some food it better be amazing and there better be a buttload of it.
(4)Jolene S.
I had awesome service at Hi-Rise today. My waitress (short black hair) put time and energy into stuffing my soup cup and I was so glad that I resisted the urge to save $$$ and just buy pizza for dinner. The turkey gumbo soup had chunks of chicken, a bit of sausage, rice and nice flavor--it came with a side of bread. Since it was in later in the evening, I was able to eat and read in peace. Hi-Rise charges fair prices. I think a lot of the agita that comes out in reviews has to do with the price point and some of the staff (one lady's kind of w*tchy). I agree that $2 for two little cookies is a lot, but Hi-Rise provides hearty, nutritious, and fresh food--soups/sandwiches that are fairly priced given the portion, time, and energy that it takes to make food to order. Look, I can't/won't eat here every day, but if I do come in, I know that the food will be worth it. I'd skip the quiches and pastries for the soups/sandwiches. And for the most part, the staff members are nice (just don't ask to use a debit/credit card on orders under $10).
(4)allgimbel c.
While the Fern's Problem Solver remains a treat, my experiences with the service here have been routinely poor. My most recent was on Sunday. I ordered a slice of quiche, warmed up. "We don't usually warm the quiche." OK, fine. I'll deal. I order an iced coffee, proffer my credit card for payment. "We usually like customers to spend at least $10 to pay by credit card." I give her my debit card instead. "Actually, debit cards cost us more....," her voice trails off. Enough of this 'service'. So many other places to go and not be made to feel a burden. Onward!
(2)Lisa W.
Working nearby, we come here a lot to pick up lunch or a loaf of bread to take home. Service: fine bread: great!! I recommend the concord and the huron loaves. I'm still working my way through all the types, but those two are my favorites. I think they're dense and good value, and stays fresh for a week or so. sandwiches: I think they're really good (a bit rich and greasy, hard to eat neatly) but a bit overpriced. ~$12 per sandwich soup: good, they give you two bread ends to go with the soup which makes it filling
(4)Sarah H.
We came to hi rise because we live nearby and it always looked neat from the outside. However after an extremely disappointing experience, I logged into yelp to see if perhaps I was an isolated incident and could be placated by positive yelp reviews to return another day. What did I find? Vindication. Service is awful, food overpriced but good. The woman who took our order not only got it wrong, she was extremely rude, indifferent and impatient. Also it was our first time there and after I paid for three meals, three drinks she did not even explain where to pick up the food or coffee let alone a thank you. Excuse me for bringing business in and giving you money for overpriced food. If you can stomach the unpleasant service, the breakfast sandwiches were good. She got our order wrong but what saved this from being a one star was that what we ended up eating was good. I'd rather spend my money somewhere else for comparable food and exponentially better experience.
(2)Johonna C.
Roasted shrimp salad on brioche is pure decadence on slices of heaven! Along with their tangy lemon curd cakes and a gorgeous wine selection, you'd have all the makings for a romantic summer picnic, just sayin'....
(4)Simon L.
Holly ham croc-a-licious. Italian bred topped with roasted tomatoes, mushrooms and browned gruyere. Wrapped in tin foil and just waiting to be scarfed. Sandwiches here are pretty awesome too. Incredible variety of fresh bread and wine and specialty booze as well. Delicious sesame scali bread purchased still warm. You will not be disappointed - make this place rotational.
(4)Kunal M.
My ALL-TIME favorite place regardless of cuisine, time of day, location etc.. I go to college in NY these days, but make it a point to stop by Hi-Rise whenever I am back in Boston. I won't give any recommendations as to what to try there because literally everything on their menu is perfect!
(5)Will R.
Again, the vanilla-bean loaf is what to get. Just don't get the 'Thai Iced Tea'. I got it and it was 'Chai Iced Tea'. When I went to point this out all I got was a lot of attitude and basically 'you are wrong'. Now, as someone who brews their own Thai Tea, I sort of know the difference. I'm not sure the good food makes up for the crappy attitude.
(3)Allison E.
The coconut orange scones are back! They are highly addictive and extremely good.
(5)Thomas M.
I'm not a fan of unpleasant service. I wanted to share with the yelp readers some simple data I complied. Of the 151 reviews prior to my current post, 25 reviews contained the word "RUDE". Thats 16.3% of the reviews! Here are some other frequently used words Surly - 10 instances Slow - 5 instances Disinterested - 3 instances Appalling - 2 (1.32% of the reviews). Shocked was used 4 times but one person was 'shocked' that so many reviews were negative.
(1)Marilyn Y.
Not knowing any bakeries in the Boston area and desperately seeking a handsome blueberry pie for my husband's birthday, I found myself at the Hi-Rise cafe in Harvard Square. I was told that the sister store on Concord St. had an excellent and tasty plum berry pie and so off I went in search of this pastry through the tangled streets of Cambridge. Upon entering the Concord St. café, I knew that I was in the right place for excellent baked goods.. Half of the store is taken up by large tables, sacks of flour and baking supplies .You can watch the folks here make the breads and pastries. The other half is the cafe. The large display case is filled with baked goods and breads. The front of the cafe has an inviting seating area where large windows cast sunlight onto the customers enjoying the day. Sitting on a pedestal behind the counter, was a lattice topped pie, golden colored and filled with fruit. I had found what I came looking for! I bought the pie and a few other baked items. I found the staff to be very friendly. With the pie sitting on the front seat, I happily headed back toward Boston, when my moment of glee quickly dissipated as a cop pulled me over in Harvard Square. Getting a ticket in Boston is hard to do, since no one obeys laws from what I observed. Sadly, my gorgeous pie now cost over $100.00. However, this plum berry pie was perfect! The crust was flaky and the filling was surprisingly not sugary. The filling was a beautiful blend of plums, blueberries, strawberries and blackberries. It was well worth the hassle. If only that cop had been looking the other way! Still, this pie is one of the best I have had with its unusual blend of fruits. The other baked goods were superb as well. When in Boston, I will be returning here for lunch and dessert. This little cafe, bread company and bakery is well worth a visit. The old building with its wide planked wooden floors and large windows has a uniquely New England style. And hopefully it will not be a bittersweet moment as this was. I know there is a policeman just waiting for lost visitors at the Mass. Ave/ Auburn St corner of confusion. You can't fool me twice!
(4)Sarah W.
I've tried it a couple times now, and really, just no. The prices are entirely too high (basically all the sandwiches are over $10), and the baked goods I have had have always been dry and unflavorful. I'll go elsewhere.
(2)Emily C.
I order a sandwich that includes avocado as a main ingredient. I am told they are out of avocado and they ask if I would l like something else on the sandwich - sure, how about cheese I say. The server asks me what kind of cheese and rings me up. I asked for a receipt and after reviewing it later I find out that they actually charged me extra for cheese. What?!?! That is some seriously terrible customer service. Go elsewhere.
(2)Chronic C.
I wrote off Hi-rise a while ago. The superb food was not worth the price tag. I'm not talking money, I'm talking vibe. The bad attitude of the staff soils the experience every time. I should feel better when I leave my local coffee shop and bakery with yummies in hand, not worse. I stick with formaggios where the warmth of the staff matches the warmth of my coffee. Works for me cause I just take it black. If you want more complex drinks and breakfast sandwiches I recommend Simons on mass ave.
(2)Drew B.
I don't know who makes a de facto redeye with steamed milk, but I'll tell you right now I don't like it one bit. You know, Hi-Rise has some tasty baked items - I will give them that - but I've always found a certain arrogance from the staff there. This afternoon's encounter has put me at the tipping point. See, a redeye is a simple drink to make - it's coffee with a shot of espresso, done. Well that's not trendy enough for Hi-Rise so if you go there and order one they will put steamed milk in your drink, without even asking. And you know what frustrates me? That generally when an establishment cares about its customers they'll make your purchase right at no extra cost, but not Hi-Rise. Instead they maintained that because their definition of a redeye was printed on their board, they weren't accountable for making it incorrectly - I the customer made the mistake! Seriously?! It's no secret that Hi-Rise's prices are excessive and generally the quality you get makes it worth it. So you'd think pouring a fresh cup of coffee and an espresso shot sans dairy wouldn't be a lot to ask for. Until Hi-Rise loses the arrogant act and starts treating its customers like reasonable people, I'll be happy spending my money elsewhere.
(1)Tatsu I.
Would you like to know why my clothes smell like Baked Serotonin a lá Michelin star kitchen? Saturday, 8:26AM "Ugh, Sleep Hangover. Hey, can I get the 50 three-egg omelet with #00FF00 pepprs, Canada's best chedd, #FF0000 onion, avo, tomato, mustard, but with Concord Whole Wheat instead of Semolina, still grilled?" "Sure, anything else?" "Um, Big Coffee. Plz." Sunday, 1:00PM "Ugh, Hangover! Hey, can I get a 51, 1/4# of Spence smoked salmon, capers, #FF0000 onion, tarragon mayo, and iceberg on toasted Corn Bread? Eh, maybe I'll try it on Brioche today. And a 'plus fort' Krazy Kap, extra shot?" "Brioche, check. 3 shots, uh huh. For here?" "Um, Yeah." Monday, 10:06AM "Ugh, I'm late." *Sidestep sidestep* "Cheddar Snail, this Rosted Leek Quiche, and a coffee." "Large or Small?" "To go." "Lrg or Sm?" "To go. No, sorry, large! No bag either. Um, to go...?" "Excuse me?" Tuesday, 2:22PM "What would you like?" "Ugh, sleep. Hey, can I can I, get get a pint-sized Potato Carrot Leek soup only 3/5's of the way up with extra chives on top and a Potato Brd Roll if you have any?" "I'll check. What is three-fifths??" "Um, yea, like not *too* full, so I can mix in cracked #000000 pepper." "Next person, can I take your order!?" Wednesday, 6:00PM "Have you been helped?" "Um, hey! How bout a number 6 El Presidente, no chick'n, sub that silky hmmd hummus instead of grill chickn, harissa!, #000000 olive spread, to-mates, onion on Concord, grilled?" "Mmmm, sounds good! I do the same! Anything else?" "Yes, Irish Breakfast Tea with a Lemon Slice." Thursday, 7:36PM "What's this? Ohh, Guy's new '06 Mercerey Pinot Noir, oui oui, plus a few pats of Plugra s'il te plait, for that Irish Soda Bread special. And the Olive Loaf. Oh, any coffee left?" "Coffee, yes. Bakery closes at 8 you know." "Really?!" "Tatsu, how long have you been coming here? Ugh, Take home dinner, instead. We have 2 Chicken Pot Pies left, or 1 Grilled Steak Tip Roasted Potties and shrooms + Swiss Chard left." "Nah child, still vege, still strong!" *V Sign* Friday, All Day (2) 60-watt batteries, running on single core (CPU1), no BT, no LCD backlight, face the window, reading off reversed (ctrl-opt-cmd-8) liquid crystal type on a overcast day. "Anyway, so I have this Picnic tomorrow, give me box of every cookie and sweet thing you got!" "Ok, but what do you want?" "Oh I know exactly. *Dreams of future*
(5)Amy J.
I have to say first that I did indeed walk through the doors of BOTH Hi-Rise bread shops today poised and ready to be treated unkindly. I found nothing of the caliber I expected. I observed a couple of quiet kids along with pretty friendly people. I got the vibe that some of them were simply shy or modest, but no one was rude. SECOND, and most importantly, the sandwiches, the bread, and the coffee are to die for. We drove down from New Hampshire, on yet another quest over the last year or so for great artisinal bread - and Hi-Rise wins the prize. It's 10:30 at night and I just ate probably 500 calories worth of little pieces that I kept getting up and saying "one more little piece"... It's just that good. Sandwiches - we tried the Cuban chicken, the Curried chicken with mango chutney, a #21 egg/bacon sandwich, and the kid's peanut butter, honey & banana on Challah. All were terrific. My only regret was not asking for the curried chicken and the kid's sandwich to be toasted or grilled. The product would be well worth some rude employees if there were any - I think the reputation on here is definitely inflated. Treat THEM with respect and see what happens. That's what we did!
(5)Jennifer N.
Yes, the sandwiches are overpriced. Of course they are. But some of them are also really, really good (like Grace's Newest Nanny... delicious! And there are a fair number of veggie options which is also a real plus). The sweets are also overpriced, but delicious. The vanilla bean loaf is to die for, the chocolate chip cookies are filled with huge enormous bittersweet chocolate chunks, the banana bread is also amazing. And the soups... did I mention the soups?! Yummy. So yes, I open my wallet time and time again for this hi-priced place. Downside: the staff IS very rude. Well, on a good day, they are brusque. On a bad day, they are flat out rude.
(4)Sarah G.
I live in the neighborhood and they have some really good bread. It is overall overpriced but that would be okay if the staff would at least be nice. Especially the girls are rude, unfriendly and not accommodating at all. You always have the feeling you are bugging them with your order. bad, bad, bad...
(2)Katie R.
When I moved into Huron Village, I knew that walking by High Rise every day would help me attain a sort of inner balance. That is, the balance of a shrinking wallet and expanding waistline. The food is good enough to keep you coming back for more, especially if you're a carbohydrate junkie like yours truly. Pies? Meringues? Delicious breads? Brioche? Tarts? The list goes on. The sandwiches are really just a touch out of my price range. $10.25 for a sandwich? Maybe if I've got friends to impress or someone to split the bill with me, but thankfully these high prices have made it easy for me to resist stopping here on a daily basis. Because after a sandwich, a little something-something from the pastry counter, and a lovely espresso drink, we're looking at a $20 lunch. And this girl's not made of money, you know. Come here for brunch with your favorite folks. You can watch the bread being made, and if you're lucky you can score a private table so you don't have to be overrun by the elite masses of West Cambridge who actually *can* afford to eat here regularly. The waitstaff is (are?) super friendly, and even though the "No Cell Phone" signs bug me a bit, someone yapping on their phone in such close quarters would probably bug me more. Fresh, wholesome, delicious, feel-good food. Depression-inducing prices. Balance - you see?
(4)Matt K.
I guess I'm just not sure how this place could be rated lower than a 5-4. It just won best cookie in the Best of Boston, which was well deserved because they are fantastic, and the sandwiches are all so original and on freshly baked bread. Try the Nat Queen Cool - pulled pork, avocado, cilantro, tomatoes - just genuine goodness. The sandwiches are a little bit on the pricey side, but they are huge, and can serve as more than one meal if you like - not for me of course. Highly recommended as a solid lunch spot.
(5)Alex V.
Above average sandwich shop. Great food and atmosphere.
(4)Sarah M.
I've been to Hi-Rise dozens of times over the past four or five years. I'm not local but its a quick drive down Rt 2 so I'll hit up Hi-Rise when I make my trip to Formaggio which is just around the corner. I can definitely see what people are saying about the service. The servers all act like they're doing you a bit of a favor by taking your order and getting your bread. Not usually outright rude, but no real effort to be friendly. I've never ordered anything complicated so I can't comment on the competency but the general lack of interest and the annoyed vibe is well, annoying. I asked the cashier (this past Sunday), when the website was going to be up. Her response was, "whenever, your total is $8.50." Not exactly a friendly reply. The food is great and yes, VERY overpriced. The prices of all the sandwiches hover around $9-12 and that always seems to be just a bit shocking. The sandwiches look really big but most of the size goes to the very generous size of the slices of the bread. All of the bread offerings are awesome. I'm not too crazy about the other baked goods like cookies and brownies. For $3, that medium sized chocolate chip cookie better blow my mind and it definitely does not. I would recommend buying your bread here and then walking around the corner to Formaggio for their daily sandwich specials which usually top out at $8 and the staff all falls all over themselves to help you and make you feel welcome. And credit cards are accepted for $10+ orders which really isn't that hard to do here. Hasn't anyone told them that its against VS/MC service agreements to require minimums on credit card purchases??
(2)Lisa M. K.
Ok, down to 2 stars. I am trying to keep it local but I have probably visited HRBC for the last time. Asked if they'd make me a London Fog. They make them all over Cambridge. Starbucks sells them (I have heard). Employee said dubiously, "what's in it again". I told him the THREE very standard ingredients. He tells barrista. Barrista sneers, scoffs and rolls his eyes - all very obviously so I'd see him do so. Rude. Rather pathetic to think a simple tea drink is exotic and mock-worthy. At this point I am not even offended from a customer service standpoint but from a coffee shop standpoint. Shops shouldn't sell coffee/tea if they can't handle it and think they are above such things.
(2)Liz H.
The service here is laughably bad. In fact, on the rare occasion that I brave being sassed to death while ordering a freaking sandwich, I have to laugh to keep from completely losing it. That being said, the food (BREAD om nom nom) is good- You get what you pay for. Don't waste your time on their meal bowls or whatever they're called- Just go for the starchy deliciousness that keeps this place thriving. It definitely isn't the service, that's for sure.
(3)Barbara J S.
i was a regular lunch/dinner for 20 years. in that time there were only two nice servers. food is great, but hi rise is hi price with absolute rudeness among staff. i still go now and again for a take out half sandwich, but forget about hi rise and walk across to sarah's market for breakfast, lunch and dinner. barbaras
(2)Alyne W.
Unfortunately the cons outweigh the pros at this establishment...the service is the worst I have ever experienced. We stopped by late last week and ordered the Vanilla Bean Slice which we loved. We thought the service clerk was just having a bad day so yeasterday when we had a craving for the vanilla bean slice we didn't think much of going back. MISTAKE! Whoever owns/manages this place needs to really rethink how they train their employees. Its hard to imagine that everyone in there is miserable all the time but my guess is the Top must not be too happy. Employees attitudes are usually indicitive of their superiors attitude. You guys have a great product, a wonderful space but gotta do something about the energy of the place. Oh and make sure you have cash if you are spending less than $10 if you decide to go and there is no sign that says so just a rude gal without a smile.
(2)Deb L.
The sandwiches and baked goods are out of this world. I think it's the #4 that I usually get - grilled chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato on corn bread. Mouth watering as I write this. Love the cookie sandwiches (their own version of the oreo), vanilla pound cake, italian sodas - it's all delicious. Disclaimer that it's easy to pay $20 for a sandwich and a few cookies, but I would say all day it's worth it. If I could give 1 recommendation to management - how about a pickle with the sandwich and start selling some gourmet bags of chips? that woud be amazing!
(5)Jules V.
This place was recommended by a friend so I was excited to check it out this past weekend. I toyed between 2 and 3 stars. My boyfriend and I went in around 215 this past Sunday. (They close at 3pm on Sundays) so we had plenty of time to order some sandwiches and sit and eat. The food (once we finally received it) was delicious. Fresh, flavorful and just what we were craving. Tons of choices and something on the menu for everyone. I have to agree with the other reviews that the service was not great. Although we did not have a speciific bad experience, we were clearly together ordering our sandwiches and when mine came out shortly after ordering, my BF's didn't come out until I was almost done. It took a very long time with not many people there at the time. Word of advice: they should shut their kitchen down an hour earlier than their closing time to allow people looking for only baked goods and coffee to buy. I had a hard time watching many people get turned away with all of us sitting inside still finishing up our lunches. Especially when the fresh baked goods are probably going to get thrown away at the end of the day anyway. All in all, delicious food just needs to work on their service to customers. A smile would be nice! You work in a delicious bakery! What could be better??
(3)Thomas I.
I've been to Hi-Rise twice. Both times the baked goods that I purchased were fantastic (blueberry-lime bread and vanilla loaf). The coffee was wonderful. The employees were friendly to me. There is a $10 minimum on debit card purchases. The last time I went in the lady in front of me got really upset at the guy that was working because of the minimum on debit card purchases. The employee kept a cool head and just shrugged it off. I thought that he handled it really well, which is a sign of good customer service (in my opinion).
(5)Yes P.
I have only been here once, while visiting Cambridge. I will definitely go back the next time I'm in town. I ordered an egg/spinach/fancy cheese breakfast sandwich. It was huge and absolutely delicious. I am an egg sandwich addict, and order them often. A common issue I have with my addiction is that my egg sandwiches/eggwiches/muffinwiches are sometimes too small, or too dry. NOT the case here! Gigantor and moisture balanced. The bread which cradled the eggs was bakery good and toasted to perfection. Why no 5 stars? One of the friends I was with failed to order the egg sandwich, and instead was stuck with yogurt parfait. He didn't finish it, claiming the fruit did not taste fresh and as a whole it was not that great. Also, it would be nice if the menu included more vegetarian options.
(4)Tim P.
On a fence about this place; they bake awesome bread but staff has a bad entitled vibe about them and there are hipsters cutting in line. Ain't cheap, either - 2 sandwiches + coffee = $30 and change.
(3)M. S.
The prices are ridiculously high and the service is consistently rude and slow. When I asked for coffee with a shot of espresso added the woman behind the counter said, "We don't recommend that." When I realized that this meant they wouldn't even make it, I asked why it wasn't recommended. She referred me to the barista who said, "We just don't recommend it." When I had the audacity to ask why again she said it was because the different types of coffee don't mix. Then she ended the discussion by saying "It's not on the menu." I ordered a coffee with a shot of espresso on the side, combined them myself and guess what? It tasted like coffee with espresso in it, which is what I expected from any red-eye anywhere. Life is too short to feel crummy: the next time I want a cup of coffee I'll go to Starbucks across the street where at the very least I can get civil service and feel better after I've purchased something instead of being chided and feeling worse.
(1)Naomi U.
July 2010 Just to be clear, the "service" here is as surly as it ever was
(1)Oliver P.
I wanted to post a quick update. Within hours of my initial post, the owners of Hi Rise contacted me with a thoughtful, heartfelt apology. They are a local family with a baby and are very eager to ensure Hi Rise is a welcoming place for all. The owner's wife noted they have been working on customer service for some time, and it seems they are now redoubling their efforts on that front. As I have trouble going more than a few days without a cheddar snail, I for one am willing to give them another try...
(3)Sara G.
I have to admit, I read the previous reviews and entered the store in a bit of a defense mode, ready to battle off snooty little hipster workers. Well, pretty much, they are. But whatever, I ordered a small loaf of Concord bread, which was tasty and picked up some wine. But the overall "vibe" of the staff didn't sit particularly well with me. I lucked out on a street parking spot, but, in general parking here is a bear. I might return, might not.
(2)Ashlee C.
This place can kiss my freakin' keister! Let's start with the vibe. The folks at Hi-Price, errr, I mean Hi-Rise, make you feel like they're doing you some sort of grand favor for selling you their wares. The employees suffer from what I like to call, "Cambridge syndrome". They have an air of superiority about them when you ask a simple question or make a request. They are wildly inefficient, slow, and not very friendly. Essentially, they're amongst the worst counter help you will find in this immediate area. On to the food. They offer a myriad of sandwiches, breads, and baked goods if you are willing to shell out the casheesh. Sandwiches are about 9-10 dollars each and a cinnamon roll came to nearly 3 dollars. The breads and pastries are all fresh daily, but really, with the lousy counter help and plethora of new mommies pushing their oversized strollers around, I just can't deal. Maybe I'm not sophisticated enough for Hi-Rise, I don't know what it is, but me and this place just don't jibe. There are so many cafes in Cambridge with friendly staff and fresh baked goods, that I see no reason to suffer through the aggravation at Hi-Rise.
(2)Sandra V.
I'd actually say 3.5 stars, 'cause I'm a bit waffle-y about this one. I'd read some Yelp reviews before going, so I was forewarned about the poor service, etc. However, in my two times of going, I only got bad service one time--I was in line behind my friend to order, and once she moved away to pay, the barista behind the counter looked at me ... beat ... and then asked, "do you need help with something?" I mean, well yeah, I'd like to order. Why else would I be standing here? Anyway, aside from that, I thought the coffee beverages were acceptable caffeine delivery devices and the Hi Riser sandwich I ordered was tasty and satisfying. The only disappointing thing was the homemade Oreo sandwich cookie. I was expecting something more along the lines of a whoopie pie, but when I bit into it, all I tasted was sugar. No chocolate, no cream filling, just sugar. Ack! Avoid that one, even though it looks cute and tasty--it isn't.
(3)JLH ..
wow, I was shocked to find out i was not allowed to alter my sandwich whatsoever because "we know what we're doing and we design our sandwiches a specific way" hmm, ok....could i please add hummus to my sandwich at least? "No, that would taste bad". Really??? I mean, it's MY sandwich and I plan on paying you money to make me what I want, so why such resistance? And then, to top it all off, the sandwich sucked and was so bland. I felt extremely uncomfortable in this place and I felt everyone working there was judging me which is something I never feel. Who do these people think they are? get the sticks out of your bums.
(2)David P.
3.5 stars. Good to very good sandwiches (#18 and #22 both pulled pork sandwiches...#22 better) and good bread especially the olive bread. Kinda pricey but it's a small local business.
(3)Lindsey B.
Can't deal with this place. The baked goods are pretty tasty, but it kills me to pay their prices for little crumb-sized cookie-lets. I've never tried the sandwiches because they cost as much as a nice sit-down lunch at a real restaurant. Top it off with the surly, cooler-than-you'll-ever-be counter staff, and High Rise is a pain in the ass. Good fresh-squeezed orange juice, though, if you're looking to burn five bucks.
(2)Lauren E.
This place's reputation rests on its bread. But the rest, is kind of blah... The picture you see when you first walk in is promising. But then you get to the counter, try to get some service, and it's no good. But I think we all go because we love the bread. But honestly, it's turning out to NOT be my favorite bread. Sometimes the bread is too hard, so crusty that it's sort of painful to chew. The seeded multi-grain baguette has a funky taste (fennel? anise?). Not something I want to mix with a meal. Now I basically stick to the $4 daily bread, and get my whole grains elsewhere. And the prices are really high. Talk about high rise... But, it's close to home, and that one bread I tend to buy is very good, but I'm now on a quest for another source of local bread.
(3)Laura C.
I have to agree with Melissa, this guy has just opened Bartlett Square in JP and today they had a "soft opening" I received a text from my boyfriendthis morning that they would be giving away free food all day until 7pm. They have had their son outside selling four flavors of ice cream and beverages all week and we have been dying to try some real food from there. I grab a friend and head over for lunch only to be told that they are closed-we missed lunch but will re-open from 5-7 and will be serving free dinner. We are told this by their son. So we decide to kill two hours and come back, there are many tables of people sitting on the patio-they all leave. We see people go up to the door at 5 and they are told they will open to serve ice cream in about ten minutes. I ask him if they are serving dinner and he says no,just ice cream. I tell him I was told by his son they were serving dinner from 5-7 and he glares at me and says 'he was mistaken!" Some soft opening and way to treat potential customers, guess he hasn't gotten the memo that JP is a people friendly place!!
(2)Sonja W.
I don't like the service, I don't like the prices, I don't like the ambiance, but I love their sandwiches! When I lived in Huron Village, I always trekked to Hi-Rise during snow storms because I didn't have to work. Even though Hi-Rise is on the pricey side, it was worth it once and awhile. Great Green Eggs and Ham breakfast sandwich and I enjoy the gourmet grilled cheese sandwich with bacon.
(3)Ye P.
Great sandwich, sometimes good coffee. Highly recommend the Nat Queen Cool
(4)Penelope T.
I love this place. The bread is amazing. The baked goods are so right-on. Their seasonal cupcakes are the best cupcakes I have ever had and you can't eat one in a single sitting- they are so rich. The almond cake is my favorite cake ever; it has pieces of marizipan in it and it is oh so amazing. The baked goods are not too sweet, they are always just right and taste like high quality ingredients were used. I am not that big of a fan of the sandwiches and they are way overpriced for what you get. I realize that I am eating ten sticks of butter per visit, but I can't and don't want to stop.
(4)N M.
I am a huge fan of Acme bread company in the bay area, and I've been looking for something that matches it on the east coast. This place is somewhat like that, but let me explain. They make their own bread, and the quality of the bread is pretty good. They don't have a lot of variety in the kinds of breads they make - but that's alright. The ambience and the staff are quite warm and welcoming. The smell of fresh bread wafts through the entire space. I got a salmon sandwich for breakfast, and it was perfectly done. It was delicious. The house coffee is also quite decent. If I lived in Cambridge, I would probably frequent this place. I guess it's on the pricey side (especially if you compare to Acme, which I mentioned earlier) - but considering that it's a unique place in an area where such bread companies aren't easy to find, I can ignore the price tag.
(4)Tamar A.
Three stars are a deceptive mean. Some elements here are fantastic. Some are incredibly unpleasant. They don't cancel each other out. You pay a one-star price for a four-star sandwich. You wait in an incredibly awkward one-star line for a five-star loaf of bread. You co-mingle with rather rude two-star Harvard faculty to collectively inhale a delightful four-star bakery scent. And so it goes. Let me put it this way: I've only been here a few times, yet with every time I leave feeling inundated with BUT. The space is high and roomy, BUT way too cramped to be a cafe--there's never enough seating, and it's impossible to browse the colorful menu board without either backing into the dead-center picnic table or being asked at least five times if I'm in line. The sandwiches are fresh, on soft tasty bread and made with "real" ingredients (not a nitrate to be found in my turkey breast), BUT, as it has been mentioned, truly, ridiculously overpriced. And the Mr. and Mrs. Snob (the name of the sandwich, not the couple standing in line in front of me, HAR HAR!) mysteriously gave me a bellyache. Their high holiday challahs are outstanding, BUT...nothing. They're rad.
(3)Joel P.
Phenomenal sandwiches. Best in Boston. The bread is also excellent, as are the wine 6-packs. But Pastry/cookie selection is weak for a bakery. It takes unreasonably long to get a sandwich. And the seating arrangements are downright silly considering how popular it is.
(4)Kelly M.
Hi Rise... you are an enigma. You make delicious, delicious baked goods. You make really respectably good coffee, most of the time. You have a pretty staggering selection of unique, reasonably-priced wines. You roast totally excellent chickens at 6 pm, and include a thoughtful little container of roasted onions or gravy with each chicken (seriously, I will never ever buy a grocery store rotisserie chicken again after this discovery... thanks, Yelp)! You are also a real chore to visit, for the most part. I'm OK with the no cell phones policy; that's a reasonable request in a neighborhood cafe. And a $10 credit card minimum is quickly learned. The cobblestone/river rock/pea gravel/boulder floor means none of the tables and benches sit quietly or steadily for guests -- I'm not convinced this is not on purpose, but it's not going to stop me from visiting. The serious attitude, though, from a couple of the front-of-house staff members is one of the most off-putting things about you, Hi Rise. Everyone in the kitchen/bakery area is smiling and seems to be having a great time -- and really, how could they not, hip-deep in butter, cheese, vanilla, cocoa powder, and various other awesomeness -- so why is it that a couple of the people helping the guests are often so unpleasant? I'm not asking for some kind of creepy fake sunshine attitude 24/7, but maybe just... turn to face the wall before you roll your eyes at my request for an end slice of vanilla bean loaf? That's all I'm asking. I bring out-of-town guests here for two reasons: 1. a spinach croc and an Americano, and 2. to fully appreciate the "experience." I won't stop smiling at you, like a parent trying to remind a petulant child that really, it's not all THAT bad, if you promise never to stop making the roasted chickens and the poppyseed coffee cake.
(4)Benjamin B.
Eating at high-rise is like negotiating with Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. There is a clear payoff but do not expect to come away unscathed. You will be belittled, made to feel unwelcome and will certainly come away with less than you expected for your efforts. The upside to all of this is that if you are patient you will have the pleasure of paying $12 for a sandwich... or $6 for a cup of fruit.... or $6 for a small breakfast sandwich. I have stood in line staring at the a member of the counter staff for upwards of three minutes before being served, only to be greeted with an aloof "have you been helped yet?". Generally this is followed by an equally long wait at the register as the counter staff talks, stands idly or is generally confused what to do to remedy the growing line. My wife and I typically have an argument over who has to walk to high-rise and suffer the aforementioned indignities just so we can enjoy some really fine baked goods. I guess the bottom line is that one of us always ends up going regardless, but I really wish they made the decision easier.
(2)Melissa S.
I really like all the sandwich choices and they are well done with the greatest bread. I had a Turkey sandwich with avocado, swiss and russian dressing. It had been pressed and was absolutely delicious. The cookies are large and fresh with that just chewy texture. I like watching them make bread while waiting for my meal. You might find the prices a bit high, but all in all it's a value for what you get.
(4)Mike G.
yup chicken w/ bacon on corn bread is delectable.
(3)Alexandra F.
Walked here in a snow storm with my sister, a Cambridge resident and got a sandwich, lemonade and macaroons. At her house she had challah she'd gotten the night before. The bread is amazing! The lemonade is fantastic! THE MACAROONS!!!!!!! ARE OUT OF THIS WORLD!!!!! Yes, there is hardly anywhere to sit and the service is a little slow, but everything is homemade! I had no problems at all with the staff, but I was visiting from D.C. where EVERYONE is rude. I really don't think you can say the sandwiches are expensive because I would be hard-pressed to eat an entire sandwich alone. My sister and I shared an $11.00 sandwich (which I can't remember the name of; it was a vegetarian selection with slaw, cucumbers and avocado), so it was actually very reasonable. If I didn't have a companion along I'd have saved the rest for later...Seriously...If you want fast food, go to a fast food restaurant. I hear there are a lot of deals to be had at various establishments with the dollar menus.
(5)Catherine B.
Walking into High Rise is like walking into American Apparel - you never quite feel cool enough to be there. I'm almost surprised the door man let me past the velvet ropes; it's a good thing I had Kate "Hipster 2.0" F with me to up my cred. We strolled in to a nearly empty bakery around 8:19 AM. After a quick scan of the menu choices, I approached the counter with great trepidation. "Have you been helped?" asked counter girl. "Good morning, can I please have a HiRiser breakfast sandwich?" "We don't serve breakfast sandwiches until 9." FOR REALZ?!? "Oh, ok, I'll just have an iced coffee then. Um, thanks for talking to me." I know the staff don't make the rules, but esssss....I was so ready to spend $7 on a single egg on some small bit of toast, and you're going to deny me that extravagance? In all seriousness though, I actually get quite a kick out of the fact that the food retains enough of a following to afford the staff a bit of customer-service leeway. It's probably an awesome place to work, you ain't got TIME to smile-fake for no lame foodie wannabes, and no one's gonna make you do it either! They'll keep crawling back, because the coffee's great and the bread is almost as good as Clearflour's!
(3)Theo K.
The food is ok. A little on the pricey side of things. But as a few folks have pointed out, this place is super pretentious. The staff...ugh! Those hipster girls behind the counter can kiss my a**, seriously. The first time I went there, I thought it was just because it was busy. Went again today and I swear the girl taking my order looked at me like I was from another planet. Actually, I think SHE was ON another planet. And they all seemed like they couldn't be bothered with taking anyone's order. However, if you can stand the "community picnic table" set up (which just screams "yeah, we're trying very hard to be progressive") and all the cambridge mommies letting their kids run amuck while silently judging the other adults, the food is actually fairly tasty. Although, sometimes I just want a great sandwich, made on site with fresh ingredients and maybe grab some desert. And sometimes that sandwich I crave is a BLT. So when that happens, I head to FLOUR. It's everything Hi-Rise is not...humble.
(2)Alex H.
I only go here when someone else is paying, because it's insane to me to spend $10-12 on a sandwich, but hot damn are they delish. Big thumbs up for the sandwiches and the bread.
(4)Muttley D.
I love Hi-Rise, they've got great bread and baked goods, and excellent sandwiches with funny names like "James Phones In" and my favorite, "Mahatma Gloves", in my quest for the best chicken salad in the city, I have to say that this and Savenor's and Wilson Farms are some of the tops, but this one, is the whole sandwich, the other places are grocery stores and you end up making your own. The Mahatma Gloves is a masterpiece of curried chicken salad with cashews, served on a generous piece of bread...small mouths will have a tricky time getting this monster into their mouths. There are other things to enjoy besides the great sandwich selection. The breads, the smells, watching the master bakers kneed the dough before your very eyes...and watching the West Cambridge, power-yuppies come in by the droves...yes, there are some snooty snoot tweeded yuppies who frequent this establishment, don't let that stop you, it's a little bit pricey for some things, but I'll tell you the extra 2 or 3 dollars per sandwich over your pizzeria meatball sub will be well spent...and the extra few cents for the high quality baked goods will have you swearing off that Dunkin Donuts muffin for good! Unlike some, I've always found the staff here quite friendly and laid back....
(4)becky b.
A discussion at our table over brunch at Hi Rise recently: "So, for about 400 dollars I think we could get everything on the menu." "If we split it, that would be 100 bucks a person." "I'm not joking" For serious, this place is soul deep satisfying, the breakfast sandwiches, cherry tart and lemon meringue were all top notch.
(5)zul c.
If you're ever in Cambridge and want a semi-overpriced (perhaps its because it's in Cambridge) sandwich, head over to Hi-Rise! There's a Sin Lover Sandwich (the name could be wrong), but it has Nutella and chocolate on a brioche, and it is sugar coma delicious! The other sandwiches are good in their own respect as well. The service was okay, not very friendly unless you were a regular. I would go back here for sure if I was in the area, but probably wouldn't go out of my way.
(2)David L.
Tastes great, less friendly. Snarky crew make you feel guilty for actually wanting to spend money there. While I actually appreciate the nicely divined mixed wine deals, with really pretty much never a loser, and the generally very good and consistent baked goods, it is hard to get past the sense that actually taking your money for product is a hassle and a great favor they are doing for you. Honestly, if the stuff didn't taste so good, they'd get only one star. Attitude? They got it. Adjustment? They should get one. Will they? No. It's been this way for many many years. And sadly for them, that's how long it's been since I said anything nice to anyone about Hi Rise. If you like the service at Gucci's store in Manhattan, you'll love this place, which means you likely won't like this place.
(1)Bianca T.
Hi Rise Bread Company is a Great place ! Everything we ordered was very fresh and tasty ! We happened upon the bakery while driving around Cambridge ... it was such a treat ... the sandwiches were delicious - the bread was crusty and flavorful ! I love going to places where you can actually see where the food is made !! check this place out .... you won't be sorry !!
(4)Marissa K.
I've lived in the Huron Village area for 3 years and have been to this place 3 times. Each time I go, I tell myself I will never go again. This time, I am truly done. The food is good, but the experience is so soured by the entitled hipster/hippie staff that is so unbelievably rude I can't believe people return to this place. It wasn't just once that I experienced the rudeness of this staff. Every time I go in there I am made to feel like I did something wrong, when all I'm doing is ordering food, paying for it, and waiting 30 minutes for my sandwich to come out! Yesterday we got dirty looks because my boyfriend asked them to add lettuce and tomato to his sandwich. The time before, he took out his Amex to pay for our overpriced food and the person behind the counter waved her index finger at him to "say" they don't take Amex. Seriously? Hmm, and the time before that, we were deciding whether to pay with cash or credit, and the girl behind the counter told another person working there that she didn't know what we were doing and that we were trying not to pay. Omg. The food takes forever to come out. Yesterday I got a salad and asked to add grilled chicken. Oh, rude girl behind the counter, how much will that cost? $5. My salad ended up being $16!! Never. Again!
(1)Jonathan G.
Bread will be the theme for this brief review. 1) the bread is fantastic. 2) you get a lot of bread in the sandwich 3) between the bread, there is not a tremendous amount of filling - at least for the core of the sandwich (e.g turkey, chicken) 4) you will spend a lot of 'bread' here and without so much as a pickle on the side - most guys will be hungry within 15min. Oxford Spa has better sandwiches and an almost-as-good selection, and will cost much less. It's much less of a dare-I-say, snobby scene too. Good bread too. Montrose Spa's Cuban sandwich is my benchmark for value. If I can spend 7 bucks and barely finish it - it's a good value. This is more like 10 bucks and 'gee, I'm really missing that pickle now.'
(3)Elizabeth L.
I guess it depends what you're after. I come to High Rise on Sunday mornings because a High Rise caffe au lait + the New York Times + eavesdropping on adorable/pretentious Huron Village yuppy families = a perfect Sunday morning for me. If that's not what you're into, you'll have to check High Rise out for yourself. I've never ordered a sandwich here because they're oh so pricy, but I don't think their baked goods are badly priced - a slice of quiche or coffee cake (esp. the poppy seed kind) cost exactly what I'd expect, and they're quite delicious. And the coffee is delicious. The few times I had their bread, I wasn't so impressed - I find it a bit greasy. But a Sunday morning here? Absolutely delicious.
(5)Annie c.
Great fresh bread makes great sandwiches. Loved this place when I lived in Cambridge. It is cramped and difficult finding a seat at peak times - just take it to go and have a picnic It can be bit of a hike from Harvard Sq Yes, it is on the pricey side. Can't be coming here every day for lunch but it's a nice treat
(4)Simi H.
I am giving High Horse (I mean, Rise) two stars because of the service. I think the sandwiches are very good and the bakery has a lot of great varieties. 2 stars because I just can't stand those hipster fuckers who think they're too cool to be nice. They work in a bakery for chrissake, no need to be such pricks.
(2)Joe R.
The best grilled cheese sandwich in the city!! Starts with the bread, then the two kinds of cheeses they use. Tomato and mustard give it texture and a spice, and my mouth just loves it. And priced for success. Otherwise, I always split a sandwich with a fellow worker, and we love 'em. Again, priced to win. Generally get them to go, and always cruise by looking for a space around the four corners, and if one is available, I get my lunch here. If no...cruise on, no problem, and I will get to eat here some other date. They have universal papers for me to read while I wait, or if able, grab a chair and enjoy my sandwich there. The barista at the espresso machine is one of the best in town. They know what they are doing with an espresso machine, so I can get a great latte. Great place, fun to take out of town guest. And I can navigate the parking and seating, and leave my friends to enjoy the great food.
(4)Dorise G.
beware, cash only or you will wait, wait, and wait yummy grilled cheese though
(3)Dan S.
The complaints about the hipster disaffected counter help are true. However I don't go to a place like this for the help - I go for the bread. I don't go that often as it's a little bit out of the way, but their bread is usually pretty good (although pricey). Yesterday I bought two loaves of bread and when I got home, I realized they were pretty overcooked, almost burned on the bottom. Now, I've done my time baking my own bread - I don't keep a culture anymore because it's a lot of trouble - but I still kinda feel like if I'm going to shell out $4-5 for a loaf of bread it should be done right. I know it's not THAT hard to not burn your bread, and if you're a bread company and you DO burn your bread, make some more instead of selling the bad batch? Now I'm irritated and I don't know if I'll go back. As I said their bread is usually good but it's super-premium, so it should be good every time, not sporadically.
(3)Philip G.
As noted by other folks, the attitude does tend to be variable. As a middle-aged computer programmer, I don't rate too highly on the "cool" scale, but I came here enough times with a documentary filmmaker friend (who is actually cool) that eventually I was accepted. Many of the sandwiches can be ordered in half size for a much lower price. Only a marathon runner needs a full Hi-Rise sandwich (though I did watch with astonishment while a 110 lb. Harvard undergraduate ate a whole Hi Rise sandwich). The soups are great. It would be five stars if they had a restroom.
(4)Tella D.
The sandwiches, coffee, and pastries are excellent. (Try the HiRiser breakfast sandwich and the Fallen Chocolate Cake.) We have breakfast here most weekends, and the staff have always been friendly and helpful to us despite the fast pace. It helps to get there before they get overcrowded -- they start making warm sandwiches at 9 am. A point that I haven't seen mentioned in other reviews is that THIS IS THE PLACE TO GET YOUR THANKSGIVING TURKEY. Place your order about a week in advance, then pick up the turkey and your choice of trimmings on Thanksgiving Day. We did this last year because our stove was broken, but now plan to have a Hi Rise turkey every year -- it was the best turkey I've had, juicy and flavorful. Best of all, it allowed us to go for a hike instead of cooking all morning.
(4)kathy r.
I'll grant them that the sandwich combinations are interesting. And the bread and coffee are good. However, after $12 sandwiches that aren't worth $12, and several times of them forgetting part of our order, I'm not a fan. I know some rabid "let's go to hi rise for breakfast" people but I've never gotten into it.
(2)Margaret O.
Hi Rise is a short walk from my office, and I eat here about 3 times a week and sometimes more. I'm a big fan ... with some caveats. The sandwiches are fantastic, and huge. I love the sandwiches. Most of them can be ordered as a half sandwich - for a bit over 2/3 the full sandwich price. Some of the cookies - chocolate chunk, oatmeal - are really great, as are all of the pies and cakes I have tried. The salads are similarly very good, and a lot more interesting than your average lunch salad. The bread they serve with the salad is completely random - sometimes it complements the salad, and sometimes it's just a random bread end. The breakfast pastries are mediocre at best. If you want a croissant go to Iggy's, you can get muffins almost anywhere. The bread is ok but Iggy's is a lot better. The soups are ok but nothing special. I have not found the staff to be rude so much as disorganized and visibly bored. Within those parameters they are usually pretty friendly, but I am not entirely sure why being counter help at Hi Rise is so much more boring than being one anyplace else.
(4)Kristie L.
I felt the need to write a review because some yelpers have complained about the staff being rude. I go to Hi-Rise at least once a week (albeit always on weekdays, never on busy weekends) and I have found the staff to be consistently polite and attentive. No complaints whatsoever. I stick with the oatmeal, soups, and baked goods and they are all delicious. Yes, the sandwiches are pricey, but if you think they are overpriced then don't order them! There are many other affordable things to choose from. So yeah, I'm a fan.
(4)sang s.
Ok, many reviews have said this. But I'll say it again. Food is good but the price is ridiculously high. I will take my business to Iggy's, thank you very much. at least Iggys doesn't have a sandwich named Mr and Mrs Snob!
(3)Emerick R.
Stopped in here today with my wife and 2-year-old, figuring that we could grab a couple of quick sandwiches and hit the road. While we stared at the sandwich board in wonder (everything sounded great), we were informed by a rude staff member that "we don't make sandwiches after 4pm". I looked at my watch: 4:01 - seriously. OKKKKK, then...sorry to inconvenience you with my crazy demands for a sandwich...in a sandwich shop! Let me just head over to Panera instead. There are a couple of things that annoy me about this: 1 - If you have a cut off time for certain items, that's fine. But don't be rude about it. Especially on the coldest day of the year when a person is 1 minute over your arbitrary "schedule". 2 - Why would a sandwich shop stop making sandwiches at 4pm on a Saturday? I could see if I dropped in and tried to order an omelet at that hour. But a sandwich? If you _must_ have a cutoff time for making sandwiches, make it much earlier, like 1 or 2pm. Not right before dinner! That's absurd... 3 - Think a bit before being rude to a customer. Not only did you lose my business today, but I'm going to think twice before stopping in there again, since I now have to wonder if I'll be hitting your "still making food" time frame. Not a wise way to run a business. Bottom line: you may have the best food in the world. If you have bad service, it just doesn't matter.
(1)Eric M.
No doubt plenty of other reviewers have mentioned the unfortunate pun of "Hi-Price" with this bakery's name, but hey, they owners dug their own hole by choosing the name and subsequently fleecing their customers! Sorry, but $4.50 for a baguette sandwich that's smaller than a billiard ball is outrageous. The Tuscan chicken must have been ground to particulate matter and embedded in some hummus-like paste. It still tasted good, but not particularly better than Finagle a Bagel, where I can get a full sandwich for the same price. The triple-mushroom soup was tasty enough but seemed to borrow a French onion broth and only had about 3 mushrooms visibly large enough to be labeled mushrooms. Though I did order the Small portion of the soup, I was hoping for something bigger than a portion size that I could literally hold in my own cupped hands. The only item of reasonable size was the wedge of bread accompanying the soup, but rye seemed like an odd and controversial choice: though I like rye more than many people under 60 do, it seems an odd "default" bread to give to customers because it wouldn't necessarily accompany some soups very harmoniously. (BTW: Upstairs setting at the Brattle Street location is not handicapped accessible, nor good for anyone who struggles with narrow old stairwells.) In short, I was still hungry after an $8 lunch, and I ordered no drinks. Let the punning continue.
(2)Natasha A.
Awesome breads and piled-high sandwiches. The place is packed however and the counter service is very slow as others have pointed out. Avoid it during the weekend brunch hours but otherwise its definitely worth a visit.
(3)Daniela P.
Good sandwiches but overpriced and not much space to hang out (not fun when outside temperature is 39!!!!)
(3)Bert L.
Pros: Neighborhood's excellent baker for cookies (Fancy and classics), breads hand picked wines and superlative though pricy sandwiches. Cons: *Horrendous coffee* (Think Dunkin Donuts 1985) I also tried the expresso: but it was served room temperature, right out of the machine. Maybe a rookie in need of practice...I tried the hot chocolate: Zero chocolate flavor, and I mean zero. Even my 10 YO daughter agreed. Swiss Miss tasted like Burdicks next to it. $3 for a cup of colored fluffy milk. Baffling!!! Why have fabulous pastries next to watered down "pre Coffee Connection" coffee standards? For "fun" I tried next doors' Sarah's MArket coffee, same watered coffee thing, but this time unsurprising: it is a local grocery store after all, with no coffee shop pretension. I had to walk all the way down to Sherman's street Starbuck to get a real cup of coffee with actual flavor and aroma. Very disappointed. May I speak with the artistic director? In this day and age, we have learned too much about coffee to accept hot water, sorry. I cannot believe folks are accepting this as coffee. Also watch out for explosions (Doors? Falling boards? Virile, strong men at work dropping heavy heavy things ?) and pair that with really loud oven electronic alarms : the Baker shop is in the same room, so enjoy the factory ambiance if you can.
(3)Zaazaa M.
Hehe. All the reviews about hipster style service are funny to me...I've been going here for sooo long, I've seen about 20 incarnations of hipster High Rise staff cycle in and out. Some of them were even my friends in high school. So don't worry, these guys are just someones obnoxious old friend from high school...look 'em in the eye and tell 'em what you want. And I used to love coming here and eating the curry sandwich. But recently the food hasn't done it for me. It's all right, good variety, but...not that great. Exceptions are: Arnold Palmers and that brown bread with blueberries in it. Yum! Don't try to use your credit card at the Harvard Sq. location...Concord Ave, it's ok.
(3)Cara P.
We stopped here on the way home to grab two sandwiches. OMG OMG OMG! This place rocks. Not for the carb wary, the second you step in, the smell of bread wafts through the air. HEAVEN! Yes, the sandwiches are expensive...but shit, what isn't these days. Plus it is made on fresh made bread and high quality ingredients. I wonder if people realize that they can leave when they take a look at the prices. No one is FORCING you to buy a sandwich for $9. Think about it ;p
(5)Sunny S.
Lunch here on an Weds morning, 11am, and surprisingly the place isn't swamped with people. The staff were all busily working and cheerful. My sandwich "Power 10" tuna salad on rye was tasty and quick enough, so I'm rather pleased. I guess it merits the $10 price tag because it's no 'SUBWAY' kind of experience or fare. Local and fresh, this place is great!
(5)Scarlett G.
Bread, desserts, and sandwiches here are all interesting and tasty especially if you are into 'crusty'. I feel like everything here has thick, usually tough crusts! but still i like this...just don't eat it in the car...crumbs, bleh! however, the staff here is a pain in the ass. they fuddle over arranging their precious baked goods while ignoring you there ready to order or pay for something. also, they never can just tell you straight about something. if you ask them to recommend, they can almost get it out....but for the most part the staff are stereotypical, cooler than you, dyed hair, no-eye-contact hipsters. also the quiche are yucky and cold....
(3)Cory Q.
Great sandwiches and baked goods at high prices. Home of the $10.25 turkey sandwich and the $1.50 oreo cookie.
(4)Heather P.
I am in love with Hi-Rise's cheddar-pepper bread! You know the bread is fresh, and it is fun to watch them baking. The sandwiches are tasty, though expensive. I've found the servers to be polite and quick, never rude. I'm not sure why so many other patrons have experienced bad service.
(5)Anthony S.
Hi-Rise is a story of missed opportunity...and how hard it is to do food service well. The sandwiches and baked goods are very very good. But the service is abysmal: the staff are rude, and lacking in even basic courtesy. It's sad in a way - the owners would probably be exceptionally successful if they fixed the problem. But they're just satisfied with what they have. What a waste.
(2)Noelle F.
I just purchased a $10 hummus sandwich from Hi-Rise and I'm feeling particularly stupid for having done so. But shame on this place for charging just as much for a vegetarian sandwich as they do for one with chicken and bacon. I guess I figured, at that price, it better blow my mind - it didn't. It's lettuce, hummus and onions. The bread was good but not 10-dollars-for-two-slices-good. I probably won't be back.
(3)John B.
Hi-Rise, Huron Village, is the best thing about Huron Village.. To quibble about un-smiley help is silly... I find them civil, and efficient. I don't need strangers saying "Have a Nice Day".. Civility and efficiency are far more important. I only buy the bread, as I am a cheap-skate about what I pay for a meal, including a sandwich meal.. Theire cheddar-pepper is the best bread in the world.
(5)R E.
I came here at 7:33 by their clock and asked for a sandwich and they said they stopped serving them at 7:30. Quaint little neighborhood sandwich shop my ass.
(2)Chris G.
After some running around Fresh Pond, I came here with 2 friends. I proposed buying bread with walnuts and cranberries (perhaps because I am a bit nutty and a bit fruity) - which I bought. I proceeded to eat the whole loaf (no one else wanted any!) and enjoyed it. Great place but seating is a little tough...
(4)Morris R.
I could eat sugary bread products with coffee drinks all day. And I do. That said: is it just me, or are the people making the bread in the open kitchen area having a ton of fun, while some of the people behind the counter persistently seem harried, flustered, and sometimes, even, sad, like their cat finally decamped for greener pastures, or someone just broke up with them, that morning - except it's that way every morning? I mean, really, how many ungrateful cats and disappointing boyfriends can one person have?
(4)Blair H.
1) I don't care if the staff sucks, the bread/baked goods are the best I've found in Boston/Cambridge so far. Don't tip. 2) It's not too expensive. The price of flour is rising. Even bread at the grocery store is $3.50 a loaf. Also, some people are too cheap to spend extra on quality, then bitch when the shop disappears. 3) Try Flour near South Station for an alternative. They're nicer and better looking, and their goods are on par if not better.
(5)Laura B.
The second I walked into this place, I thought of the SWPL blog post on expensive sandwiches: stuffwhitepeoplelike.com… So true! But I have to say, my hot turkey sandwich (with a cute name I can't remember) was good, despite the price, and the wait wasn't too bad. It was a warm and cozy spot to get out of the cold and get a hot coffee with my sandwich. The diverse selection of wine bottles on the side wall also intrigued me... I'll be back next time I'm in town visiting my sister.
(3)Anna P.
Absolutely delicious baked goods - their brown bread with wild blueberries is to die for. They also make their iced mochas with warm milk - none of that watered down stuff. They lose a star for virtually no seating and for sandwich prices that I simply cannot justify. At $9.50 I could make my own nutella sandwich, thank you. But, if you know what to order - you can get good deals: A cup of oatmeal for breakfast or a cup of mushroom soup for lunch is filling, economical and tasty!
(4)Megan B.
I stood in line next to Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck (with their adorable pigtailed daughter) at Hi-Rise yesterday. For the record, Ben ordered the Mahatma Gloves sandwich (curried chicken salad with cashews) and Jen ordered Fern's Problem Solver (turkey, avocado, etc) w/o Russian. Cambridge is so chill sometimes...Hi-Rise was packed but no one bothered them (no photos, autograph requests, staring). I work across the street and spend more than is judicious on their delicious salads, sandwiches, soups, and baked goods. It is pricey, but you are paying for top-notch ingredients. I recommend any sandwich with their pulled pork (Nat Queen Cool is a favorite), but really, you can't go wrong with anything here. While you wait, you can educate yourself a bit by reading the thoughtful descriptions above all of their carefully selected wines. And, as I learned yesterday, the people watching here ain't bad either. Contrary to some others' experiences, I have found the owner to be very charming and pleasant whenever he is filling in for staff by taking orders, etc.
(4)Maiya S.
WHY ARE YOU PEOPLE SO GDDAMN RUDE? This used to be my favorite place in the neighborhood, when I lived here almost 3 years ago. Having just moved back, I was totally excited to eat here again. But then today's experience just left me speechless. I wish the spoiled bratty staff were openly hostile, so I could just be rude right back. But it's a kind of rudeness you don't catch onto right away. It's only after you walk away from the counter, you realize that you were disrespected. (The black haired girl with pigtails is the only nice one there. The asian guy needs to be sacked.) Oh, yeah, and just in case you wanted to stay awhile, the place even doesn't have bathrooms. Gonna have to make delicious meringues myself, because I'm never coming here again.
(1)Laura A.
this place is incredible. the only reason why i'm giving it less than 5 stars is because of the pricing. i'm actually fairly shocked that so many people on here gave it poor reviews -- do you all have some sort of disorder where you don't have taste buds?? it is truly a foodie's kind of a place, because only a foodie with discriminating tastes would be cool with spending nearly $10 on a sandwich. it's kind of like quality over quantity: i'd rather have an amazing $10 sandwich than two shitty $5 sandwiches. they have options for vegetarians as well as meat-eaters, which is great. their grilled cheese is the most amazingly tasty grilled cheese i have ever eaten in my life. they make it on their own thick "concord" bread and grill it to toasty perfection, slathering it with high quality cheese, mustard (who knew that would taste so amazing in a grilled cheese??), tomato, and butter. i am sure it's really fattening, but who cares? the flavors are incredible. i can usually only finish half of the sandwich at a sitting because it's that filling. hi-rise was featured in amanda hesser (the food critic for the New York Times magazine)'s book a couple years ago and she absolutely raved about it. the people who taught her how to cook and appreciate good food live in cambridge and brought her here -- that can tell you what kind of place this is. i work fairly close by, and one time we had hi-rise for lunch, and one of my coworkers commented "this is not a sandwich meant to be eaten in front of another human being" -- you'll probably end up with food on your face, in your teeth, and on your clothes when you're done. but you will be full of tasty deliciousness. they also offer dessert, wine, and i believe various baked goods to-go. there is very minimal seating, so be forewarned. in the summer, visit their brattle st location in harvard square, get sandwiches to go, and go sit in the common or by the charles while you have your amazing lunch!
(4)Jess L.
i was quite disappointed this morning - excited it was actually open at 9am, but i guess everyone knew that. the service was slow, and the decaf coffee was bad - and they initially didn't want to give a refund! the benches are weird - i guess i was expecting more individual tables, a more intimate setting... food was okay - a little too buttery, and my avocado was borderline bad. i guess next time i go i'll make sure i have more time and will take it to go.
(2)Henry P.
Who knew bakers could be so damned pretentious? I mean seriously, I put these workers at the level of a supermarket employee in terms of servicing a community, but it's clear they think their poop smells like fresh asiago bread. Good dinner entrees though...hence the 2 stahs. :P
(2)T M.
I have resisted joining Yelp for a long time, but the past three experiences at this establishment have convinced me to join. This bakery has great sandwiches and a unique wine selection. I usually would stop in a few times a week dropping around $25 bucks on each occasion. It's a little pricy but high quality is worth it. The poor service however is not. The staff is arrogant and rude. God forbid they exhibit professionalism and passion for their products. When you choose to patronize this establishment let it be made clear that they are doing you a favor. Some people have very negative opinions of large chains such as Starbucks. Granted, the quality you can't compare but they could take a few pointers. Is a pleasant greeting, please and thank you and a bag for your items too much to ask for? Save your money and your respect. After all these reviews it is clear they just don't get it or don't care. I believe its the latter.
(2)Nathan E.
This is a high end rustic bakery with creative sandwiches, coffee, some savories and a fine little wine selection. My favorite is the quiche Lorraine. The owners do seem to have some blind spots such as parking their hideous white Ford delivery vans in front of the storefront thus preventing diners from seeing out the front windows and, obviously, obscuring their own signage--it's just bad feng shui and bad promotion. The counter help is frequently insolent and self-pitying. They're probably feeling overworked, but still, they need to suck it up like the rest of us grown-ups do and get on with serving. The coffee is frequently rough, not low quality, just too strong and I'm not a fairy about strong coffee. I'm telling you the coffee is often rough. This place is very small for the volume of business, and as a result, I get annoyed by the intense competition for personal space.
(4)Owen E.
I really try hard to like this place but cannot. The service is provided by several very slow and disinterested individuals, who rarely use sanitary wax paper when handling food and look as is they could use a quick shower. The pastry allways tastes like sauteed onions and/or peppers..not very appealing in a choclate cake or other pastries. I think the ventialtion system where they saute out back is lacking. I thought the bread would be better, some is better than others. They could really use a guest comment box. I will say the coffee is good.
(1)Max N.
Outlandishly good sandwiches, excellent breads; pastries are not very inspired. As some have noted, the service could be just a touch less rude. (I don't usually care much about that, but they really could try a little harder sometimes.) More expensive than its across-the-river rival in quality, Clear Flour. (And Clear Flour's pastries are much better, though the breads are about tied.)
(4)ServethePeople I.
We had a wonderful experience at the bakery in Huron Village - open atmosphere, lively, Ritual coffee (yum), and a lemon blueberry muffin thing (double yum). Excited that it's right around the corner!
(5)Sutanuka L.
everything here is excellent and FRESH. they have a unique wine collection too!
(5)Tracy Y.
Three is being generous. I love their stuff and the Honey's mom always buys us bread there when we're in town but the prices are off the charts! Seriously $9 for a sandwich! The Honey's sis (love you Dr. E!) used to work there and bring pastries home so I never really PAID for them. We went there the last time back for the first time on our own. I got a Orange Coconut scone. Opened the bag in the car, took it out and said "where the hell's the rest of my scone?" $2+ and it's the size of my computer mouse. The Honey's cheddar snail was just as small and even pricier! If I lived in the Cambridge area, I'd picket the store because the prices are insane but the sad thing is people are paying them! 4 on quality 2 on pricing. Oh, the whole roasted chicken is super tasty. Just see if you can find a mom to buy it for you.
(3)Mags L.
$7.25 for a grilled cheese sandwich - seriously? and it doesn't even come w/fries or fancy chips. to be fair, i saw the price and ordered it anyways. i only got through 1/3 of my sammich. i don't like sour dough. i was fooled 'cos they called the bread some other magical special name, but turns out it tasted like sour dough. i'm not sure who's more annoying: the "hipsters" that work there or the "boho" cambridge mommies w/their "boho" cambridge babies. but again, it's my fault, i knew all this and chose to go there anyways.
(2)John S.
not terribly impressed 1 Waitstaf was annoying, we asked it for to go , we were given a sit down order, they seem disinterested totally unorganized 2 Ordered a mocha cappucino, half of the cup was pure millk foam 3 The sandwich was overpriced... and not very tasty at all and didnt even include the ingredients listed. no taste dry pulled pork 4 Four dollars for a cupcake? you're kidding me! Never going to go back except for a loaf of bread
(1)Jim H.
What are we to make of this place? The bread, the baked goods especially, and the soups are fantastic. Buy an oatmeal coconut pecan cookie and you may have the intention of sharing it because of its size, but good luck--you'll probably eat two of them. Ditto the walnut bread, the gumbo, the lentil soup--goodness all around. And little mentioned but worth noting is the selection of wines, port and sparkling ciders. Somebody knows what they are doing on this front, the descriptions are actually helpful, and the prices are quite reasonable. But do we really need an $11 tuna sandwich that is mostly bread and really not all that special, in spite of the name? So yes, there are a few clunkers and the staff is, well... the staff is what you might expect for a place like this. Look, it's a bread oven with seating for 20 and you are ordering at the counter anyway. So, yes, you may encounter a less than helpful staff person, but it is more likely that they are just in their own head and shocked to find you in front of them asking a question that has nothing to do with post-modern impressionism. But honestly, wouldn't you rather have a little character in a place like this anyway, warts and all? Give me the quirks and the spotty service. If I want the competence that accompanies bland uniformity, I'll head to Panera--and regret it every time.
(4)Brin L.
Once you try their lattes and cappuccinos, you will forever be turned off by starbucks and every other overprocessed cup of coffee out there. Unlike every other place I have tried, the coffee here is filtered through heart, not just capitalism. Sure, the barristas are not my cup of tea, or should I say coffee, when it comes to personality. Don't expect a smile or a "have a nice day". Do, however, expect them to be consistently meticulous with the temperature of your coffee, with how much they froth the milk, and with the little designs adorning the otherwise impersonal cardboard vessel. You may not feel the love, but you can certainly taste the love of their craft. In that sense, this is one of the few places on campus with a truly genuine image and product. Lets face it, sometimes you can do with the extra smiles because, well, sometimes what you really need is a really good cup of coffee!
(4)Jeremy S.
Great sandwiches. Don't think it is open on the weekend, unfortunately.
(4)Andre W.
Uh... first time on this site and was curious about certain places I frequent. This one I couldn't pass up. My long experience at Hi-Rise has shown that most of the people who get poor service there are uptight, self-entitled a**holes, and generally deserve the treatment they get. Remember, it's right up the street from a university whose reputation precedes it. I will say, there are times when you get behind one of these entitled West Cambridge souls in line and their bad mojo rubs off on everyone around them, sometimes causing the staff to forget that the next person in line might actually be sympatico. Food is exceptional in a Euro provincial setting. Excellent eclectic wines - organic and small producers (no super Tuscans, and forget about California). Even a couple killer Calvados and Cognacs and a great outlet for Nantucket Brewers' stuff. Oh, and the staff is among the friendliest I have ever encountered in a bakery or cafe anywhere. Just peak your head in and check the air for vampiric energy vacuum. If it's lurking, you can steel yourself, or always come back later.
(5)Lindsey M.
Mixed feelings. Their food is excellent, that is undeniable. The mini apple pies, enormous fudge brownies, breads etc. are all so tempting every time i go in there. However, their prices are expensive. It's obvious that their jacked prices are pretty much paying their astronomical Harvard sq. rent! Anyways- amazing food never the less. it's sorta a matter of how much your willing to splurge..
(4)Amy S.
Seriously the best baked goods...and we love the one in Harvard Square...super nice to kids and a great environment to chill.
(5)Lindley E.
thank you zingerman's, for providing the (bakery and sandwich) model for Hi-Rise. Sure, some of the baked goods blow...but for the most part, the bread is great, the sandwiches are lovely, and the setting is ideal for the morning paper, a cup of coffee, and a plate of toast.
(4)Barbara C.
Live a couple blocks from High Rise on Huron. Their baked goods are absolutely wonderful, rich ingredients but beautifully prepared and simple (no layers of hazelnut puree and raspberry filling everywhere like most places). Why less than 5 stars? Because this place has the most surly service and rude, uptight customers of anywhere in Cambridge. And it's been this way for years. You have to really want to buy something there to put up with it.
(3)Jon W.
I go here occasionally. Mostly for the convenience, because I'm sometimes in that neighborhood. The sandwiches are good, but hugely overpriced. And be prepared to pay in more ways than one. The lines are long. The counter staff all look like they hate their jobs. I'm just waiting for them to spit on someone in disgust. All the soccer moms are so engrossed in trading stories of their kids that they don't even notice you're about to trip over their baby carriages haphazardly blocking the aisles. I don't know why I go here. I guess I'm a masochist.
(3)John T.
#22 nat queen cool -- my all-time favourite sandwich. i used to drive up from Jersey to visit friends, and this would be my first stop. all the baked goods are top-notch. love the vanilla bean cake. soups and stews are standouts too. i dock them a star because it's difficult to get a seat on weekend mornings. they seem to let people linger at tables reading the paper long after they finish their meals. oh, the prices border on the stratospheric too.
(4)Ryan B.
The rice crispy treat is one of my favorite deserts on this earth. My struggle is common amongst the other reviewers. The wait /counter staff can be rude and cold. Pricey high end products saturate the menu but do have great quality and are delicious. It is not a great value but if you crave a fresh gourmet sandwich and swank desert hit it up!
(3)C S.
I love to come here during the summer to get their fresh limeade-- it tastes just like a virgin margarita! And their Cuban sandwich, although pricey, is huge and greasy and soooo yummy. They'd get 5 stars if their staff wasn't so persnickety (my husband refuses to come with me-- he got chewed out for trying to order off the menu once. Jeesh!) .
(4)shannon m.
I love Hi-Rise, with its expensive sandwiches and hard to get seats at the communal table or cafe tables. It is exactly the type of place I want to meet friends at on a Sunday and enjoy brunch, pick up some fresh bread and after 12pm, some wine.
(4)evonne w.
the georgia ruben is amazing (though i always stare at the gigantic sandwich blackboard for a minimum of 10 minutes). ok, it costs like $10, but it is pretty huge. mini lemon curd cakes=heaven. breads are yummy...too many to choose from! definitely pricey as hell (actually, their breads and some wines are pretty reasonable), but i do love it here!
(4)Nichole C.
They take the "rude barrista" to an art form and let me tell you, it is not charming. The servers are consistantly ill-mannered, as you can tell from the zillions of reviews on this, which tells me this is not a case of a single disgruntled counter-person but is obviously a message from management that it is okay to treat customers like dirt. As a Cambridge local I was so embarrassed by the way a group of tourists were treated there yesterday that I actually offered to buy their drinks for them. The barrista half-filled their coffee cup, and when one asked politely if he could please add a bit more, the barrista sneered and replied that that was all the coffee he was going get. I couldn't believe what I'd heard. Between that and the other server yelling at customers for unstacking chairs on the patio - even though it was only 4PM and there was still an hour to go before closing, then being told not to point at the pasteries when ordering because is smears the plastic sneeze guard, my husband and I decided that was it - there are just too many places in the city that serve good coffee and baked goods and manage to do it all - gasp - while making you feel as if they appreciate your business. We'll never go there again.
(1)Heather B.
I concur with the comments about the staff and the prices. However I must say I had their version of a Cuban here, and while it was not an authentic Cuban, it was one of the best sandwiches I have had in a while. The pork loin was so tender and juicy, the bread toasted (grilled?) to perfection and yummy melted cheese galore. I'm on the fence on how many stars to award, in my case the food weighs out over the service. We also had a really annoying co-customer sitting near us, she was looking at our food, asking us all kind of questions about the menu and interjecting comments and questions into our personal conversation. Really presumptuous and intrusive. Guess that's the risk with communal seating. I was there on a Saturday so it was def open that weekend.
(3)Susy D.
Wonderful food but yuck service. While I've found the service to be haphazard and lacking friendliness it's never fussed me too much. However, the attitude that I saw on two recent visits was so abysmal that I'm put off going back. The first was a mother with two young children and VERY heavily pregnant who was eating with her family when her little girl said she needed the bathroom. The staff refused to let the girl go, and insisted that the mother would have to pack up her lunch and her two kids, and go to the library a few blocks away. The second was when a group of what seemed like work colleagues bought a big lemon meringue pie for an afternoon coffee meeting. They bought it from Hi-Rise and wanted to eat it there so they asked the staff if they would cut it as there as the paltry plastic forks weren't doing a good job of it. The staff refused. They then asked if they could borrow a knife from the kitchen. Again the staff refused saying that they didn't have anything suitable. This is a bakery for goodness sakes. What do you mean you don't have a knife that will cut a pie??? So sad to see staff thinking that this is okay, and so sad that management does nothing about it.
(2)Melissa B.
I don't know who is ruder in this place, the staff or the customers. I've tried really hard to like this place because I hear they have good product, but after 4 visits or so, I just can't deal.
(1)jason v.
We jokingly refer to this place as Hi-Price Bread Company but we really do like their bread. Their sandwiches aren't much to write home about but are better than average. They have a nice selection of wine that runs on the higher side, but some of it you won't find many other places. But the best reason to go there is for the bread. Their raisin pecan loaf and Boston brown bread are amazing and probably the best deals in the house. If you ever try to make them yourself, you'll know why. The babka is a special treat. The punk staff are great if you're a regular.
(3)Valerie W.
Really tasty sandwiches composed of very interesting ingredient combos (turkey, portobello and asparagus? yes please!) plus the baked goods are so cute! a nice list of drinks too... but why so expensive hi rise?? why??
(3)Beth F.
Wow. If you like baked goods...and great coffee...this is the place to go. The chocolate molten cake is devine. Sat and Sunday mornings can be crazy.
(4)Anonymous P.
They're lucky to get 3 stars. Highly inconsistent. Sometimes the chicken sandwich with tapenade and harissa can be dynamite. Other times the chicken is overcooked and there's not nearly enough spread. I don't care about the prices if the food is consistently good.
(3)Joe R.
Hi-Rise just barely squeeks up to 5 stars in my book because my sandwich was made on (gasp - can it be?) cornbread. Fantastic. The staff were on the surly side, but such arrogance is usually the mark of a fine eatery.
(5)jenny b.
i've been a hi-rise regular for years and don't know what i'd do without this place. the coffee is fantastic and the food (everything!) is delicious.
(5)Arik C.
Not bad sandwiches but the bread is fabulous. Never seem ot have much left in the afternoons though. Just as good as Iggy's.
(4)Jeannie C.
Do they have Chocolate Molton cake? If they do I'll give it a try. The baked goods are good some are very good. Coffee is also very good. But it really isn't anything you couldn't get at Panini's or Carberry's or other bakery cafe's.
(3)Dan M.
Open on the weekend and is a very great family place. Very fast service but similarly very carefully selected. The oatmeal is great along with their myriads of deserts from cookies to brownies and cakes!
(5)Denise K.
After having gone to Hi-Rise a couple times, I have to agree with the reviewers who say the service isn't so hot. The girl behind the counter was nice enough, but she never made the drink I ordered and I ended up standing there for 5 minutes, watching her take order after order. I finally had to ask for my drink to be made. The service has been slow everytime I've been there, and it's not always because there's a line. Also, sometimes the people are quite rude and they just don't want to give you the time of day. All that said, I have enjoyed some sandwiches there (grilled pork on corn bread), and I really like their almond danish (marzipan inside!). The bread seems pretty good. I've tried the brioche, corn bread, and pepper parmesan. All pretty nice. Today I went to Iggy's though for the first time, so we'll see if my opinion of their bread changes.
(3)Anna S.
The sandwiches are good, nothing specially, especially for the extremely high prices. This place is a tad over rated. But the food is good. The service tends to be a bit rude as well. I also broke a tooth on a cranberry cookie of theirs... beware.
(2)Buzz G.
This place is a must go to for breads, soups, sandwiches, salads, special baked products, etc. Your life is not complete without becoming a regular at Hi-Rise.
(5)Germain W.
Not worth it. The sandwiches and baked goods were ok. But the prices... WHOAAAaaa... I mean, I just moved from S.F. where things are expensive. But this little shop in Cambridge shocked even me. I mean, come on... $9.50 for a freaking sandwich that consisted of two slices of bread and a sausage with a little mustard?? Give me a break. What are the owners thinking? What a ripoff. The red-haired teenage kid serving us was also a real put off. He had snot running down his face (yes, while serving customers, I kid you not). When he was picking up bread for me I wanted to hand him a tissue and say, "here, use it". Eeeeek. Gross!!! For sure, first and last visit.
(1)Deepa C.
I love this place. The mixing, kneading, baking frenzy hits you as soon as you walk in. The smell and heat and yeastiess permeates the air, making it thick and swimmy. As you pass the baking section, a bouquet of baked goods preens on the counter: challah, cinnamon loafs, apple pies, pear tarts, wheat breads, burger buns, baguettes, big round loafs, sugar encrusted ones, loafs spotted with herbs and olives, you name it. The coffee is good as well, and they have soup and sandwiches, although I have yet to partake. The prices aren't insane for Cambridge, but not exactly cheap. Also, it can get crowded and there is limited seating. It's not exactly a quiet place to read a paper, but people were doing it. So local beers and good selection of wines, bustling atmosphere and a must visit for anyone who loves bread.
(5)Nupur L.
Hi-Rise, get over yourself. Your bread is half as good as Iggy's and yet it's almost twice the price or sometimes more than that. For a store that is trying hard to ride the local wave, you can't even give friendly service to the people who have been visiting regularly for weeks (aka ME). Your tip jar is a form of extortion, capitalizing on the eagerness of good-hearted folks who will buy local even at your highway robbery prices. Also, your tarts suck. I was really excited for a while, laboring under the perception that I may be actually developing a relationship with the surly old hipsters who work behind the counter. Then we walked in at 7:34 one Monday evening and asked if we could have sandwiches. The sandwich service ends at 7:30. I buy local so that I can actually get decent service. Note that I'm not even asking for friendliness here. I thought it was entirely reasonable that they could make a sandwich at 7:34. I would have cut them slack if it had been 7:40, even. No. We had to buy their entrees or leave. To add insult to injury, the woman at the counter chirruped "No sandwiches, but we have SOUP!" Right, the same gazpacho that they have been peddling for weeks. I'm now done with Hi-Rise. The sandwiches don't taste that good after they leave holes in your wallet and heart.
(2)P. J.
I went to Hi-Rise this afternoon. I had not been there in over a year. The prices, which had been high before, were even more outrageous, but my sandwich was excellent. Almost worth the $12. Several recent reviewers complained about the rude staff, but I must have gotten lucky: the young woman who took my order was cheerful and polite. What I found off-putting was the woman breast-feeding her baby in a very in-your-face "Look at me! Aren't I hip?" way. Another reviewer mentioned the annoying "boho" Cambridge mommies who frequent this place. Agreed: I recommend getting your sandwich or brownie to go.
(2)Stephanie F.
I don't know why everyone had such a bad experience with the service. I guess I haven't had the bad experience yet. Anywho, the only useful thing you can get out of my review are the soups. The soups = tasty. The lentil soup was delicious; there were bits of parsley or cilantro (one of the fresh green herbs) that entertained my tongue. The bread to go along with it = fresh. I've been here when it was sort of crowded and when I was able to sit at the long lunch table without being elbow to elbow to anyone (this was on a Friday afternoon at about 4pm). I bought a sandwich for my boyfriend here, I can't remember what the name of it was, but it had an ingredient that I knew he didn't like but I knew I liked and surprisingly he didn't realize that dislikable ingredient was in his sandwich until I told him half-way through. I guess it goes to show that they know how to make their sandwiches! But I know this was only one sandwich... On the other hand, it was sort of overpriced... I would like to try some of their baked goods and local wines.
(4)Steve L.
I think they have everyone you want from a bakery, whether you get their breads and pastries or sit down for one of the sandwiches. For me, some of the sandwiches don't actually hold together -- say the grilled portabello and asparagus -- the asparagus keeps rolling away. Or, the grilled cheese -- delicious individual ingredients, but the balance between the bread, cheese, mustard, pepper -- not that zen status that a perfect sandwich should have. Regardless, you won't get anything bland or sub-par here. Oh, and I never noticed any bad service.
(4)Amy H.
good sandwiches. cute room to sit in and eat your sandwich. Bad attitude staff. overpriced. Here's a tip, go across the street to Sarah's and order a BLT. Cheaper, faster, and less eye rolling from those taking your order.
(3)Thomas T.
Great coffee, bread, sandwiches and wine in a nice, phone free atmosphere. The service can be snotty or some of the nicest people ever, the staff definitely has their favorites and it varies from employee to employee. Prices are not cheap, but the hi riser egg sandwich and a large latte on a Saturday morning is close to heaven. Dinners are not bad either, the caramelized onions that come with the roast chicken are outstanding. Despite generally high prices the wine is affordable, especially the box of 6 mixed bottles which is consistently excellent. A bottle of wine and a loaf of bread in the afternoon makes for a great evening. Beware they are not open late.
(4)Leo L.
Yes, the seating is lousy. And the sandwiches are expensive (but not much more than the other high end sandwich places like All Star or Parish Cafe). But they make the bread themselves. They roast the pork for the Cuban sandwiches (called the Havana Heaven, my favorite) themselves. They haven't disappointed once (OK, maybe once, when they took the Havana Heaven off the menu). Haters, just try the Fern's Problem Solver (real slices of roast turkey, yes, which they roasted themselves, with avocado) and tell me you can find a better sandwich in Greater Boston. I dare you.
(5)Jared K.
Stopped by the Harvard Square location yesterday. Had a chocolate dipped coconut macaroon. It was pretty darn good! I know that they're well know for their breads and baked goods but they had a loaf of cake/bread for sale on the counter that costs $14. Really? Don't you think that's a little excessive? Whether or not it tastes amazing and the laborious process that goes into baking, $14 is just a little too much for me.
(3)Ilona M.
Hi-Rise is as good as it gets. I've been going here since the place opened, and I've been a loyal customer from the beginning. Yes, the prices are (extremely, especially for a student) steep, but the occasional visit (i.e. whenever I can go) makes a worthwhile treat. The people at the counter are sometimes a bit short with customers, but the ones that have worked there the longest are generally really nice. I recommend everything here--the bread is excellent (but--be warned--very buttery), especially the potato bread. Also great are their sandwiches and soups, coffee (but the harvard square one makes much much better), and jams. Seating can be hard to find, but if you can find a corner they don't mind if you loiter a bit after you've finished.
(5)Kerri O.
I'm giving these guys a terrific rating, because they make Brown Bread, in a Coffee Can. How old school! Actually, they do have a great bread selection. I've had soup there, and pastries, and loved them. I'm too cheap to spend $10 for a sammich, so I won't complain about the price; I just don't get the dang things there. Great vino selection. The lack of parking is vexing, but normal for Cambridge.
(5)Robby T.
On a nice day, the shaded patio is great to enjoy some food/drink.....just not those of the Hi-Rise Bread Co. Not only did the "El Presidente" sandwich lack coherent ingredients, it tried to pass off what was essentially salsa for "red pepper pesto". What's more, my roasted tomato quiche would've been great for a hypertensive 80-year old, but I need a lil' salt!...and flavor. When I asked for the flavorless wedge to be heated up, the girl behind the counter denied that they had a microwave or an oven. They're a bakery. I write this off as sub-par food for relatively high prices w/ typical aloof, uninspired Boston service. Is it too much to ask for workers at an indy bakery to...CARE?!?!? This place would go under in one day, if it were operated on the West Coast. I'm willing to be proven wrong, but I'll continue to shoo friends away like flies from a dungpile. BTW, the single star was garnered for decent lemonade and said patio.
(1)Kristen K.
I don't understand how anyone could give Hi-Rise Bread Company less than five stars. Hi-Rise is phenomenal. I am typing this as I eat a piece of their bread (a Flute loaf, so good) and on the drive home I wolfed down one of their Oreo cookies. I would have liked to savor it slowly, but that didn't happen. Do yourself a favor- ignore the bad reviews where people say the staff is rude. They're not. They're nice people. It's a great spot with communal tables, no cell phones allowed and absurdly good food. I highly recommend them.
(5)Michelle S.
The bread of course would get 5 stars - it's amazing...and we visited with a Swiss baker, who really knows his stuff. But we also visited with our 5 year old, my husband, and my parents, who proceeded to order chaotically and speak foreign tongues, and immediately got "the look" from the staff, a red-haired girl, and a girl with green glasses. We ignored "the look" (sort of a "would you hurry up, I don't want to be here" look, we thought) and proceeded to buy 7 drinks, several pieces of bread and two entire cakes - we're talking serious $$$. My five year old son proceeded to spill his drink, so we politely requested paper towels, as we sopped up the mess. While there were many of us, we were in no way ornery. Would you think the wait staff would have offered to refill the five year old's drink on the house? FORGET IT. I say Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts all the way. Buy your goods, and eat them at home so you don't get indigestion.
(1)Marcia W.
Surly experience # 963! I have been shopping here for years and went through a period several years back when I was there weekly. Lately, my visits have been sporadic at best, owing to the customer treatment plan employed by almost everyone who works there. This most recent experience, while not of great enormity in and of itself, has topped off the pile of reasons not to go there. Okay, the food is better than good but the attitude and the 'customer is always wrong' approach ruin the taste. "Can I please have such and such a sandwich on potato bread?" "Let me check" Much checking ensues. "No, you cannot." "Oh, do you have any rice krispie treats?" "No, not anymore." "You ran out of them for today or you don't make them anymore?" "They don't sell well." The sandwich in question, for the record, is one that I have ordered and gotten many times in the past. Not that that really matters. They will not have to deign to serve me again since that was my very last visit. I swear.
(1)Cat M.
The bread is good, sure, but laughingly expensive. Go to Iggy's for the same quality at a reasonable price. I have enjoyed my sandwiches but only as take-out. There's very little seating in the cafe, people are constantly bumping into you, and you feel very very rushed. They also do not have a bathroom for customers to use, so I couldn't wash my hands before eating a finger food. Ew. I wish Hi Rise were bigger, cheaper, and at least had some Purell. Despite living close by, I'll travel the extra bit to Darwin's for all of those things.
(2)Ari A.
Yes, there are some tasty things to be had a Hi Rise, and I get it, the bread is supposed to be peasant-y (though sometimes its just hard). But the prices are not. And the service.... well let's just say that you have to be rude to work here. The sandwiches are very good- as they should be for 10 bucks.
(2)Suz B.
I'd give 5 stars (never eaten or drunk a thing I haven't loved), but the staff is so surly, it hurts me. Ladies, why must you be so unpleasant and superior?
(4)Fran T.
Got the grilled turkey reuben. It was really good! I was pleasantly surprised they used actual roasted turkey and not that slimey deli turkey. Well done - yay! The bread was awesome too! I'll definitely be back to try their other sandwiches. Got potato leek soup and they threw in a couple chunks of bread - a meal in itself! Leftovers tomorrow. (ps...they don't accept AmEx, but Visa is good)
(5)Joanna F.
Three stars is for the food alone. I got an excellent, fresh veggie sandwich, my hubby got something resembling a Cuban and I sampled a bite of his very good chocolate chip cookie. However $11 for a veggie sandwich, $3 for a chocolate chip cookie and our order took TWENTY MINUTES even though it was not super busy. Granted, they did warn us it would take that long but HOW? And WHY? Not worth the price, not worth the wait. I'll be at Dave's Fresh Pasta next time I'm craving a sandwich.
(3)Alexander L.
This place is awesome. All the food is always fresh and tastes awesome. The baked goods are top notch, especially the lemon meringue pie. I always go out of my way to get lunch for my office here and everyone is more than satisfied. They are helpful with accommodations for my large lunch orders i.e. food allergies etc.
(5)Chloe B.
Hi-Rise is a lovely spot with excellent sweet treats and, from what I hear, great savory breakfast as well. The coffee is good enough and the interior is charming. The communal table nearly always has plenty of room during the week and it's my go to for a pastry and some coffee when I'm nearby.
(4)Juliet A.
Nom nom nom. Came here with my husband and his family over the Christmas holidays for a quick brunch. There isn't a lot of seating to cater to big groups, but we managed to find room to squeeze all seven of our little tushies into seats. Service was relatively quick despite the Sunday afternoon crowd. All of the baked goods looked amazing, and I settled on a simple chocolate brioche and hot chocolate to fill my tummy. Both were absolutely delish - and the chocolate filling on the inside of the soft and flaky brioche was a nice surprise. My husband loved his egg sandwich so much that he polished it off before I could nab even a nibble, but he assured me it was "really, really tasty."
(4)Gabriel R.
The first thing you need to know about High-Rise is that everything is very expensive. Cookies are 3 dollars or more and small cakes can exceed 8 dollars. Some of the larger tarts cost over 25 dollars. The Sandwiches are mostly in the 11-15 dollar range but they are quite tasty. The service is solid for the pastries but the sandwiches can take up to 15 minutes even if the line isn't that long. High-Rise is a nice place to sit down and get work done during its quieter hours. This place has a good amount of seats and you almost always can get a free seat since the majority of people get food to go. I have never had something bad from this place and if you go in the morning the bread is very fresh however, expect to spend around 50 dollars if you want to feed your family from this bakery.
(4)Christine R.
I finally was able to stop in here, after many a morning stood gazing longingly into the window, since they don't open until after I have to be at work. Last night, I kicked off work early and decided to grab a sandwich and a pastry on my way home. I ordered a Georgia Reuben and an iced tea. As this came to over $15, I decided to forgo the pastry. Their menu for showed many wonderful coffee drinks, and I figured it would be good to come back another time for a coffee and a pastry. My Ruben was very, very good. The bread, of course was awesome - the turkey was wonderful - nice hand sliced pieces - flavorful and moist. The coleslaw, obviously made in store - was probably the best I've ever had. No overly mayonnaised, bland cabbage and carrots here! This had a light, tasty dressing with a combination of flavors that melded perfectly and made me want to lick the paper after I was done to get every wonderful drop. The cheese was definitely higher-quality - it had a wonderful bite and a light smoky flavor that set off the turkey perfectly. It was advertised as having Russian dressing - there wasn't any - but that's okay because the sandwich was wonderful as it was. I hadn't taken the time to look at this place up on Yelp, I figured that anywhere that had such wonderful looking bread and baked goods had to be good. Now, reading through - I see that I am not the only one that found their staff condescending and outright rude . After ordering, the gentleman at the bar handed over my iced tea. It had no lid, and I asked if I could please have one since I was taking it to go. He gestured impatiently towards the side of the restaurant - and looking over, I could see that there were plastic lids there. "I'm sorry -" I said - "right in front of me!" And smiled. He didn't respond, and I assumed that he didn't hear me since he appeared to be busy straightening something on the side of the register. Later, when he called me up to get my sandwich - I made a comment on how great the iced tea was. I said that, being from the south, finding a great glass of tea was sure to keep me coming back. I thanked him, smiled and took my sandwich. He looked at me with what I can only describe as a sneer - and said absolutely nothing. I stood there feeling like an absolute fool, until he rolled his eyes, turned and walked off. I just don't get it - why are you working in a customer service industry f you don't like customers? Yes, the food is good - albeit it a bit overpriced - yes you stock some wonderful wines and liquors and your baked goods appear to be heavenly- but you just can't treat people so rudely and expect them to keep coming back.
(2)Iain T.
Just ordered take out short ribs, the guy said it was the last portion which is fine, but what he meant was: We only have a half portion left, which we will still sell you for full price, because you probably wont find out until you get home. 2 stars because the actual ribs are decent, thought I'll need to get something else after to fill my poor tum. Highrise: You owe me $6.50 for a half portion of ribs.
(2)Allyson G.
Spinach croc sandwich was yummy. Mocha was fine, but not sweet or milky enough for my taste. Planned to do work there, so was disappointed that there was no wifi, it was really loud and full (granted, it was a Saturday morning), and my cute bench seat was too low to comfortably allow me to type at the table. Sandwiches are ridiculously expensive: the average sandwich is more than $11.00. Lots of families with kids there, which I found charming. I'd come back to chat with a friend for a half hour, but not to be productive or if I was hungry.
(3)Faye G.
I used to be a regular at Hi-Rise before moving home to the Va. Recently went back to Mass for a visit and had to stop in to grab a few old favorites. Happy to say Hi-Rise has stayed as delicious as I remember. The Service was great, though busy -my friend and I were greeted, placed our order, and received our treats and coffees in no time at all. Lemon Meringue pie is pretty mindblowing, chocolate cake- superb. You really cant go wrong. Expect a bit of a wait during prime hours. Worth every moment.
(4)Anna C.
Today is National Holocaust Remembrance Day, and I'm celebrating with the only thing I ever get at Hi-Rise -- challah. Their challah is different than most other ones I've had -- it only has a hint of sweetness, which I like. They offer plain or raisin (I've yet to try the raisin one), and it comes in a large loaf for $7 (it's huge!). Happy Challah-Day!
(4)Garrett D.
Amazing baked goods, pricey but tasty sandwiches, and awful waits for lunch. I lived a block away for several years and visited the place 3 or 4 times for lunch. On a Thursday at 1 p.m. I waited close to 30 minutes for my sandwich to be made. They didn't forget my order - one of the other patrons was waiting even longer! The other times I've been there I've waited over 15 minutes as well.
(3)Simon P.
A solid three stars! The bread is excellent usually, but the sandwiches and items in the case are hit-or-miss. Considering the high prices, the case items should always be top notch, as should the sandwiches. When in a pinch I'll visit, but normally I'll bypass Hi-Rise until they get more consistently excellent.
(3)Lauren H.
I have such mixed feelings about this place. Their bread is excellent. Their sandwiches --though pricey -- are also good. But the service is chilly at best, and sometimes downright hostile. The staff makes you feel as if they are doing you a great favor by taking your order. Hi-Rise, I wish I knew how to quit you, but you are directly across the street from my house, and your breakfast sandwiches are a delight. How much of my dignity should I be willing to sacrifice for a quality egg and cheese?
(3)briana p.
I saw the guy write down "no onions" so why was my sandwich COVERED in onions?!?! Not only are your reviews slipping your service is slipping too. I consider it a treat to go get lunch at Hi Rise especially when I get a cookie and lemonade total cost for lunch was $18?!?! If I pay that much for lunch the least you can do is get the order right?
(2)Melissa W.
Coffee! Lattes! Steamed milk! Now, with additionally high prices, extra attitude, more foam, less milk (only place I know where "no foam, please" gets met with a sneer and a 12 oz "large" that has 1-2 inches of foam on top...), and a customer gritting her teeth again, vowing to Never Return Again... but the problem is, they're conveniently located across from a place where I have regularly scheduled meetings, and so I more or less have no choice. Grrrr.... I can not, in good conscience, recommend this place. I can recommend their baked goods (yes, the vanilla bean loaf is delicious, and the chocolate cork is about the right size and even a decent price for the product), their "crocs", and their fast-food dinner offerings, which are generously proportioned and tasty. But the (lack of) service is *abysmal*, and I hate-hate-hate giving any of my very hard earned moola to someone who is simply, at heart, *not friendly*. And I do just that every time I give this place any money. Ughh... the conundrum. Thank you, Yelp, for giving me the opportunity to vent.
(2)Debbie C.
I see a lot of reviews referencing the attitude and the service. But I'm glad I didn't let that stop me from dropping by here yesterday morning. Yes, my waitperson was deadpan at best and in the face of my near-giddiness (I get that way around pastry) it should have been a bit of a downer. But I was prepared for attitude (thanks, yelpers) and ordered up a quiche Lorraine and a cappuccino. Despite the gloom behind the counter, the general vibe among the patrons was friendly and warm. I was able to grab a table by the baking area where I could watch the whole scene while I ate the best quiche Lorraine I have ever tasted: flavorful ham, creamy cheesy center, and flaky crust. The cappuccino was also above average. On balance I prefer a bit of distance in the morning to intrusive warmth. I'll be back - no need to greet me.
(5)Melissa K.
Over priced, and not enough seating, but good. The sandwiches are enormous, enough for 2 people.
(3)Jean Luc P.
youtube.com/watch?v=Yqa-… (youtube video) My mouth says yes, my wallet says no. The food here is excellent, too bad I can't afford anything serious. I live close by, so I am always tempted to get a treat here from time to time. Unusually, I would come by for the excellent coffee and lattes, and if I am feeling rich, I would get a cookie or a quiche. It's one of the best quiche I've ever had, it was surprising affordable, like 3.50 slice. The eggs were perfect dense, the ingredient were tasty, with no artificial flavoring. Everything here is made by hand. The few pieces of snacks can really add up though. The place is full for lunch hour and weekends, often there is a line to get in. If you are ever in the area, this a is great place to drop in. If you are a foodie, you would want to make a trip out here.
(5)Ed G.
The sandwiches and soups are fantastic. The prices are horrible. I can't justify paying $11-$12 for a sandwich. The service is nothing special. Be prepared to wait an awful longtime for your sandwich. I'll be back when someone else is paying the tab and I have a significant amount of time to waste.
(3)Tamarleigh G.
There are some really good things about this place - mostly, the food! It's very good. The problem is the service. Remember the old rhyme about the little girl with the little curl right in the middle of her forehead -- when she was good, she was very, very good, but when she was bad, she was horrid? The service at Hi-Rise is NEVER "very, very good". It is acceptable at best. At its worst, it's horrid. The staff have no qualms about being rude, about outright lying, about ignoring you, and just generally not doing what they should be doing. Here's an example. I was on my way to my dad's and thought I would pick up a couple of sandwiches for him and me--but I didn't have forever to wait. So I stopped at the Hi-Rise and ordered two sandwiches. Let it be noted that there was NO LINE WHATSOEVER. I walked straight up to the counter and ordered. And then waited. And waited. And waited. Twenty-three minutes later, I finally had the audacity to ask whether the sandwiches would be ready at some point soon. I was told that the kitchen is really busy right now. I said "Well, I've been waiting more than twenty minutes for two cold sandwiches. I'm not even complaining about the wait. But I do think that when there is no line, and therefore no reason for a customer to expect a lengthy wait, you might consider mentioning to the customer that the kitchen is really busy and that the sandwiches will take at least twenty minutes. Had I known it would take this long, I would not have ordered them. Again, I'm not complaining, but just suggesting that it would help your customers to have this kind of information at the ordering point." The aftermath of that one comment (which was delivered politely and in a friendly way - not all snippy and critical the way they apparently took it despite my efforts to be chill) was that the five (yes FIVE) employees who had been literally standing around doing nothing, chatting with one another, suddenly ganged up on me to give me a hard time for being so "impatient". I think waiting 23 minutes before making a polite suggestion is not exactly "impatient". One of them even walked away muttering insults semi-audibly at me, and then when I asked what had just been said, the others milling around blatantly lied to cover their coworker's rudeness. I had been a customer for nearly twenty years. Most of these staff recognized me from that. And did not even act the least bit friendly or understanding. This was far from the first time I'd felt that they didn't give a darn. But this was the last straw. This was about six months ago, and I have not been back, and I have no intention of going back. My big question is: if the darned kitchen is soooooo busy that customers are waiting nearly a half hour for a tunafish sandwich, why the heck are five people standing around doing nothing and yet ready to leap into action to give a long-time customer a hard time? I am DONE. There are plenty of other good places in Cambridge, and I will not continue to support a business when I feel as though the staff is giving us all the finger behind our backs. DONE.
(1)Meg R.
I went in for the first time today and cannot wait to return. With the open kitchen, the calming ambiance, and the provisions, I am eagerly anticipating a quiet afternoon of tea and reading. I got a loaf of cornbread, two goodies (a cakey brownie and a scone), and a bottle of wine. The baked goods were delicious and quite generous (well worth the cost), and the wine selections are well-priced. There's a 6-bottle sampler for $55 that piqued my interest--I can't wait to try it out! I was also intrigued by their brunch offerings and weeknight take out dinners. To all those negative Nellies--please stop moaning about the service. It was just fine. I sincerely appreciate the cell phone policy--it is clearly posted everywhere, so don't be surprised when people ask you to finish your call before beginning your transaction. Also stop complaining about the prices. They're clearly posted and perfectly in line with their competitors (When Pigs Fly, Iggy's, and Sofra).
(4)Beth G.
let's see what I love at High Rise.....the pecan scone, lemon meringue pie, pecan pie, corn bread, cookies, stollen bread at the holidays, and I LOVE the potato bread. I could go on and on - but you get the picture.
(5)Bread Man S.
Service is not good. Manager made us wait outside for 10 minutes, while the door is open on sunday morning. I don't recommend the coffee at all. Good breads.
(1)Gaunt Z.
I can't comment on the food, because I never received any. The service however is one star. I went in for a sandwich around noon on a Saturday. The place didn't look too busy, and the line at the register was short. 30 minutes later I still didn't have my sandwich, nor did the people who had been in line in front of me. Apparently they decided to put a new person in the kitchen for the Saturday lunch rush, and the results were a disaster. After 45 minutes I left and got a sandwich elsewhere.
(1)Theresa M.
I could have definitely spent a lot of time and money in this place. Fortunately for my diet and my wallet I did not have a lot of time and I packed a healthy lunch. I treated myself to a chocolate chunk cookie that was superb. They had loads of interesting offerings and tempting treats. I would definitely return again and explore other options.
(3)Annette N.
This is a review of this shop's pain d'épices (spice bread), which I buy at their stands at farmer's markets around Cambridge. I allow myself only a few indulgences, and these include atayif from Massis Bakery, baklava from Sevan Bakery, and this spice bread from Hi-Rise. I also like Hi-Rise's gingerbread, which has hearty chunks of candied ginger baked in, and their Boston brown bread--also hearty. A strangely satisfying archaic food.
(5)Frank G.
Sandwiches to write home about. Phenomenal selection. Fresh breads baked on the spot. Charming staff.
(5)Ryan L.
Pretty much done with this place. I can accept the ridiculously high prices and the long waits for the food, because it's pretty great food. However, the customer service is absolutely miserable. Any day, anytime, any staff member, you can be assured you will receive the worst customer service in Cambridge.
(1)Cath S.
Rating is for their Concord loaf bread, Lemon curd cake, and Chocolate fallen cake. All of which are perfect. They had made a small size Concord loaf, now they cut the large in half, for the smaller size. Workers very friendly. Outstanding.
(5)MF B.
Here visiting from the west coast. Surprised to read the bad reviews for service and prices. A half sandwich here is the size of a whole sandwich most other places, costs under $7, and they use very high quality ingredients. Yes, the staff is a little odd but so what? The food is excellent. We went twice - breakfast and lunch. The cappuccino was great. The quiche was phenomenal. My husband had the hargo sandwich (or something like that, the one with short rib) and it was the best sandwich I've ever tasted. Seriously. Outrageous. Would be better with no cheese though. My son had the kid's grilled cheese - great kid sandwich, on challah bread. Cookies were tasty too. I rarely bother to write yelp reviews but this place rocked.
(5)JF S.
Ouch. $17 for a breakfast sandwich, lg cappuccino and teeny (yet amazingly delicious) sandwich cookie. I will randomly stop here on my way to work every now and then, usually for a little treat and a small capp, and I've never particularly felt the financial punch in the gut before. However, today when I upped to a large beverage and breakfast sandwich I was shocked at the total. Never had a reason to complain about the service - everyone has always been nice enough to me. The food quality is high but so are the prices, which is why this will continue to just be an occasional stop for me.
(3)Lindsey B.
Can't deal with this place. The baked goods are pretty tasty, but it kills me to pay their prices for little crumb-sized cookie-lets. I've never tried the sandwiches because they cost as much as a nice sit-down lunch at a real restaurant. Top it off with the surly, cooler-than-you'll-ever-be counter staff, and High Rise is a pain in the ass. Good fresh-squeezed orange juice, though, if you're looking to burn five bucks.
(2)Lauren E.
This place's reputation rests on its bread. But the rest, is kind of blah... The picture you see when you first walk in is promising. But then you get to the counter, try to get some service, and it's no good. But I think we all go because we love the bread. But honestly, it's turning out to NOT be my favorite bread. Sometimes the bread is too hard, so crusty that it's sort of painful to chew. The seeded multi-grain baguette has a funky taste (fennel? anise?). Not something I want to mix with a meal. Now I basically stick to the $4 daily bread, and get my whole grains elsewhere. And the prices are really high. Talk about high rise... But, it's close to home, and that one bread I tend to buy is very good, but I'm now on a quest for another source of local bread.
(3)Mason L.
I'm giving them two stars because while I feel the food-&-drink quality is at least a 4.5, their customer service is a 1.5. The staff I've encountered--most, but not all- generally imbue an air of, "Hey. Just give us your cash." So, with my mathematics, that's an average of 2. I've visited periodically, since, I don't know, 2006? 5? 4? 3? A while. Back in March 2012, I paid $7.75 for a triple-shot almond milk latté and that's with a quarter off for having my own tumbler. Cash, due to a $10 credit minimum. Granted, they press their own almond milk "in-house." But still, $8.00 dollars? Perhaps their adjustment for inflation is spot-on. Progress is slow. Maybe this is an introduction to giving consumers a higher quality / alternative product at a reasonable price. I'm just not ready. (Update: August 2013, same latté at Darwin's is $7.00 even.) And I used to be a barista. I've worked in a Starbucks, a Peet's, and a 1369. My favorite coffee shop is now Wired Puppy on Newbury Street, though, I have to add, the seating is scarce. A triple-shot almond milk latté there (again, with personal tumbler) is $6-something. No credit minimum. And they have a loyalty card program. And their chocolate chip muffins are off-the-chain at 8 a.m or 2nd-day. The customer service at Wired Puppy has been consistently top-notch; albeit some hiccups with trainees but that's to.. be... expected. I've been there over twenty times, and the consistent cordial service is rather un'expected coming from Newbury Street. They don't make a value judgment on you visually, as if making six figures, five figures or an hourly wage classifies you with a certain persona. They treat you as a human, even if you're a blinged-out, Vidal Sassoon'ed, middle-aged lady who shouts twenty feet towards the entrance while in line to ask what your smoker-friends want. Cashier didn't even give her the stink eye. Impressive. Hi-Rise? Whether at the Concord Ave or Mass Ave location, the service has always left me wanting. When ordering, they expect you to respond as if you were just pulled over for speeding by an officer. If you don't order in the fashion they want, they don't give you suggestions, they stand there like a robot, just waiting, no communication, crickets. If you *do* know what you want, per se, a "triple shot ... ," they'll give you a surprised look, no confirmation, just a blank canvas stare waiting for cash to be handed over. I'm on the boycott.
(2)M G.
The vanilla bean loaf here is dense, vanilla-y and addictive. The sandwiches are creative and delicious. The coffee is good. Long lines of Huron Villagers at lunch sometimes irk me, and I wish the place was open later. I try to seek these guys out at the farmers' markets: the homemade jam is spendy, but worth it.
(4)Rachel E.
So I've only been here once when visiting a friend, but I'm still thinking about that mushroom sandwich 3 months later so I have to give them a good review. It was absolutely delicious!! I wouldn't mind if the prices were ever so slightly less though but now i'm looking mushroom sandwich recipes so maybe their prices are on point.
(4)Lauren R.
The food and baked goods here are 5 stars. The service is 1. I don't know why, but the people here are SO mean! My husband and I love the breakfast sandwiches but we eat them only when we have mustered up enough courage to brave the bitchy counter staff. We prepare ourselves for their impoliteness, try to be extra sweet to them, abide by there no-cellphone rules, smile and still get a short and nasty reception every time. This last time, my husband walked in, said "good morning" and quickly and efficiently ordered our two sandwiches and two coffees. Blank stare from woman A. Then the woman A walks away with no reply. Woman B approaches, yells out 2 numbers and looks blankly at my husband. He was thrown off because the two numbers couldn't possibly be the cost of his order, so he takes a sec to process that those are the numbers on the menu for the sandwiches that he has ordered. He says, "yes" and she starts keying in the order on the cash register. Then he says, "oh and two coffees". To which she replies "I ALREADY RANG YOU UP" and shoves two free coffees his way even though there was no one else in the store and he had the cash in hand. I've worked as counter staff and I know it gets annoying dealing with customers one after the next, but IT IS YOUR JOB to be nice, or at least not rude. Hi Rise's owners should really do something about this problem. I will say the people at the new Harvard Law School location are a lot nicer than the people at the Fresh Pond location.
(3)Gina B.
I've been to the location on Massechusetts Ave. twice, and both times, I got what I refer to as "hipster no-service." This is more than just bad service; it's a trend at places that want to give off an exclusive, hipsters-only vibe. The servers or barristas seem bothered by your presence, don't smile, and try to get you away from them before you somehow ruin their American Apparel. I typically don't experience "no-service" in the Boston area, but for whatever reason, it exists at HiRise. They seem to think that the quality food and pretty, skinny barristas will be enough to please customers. The food and coffee are excellent -- I will give them that. The service is not only bad but slow, too. And they require a $10 minimum for a credit/debit card transaction, which I have never seen at a bakery/coffee place before. Add a 50 cent processing fee, go cash-only, be a little nicer about it! There are plenty of other delightful coffee shops and bakeries in Cambridge, where using a credit card is not such a burden.
(2)Colin F.
If you really want a dose of reality as to your lowly place on the economic ladder, give this place a try. Frequented mainly by trust-fund mamas enjoying idleness and comparing their progeny at most hours, at lunchtime it becomes an absolute zoo of cacophony as loads of people cram in the door, can't find a place to sit down, shout their order over an impossible stack of baked goods and then stand being jostled by the crowd for 20 minutes until the order arrives. Want something other than what's on the menu? Forget it. Service with a smile? Nope. Place to wait while they complete your order? Nope. Place to sit down? Either share a spot on hard wooden benches at the big table in the center of the room, or fight your way through the strollers to a tiny table covered with crumbs. If you're looking for fresh baked goods, try the Iggy's outlet in Cambridge. Much better stuff, at less cost and much less hassle.
(2)S W.
Service: 4 Food Quality: 5,000,000 Food Price: 3 Mass Ave location Service was great! Maybe because I'm a young person and don't necessarily fit the aesthetic bill of "harvard student" (full disclosure: I'm not one.) They were really nice to me. I had to wait a while for my americano, but that's only because I witnessed some world-class entitlement. Two women cut everyone waiting for a drink (twice) because their drinks were not right. And they were totally rude about it. I get why the barista would not be happy most of the time. (Side note: who returns an americano because there's too much water in it?) Food Quality: My chocolate brioche was amazing. It's been 3 days since I went there and I'm still dreaming about it. Good thing I live close. I don't care if it was a little pricey. Pricing?: I would never buy a sandwich there. 8 dollars for a grilled cheese with glorified jelly on it? I'm a vegetarian and if you're going to charge me eight bucks for some food it better be amazing and there better be a buttload of it.
(4)Jolene S.
I had awesome service at Hi-Rise today. My waitress (short black hair) put time and energy into stuffing my soup cup and I was so glad that I resisted the urge to save $$$ and just buy pizza for dinner. The turkey gumbo soup had chunks of chicken, a bit of sausage, rice and nice flavor--it came with a side of bread. Since it was in later in the evening, I was able to eat and read in peace. Hi-Rise charges fair prices. I think a lot of the agita that comes out in reviews has to do with the price point and some of the staff (one lady's kind of w*tchy). I agree that $2 for two little cookies is a lot, but Hi-Rise provides hearty, nutritious, and fresh food--soups/sandwiches that are fairly priced given the portion, time, and energy that it takes to make food to order. Look, I can't/won't eat here every day, but if I do come in, I know that the food will be worth it. I'd skip the quiches and pastries for the soups/sandwiches. And for the most part, the staff members are nice (just don't ask to use a debit/credit card on orders under $10).
(4)allgimbel c.
While the Fern's Problem Solver remains a treat, my experiences with the service here have been routinely poor. My most recent was on Sunday. I ordered a slice of quiche, warmed up. "We don't usually warm the quiche." OK, fine. I'll deal. I order an iced coffee, proffer my credit card for payment. "We usually like customers to spend at least $10 to pay by credit card." I give her my debit card instead. "Actually, debit cards cost us more....," her voice trails off. Enough of this 'service'. So many other places to go and not be made to feel a burden. Onward!
(2)Lisa W.
Working nearby, we come here a lot to pick up lunch or a loaf of bread to take home. Service: fine bread: great!! I recommend the concord and the huron loaves. I'm still working my way through all the types, but those two are my favorites. I think they're dense and good value, and stays fresh for a week or so. sandwiches: I think they're really good (a bit rich and greasy, hard to eat neatly) but a bit overpriced. ~$12 per sandwich soup: good, they give you two bread ends to go with the soup which makes it filling
(4)Sarah H.
We came to hi rise because we live nearby and it always looked neat from the outside. However after an extremely disappointing experience, I logged into yelp to see if perhaps I was an isolated incident and could be placated by positive yelp reviews to return another day. What did I find? Vindication. Service is awful, food overpriced but good. The woman who took our order not only got it wrong, she was extremely rude, indifferent and impatient. Also it was our first time there and after I paid for three meals, three drinks she did not even explain where to pick up the food or coffee let alone a thank you. Excuse me for bringing business in and giving you money for overpriced food. If you can stomach the unpleasant service, the breakfast sandwiches were good. She got our order wrong but what saved this from being a one star was that what we ended up eating was good. I'd rather spend my money somewhere else for comparable food and exponentially better experience.
(2)Johonna C.
Roasted shrimp salad on brioche is pure decadence on slices of heaven! Along with their tangy lemon curd cakes and a gorgeous wine selection, you'd have all the makings for a romantic summer picnic, just sayin'....
(4)Simon L.
Holly ham croc-a-licious. Italian bred topped with roasted tomatoes, mushrooms and browned gruyere. Wrapped in tin foil and just waiting to be scarfed. Sandwiches here are pretty awesome too. Incredible variety of fresh bread and wine and specialty booze as well. Delicious sesame scali bread purchased still warm. You will not be disappointed - make this place rotational.
(4)Kunal M.
My ALL-TIME favorite place regardless of cuisine, time of day, location etc.. I go to college in NY these days, but make it a point to stop by Hi-Rise whenever I am back in Boston. I won't give any recommendations as to what to try there because literally everything on their menu is perfect!
(5)Will R.
Again, the vanilla-bean loaf is what to get. Just don't get the 'Thai Iced Tea'. I got it and it was 'Chai Iced Tea'. When I went to point this out all I got was a lot of attitude and basically 'you are wrong'. Now, as someone who brews their own Thai Tea, I sort of know the difference. I'm not sure the good food makes up for the crappy attitude.
(3)Allison E.
The coconut orange scones are back! They are highly addictive and extremely good.
(5)Thomas M.
I'm not a fan of unpleasant service. I wanted to share with the yelp readers some simple data I complied. Of the 151 reviews prior to my current post, 25 reviews contained the word "RUDE". Thats 16.3% of the reviews! Here are some other frequently used words Surly - 10 instances Slow - 5 instances Disinterested - 3 instances Appalling - 2 (1.32% of the reviews). Shocked was used 4 times but one person was 'shocked' that so many reviews were negative.
(1)Marilyn Y.
Not knowing any bakeries in the Boston area and desperately seeking a handsome blueberry pie for my husband's birthday, I found myself at the Hi-Rise cafe in Harvard Square. I was told that the sister store on Concord St. had an excellent and tasty plum berry pie and so off I went in search of this pastry through the tangled streets of Cambridge. Upon entering the Concord St. café, I knew that I was in the right place for excellent baked goods.. Half of the store is taken up by large tables, sacks of flour and baking supplies .You can watch the folks here make the breads and pastries. The other half is the cafe. The large display case is filled with baked goods and breads. The front of the cafe has an inviting seating area where large windows cast sunlight onto the customers enjoying the day. Sitting on a pedestal behind the counter, was a lattice topped pie, golden colored and filled with fruit. I had found what I came looking for! I bought the pie and a few other baked items. I found the staff to be very friendly. With the pie sitting on the front seat, I happily headed back toward Boston, when my moment of glee quickly dissipated as a cop pulled me over in Harvard Square. Getting a ticket in Boston is hard to do, since no one obeys laws from what I observed. Sadly, my gorgeous pie now cost over $100.00. However, this plum berry pie was perfect! The crust was flaky and the filling was surprisingly not sugary. The filling was a beautiful blend of plums, blueberries, strawberries and blackberries. It was well worth the hassle. If only that cop had been looking the other way! Still, this pie is one of the best I have had with its unusual blend of fruits. The other baked goods were superb as well. When in Boston, I will be returning here for lunch and dessert. This little cafe, bread company and bakery is well worth a visit. The old building with its wide planked wooden floors and large windows has a uniquely New England style. And hopefully it will not be a bittersweet moment as this was. I know there is a policeman just waiting for lost visitors at the Mass. Ave/ Auburn St corner of confusion. You can't fool me twice!
(4)Sarah W.
I've tried it a couple times now, and really, just no. The prices are entirely too high (basically all the sandwiches are over $10), and the baked goods I have had have always been dry and unflavorful. I'll go elsewhere.
(2)Emily C.
I order a sandwich that includes avocado as a main ingredient. I am told they are out of avocado and they ask if I would l like something else on the sandwich - sure, how about cheese I say. The server asks me what kind of cheese and rings me up. I asked for a receipt and after reviewing it later I find out that they actually charged me extra for cheese. What?!?! That is some seriously terrible customer service. Go elsewhere.
(2)Chronic C.
I wrote off Hi-rise a while ago. The superb food was not worth the price tag. I'm not talking money, I'm talking vibe. The bad attitude of the staff soils the experience every time. I should feel better when I leave my local coffee shop and bakery with yummies in hand, not worse. I stick with formaggios where the warmth of the staff matches the warmth of my coffee. Works for me cause I just take it black. If you want more complex drinks and breakfast sandwiches I recommend Simons on mass ave.
(2)Drew B.
I don't know who makes a de facto redeye with steamed milk, but I'll tell you right now I don't like it one bit. You know, Hi-Rise has some tasty baked items - I will give them that - but I've always found a certain arrogance from the staff there. This afternoon's encounter has put me at the tipping point. See, a redeye is a simple drink to make - it's coffee with a shot of espresso, done. Well that's not trendy enough for Hi-Rise so if you go there and order one they will put steamed milk in your drink, without even asking. And you know what frustrates me? That generally when an establishment cares about its customers they'll make your purchase right at no extra cost, but not Hi-Rise. Instead they maintained that because their definition of a redeye was printed on their board, they weren't accountable for making it incorrectly - I the customer made the mistake! Seriously?! It's no secret that Hi-Rise's prices are excessive and generally the quality you get makes it worth it. So you'd think pouring a fresh cup of coffee and an espresso shot sans dairy wouldn't be a lot to ask for. Until Hi-Rise loses the arrogant act and starts treating its customers like reasonable people, I'll be happy spending my money elsewhere.
(1)Tatsu I.
Would you like to know why my clothes smell like Baked Serotonin a lá Michelin star kitchen? Saturday, 8:26AM "Ugh, Sleep Hangover. Hey, can I get the 50 three-egg omelet with #00FF00 pepprs, Canada's best chedd, #FF0000 onion, avo, tomato, mustard, but with Concord Whole Wheat instead of Semolina, still grilled?" "Sure, anything else?" "Um, Big Coffee. Plz." Sunday, 1:00PM "Ugh, Hangover! Hey, can I get a 51, 1/4# of Spence smoked salmon, capers, #FF0000 onion, tarragon mayo, and iceberg on toasted Corn Bread? Eh, maybe I'll try it on Brioche today. And a 'plus fort' Krazy Kap, extra shot?" "Brioche, check. 3 shots, uh huh. For here?" "Um, Yeah." Monday, 10:06AM "Ugh, I'm late." *Sidestep sidestep* "Cheddar Snail, this Rosted Leek Quiche, and a coffee." "Large or Small?" "To go." "Lrg or Sm?" "To go. No, sorry, large! No bag either. Um, to go...?" "Excuse me?" Tuesday, 2:22PM "What would you like?" "Ugh, sleep. Hey, can I can I, get get a pint-sized Potato Carrot Leek soup only 3/5's of the way up with extra chives on top and a Potato Brd Roll if you have any?" "I'll check. What is three-fifths??" "Um, yea, like not *too* full, so I can mix in cracked #000000 pepper." "Next person, can I take your order!?" Wednesday, 6:00PM "Have you been helped?" "Um, hey! How bout a number 6 El Presidente, no chick'n, sub that silky hmmd hummus instead of grill chickn, harissa!, #000000 olive spread, to-mates, onion on Concord, grilled?" "Mmmm, sounds good! I do the same! Anything else?" "Yes, Irish Breakfast Tea with a Lemon Slice." Thursday, 7:36PM "What's this? Ohh, Guy's new '06 Mercerey Pinot Noir, oui oui, plus a few pats of Plugra s'il te plait, for that Irish Soda Bread special. And the Olive Loaf. Oh, any coffee left?" "Coffee, yes. Bakery closes at 8 you know." "Really?!" "Tatsu, how long have you been coming here? Ugh, Take home dinner, instead. We have 2 Chicken Pot Pies left, or 1 Grilled Steak Tip Roasted Potties and shrooms + Swiss Chard left." "Nah child, still vege, still strong!" *V Sign* Friday, All Day (2) 60-watt batteries, running on single core (CPU1), no BT, no LCD backlight, face the window, reading off reversed (ctrl-opt-cmd-8) liquid crystal type on a overcast day. "Anyway, so I have this Picnic tomorrow, give me box of every cookie and sweet thing you got!" "Ok, but what do you want?" "Oh I know exactly. *Dreams of future*
(5)Maiya S.
WHY ARE YOU PEOPLE SO GDDAMN RUDE? This used to be my favorite place in the neighborhood, when I lived here almost 3 years ago. Having just moved back, I was totally excited to eat here again. But then today's experience just left me speechless. I wish the spoiled bratty staff were openly hostile, so I could just be rude right back. But it's a kind of rudeness you don't catch onto right away. It's only after you walk away from the counter, you realize that you were disrespected. (The black haired girl with pigtails is the only nice one there. The asian guy needs to be sacked.) Oh, yeah, and just in case you wanted to stay awhile, the place even doesn't have bathrooms. Gonna have to make delicious meringues myself, because I'm never coming here again.
(1)Amy J.
I have to say first that I did indeed walk through the doors of BOTH Hi-Rise bread shops today poised and ready to be treated unkindly. I found nothing of the caliber I expected. I observed a couple of quiet kids along with pretty friendly people. I got the vibe that some of them were simply shy or modest, but no one was rude. SECOND, and most importantly, the sandwiches, the bread, and the coffee are to die for. We drove down from New Hampshire, on yet another quest over the last year or so for great artisinal bread - and Hi-Rise wins the prize. It's 10:30 at night and I just ate probably 500 calories worth of little pieces that I kept getting up and saying "one more little piece"... It's just that good. Sandwiches - we tried the Cuban chicken, the Curried chicken with mango chutney, a #21 egg/bacon sandwich, and the kid's peanut butter, honey & banana on Challah. All were terrific. My only regret was not asking for the curried chicken and the kid's sandwich to be toasted or grilled. The product would be well worth some rude employees if there were any - I think the reputation on here is definitely inflated. Treat THEM with respect and see what happens. That's what we did!
(5)Jennifer N.
Yes, the sandwiches are overpriced. Of course they are. But some of them are also really, really good (like Grace's Newest Nanny... delicious! And there are a fair number of veggie options which is also a real plus). The sweets are also overpriced, but delicious. The vanilla bean loaf is to die for, the chocolate chip cookies are filled with huge enormous bittersweet chocolate chunks, the banana bread is also amazing. And the soups... did I mention the soups?! Yummy. So yes, I open my wallet time and time again for this hi-priced place. Downside: the staff IS very rude. Well, on a good day, they are brusque. On a bad day, they are flat out rude.
(4)Sarah G.
I live in the neighborhood and they have some really good bread. It is overall overpriced but that would be okay if the staff would at least be nice. Especially the girls are rude, unfriendly and not accommodating at all. You always have the feeling you are bugging them with your order. bad, bad, bad...
(2)Katie R.
When I moved into Huron Village, I knew that walking by High Rise every day would help me attain a sort of inner balance. That is, the balance of a shrinking wallet and expanding waistline. The food is good enough to keep you coming back for more, especially if you're a carbohydrate junkie like yours truly. Pies? Meringues? Delicious breads? Brioche? Tarts? The list goes on. The sandwiches are really just a touch out of my price range. $10.25 for a sandwich? Maybe if I've got friends to impress or someone to split the bill with me, but thankfully these high prices have made it easy for me to resist stopping here on a daily basis. Because after a sandwich, a little something-something from the pastry counter, and a lovely espresso drink, we're looking at a $20 lunch. And this girl's not made of money, you know. Come here for brunch with your favorite folks. You can watch the bread being made, and if you're lucky you can score a private table so you don't have to be overrun by the elite masses of West Cambridge who actually *can* afford to eat here regularly. The waitstaff is (are?) super friendly, and even though the "No Cell Phone" signs bug me a bit, someone yapping on their phone in such close quarters would probably bug me more. Fresh, wholesome, delicious, feel-good food. Depression-inducing prices. Balance - you see?
(4)Sarah M.
I've been to Hi-Rise dozens of times over the past four or five years. I'm not local but its a quick drive down Rt 2 so I'll hit up Hi-Rise when I make my trip to Formaggio which is just around the corner. I can definitely see what people are saying about the service. The servers all act like they're doing you a bit of a favor by taking your order and getting your bread. Not usually outright rude, but no real effort to be friendly. I've never ordered anything complicated so I can't comment on the competency but the general lack of interest and the annoyed vibe is well, annoying. I asked the cashier (this past Sunday), when the website was going to be up. Her response was, "whenever, your total is $8.50." Not exactly a friendly reply. The food is great and yes, VERY overpriced. The prices of all the sandwiches hover around $9-12 and that always seems to be just a bit shocking. The sandwiches look really big but most of the size goes to the very generous size of the slices of the bread. All of the bread offerings are awesome. I'm not too crazy about the other baked goods like cookies and brownies. For $3, that medium sized chocolate chip cookie better blow my mind and it definitely does not. I would recommend buying your bread here and then walking around the corner to Formaggio for their daily sandwich specials which usually top out at $8 and the staff all falls all over themselves to help you and make you feel welcome. And credit cards are accepted for $10+ orders which really isn't that hard to do here. Hasn't anyone told them that its against VS/MC service agreements to require minimums on credit card purchases??
(2)Lisa M. K.
Ok, down to 2 stars. I am trying to keep it local but I have probably visited HRBC for the last time. Asked if they'd make me a London Fog. They make them all over Cambridge. Starbucks sells them (I have heard). Employee said dubiously, "what's in it again". I told him the THREE very standard ingredients. He tells barrista. Barrista sneers, scoffs and rolls his eyes - all very obviously so I'd see him do so. Rude. Rather pathetic to think a simple tea drink is exotic and mock-worthy. At this point I am not even offended from a customer service standpoint but from a coffee shop standpoint. Shops shouldn't sell coffee/tea if they can't handle it and think they are above such things.
(2)Liz H.
The service here is laughably bad. In fact, on the rare occasion that I brave being sassed to death while ordering a freaking sandwich, I have to laugh to keep from completely losing it. That being said, the food (BREAD om nom nom) is good- You get what you pay for. Don't waste your time on their meal bowls or whatever they're called- Just go for the starchy deliciousness that keeps this place thriving. It definitely isn't the service, that's for sure.
(3)Alyne W.
Unfortunately the cons outweigh the pros at this establishment...the service is the worst I have ever experienced. We stopped by late last week and ordered the Vanilla Bean Slice which we loved. We thought the service clerk was just having a bad day so yeasterday when we had a craving for the vanilla bean slice we didn't think much of going back. MISTAKE! Whoever owns/manages this place needs to really rethink how they train their employees. Its hard to imagine that everyone in there is miserable all the time but my guess is the Top must not be too happy. Employees attitudes are usually indicitive of their superiors attitude. You guys have a great product, a wonderful space but gotta do something about the energy of the place. Oh and make sure you have cash if you are spending less than $10 if you decide to go and there is no sign that says so just a rude gal without a smile.
(2)Deb L.
The sandwiches and baked goods are out of this world. I think it's the #4 that I usually get - grilled chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato on corn bread. Mouth watering as I write this. Love the cookie sandwiches (their own version of the oreo), vanilla pound cake, italian sodas - it's all delicious. Disclaimer that it's easy to pay $20 for a sandwich and a few cookies, but I would say all day it's worth it. If I could give 1 recommendation to management - how about a pickle with the sandwich and start selling some gourmet bags of chips? that woud be amazing!
(5)zul c.
If you're ever in Cambridge and want a semi-overpriced (perhaps its because it's in Cambridge) sandwich, head over to Hi-Rise! There's a Sin Lover Sandwich (the name could be wrong), but it has Nutella and chocolate on a brioche, and it is sugar coma delicious! The other sandwiches are good in their own respect as well. The service was okay, not very friendly unless you were a regular. I would go back here for sure if I was in the area, but probably wouldn't go out of my way.
(2)Jules V.
This place was recommended by a friend so I was excited to check it out this past weekend. I toyed between 2 and 3 stars. My boyfriend and I went in around 215 this past Sunday. (They close at 3pm on Sundays) so we had plenty of time to order some sandwiches and sit and eat. The food (once we finally received it) was delicious. Fresh, flavorful and just what we were craving. Tons of choices and something on the menu for everyone. I have to agree with the other reviews that the service was not great. Although we did not have a speciific bad experience, we were clearly together ordering our sandwiches and when mine came out shortly after ordering, my BF's didn't come out until I was almost done. It took a very long time with not many people there at the time. Word of advice: they should shut their kitchen down an hour earlier than their closing time to allow people looking for only baked goods and coffee to buy. I had a hard time watching many people get turned away with all of us sitting inside still finishing up our lunches. Especially when the fresh baked goods are probably going to get thrown away at the end of the day anyway. All in all, delicious food just needs to work on their service to customers. A smile would be nice! You work in a delicious bakery! What could be better??
(3)Thomas I.
I've been to Hi-Rise twice. Both times the baked goods that I purchased were fantastic (blueberry-lime bread and vanilla loaf). The coffee was wonderful. The employees were friendly to me. There is a $10 minimum on debit card purchases. The last time I went in the lady in front of me got really upset at the guy that was working because of the minimum on debit card purchases. The employee kept a cool head and just shrugged it off. I thought that he handled it really well, which is a sign of good customer service (in my opinion).
(5)Barbara J S.
i was a regular lunch/dinner for 20 years. in that time there were only two nice servers. food is great, but hi rise is hi price with absolute rudeness among staff. i still go now and again for a take out half sandwich, but forget about hi rise and walk across to sarah's market for breakfast, lunch and dinner. barbaras
(2)Yes P.
I have only been here once, while visiting Cambridge. I will definitely go back the next time I'm in town. I ordered an egg/spinach/fancy cheese breakfast sandwich. It was huge and absolutely delicious. I am an egg sandwich addict, and order them often. A common issue I have with my addiction is that my egg sandwiches/eggwiches/muffinwiches are sometimes too small, or too dry. NOT the case here! Gigantor and moisture balanced. The bread which cradled the eggs was bakery good and toasted to perfection. Why no 5 stars? One of the friends I was with failed to order the egg sandwich, and instead was stuck with yogurt parfait. He didn't finish it, claiming the fruit did not taste fresh and as a whole it was not that great. Also, it would be nice if the menu included more vegetarian options.
(4)Tim P.
On a fence about this place; they bake awesome bread but staff has a bad entitled vibe about them and there are hipsters cutting in line. Ain't cheap, either - 2 sandwiches + coffee = $30 and change.
(3)M. S.
The prices are ridiculously high and the service is consistently rude and slow. When I asked for coffee with a shot of espresso added the woman behind the counter said, "We don't recommend that." When I realized that this meant they wouldn't even make it, I asked why it wasn't recommended. She referred me to the barista who said, "We just don't recommend it." When I had the audacity to ask why again she said it was because the different types of coffee don't mix. Then she ended the discussion by saying "It's not on the menu." I ordered a coffee with a shot of espresso on the side, combined them myself and guess what? It tasted like coffee with espresso in it, which is what I expected from any red-eye anywhere. Life is too short to feel crummy: the next time I want a cup of coffee I'll go to Starbucks across the street where at the very least I can get civil service and feel better after I've purchased something instead of being chided and feeling worse.
(1)Naomi U.
July 2010 Just to be clear, the "service" here is as surly as it ever was
(1)Oliver P.
I wanted to post a quick update. Within hours of my initial post, the owners of Hi Rise contacted me with a thoughtful, heartfelt apology. They are a local family with a baby and are very eager to ensure Hi Rise is a welcoming place for all. The owner's wife noted they have been working on customer service for some time, and it seems they are now redoubling their efforts on that front. As I have trouble going more than a few days without a cheddar snail, I for one am willing to give them another try...
(3)Sara G.
I have to admit, I read the previous reviews and entered the store in a bit of a defense mode, ready to battle off snooty little hipster workers. Well, pretty much, they are. But whatever, I ordered a small loaf of Concord bread, which was tasty and picked up some wine. But the overall "vibe" of the staff didn't sit particularly well with me. I lucked out on a street parking spot, but, in general parking here is a bear. I might return, might not.
(2)Matt K.
I guess I'm just not sure how this place could be rated lower than a 5-4. It just won best cookie in the Best of Boston, which was well deserved because they are fantastic, and the sandwiches are all so original and on freshly baked bread. Try the Nat Queen Cool - pulled pork, avocado, cilantro, tomatoes - just genuine goodness. The sandwiches are a little bit on the pricey side, but they are huge, and can serve as more than one meal if you like - not for me of course. Highly recommended as a solid lunch spot.
(5)Alex V.
Above average sandwich shop. Great food and atmosphere.
(4)Ashlee C.
This place can kiss my freakin' keister! Let's start with the vibe. The folks at Hi-Price, errr, I mean Hi-Rise, make you feel like they're doing you some sort of grand favor for selling you their wares. The employees suffer from what I like to call, "Cambridge syndrome". They have an air of superiority about them when you ask a simple question or make a request. They are wildly inefficient, slow, and not very friendly. Essentially, they're amongst the worst counter help you will find in this immediate area. On to the food. They offer a myriad of sandwiches, breads, and baked goods if you are willing to shell out the casheesh. Sandwiches are about 9-10 dollars each and a cinnamon roll came to nearly 3 dollars. The breads and pastries are all fresh daily, but really, with the lousy counter help and plethora of new mommies pushing their oversized strollers around, I just can't deal. Maybe I'm not sophisticated enough for Hi-Rise, I don't know what it is, but me and this place just don't jibe. There are so many cafes in Cambridge with friendly staff and fresh baked goods, that I see no reason to suffer through the aggravation at Hi-Rise.
(2)Sandra V.
I'd actually say 3.5 stars, 'cause I'm a bit waffle-y about this one. I'd read some Yelp reviews before going, so I was forewarned about the poor service, etc. However, in my two times of going, I only got bad service one time--I was in line behind my friend to order, and once she moved away to pay, the barista behind the counter looked at me ... beat ... and then asked, "do you need help with something?" I mean, well yeah, I'd like to order. Why else would I be standing here? Anyway, aside from that, I thought the coffee beverages were acceptable caffeine delivery devices and the Hi Riser sandwich I ordered was tasty and satisfying. The only disappointing thing was the homemade Oreo sandwich cookie. I was expecting something more along the lines of a whoopie pie, but when I bit into it, all I tasted was sugar. No chocolate, no cream filling, just sugar. Ack! Avoid that one, even though it looks cute and tasty--it isn't.
(3)JLH ..
wow, I was shocked to find out i was not allowed to alter my sandwich whatsoever because "we know what we're doing and we design our sandwiches a specific way" hmm, ok....could i please add hummus to my sandwich at least? "No, that would taste bad". Really??? I mean, it's MY sandwich and I plan on paying you money to make me what I want, so why such resistance? And then, to top it all off, the sandwich sucked and was so bland. I felt extremely uncomfortable in this place and I felt everyone working there was judging me which is something I never feel. Who do these people think they are? get the sticks out of your bums.
(2)David P.
3.5 stars. Good to very good sandwiches (#18 and #22 both pulled pork sandwiches...#22 better) and good bread especially the olive bread. Kinda pricey but it's a small local business.
(3)Laura C.
I have to agree with Melissa, this guy has just opened Bartlett Square in JP and today they had a "soft opening" I received a text from my boyfriendthis morning that they would be giving away free food all day until 7pm. They have had their son outside selling four flavors of ice cream and beverages all week and we have been dying to try some real food from there. I grab a friend and head over for lunch only to be told that they are closed-we missed lunch but will re-open from 5-7 and will be serving free dinner. We are told this by their son. So we decide to kill two hours and come back, there are many tables of people sitting on the patio-they all leave. We see people go up to the door at 5 and they are told they will open to serve ice cream in about ten minutes. I ask him if they are serving dinner and he says no,just ice cream. I tell him I was told by his son they were serving dinner from 5-7 and he glares at me and says 'he was mistaken!" Some soft opening and way to treat potential customers, guess he hasn't gotten the memo that JP is a people friendly place!!
(2)Sonja W.
I don't like the service, I don't like the prices, I don't like the ambiance, but I love their sandwiches! When I lived in Huron Village, I always trekked to Hi-Rise during snow storms because I didn't have to work. Even though Hi-Rise is on the pricey side, it was worth it once and awhile. Great Green Eggs and Ham breakfast sandwich and I enjoy the gourmet grilled cheese sandwich with bacon.
(3)Ye P.
Great sandwich, sometimes good coffee. Highly recommend the Nat Queen Cool
(4)Penelope T.
I love this place. The bread is amazing. The baked goods are so right-on. Their seasonal cupcakes are the best cupcakes I have ever had and you can't eat one in a single sitting- they are so rich. The almond cake is my favorite cake ever; it has pieces of marizipan in it and it is oh so amazing. The baked goods are not too sweet, they are always just right and taste like high quality ingredients were used. I am not that big of a fan of the sandwiches and they are way overpriced for what you get. I realize that I am eating ten sticks of butter per visit, but I can't and don't want to stop.
(4)N M.
I am a huge fan of Acme bread company in the bay area, and I've been looking for something that matches it on the east coast. This place is somewhat like that, but let me explain. They make their own bread, and the quality of the bread is pretty good. They don't have a lot of variety in the kinds of breads they make - but that's alright. The ambience and the staff are quite warm and welcoming. The smell of fresh bread wafts through the entire space. I got a salmon sandwich for breakfast, and it was perfectly done. It was delicious. The house coffee is also quite decent. If I lived in Cambridge, I would probably frequent this place. I guess it's on the pricey side (especially if you compare to Acme, which I mentioned earlier) - but considering that it's a unique place in an area where such bread companies aren't easy to find, I can ignore the price tag.
(4)Tamar A.
Three stars are a deceptive mean. Some elements here are fantastic. Some are incredibly unpleasant. They don't cancel each other out. You pay a one-star price for a four-star sandwich. You wait in an incredibly awkward one-star line for a five-star loaf of bread. You co-mingle with rather rude two-star Harvard faculty to collectively inhale a delightful four-star bakery scent. And so it goes. Let me put it this way: I've only been here a few times, yet with every time I leave feeling inundated with BUT. The space is high and roomy, BUT way too cramped to be a cafe--there's never enough seating, and it's impossible to browse the colorful menu board without either backing into the dead-center picnic table or being asked at least five times if I'm in line. The sandwiches are fresh, on soft tasty bread and made with "real" ingredients (not a nitrate to be found in my turkey breast), BUT, as it has been mentioned, truly, ridiculously overpriced. And the Mr. and Mrs. Snob (the name of the sandwich, not the couple standing in line in front of me, HAR HAR!) mysteriously gave me a bellyache. Their high holiday challahs are outstanding, BUT...nothing. They're rad.
(3)Joel P.
Phenomenal sandwiches. Best in Boston. The bread is also excellent, as are the wine 6-packs. But Pastry/cookie selection is weak for a bakery. It takes unreasonably long to get a sandwich. And the seating arrangements are downright silly considering how popular it is.
(4)Kelly M.
Hi Rise... you are an enigma. You make delicious, delicious baked goods. You make really respectably good coffee, most of the time. You have a pretty staggering selection of unique, reasonably-priced wines. You roast totally excellent chickens at 6 pm, and include a thoughtful little container of roasted onions or gravy with each chicken (seriously, I will never ever buy a grocery store rotisserie chicken again after this discovery... thanks, Yelp)! You are also a real chore to visit, for the most part. I'm OK with the no cell phones policy; that's a reasonable request in a neighborhood cafe. And a $10 credit card minimum is quickly learned. The cobblestone/river rock/pea gravel/boulder floor means none of the tables and benches sit quietly or steadily for guests -- I'm not convinced this is not on purpose, but it's not going to stop me from visiting. The serious attitude, though, from a couple of the front-of-house staff members is one of the most off-putting things about you, Hi Rise. Everyone in the kitchen/bakery area is smiling and seems to be having a great time -- and really, how could they not, hip-deep in butter, cheese, vanilla, cocoa powder, and various other awesomeness -- so why is it that a couple of the people helping the guests are often so unpleasant? I'm not asking for some kind of creepy fake sunshine attitude 24/7, but maybe just... turn to face the wall before you roll your eyes at my request for an end slice of vanilla bean loaf? That's all I'm asking. I bring out-of-town guests here for two reasons: 1. a spinach croc and an Americano, and 2. to fully appreciate the "experience." I won't stop smiling at you, like a parent trying to remind a petulant child that really, it's not all THAT bad, if you promise never to stop making the roasted chickens and the poppyseed coffee cake.
(4)Benjamin B.
Eating at high-rise is like negotiating with Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. There is a clear payoff but do not expect to come away unscathed. You will be belittled, made to feel unwelcome and will certainly come away with less than you expected for your efforts. The upside to all of this is that if you are patient you will have the pleasure of paying $12 for a sandwich... or $6 for a cup of fruit.... or $6 for a small breakfast sandwich. I have stood in line staring at the a member of the counter staff for upwards of three minutes before being served, only to be greeted with an aloof "have you been helped yet?". Generally this is followed by an equally long wait at the register as the counter staff talks, stands idly or is generally confused what to do to remedy the growing line. My wife and I typically have an argument over who has to walk to high-rise and suffer the aforementioned indignities just so we can enjoy some really fine baked goods. I guess the bottom line is that one of us always ends up going regardless, but I really wish they made the decision easier.
(2)Alexandra F.
Walked here in a snow storm with my sister, a Cambridge resident and got a sandwich, lemonade and macaroons. At her house she had challah she'd gotten the night before. The bread is amazing! The lemonade is fantastic! THE MACAROONS!!!!!!! ARE OUT OF THIS WORLD!!!!! Yes, there is hardly anywhere to sit and the service is a little slow, but everything is homemade! I had no problems at all with the staff, but I was visiting from D.C. where EVERYONE is rude. I really don't think you can say the sandwiches are expensive because I would be hard-pressed to eat an entire sandwich alone. My sister and I shared an $11.00 sandwich (which I can't remember the name of; it was a vegetarian selection with slaw, cucumbers and avocado), so it was actually very reasonable. If I didn't have a companion along I'd have saved the rest for later...Seriously...If you want fast food, go to a fast food restaurant. I hear there are a lot of deals to be had at various establishments with the dollar menus.
(5)Catherine B.
Walking into High Rise is like walking into American Apparel - you never quite feel cool enough to be there. I'm almost surprised the door man let me past the velvet ropes; it's a good thing I had Kate "Hipster 2.0" F with me to up my cred. We strolled in to a nearly empty bakery around 8:19 AM. After a quick scan of the menu choices, I approached the counter with great trepidation. "Have you been helped?" asked counter girl. "Good morning, can I please have a HiRiser breakfast sandwich?" "We don't serve breakfast sandwiches until 9." FOR REALZ?!? "Oh, ok, I'll just have an iced coffee then. Um, thanks for talking to me." I know the staff don't make the rules, but esssss....I was so ready to spend $7 on a single egg on some small bit of toast, and you're going to deny me that extravagance? In all seriousness though, I actually get quite a kick out of the fact that the food retains enough of a following to afford the staff a bit of customer-service leeway. It's probably an awesome place to work, you ain't got TIME to smile-fake for no lame foodie wannabes, and no one's gonna make you do it either! They'll keep crawling back, because the coffee's great and the bread is almost as good as Clearflour's!
(3)Theo K.
The food is ok. A little on the pricey side of things. But as a few folks have pointed out, this place is super pretentious. The staff...ugh! Those hipster girls behind the counter can kiss my a**, seriously. The first time I went there, I thought it was just because it was busy. Went again today and I swear the girl taking my order looked at me like I was from another planet. Actually, I think SHE was ON another planet. And they all seemed like they couldn't be bothered with taking anyone's order. However, if you can stand the "community picnic table" set up (which just screams "yeah, we're trying very hard to be progressive") and all the cambridge mommies letting their kids run amuck while silently judging the other adults, the food is actually fairly tasty. Although, sometimes I just want a great sandwich, made on site with fresh ingredients and maybe grab some desert. And sometimes that sandwich I crave is a BLT. So when that happens, I head to FLOUR. It's everything Hi-Rise is not...humble.
(2)Alex H.
I only go here when someone else is paying, because it's insane to me to spend $10-12 on a sandwich, but hot damn are they delish. Big thumbs up for the sandwiches and the bread.
(4)Melissa S.
I really like all the sandwich choices and they are well done with the greatest bread. I had a Turkey sandwich with avocado, swiss and russian dressing. It had been pressed and was absolutely delicious. The cookies are large and fresh with that just chewy texture. I like watching them make bread while waiting for my meal. You might find the prices a bit high, but all in all it's a value for what you get.
(4)Muttley D.
I love Hi-Rise, they've got great bread and baked goods, and excellent sandwiches with funny names like "James Phones In" and my favorite, "Mahatma Gloves", in my quest for the best chicken salad in the city, I have to say that this and Savenor's and Wilson Farms are some of the tops, but this one, is the whole sandwich, the other places are grocery stores and you end up making your own. The Mahatma Gloves is a masterpiece of curried chicken salad with cashews, served on a generous piece of bread...small mouths will have a tricky time getting this monster into their mouths. There are other things to enjoy besides the great sandwich selection. The breads, the smells, watching the master bakers kneed the dough before your very eyes...and watching the West Cambridge, power-yuppies come in by the droves...yes, there are some snooty snoot tweeded yuppies who frequent this establishment, don't let that stop you, it's a little bit pricey for some things, but I'll tell you the extra 2 or 3 dollars per sandwich over your pizzeria meatball sub will be well spent...and the extra few cents for the high quality baked goods will have you swearing off that Dunkin Donuts muffin for good! Unlike some, I've always found the staff here quite friendly and laid back....
(4)becky b.
A discussion at our table over brunch at Hi Rise recently: "So, for about 400 dollars I think we could get everything on the menu." "If we split it, that would be 100 bucks a person." "I'm not joking" For serious, this place is soul deep satisfying, the breakfast sandwiches, cherry tart and lemon meringue were all top notch.
(5)David L.
Tastes great, less friendly. Snarky crew make you feel guilty for actually wanting to spend money there. While I actually appreciate the nicely divined mixed wine deals, with really pretty much never a loser, and the generally very good and consistent baked goods, it is hard to get past the sense that actually taking your money for product is a hassle and a great favor they are doing for you. Honestly, if the stuff didn't taste so good, they'd get only one star. Attitude? They got it. Adjustment? They should get one. Will they? No. It's been this way for many many years. And sadly for them, that's how long it's been since I said anything nice to anyone about Hi Rise. If you like the service at Gucci's store in Manhattan, you'll love this place, which means you likely won't like this place.
(1)Bianca T.
Hi Rise Bread Company is a Great place ! Everything we ordered was very fresh and tasty ! We happened upon the bakery while driving around Cambridge ... it was such a treat ... the sandwiches were delicious - the bread was crusty and flavorful ! I love going to places where you can actually see where the food is made !! check this place out .... you won't be sorry !!
(4)Marissa K.
I've lived in the Huron Village area for 3 years and have been to this place 3 times. Each time I go, I tell myself I will never go again. This time, I am truly done. The food is good, but the experience is so soured by the entitled hipster/hippie staff that is so unbelievably rude I can't believe people return to this place. It wasn't just once that I experienced the rudeness of this staff. Every time I go in there I am made to feel like I did something wrong, when all I'm doing is ordering food, paying for it, and waiting 30 minutes for my sandwich to come out! Yesterday we got dirty looks because my boyfriend asked them to add lettuce and tomato to his sandwich. The time before, he took out his Amex to pay for our overpriced food and the person behind the counter waved her index finger at him to "say" they don't take Amex. Seriously? Hmm, and the time before that, we were deciding whether to pay with cash or credit, and the girl behind the counter told another person working there that she didn't know what we were doing and that we were trying not to pay. Omg. The food takes forever to come out. Yesterday I got a salad and asked to add grilled chicken. Oh, rude girl behind the counter, how much will that cost? $5. My salad ended up being $16!! Never. Again!
(1)Jonathan G.
Bread will be the theme for this brief review. 1) the bread is fantastic. 2) you get a lot of bread in the sandwich 3) between the bread, there is not a tremendous amount of filling - at least for the core of the sandwich (e.g turkey, chicken) 4) you will spend a lot of 'bread' here and without so much as a pickle on the side - most guys will be hungry within 15min. Oxford Spa has better sandwiches and an almost-as-good selection, and will cost much less. It's much less of a dare-I-say, snobby scene too. Good bread too. Montrose Spa's Cuban sandwich is my benchmark for value. If I can spend 7 bucks and barely finish it - it's a good value. This is more like 10 bucks and 'gee, I'm really missing that pickle now.'
(3)Elizabeth L.
I guess it depends what you're after. I come to High Rise on Sunday mornings because a High Rise caffe au lait + the New York Times + eavesdropping on adorable/pretentious Huron Village yuppy families = a perfect Sunday morning for me. If that's not what you're into, you'll have to check High Rise out for yourself. I've never ordered a sandwich here because they're oh so pricy, but I don't think their baked goods are badly priced - a slice of quiche or coffee cake (esp. the poppy seed kind) cost exactly what I'd expect, and they're quite delicious. And the coffee is delicious. The few times I had their bread, I wasn't so impressed - I find it a bit greasy. But a Sunday morning here? Absolutely delicious.
(5)Annie c.
Great fresh bread makes great sandwiches. Loved this place when I lived in Cambridge. It is cramped and difficult finding a seat at peak times - just take it to go and have a picnic It can be bit of a hike from Harvard Sq Yes, it is on the pricey side. Can't be coming here every day for lunch but it's a nice treat
(4)Simi H.
I am giving High Horse (I mean, Rise) two stars because of the service. I think the sandwiches are very good and the bakery has a lot of great varieties. 2 stars because I just can't stand those hipster fuckers who think they're too cool to be nice. They work in a bakery for chrissake, no need to be such pricks.
(2)Joe R.
The best grilled cheese sandwich in the city!! Starts with the bread, then the two kinds of cheeses they use. Tomato and mustard give it texture and a spice, and my mouth just loves it. And priced for success. Otherwise, I always split a sandwich with a fellow worker, and we love 'em. Again, priced to win. Generally get them to go, and always cruise by looking for a space around the four corners, and if one is available, I get my lunch here. If no...cruise on, no problem, and I will get to eat here some other date. They have universal papers for me to read while I wait, or if able, grab a chair and enjoy my sandwich there. The barista at the espresso machine is one of the best in town. They know what they are doing with an espresso machine, so I can get a great latte. Great place, fun to take out of town guest. And I can navigate the parking and seating, and leave my friends to enjoy the great food.
(4)Dorise G.
beware, cash only or you will wait, wait, and wait yummy grilled cheese though
(3)Anthony S.
Hi-Rise is a story of missed opportunity...and how hard it is to do food service well. The sandwiches and baked goods are very very good. But the service is abysmal: the staff are rude, and lacking in even basic courtesy. It's sad in a way - the owners would probably be exceptionally successful if they fixed the problem. But they're just satisfied with what they have. What a waste.
(2)Dan S.
The complaints about the hipster disaffected counter help are true. However I don't go to a place like this for the help - I go for the bread. I don't go that often as it's a little bit out of the way, but their bread is usually pretty good (although pricey). Yesterday I bought two loaves of bread and when I got home, I realized they were pretty overcooked, almost burned on the bottom. Now, I've done my time baking my own bread - I don't keep a culture anymore because it's a lot of trouble - but I still kinda feel like if I'm going to shell out $4-5 for a loaf of bread it should be done right. I know it's not THAT hard to not burn your bread, and if you're a bread company and you DO burn your bread, make some more instead of selling the bad batch? Now I'm irritated and I don't know if I'll go back. As I said their bread is usually good but it's super-premium, so it should be good every time, not sporadically.
(3)Philip G.
As noted by other folks, the attitude does tend to be variable. As a middle-aged computer programmer, I don't rate too highly on the "cool" scale, but I came here enough times with a documentary filmmaker friend (who is actually cool) that eventually I was accepted. Many of the sandwiches can be ordered in half size for a much lower price. Only a marathon runner needs a full Hi-Rise sandwich (though I did watch with astonishment while a 110 lb. Harvard undergraduate ate a whole Hi Rise sandwich). The soups are great. It would be five stars if they had a restroom.
(4)Tella D.
The sandwiches, coffee, and pastries are excellent. (Try the HiRiser breakfast sandwich and the Fallen Chocolate Cake.) We have breakfast here most weekends, and the staff have always been friendly and helpful to us despite the fast pace. It helps to get there before they get overcrowded -- they start making warm sandwiches at 9 am. A point that I haven't seen mentioned in other reviews is that THIS IS THE PLACE TO GET YOUR THANKSGIVING TURKEY. Place your order about a week in advance, then pick up the turkey and your choice of trimmings on Thanksgiving Day. We did this last year because our stove was broken, but now plan to have a Hi Rise turkey every year -- it was the best turkey I've had, juicy and flavorful. Best of all, it allowed us to go for a hike instead of cooking all morning.
(4)kathy r.
I'll grant them that the sandwich combinations are interesting. And the bread and coffee are good. However, after $12 sandwiches that aren't worth $12, and several times of them forgetting part of our order, I'm not a fan. I know some rabid "let's go to hi rise for breakfast" people but I've never gotten into it.
(2)Heather P.
I am in love with Hi-Rise's cheddar-pepper bread! You know the bread is fresh, and it is fun to watch them baking. The sandwiches are tasty, though expensive. I've found the servers to be polite and quick, never rude. I'm not sure why so many other patrons have experienced bad service.
(5)Margaret O.
Hi Rise is a short walk from my office, and I eat here about 3 times a week and sometimes more. I'm a big fan ... with some caveats. The sandwiches are fantastic, and huge. I love the sandwiches. Most of them can be ordered as a half sandwich - for a bit over 2/3 the full sandwich price. Some of the cookies - chocolate chunk, oatmeal - are really great, as are all of the pies and cakes I have tried. The salads are similarly very good, and a lot more interesting than your average lunch salad. The bread they serve with the salad is completely random - sometimes it complements the salad, and sometimes it's just a random bread end. The breakfast pastries are mediocre at best. If you want a croissant go to Iggy's, you can get muffins almost anywhere. The bread is ok but Iggy's is a lot better. The soups are ok but nothing special. I have not found the staff to be rude so much as disorganized and visibly bored. Within those parameters they are usually pretty friendly, but I am not entirely sure why being counter help at Hi Rise is so much more boring than being one anyplace else.
(4)Emerick R.
Stopped in here today with my wife and 2-year-old, figuring that we could grab a couple of quick sandwiches and hit the road. While we stared at the sandwich board in wonder (everything sounded great), we were informed by a rude staff member that "we don't make sandwiches after 4pm". I looked at my watch: 4:01 - seriously. OKKKKK, then...sorry to inconvenience you with my crazy demands for a sandwich...in a sandwich shop! Let me just head over to Panera instead. There are a couple of things that annoy me about this: 1 - If you have a cut off time for certain items, that's fine. But don't be rude about it. Especially on the coldest day of the year when a person is 1 minute over your arbitrary "schedule". 2 - Why would a sandwich shop stop making sandwiches at 4pm on a Saturday? I could see if I dropped in and tried to order an omelet at that hour. But a sandwich? If you _must_ have a cutoff time for making sandwiches, make it much earlier, like 1 or 2pm. Not right before dinner! That's absurd... 3 - Think a bit before being rude to a customer. Not only did you lose my business today, but I'm going to think twice before stopping in there again, since I now have to wonder if I'll be hitting your "still making food" time frame. Not a wise way to run a business. Bottom line: you may have the best food in the world. If you have bad service, it just doesn't matter.
(1)Noelle F.
I just purchased a $10 hummus sandwich from Hi-Rise and I'm feeling particularly stupid for having done so. But shame on this place for charging just as much for a vegetarian sandwich as they do for one with chicken and bacon. I guess I figured, at that price, it better blow my mind - it didn't. It's lettuce, hummus and onions. The bread was good but not 10-dollars-for-two-slices-good. I probably won't be back.
(3)John B.
Hi-Rise, Huron Village, is the best thing about Huron Village.. To quibble about un-smiley help is silly... I find them civil, and efficient. I don't need strangers saying "Have a Nice Day".. Civility and efficiency are far more important. I only buy the bread, as I am a cheap-skate about what I pay for a meal, including a sandwich meal.. Theire cheddar-pepper is the best bread in the world.
(5)Eric M.
No doubt plenty of other reviewers have mentioned the unfortunate pun of "Hi-Price" with this bakery's name, but hey, they owners dug their own hole by choosing the name and subsequently fleecing their customers! Sorry, but $4.50 for a baguette sandwich that's smaller than a billiard ball is outrageous. The Tuscan chicken must have been ground to particulate matter and embedded in some hummus-like paste. It still tasted good, but not particularly better than Finagle a Bagel, where I can get a full sandwich for the same price. The triple-mushroom soup was tasty enough but seemed to borrow a French onion broth and only had about 3 mushrooms visibly large enough to be labeled mushrooms. Though I did order the Small portion of the soup, I was hoping for something bigger than a portion size that I could literally hold in my own cupped hands. The only item of reasonable size was the wedge of bread accompanying the soup, but rye seemed like an odd and controversial choice: though I like rye more than many people under 60 do, it seems an odd "default" bread to give to customers because it wouldn't necessarily accompany some soups very harmoniously. (BTW: Upstairs setting at the Brattle Street location is not handicapped accessible, nor good for anyone who struggles with narrow old stairwells.) In short, I was still hungry after an $8 lunch, and I ordered no drinks. Let the punning continue.
(2)Natasha A.
Awesome breads and piled-high sandwiches. The place is packed however and the counter service is very slow as others have pointed out. Avoid it during the weekend brunch hours but otherwise its definitely worth a visit.
(3)Daniela P.
Good sandwiches but overpriced and not much space to hang out (not fun when outside temperature is 39!!!!)
(3)Bert L.
Pros: Neighborhood's excellent baker for cookies (Fancy and classics), breads hand picked wines and superlative though pricy sandwiches. Cons: *Horrendous coffee* (Think Dunkin Donuts 1985) I also tried the expresso: but it was served room temperature, right out of the machine. Maybe a rookie in need of practice...I tried the hot chocolate: Zero chocolate flavor, and I mean zero. Even my 10 YO daughter agreed. Swiss Miss tasted like Burdicks next to it. $3 for a cup of colored fluffy milk. Baffling!!! Why have fabulous pastries next to watered down "pre Coffee Connection" coffee standards? For "fun" I tried next doors' Sarah's MArket coffee, same watered coffee thing, but this time unsurprising: it is a local grocery store after all, with no coffee shop pretension. I had to walk all the way down to Sherman's street Starbuck to get a real cup of coffee with actual flavor and aroma. Very disappointed. May I speak with the artistic director? In this day and age, we have learned too much about coffee to accept hot water, sorry. I cannot believe folks are accepting this as coffee. Also watch out for explosions (Doors? Falling boards? Virile, strong men at work dropping heavy heavy things ?) and pair that with really loud oven electronic alarms : the Baker shop is in the same room, so enjoy the factory ambiance if you can.
(3)Zaazaa M.
Hehe. All the reviews about hipster style service are funny to me...I've been going here for sooo long, I've seen about 20 incarnations of hipster High Rise staff cycle in and out. Some of them were even my friends in high school. So don't worry, these guys are just someones obnoxious old friend from high school...look 'em in the eye and tell 'em what you want. And I used to love coming here and eating the curry sandwich. But recently the food hasn't done it for me. It's all right, good variety, but...not that great. Exceptions are: Arnold Palmers and that brown bread with blueberries in it. Yum! Don't try to use your credit card at the Harvard Sq. location...Concord Ave, it's ok.
(3)Cara P.
We stopped here on the way home to grab two sandwiches. OMG OMG OMG! This place rocks. Not for the carb wary, the second you step in, the smell of bread wafts through the air. HEAVEN! Yes, the sandwiches are expensive...but shit, what isn't these days. Plus it is made on fresh made bread and high quality ingredients. I wonder if people realize that they can leave when they take a look at the prices. No one is FORCING you to buy a sandwich for $9. Think about it ;p
(5)Sunny S.
Lunch here on an Weds morning, 11am, and surprisingly the place isn't swamped with people. The staff were all busily working and cheerful. My sandwich "Power 10" tuna salad on rye was tasty and quick enough, so I'm rather pleased. I guess it merits the $10 price tag because it's no 'SUBWAY' kind of experience or fare. Local and fresh, this place is great!
(5)Kristie L.
I felt the need to write a review because some yelpers have complained about the staff being rude. I go to Hi-Rise at least once a week (albeit always on weekdays, never on busy weekends) and I have found the staff to be consistently polite and attentive. No complaints whatsoever. I stick with the oatmeal, soups, and baked goods and they are all delicious. Yes, the sandwiches are pricey, but if you think they are overpriced then don't order them! There are many other affordable things to choose from. So yeah, I'm a fan.
(4)sang s.
Ok, many reviews have said this. But I'll say it again. Food is good but the price is ridiculously high. I will take my business to Iggy's, thank you very much. at least Iggys doesn't have a sandwich named Mr and Mrs Snob!
(3)Scarlett G.
Bread, desserts, and sandwiches here are all interesting and tasty especially if you are into 'crusty'. I feel like everything here has thick, usually tough crusts! but still i like this...just don't eat it in the car...crumbs, bleh! however, the staff here is a pain in the ass. they fuddle over arranging their precious baked goods while ignoring you there ready to order or pay for something. also, they never can just tell you straight about something. if you ask them to recommend, they can almost get it out....but for the most part the staff are stereotypical, cooler than you, dyed hair, no-eye-contact hipsters. also the quiche are yucky and cold....
(3)Cory Q.
Great sandwiches and baked goods at high prices. Home of the $10.25 turkey sandwich and the $1.50 oreo cookie.
(4)R E.
I came here at 7:33 by their clock and asked for a sandwich and they said they stopped serving them at 7:30. Quaint little neighborhood sandwich shop my ass.
(2)Chris G.
After some running around Fresh Pond, I came here with 2 friends. I proposed buying bread with walnuts and cranberries (perhaps because I am a bit nutty and a bit fruity) - which I bought. I proceeded to eat the whole loaf (no one else wanted any!) and enjoyed it. Great place but seating is a little tough...
(4)Mike G.
yup chicken w/ bacon on corn bread is delectable.
(3)Morris R.
I could eat sugary bread products with coffee drinks all day. And I do. That said: is it just me, or are the people making the bread in the open kitchen area having a ton of fun, while some of the people behind the counter persistently seem harried, flustered, and sometimes, even, sad, like their cat finally decamped for greener pastures, or someone just broke up with them, that morning - except it's that way every morning? I mean, really, how many ungrateful cats and disappointing boyfriends can one person have?
(4)Blair H.
1) I don't care if the staff sucks, the bread/baked goods are the best I've found in Boston/Cambridge so far. Don't tip. 2) It's not too expensive. The price of flour is rising. Even bread at the grocery store is $3.50 a loaf. Also, some people are too cheap to spend extra on quality, then bitch when the shop disappears. 3) Try Flour near South Station for an alternative. They're nicer and better looking, and their goods are on par if not better.
(5)Laura B.
The second I walked into this place, I thought of the SWPL blog post on expensive sandwiches: stuffwhitepeoplelike.com… So true! But I have to say, my hot turkey sandwich (with a cute name I can't remember) was good, despite the price, and the wait wasn't too bad. It was a warm and cozy spot to get out of the cold and get a hot coffee with my sandwich. The diverse selection of wine bottles on the side wall also intrigued me... I'll be back next time I'm in town visiting my sister.
(3)Anna P.
Absolutely delicious baked goods - their brown bread with wild blueberries is to die for. They also make their iced mochas with warm milk - none of that watered down stuff. They lose a star for virtually no seating and for sandwich prices that I simply cannot justify. At $9.50 I could make my own nutella sandwich, thank you. But, if you know what to order - you can get good deals: A cup of oatmeal for breakfast or a cup of mushroom soup for lunch is filling, economical and tasty!
(4)Megan B.
I stood in line next to Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck (with their adorable pigtailed daughter) at Hi-Rise yesterday. For the record, Ben ordered the Mahatma Gloves sandwich (curried chicken salad with cashews) and Jen ordered Fern's Problem Solver (turkey, avocado, etc) w/o Russian. Cambridge is so chill sometimes...Hi-Rise was packed but no one bothered them (no photos, autograph requests, staring). I work across the street and spend more than is judicious on their delicious salads, sandwiches, soups, and baked goods. It is pricey, but you are paying for top-notch ingredients. I recommend any sandwich with their pulled pork (Nat Queen Cool is a favorite), but really, you can't go wrong with anything here. While you wait, you can educate yourself a bit by reading the thoughtful descriptions above all of their carefully selected wines. And, as I learned yesterday, the people watching here ain't bad either. Contrary to some others' experiences, I have found the owner to be very charming and pleasant whenever he is filling in for staff by taking orders, etc.
(4)Buzz G.
This place is a must go to for breads, soups, sandwiches, salads, special baked products, etc. Your life is not complete without becoming a regular at Hi-Rise.
(5)Germain W.
Not worth it. The sandwiches and baked goods were ok. But the prices... WHOAAAaaa... I mean, I just moved from S.F. where things are expensive. But this little shop in Cambridge shocked even me. I mean, come on... $9.50 for a freaking sandwich that consisted of two slices of bread and a sausage with a little mustard?? Give me a break. What are the owners thinking? What a ripoff. The red-haired teenage kid serving us was also a real put off. He had snot running down his face (yes, while serving customers, I kid you not). When he was picking up bread for me I wanted to hand him a tissue and say, "here, use it". Eeeeek. Gross!!! For sure, first and last visit.
(1)Deepa C.
I love this place. The mixing, kneading, baking frenzy hits you as soon as you walk in. The smell and heat and yeastiess permeates the air, making it thick and swimmy. As you pass the baking section, a bouquet of baked goods preens on the counter: challah, cinnamon loafs, apple pies, pear tarts, wheat breads, burger buns, baguettes, big round loafs, sugar encrusted ones, loafs spotted with herbs and olives, you name it. The coffee is good as well, and they have soup and sandwiches, although I have yet to partake. The prices aren't insane for Cambridge, but not exactly cheap. Also, it can get crowded and there is limited seating. It's not exactly a quiet place to read a paper, but people were doing it. So local beers and good selection of wines, bustling atmosphere and a must visit for anyone who loves bread.
(5)Nupur L.
Hi-Rise, get over yourself. Your bread is half as good as Iggy's and yet it's almost twice the price or sometimes more than that. For a store that is trying hard to ride the local wave, you can't even give friendly service to the people who have been visiting regularly for weeks (aka ME). Your tip jar is a form of extortion, capitalizing on the eagerness of good-hearted folks who will buy local even at your highway robbery prices. Also, your tarts suck. I was really excited for a while, laboring under the perception that I may be actually developing a relationship with the surly old hipsters who work behind the counter. Then we walked in at 7:34 one Monday evening and asked if we could have sandwiches. The sandwich service ends at 7:30. I buy local so that I can actually get decent service. Note that I'm not even asking for friendliness here. I thought it was entirely reasonable that they could make a sandwich at 7:34. I would have cut them slack if it had been 7:40, even. No. We had to buy their entrees or leave. To add insult to injury, the woman at the counter chirruped "No sandwiches, but we have SOUP!" Right, the same gazpacho that they have been peddling for weeks. I'm now done with Hi-Rise. The sandwiches don't taste that good after they leave holes in your wallet and heart.
(2)P. J.
I went to Hi-Rise this afternoon. I had not been there in over a year. The prices, which had been high before, were even more outrageous, but my sandwich was excellent. Almost worth the $12. Several recent reviewers complained about the rude staff, but I must have gotten lucky: the young woman who took my order was cheerful and polite. What I found off-putting was the woman breast-feeding her baby in a very in-your-face "Look at me! Aren't I hip?" way. Another reviewer mentioned the annoying "boho" Cambridge mommies who frequent this place. Agreed: I recommend getting your sandwich or brownie to go.
(2)Stephanie F.
I don't know why everyone had such a bad experience with the service. I guess I haven't had the bad experience yet. Anywho, the only useful thing you can get out of my review are the soups. The soups = tasty. The lentil soup was delicious; there were bits of parsley or cilantro (one of the fresh green herbs) that entertained my tongue. The bread to go along with it = fresh. I've been here when it was sort of crowded and when I was able to sit at the long lunch table without being elbow to elbow to anyone (this was on a Friday afternoon at about 4pm). I bought a sandwich for my boyfriend here, I can't remember what the name of it was, but it had an ingredient that I knew he didn't like but I knew I liked and surprisingly he didn't realize that dislikable ingredient was in his sandwich until I told him half-way through. I guess it goes to show that they know how to make their sandwiches! But I know this was only one sandwich... On the other hand, it was sort of overpriced... I would like to try some of their baked goods and local wines.
(4)Q T.
Fabulous food!!! Adorable Friendly Staff!!!
(5)Kat L.
Fact: the owner is a pompous ass. Even the old ladies in the neighborhood know that he is quote "very conceited." The food is delicious, but pricey. I want to go there more often because their baked goods and sandwiches are interesting and delicious. But I really can't justify the price. Also, dealing with the staff is a major drag.
(2)Steve L.
I think they have everyone you want from a bakery, whether you get their breads and pastries or sit down for one of the sandwiches. For me, some of the sandwiches don't actually hold together -- say the grilled portabello and asparagus -- the asparagus keeps rolling away. Or, the grilled cheese -- delicious individual ingredients, but the balance between the bread, cheese, mustard, pepper -- not that zen status that a perfect sandwich should have. Regardless, you won't get anything bland or sub-par here. Oh, and I never noticed any bad service.
(4)Amy H.
good sandwiches. cute room to sit in and eat your sandwich. Bad attitude staff. overpriced. Here's a tip, go across the street to Sarah's and order a BLT. Cheaper, faster, and less eye rolling from those taking your order.
(3)Thomas T.
Great coffee, bread, sandwiches and wine in a nice, phone free atmosphere. The service can be snotty or some of the nicest people ever, the staff definitely has their favorites and it varies from employee to employee. Prices are not cheap, but the hi riser egg sandwich and a large latte on a Saturday morning is close to heaven. Dinners are not bad either, the caramelized onions that come with the roast chicken are outstanding. Despite generally high prices the wine is affordable, especially the box of 6 mixed bottles which is consistently excellent. A bottle of wine and a loaf of bread in the afternoon makes for a great evening. Beware they are not open late.
(4)Leo L.
Yes, the seating is lousy. And the sandwiches are expensive (but not much more than the other high end sandwich places like All Star or Parish Cafe). But they make the bread themselves. They roast the pork for the Cuban sandwiches (called the Havana Heaven, my favorite) themselves. They haven't disappointed once (OK, maybe once, when they took the Havana Heaven off the menu). Haters, just try the Fern's Problem Solver (real slices of roast turkey, yes, which they roasted themselves, with avocado) and tell me you can find a better sandwich in Greater Boston. I dare you.
(5)Jared K.
Stopped by the Harvard Square location yesterday. Had a chocolate dipped coconut macaroon. It was pretty darn good! I know that they're well know for their breads and baked goods but they had a loaf of cake/bread for sale on the counter that costs $14. Really? Don't you think that's a little excessive? Whether or not it tastes amazing and the laborious process that goes into baking, $14 is just a little too much for me.
(3)Ilona M.
Hi-Rise is as good as it gets. I've been going here since the place opened, and I've been a loyal customer from the beginning. Yes, the prices are (extremely, especially for a student) steep, but the occasional visit (i.e. whenever I can go) makes a worthwhile treat. The people at the counter are sometimes a bit short with customers, but the ones that have worked there the longest are generally really nice. I recommend everything here--the bread is excellent (but--be warned--very buttery), especially the potato bread. Also great are their sandwiches and soups, coffee (but the harvard square one makes much much better), and jams. Seating can be hard to find, but if you can find a corner they don't mind if you loiter a bit after you've finished.
(5)Kerri O.
I'm giving these guys a terrific rating, because they make Brown Bread, in a Coffee Can. How old school! Actually, they do have a great bread selection. I've had soup there, and pastries, and loved them. I'm too cheap to spend $10 for a sammich, so I won't complain about the price; I just don't get the dang things there. Great vino selection. The lack of parking is vexing, but normal for Cambridge.
(5)Robby T.
On a nice day, the shaded patio is great to enjoy some food/drink.....just not those of the Hi-Rise Bread Co. Not only did the "El Presidente" sandwich lack coherent ingredients, it tried to pass off what was essentially salsa for "red pepper pesto". What's more, my roasted tomato quiche would've been great for a hypertensive 80-year old, but I need a lil' salt!...and flavor. When I asked for the flavorless wedge to be heated up, the girl behind the counter denied that they had a microwave or an oven. They're a bakery. I write this off as sub-par food for relatively high prices w/ typical aloof, uninspired Boston service. Is it too much to ask for workers at an indy bakery to...CARE?!?!? This place would go under in one day, if it were operated on the West Coast. I'm willing to be proven wrong, but I'll continue to shoo friends away like flies from a dungpile. BTW, the single star was garnered for decent lemonade and said patio.
(1)Kristen K.
I don't understand how anyone could give Hi-Rise Bread Company less than five stars. Hi-Rise is phenomenal. I am typing this as I eat a piece of their bread (a Flute loaf, so good) and on the drive home I wolfed down one of their Oreo cookies. I would have liked to savor it slowly, but that didn't happen. Do yourself a favor- ignore the bad reviews where people say the staff is rude. They're not. They're nice people. It's a great spot with communal tables, no cell phones allowed and absurdly good food. I highly recommend them.
(5)Michelle S.
The bread of course would get 5 stars - it's amazing...and we visited with a Swiss baker, who really knows his stuff. But we also visited with our 5 year old, my husband, and my parents, who proceeded to order chaotically and speak foreign tongues, and immediately got "the look" from the staff, a red-haired girl, and a girl with green glasses. We ignored "the look" (sort of a "would you hurry up, I don't want to be here" look, we thought) and proceeded to buy 7 drinks, several pieces of bread and two entire cakes - we're talking serious $$$. My five year old son proceeded to spill his drink, so we politely requested paper towels, as we sopped up the mess. While there were many of us, we were in no way ornery. Would you think the wait staff would have offered to refill the five year old's drink on the house? FORGET IT. I say Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts all the way. Buy your goods, and eat them at home so you don't get indigestion.
(1)Marcia W.
Surly experience # 963! I have been shopping here for years and went through a period several years back when I was there weekly. Lately, my visits have been sporadic at best, owing to the customer treatment plan employed by almost everyone who works there. This most recent experience, while not of great enormity in and of itself, has topped off the pile of reasons not to go there. Okay, the food is better than good but the attitude and the 'customer is always wrong' approach ruin the taste. "Can I please have such and such a sandwich on potato bread?" "Let me check" Much checking ensues. "No, you cannot." "Oh, do you have any rice krispie treats?" "No, not anymore." "You ran out of them for today or you don't make them anymore?" "They don't sell well." The sandwich in question, for the record, is one that I have ordered and gotten many times in the past. Not that that really matters. They will not have to deign to serve me again since that was my very last visit. I swear.
(1)Cat M.
The bread is good, sure, but laughingly expensive. Go to Iggy's for the same quality at a reasonable price. I have enjoyed my sandwiches but only as take-out. There's very little seating in the cafe, people are constantly bumping into you, and you feel very very rushed. They also do not have a bathroom for customers to use, so I couldn't wash my hands before eating a finger food. Ew. I wish Hi Rise were bigger, cheaper, and at least had some Purell. Despite living close by, I'll travel the extra bit to Darwin's for all of those things.
(2)Ari A.
Yes, there are some tasty things to be had a Hi Rise, and I get it, the bread is supposed to be peasant-y (though sometimes its just hard). But the prices are not. And the service.... well let's just say that you have to be rude to work here. The sandwiches are very good- as they should be for 10 bucks.
(2)Suz B.
I'd give 5 stars (never eaten or drunk a thing I haven't loved), but the staff is so surly, it hurts me. Ladies, why must you be so unpleasant and superior?
(4)Fran T.
Got the grilled turkey reuben. It was really good! I was pleasantly surprised they used actual roasted turkey and not that slimey deli turkey. Well done - yay! The bread was awesome too! I'll definitely be back to try their other sandwiches. Got potato leek soup and they threw in a couple chunks of bread - a meal in itself! Leftovers tomorrow. (ps...they don't accept AmEx, but Visa is good)
(5)Heather H.
Okay, so I like to call this place Hi-Price, but in all honesty, I cannot stay away from their lemon curd cakes. LEMON CURD CAKE. Okay, besides their lemon curd cake, it's fun to watch surly hipsters bake things. And their sandwiches are pretty good. I'm a fan of the grilled cheese/tomato/spicy mustard sandwich. Seating is a bitch, but I was lucky enough to live just down the street from them.
(4)Douglas G.
Without question Hi Rise employs the nastiest, most bitter, unprofessional staff in all the land. Eat a snowball off the street before entering this poor excuse for a neighborhood bakery.
(1)Kelly C.
1. Too expensive. I get that quality ingredients cost money, but this is price gauging. Oatmeal is like $8. It's hateful. 2. They can be rude. It's hard to imagine why people running an establishment would go through such trouble to make delicious food for a species they seem to loathe. 3. Everything is disposable. I'm not an enviro-nazi, but if you're staying to eat your sandwich or drink your coffee you shouldn't have to eat with paper and plastic. 4. Really uncomfortable seating, which only contributes to my theory that the people that run this place hate their customers. It's also really loud with timers and ovens going off and beeping. 5. No soy milk... 6. A ten dollar credit card minimum is against visa mastercard rules, and it's just plain ridiculous. What they sell is great. Everything else is frustrating and obnoxious.
(2)Jason P.
This is just a placeholder review for a list I just made here yelp.com/list/most-arrog…
(1)Tessa C.
Great place for casual good eats. Excellent tasty sandwiches - high prices, but good value if you split a sandwich with a friend. Even my mom who is an extremely picky eater and extremely frugal approved of this place. My favorite sandwich is Nat Queen's Cool? Sorry, I have a horrible memory. It's a pulled pork sandwich with a harrissa spread (spicy garlicy red pepper spread) layered with fresh avocado and tomato...Sigh, I get hungry thinking about this sandwich. For brunch - I absolutely adore their Green Eggs and Ham sandwich. Fried Egg on top of Candadian Bacon, with Sauteed Spinach on a potato roll. Yum! Love the almond coffee cake - rich and dense, filled with marzipan, and coated with a nice sugar glaze. Oatmeal is excellent - creamy, sweet, and studded with pecans and dried cherries. I personally like the staff - quirky and cool.
(5)Rob D.
Yup - I'm in with everyone else. Amazing food - and bread that rivals (beats?) Iggy's...which is saying something. (The olive bread on Saturdays is really great.) Sandwiches are amazing, and its just really a nice place to hang out. Oh...and the wine. They sell inexpensive wine that is really really good. (Plus, its a short walk from my house, but that's just geography. I used to live on the other side of Cambridge, and I still drove to this place.) ...but the counterhelp: good lord. What's the word I want...surly? disinterested? drugged? (Oh, think I'm exaggerating? Check out the "I see dead people" smile on the woman who manages the place.) Anyway the place is this odd combination of "come in! have a seat! relax and enjoy!" and "get the fuck outta here! what are you LOOKING at? jeez, aren't you done YET?!" ...if the food ever takes a turn for the worse, I'm gone.
(3)Jen G.
Hi-Rise is a cute little bakery with outside patio seating. It's such cute little place. Their pastries are very yummy. The quiche and the lemon curd cake are some of the best food I ever tasted. I wish there's a pastry place like Hi-Rise Bread Company (but cheaper, Hi-Rise products are pricy) near my home so I can go there everyday. Though I was only in Boston/Cambridge for a few days, I couldn't help but to make repeat visits.
(4)Anastasia L.
I've gotten bread, sandwiches, and the odd breakfast item here, and I've never experienced quite the g-d-awful service others seem to. Sure the staff aren't jumping thru hoops, but having worked in a bakery before and served a somewhat "academic"/"upscale" crowd, I know it ain't fun. As others have hinted, it's often the other patrons who are most aggravating (wealthy, cultured or pseudo-cultured, brainiacs, etc etc etc- comes with the territory). That aside, I support small (-ish) bakery operations with delicious homemade breads, yummy sandwiches with quality ingredients, fresh juice, and great baked goods (such as their fabled vanilla poundcake). The communal tables are a cool idea in theory, and I've shared them with cute bookworms as often as rude mommies. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth a try. Note that as with other businesses on Concord and Huron Aves, parking is a beeatch.
(5)Robin E.
I live in Huron Village and on occasion stop by HR for this or that. The food is not that great. Some things are amazing, but the only reason I ever go there is convenience. The coffee sucks, not robust enough, but better than starbucks. Even one of the employees told me she thought the coffee wasn't that good. Bland. Nothing is very consistent except, as many have pointed out, the staff who consistently make an easy job (put stuff in a bag and ring it up then make some change) look very very hard. Maybe they just aren't that smart - the younger ones are a little easier to deal with most of the time. Those pigtailed older ladies with sparkles all over their eyes need to move on, just move out. Have you tried Sofra on Belmont Ave? Now that is one hip, friendly place with far more interesting food, much better coffee and a great wine shop. Plus they have a parking lot. Owned by the same person as Oleana, they are just as focused on high quality as HR. They even have their own farm, so everything is extremely fresh. It's harder for me to get there but well worth it. Why suffer through a tired old place with bad service when Sofra is so close?
(1)Eve L.
Really good bread, but if you're Jewish, don't buy your challah here. It's challah-made-by-goyim -- that is, not sweet and way too bready. But, with the exception of their challah, their bread is excellent. Their sandwiches are amazing and creative. Their "Sin Sandwich" might just be the most decadent thing ever created. (Dark chocolate melted on brioche) However, they are expensive. It's not a sandwich joint. It's a "gourmet" sandwich joint.
(4)carole k.
VERY SNOTTY STAFF...I'm so surprised that the management doesn't understand that they are losing customers. The wait staff are just not nice people. I'm embarrassed to live in Cambridge and imagine outsiders coming to this place from, let's say, the mid West, and running back to their home, telling anyone who will listen about the snobby people at the Cambridge restaurants. Please remember Hi Rise staff--we are paying you!--it's not the other way around.
(1)April I.
The line is snaking almost to the door. There are 4 or 5 people behind the counter, moving around, though it isn't clear if any of them are doing anything other than looking busy. I am eyeing the grilled pb, nutella, and fluff sandwich. I am eyeing the rice crispy treats. I am eyeing everyone around me. Despite the mess of staff and the disorganization behind the counter everyone is really happy. We make our way to the front of the line -- order the grilled pb, nutella, and fluff sandwich as well as a hot dog on challah with lots of mustard and a cinnamon bun. All is good. Yes the staff seems kind of uninterested in their jobs or helping you or proving very good service, but the food is good. Yes it is pricey, but if I'm in the area I'll stop by...I just won't go out of my way to come here.
(3)Rachael R.
It does not count to go the Harvard Square location. Unless it is down-pouring, it is worth the walk from the Square, and the walk itself is actually a nice exposure to old Cambridge. I usually order whatever sandwiches has the most, often involving a fried egg. Go knowing the sandwich will cost $10. You will be delighted by everything else.
(4)C C.
I don't know why I haven't reviewed this place yet. It is simply incredible. As I always do in these situations, I will fully disclose my ties... this if the gf's new place of employment... she's now a baker there. But my love affair with Hi-Rise started about a two years before she started making dough there (oh snap! couldn't resist!). The sandwiches are great. All of them. Any of them. I can't imagine you'll be unhappy with you choice. Today I went all the way with the Sin Sandwich and a large Earl Grey. The counter-person was SO thrilled someone was ordering the nutella-and-chocolate work of art... apparently the name can be a deterrent for some. I beg of you... GO for it! Even if you do burn in hell for all eternity with the Backstreet Boys' "Millennium" album on repeat, it will have been well worth it. Delicious food aside, they have a great selection of tea and coffee drinks. For cold beverages, I recommend the Bright Blue Soda. Your experience isn't complete until you've tried their Gazpacho. Fresh baked bread and pastries will beckon you while you wait in line to order. They also offer a limited selection of quality liquor, $50 mixed cases of wine, and craft beers. This place is hot for omnivores, vegans, the picky, the hard-to-impress, and locavores alike. Just come ready to cozy up... the majority of seating is on benches at two long tables, so you'll likely have strangers at your side. Bonus points if you walk out with a new friend! Also, I should note that they have a $10 limit on credit/debit purchases. This is easy to meet, because the average sandwich price is $8-$10... so when you add in a drink you're most certainly there. Don't balk at the price... these aren't your momma's elementary school lunch-sack sandwiches... they are large portions of gourmet food served between two slices of fresh-baked heaven!
(5)Ryan W.
This place has more rules than a Catholic semi-formal. No credit cards, no cell phones, no food after 3. Maybe I wouldn't care if a cup of coffee didn't take 7 minutes to drip into a cup. It's the most pretentious coffee prep I've ever witnessed (and I've been to Seattle). It used to be different here. Oh, and the soups are great but four dollars for a dixie cup of broth ain't worth it, know-what-i'm-sayin, John Q Internet?
(2)Dave M.
Amazing sandwiches, excellent food - unfortunately though, the staff is quite rude. It's clear that the management doesn't put any emphasis on customer service because I've been talked-down-to by three different employees on three different occasions. If the food weren't so damn good, we'd never come back! (if the service was even moderately good, I'd come every week and probably give High Rise 4 stars) Additionally, the management refuses to carry soy milk. With a dairy allergy, I would have ordered a coffee with every visit if they only had soy milk. I consistently get a condescending comment from the staff every time I ask whether or not they have soy milk. Strange.
(2)Tracee D.
Great $$ sandwiches. The smell of the place is worth at least 5 dollars. Its fun to sit on church pews and watch people knead bread right? Good food and juice. They even have wines for you to take home. My only gripe is that the customer's (excluding some) are kind of crappy. They give off a stinky vibe that gets in the way of my bread sniffin' Went back yesterday for lunch. 10$$ for a salad or sandwich, I always thought salads were more $$. Had a tuna melt with bread and butter pickles, yay bread and butter pickles. Watched people eat an eggsalad sandwic and a chicken with bacon sandwich on corn bread. They looked happy. ps. the employee's are unusually unhappy (regardless of the weather)
(4)Vanessa C.
before you complain about the price, you should know that all the meats are made IN HOUSE. fresh chicken, pork, turkey - all with no nitrates or yuckie preservatives? that is DEFINITELY worth the extra $2-$3 per sandwich for me and any other health conscious consumer who actually cares about what they are putting into their body. I feel good about the food I get from here, and that itself is worth the premium. I have not had any bad experience with the staff here, but honestly the food is so good that I dont think it would matter much. besides, its not like they get tips! lets be grown ups about this... the bread is phenomenal. the sandwiches are by far my favorite in the city (with volle nolle coming up second, but its like a pos/neg photo experience of hi-rise. totally different...) this location is not convenient to me by any means, and still I know if I want a sandwich in boston, I will not even think about going anywhere else first. I also really love the layout of the interior - you can watch bakers working hard at large tables off to the side preparing the dough. the tables are nice and the ceilings are high and spacious. I have a hard time understanding all the negative reviews, because I personally couldn't ask for anything more out of a sandwich shop - really, whats not to love here?
(5)Erik S.
Solid bread products here. I've had both the green eggs and ham and the high rise and shine. Both were pretty good. The bread here is really good and I'd like to try more of their selection. It's a good bakery but it'll cost ya.
(4)Katie P.
I will not set foot in this place again, despite living a few blocks away. Although I have read the review and update from Oliver P dated 5/19/11 that Hi-Rise is working on their customer service, my three trips here earlier in 2011 were enough to end my appetite for their food a few months ago. The staff, and their signs about cell phones, are rude and obnoxious (and note that I've never used my cell phone there, it's just that even the signs manage to be rude). The prices are high. The seating is limited. The atmosphere is distinctly "get the hell out" so we can go back to being cool. There are much better alternatives in the area, as well as in Harvard Square.
(1)Julian H.
They make some fine tasting sandwiches, but don't go there for lunch unless you have nothing better to do with your entire afternoon. I'd speculate that maybe the entire staff was totally stoned, but then you'd think that if that were the case, they'd be happier and less rude to the customers. Then again, you'd also think that, given that you'd paid them $10 for one of thier precious sandwiches, they wouldn't get all surly when you asked them to hand it to you when it's clearly just sitting there...languishing...on the counter.. And don't make the same mistake I did, and think that the 1/2 hour you paid for on your parking meter will be enough time to pick up your sandwich to go. Unlike the folks at Hi Rise, the ticket writers in Cambridge are quite efficient.
(1)Clara R.
Nine-dollar sandwiches!? Only this place can get away with that; I think they may have the best sandwiches I have ever eaten. High Rise isn't priced for regular visits, but we like to bring our weekend houseguests here to impress them with our classy neighborhood (that we can't quite afford). It's hard to get a table at weekend brunchtimes, though. In the spring, it's nice to start the day with a cheddar snail (NOT nine dollars) and iced tea that you can enjoy while waiting for the bus or walking to the square. Mmm. I did once see a mouse inside when I was walking home late at night, though -- unless it was a drunken hallucination?
(4)Katie A.
Hi Rise staff has never surprised me by actually being nice or helpful. Today's expensive slap in the face was their refusal to slice a loaf of bread. There are plenty of great places in Cambridge for bread and sandwiches... and most of them also care about service. I'm tired of giving Hi Rise another chance to provide basic services.
(2)Kate M.
Crazy good! I love going and its worth driving all the way from Philly to Mass. just for this. Admittedly I always order the same thing. But If I had to pick only one thing to eat for the rest of my life, for every meal. It would be their curry chicken salad sandwich.
(5)Robert Z.
Hi - Rise is my category winner for "best restaurant when someone else is buying you lunch". Their inventively named sandwiches combine tasty ingredients with their fresh-baked bread, but $10 for just a sandwich is a little pricey for a mid-day meal. If you steer away from the sandwiches, Hi-Rise also offers a nice selection of low-priced European wines (take-out only), incredibly delicious desserts, and of course loaves of their delicious breads.
(3)Julie A.
I LOVE the sweets. I like the bread. the sandwiches are so so. They are really nice, but oftentimes they are so busy it's hard to find a place to sit so I get it to go. the prices are a bit steep, but the quality is great every time and you can't get anything any fresher!
(3)Renee H.
This is my favorite type of cafe that I look for all over.....just a little pricier. Everything is so fresh and delicious you just can't go wrong. Homemade soups, fresh sandwiches, great espresso drinks, yummy lemonade, clean, calming environment. Like I said, everything I look for in a cafe.
(4)Vivian W.
This review should be entitled "Why Hi-Rise Makes Me Sad". Aside from the fact that I'm currently livin' la vida low carb, I so badly want to love Hi-Rise. I want to be Hi-Rise's friend. They have amazing bread. The Cambridge location (on Concord Street, not the one on Brattle or thereabouts) brings in Cheryl Ann's Challah from Brookline (which is seriously the Brittney Spears of bread- rich, sinful, deliciously indulgent and really really bad for you). Unfortunately, I can't get over the fact that going to Hi-Rise is like getting on the green line outbound the afternoon of a Sox game. There are, simply put, too many people and it's really very unpleasant. At Hi-Rise, there's a line to place your order, a line to sit at one of the over-crowded picnic tables, a line for the bathroom... even a line to get a view at the menu written on chalkboards all around the place. Kind of feels like Disney World on school vacation. The only thing they're missing is a winding rope maze. After standing in so many lines, you want your sandwich to be earth shattering and usually it's fabulous, but certainly not the second coming. This gets three stars because the food is good- unquestionably and generally reliably good. But you NEED to go for take out because after you have an experience eating at the restaurant you won't be feeling any love toward your fellow man. Go to Hi-Rise, buy the bread, take it home and make your own damn sandwich. Much better plan and you still get the good grub. So Hi-Rise, get a better pad and then we can be friends. Right now, you're just too... well... too popular for me.
(3)Max N.
Outlandishly good sandwiches, excellent breads; pastries are not very inspired. As some have noted, the service could be just a touch less rude. (I don't usually care much about that, but they really could try a little harder sometimes.) More expensive than its across-the-river rival in quality, Clear Flour. (And Clear Flour's pastries are much better, though the breads are about tied.)
(4)ServethePeople I.
We had a wonderful experience at the bakery in Huron Village - open atmosphere, lively, Ritual coffee (yum), and a lemon blueberry muffin thing (double yum). Excited that it's right around the corner!
(5)Sutanuka L.
everything here is excellent and FRESH. they have a unique wine collection too!
(5)Laura A.
this place is incredible. the only reason why i'm giving it less than 5 stars is because of the pricing. i'm actually fairly shocked that so many people on here gave it poor reviews -- do you all have some sort of disorder where you don't have taste buds?? it is truly a foodie's kind of a place, because only a foodie with discriminating tastes would be cool with spending nearly $10 on a sandwich. it's kind of like quality over quantity: i'd rather have an amazing $10 sandwich than two shitty $5 sandwiches. they have options for vegetarians as well as meat-eaters, which is great. their grilled cheese is the most amazingly tasty grilled cheese i have ever eaten in my life. they make it on their own thick "concord" bread and grill it to toasty perfection, slathering it with high quality cheese, mustard (who knew that would taste so amazing in a grilled cheese??), tomato, and butter. i am sure it's really fattening, but who cares? the flavors are incredible. i can usually only finish half of the sandwich at a sitting because it's that filling. hi-rise was featured in amanda hesser (the food critic for the New York Times magazine)'s book a couple years ago and she absolutely raved about it. the people who taught her how to cook and appreciate good food live in cambridge and brought her here -- that can tell you what kind of place this is. i work fairly close by, and one time we had hi-rise for lunch, and one of my coworkers commented "this is not a sandwich meant to be eaten in front of another human being" -- you'll probably end up with food on your face, in your teeth, and on your clothes when you're done. but you will be full of tasty deliciousness. they also offer dessert, wine, and i believe various baked goods to-go. there is very minimal seating, so be forewarned. in the summer, visit their brattle st location in harvard square, get sandwiches to go, and go sit in the common or by the charles while you have your amazing lunch!
(4)Jess L.
i was quite disappointed this morning - excited it was actually open at 9am, but i guess everyone knew that. the service was slow, and the decaf coffee was bad - and they initially didn't want to give a refund! the benches are weird - i guess i was expecting more individual tables, a more intimate setting... food was okay - a little too buttery, and my avocado was borderline bad. i guess next time i go i'll make sure i have more time and will take it to go.
(2)Henry P.
Who knew bakers could be so damned pretentious? I mean seriously, I put these workers at the level of a supermarket employee in terms of servicing a community, but it's clear they think their poop smells like fresh asiago bread. Good dinner entrees though...hence the 2 stahs. :P
(2)Brin L.
Once you try their lattes and cappuccinos, you will forever be turned off by starbucks and every other overprocessed cup of coffee out there. Unlike every other place I have tried, the coffee here is filtered through heart, not just capitalism. Sure, the barristas are not my cup of tea, or should I say coffee, when it comes to personality. Don't expect a smile or a "have a nice day". Do, however, expect them to be consistently meticulous with the temperature of your coffee, with how much they froth the milk, and with the little designs adorning the otherwise impersonal cardboard vessel. You may not feel the love, but you can certainly taste the love of their craft. In that sense, this is one of the few places on campus with a truly genuine image and product. Lets face it, sometimes you can do with the extra smiles because, well, sometimes what you really need is a really good cup of coffee!
(4)Jeremy S.
Great sandwiches. Don't think it is open on the weekend, unfortunately.
(4)Andre W.
Uh... first time on this site and was curious about certain places I frequent. This one I couldn't pass up. My long experience at Hi-Rise has shown that most of the people who get poor service there are uptight, self-entitled a**holes, and generally deserve the treatment they get. Remember, it's right up the street from a university whose reputation precedes it. I will say, there are times when you get behind one of these entitled West Cambridge souls in line and their bad mojo rubs off on everyone around them, sometimes causing the staff to forget that the next person in line might actually be sympatico. Food is exceptional in a Euro provincial setting. Excellent eclectic wines - organic and small producers (no super Tuscans, and forget about California). Even a couple killer Calvados and Cognacs and a great outlet for Nantucket Brewers' stuff. Oh, and the staff is among the friendliest I have ever encountered in a bakery or cafe anywhere. Just peak your head in and check the air for vampiric energy vacuum. If it's lurking, you can steel yourself, or always come back later.
(5)Lindsey M.
Mixed feelings. Their food is excellent, that is undeniable. The mini apple pies, enormous fudge brownies, breads etc. are all so tempting every time i go in there. However, their prices are expensive. It's obvious that their jacked prices are pretty much paying their astronomical Harvard sq. rent! Anyways- amazing food never the less. it's sorta a matter of how much your willing to splurge..
(4)Amy S.
Seriously the best baked goods...and we love the one in Harvard Square...super nice to kids and a great environment to chill.
(5)Lindley E.
thank you zingerman's, for providing the (bakery and sandwich) model for Hi-Rise. Sure, some of the baked goods blow...but for the most part, the bread is great, the sandwiches are lovely, and the setting is ideal for the morning paper, a cup of coffee, and a plate of toast.
(4)Barbara C.
Live a couple blocks from High Rise on Huron. Their baked goods are absolutely wonderful, rich ingredients but beautifully prepared and simple (no layers of hazelnut puree and raspberry filling everywhere like most places). Why less than 5 stars? Because this place has the most surly service and rude, uptight customers of anywhere in Cambridge. And it's been this way for years. You have to really want to buy something there to put up with it.
(3)Jon W.
I go here occasionally. Mostly for the convenience, because I'm sometimes in that neighborhood. The sandwiches are good, but hugely overpriced. And be prepared to pay in more ways than one. The lines are long. The counter staff all look like they hate their jobs. I'm just waiting for them to spit on someone in disgust. All the soccer moms are so engrossed in trading stories of their kids that they don't even notice you're about to trip over their baby carriages haphazardly blocking the aisles. I don't know why I go here. I guess I'm a masochist.
(3)John T.
#22 nat queen cool -- my all-time favourite sandwich. i used to drive up from Jersey to visit friends, and this would be my first stop. all the baked goods are top-notch. love the vanilla bean cake. soups and stews are standouts too. i dock them a star because it's difficult to get a seat on weekend mornings. they seem to let people linger at tables reading the paper long after they finish their meals. oh, the prices border on the stratospheric too.
(4)Ryan B.
The rice crispy treat is one of my favorite deserts on this earth. My struggle is common amongst the other reviewers. The wait /counter staff can be rude and cold. Pricey high end products saturate the menu but do have great quality and are delicious. It is not a great value but if you crave a fresh gourmet sandwich and swank desert hit it up!
(3)C S.
I love to come here during the summer to get their fresh limeade-- it tastes just like a virgin margarita! And their Cuban sandwich, although pricey, is huge and greasy and soooo yummy. They'd get 5 stars if their staff wasn't so persnickety (my husband refuses to come with me-- he got chewed out for trying to order off the menu once. Jeesh!) .
(4)shannon m.
I love Hi-Rise, with its expensive sandwiches and hard to get seats at the communal table or cafe tables. It is exactly the type of place I want to meet friends at on a Sunday and enjoy brunch, pick up some fresh bread and after 12pm, some wine.
(4)evonne w.
the georgia ruben is amazing (though i always stare at the gigantic sandwich blackboard for a minimum of 10 minutes). ok, it costs like $10, but it is pretty huge. mini lemon curd cakes=heaven. breads are yummy...too many to choose from! definitely pricey as hell (actually, their breads and some wines are pretty reasonable), but i do love it here!
(4)Nichole C.
They take the "rude barrista" to an art form and let me tell you, it is not charming. The servers are consistantly ill-mannered, as you can tell from the zillions of reviews on this, which tells me this is not a case of a single disgruntled counter-person but is obviously a message from management that it is okay to treat customers like dirt. As a Cambridge local I was so embarrassed by the way a group of tourists were treated there yesterday that I actually offered to buy their drinks for them. The barrista half-filled their coffee cup, and when one asked politely if he could please add a bit more, the barrista sneered and replied that that was all the coffee he was going get. I couldn't believe what I'd heard. Between that and the other server yelling at customers for unstacking chairs on the patio - even though it was only 4PM and there was still an hour to go before closing, then being told not to point at the pasteries when ordering because is smears the plastic sneeze guard, my husband and I decided that was it - there are just too many places in the city that serve good coffee and baked goods and manage to do it all - gasp - while making you feel as if they appreciate your business. We'll never go there again.
(1)Heather B.
I concur with the comments about the staff and the prices. However I must say I had their version of a Cuban here, and while it was not an authentic Cuban, it was one of the best sandwiches I have had in a while. The pork loin was so tender and juicy, the bread toasted (grilled?) to perfection and yummy melted cheese galore. I'm on the fence on how many stars to award, in my case the food weighs out over the service. We also had a really annoying co-customer sitting near us, she was looking at our food, asking us all kind of questions about the menu and interjecting comments and questions into our personal conversation. Really presumptuous and intrusive. Guess that's the risk with communal seating. I was there on a Saturday so it was def open that weekend.
(3)Susy D.
Wonderful food but yuck service. While I've found the service to be haphazard and lacking friendliness it's never fussed me too much. However, the attitude that I saw on two recent visits was so abysmal that I'm put off going back. The first was a mother with two young children and VERY heavily pregnant who was eating with her family when her little girl said she needed the bathroom. The staff refused to let the girl go, and insisted that the mother would have to pack up her lunch and her two kids, and go to the library a few blocks away. The second was when a group of what seemed like work colleagues bought a big lemon meringue pie for an afternoon coffee meeting. They bought it from Hi-Rise and wanted to eat it there so they asked the staff if they would cut it as there as the paltry plastic forks weren't doing a good job of it. The staff refused. They then asked if they could borrow a knife from the kitchen. Again the staff refused saying that they didn't have anything suitable. This is a bakery for goodness sakes. What do you mean you don't have a knife that will cut a pie??? So sad to see staff thinking that this is okay, and so sad that management does nothing about it.
(2)Melissa B.
I don't know who is ruder in this place, the staff or the customers. I've tried really hard to like this place because I hear they have good product, but after 4 visits or so, I just can't deal.
(1)jason v.
We jokingly refer to this place as Hi-Price Bread Company but we really do like their bread. Their sandwiches aren't much to write home about but are better than average. They have a nice selection of wine that runs on the higher side, but some of it you won't find many other places. But the best reason to go there is for the bread. Their raisin pecan loaf and Boston brown bread are amazing and probably the best deals in the house. If you ever try to make them yourself, you'll know why. The babka is a special treat. The punk staff are great if you're a regular.
(3)Valerie W.
Really tasty sandwiches composed of very interesting ingredient combos (turkey, portobello and asparagus? yes please!) plus the baked goods are so cute! a nice list of drinks too... but why so expensive hi rise?? why??
(3)Beth F.
Wow. If you like baked goods...and great coffee...this is the place to go. The chocolate molten cake is devine. Sat and Sunday mornings can be crazy.
(4)Anonymous P.
They're lucky to get 3 stars. Highly inconsistent. Sometimes the chicken sandwich with tapenade and harissa can be dynamite. Other times the chicken is overcooked and there's not nearly enough spread. I don't care about the prices if the food is consistently good.
(3)Joe R.
Hi-Rise just barely squeeks up to 5 stars in my book because my sandwich was made on (gasp - can it be?) cornbread. Fantastic. The staff were on the surly side, but such arrogance is usually the mark of a fine eatery.
(5)jenny b.
i've been a hi-rise regular for years and don't know what i'd do without this place. the coffee is fantastic and the food (everything!) is delicious.
(5)Arik C.
Not bad sandwiches but the bread is fabulous. Never seem ot have much left in the afternoons though. Just as good as Iggy's.
(4)Jeannie C.
Do they have Chocolate Molton cake? If they do I'll give it a try. The baked goods are good some are very good. Coffee is also very good. But it really isn't anything you couldn't get at Panini's or Carberry's or other bakery cafe's.
(3)Dan M.
Open on the weekend and is a very great family place. Very fast service but similarly very carefully selected. The oatmeal is great along with their myriads of deserts from cookies to brownies and cakes!
(5)Denise K.
After having gone to Hi-Rise a couple times, I have to agree with the reviewers who say the service isn't so hot. The girl behind the counter was nice enough, but she never made the drink I ordered and I ended up standing there for 5 minutes, watching her take order after order. I finally had to ask for my drink to be made. The service has been slow everytime I've been there, and it's not always because there's a line. Also, sometimes the people are quite rude and they just don't want to give you the time of day. All that said, I have enjoyed some sandwiches there (grilled pork on corn bread), and I really like their almond danish (marzipan inside!). The bread seems pretty good. I've tried the brioche, corn bread, and pepper parmesan. All pretty nice. Today I went to Iggy's though for the first time, so we'll see if my opinion of their bread changes.
(3)Anna S.
The sandwiches are good, nothing specially, especially for the extremely high prices. This place is a tad over rated. But the food is good. The service tends to be a bit rude as well. I also broke a tooth on a cranberry cookie of theirs... beware.
(2)Jodie P.
This place is the best!! Best bread in the Boston metro by far. The cranberry and blueberry scones are super yummy. Their iced or hot mocha my favorite in New England. Plus, the staff rules.
(5)Liz L.
I can't remember the last time that bakery staff left me feeling so chilled or bakery decor left me feeling intimidated and teeny. I went here twice because it was convenient. The first time the food (which was supposed to be veggies on toasted bread) was much, much eggier than I expected from the description and I ended up tossing it out unfinished. The second time I got oatmeal and the ratio of extras to oatmeal was so high that I couldn't even get halfway through my expensive bowlful, and the oatmeal itself wasn't of a particularly remarkable taste or quality, AND even though I ordered it to eat there, it was served in a to-go cup, as if they couldn't wait to rush me out the door. On my second trip, I also got a latte, which was even more expensive than usual for metro Boston and of a poorer quality than I've had in many other area cafes. However on both days they were filled with a long line of people ordering coffee, some of whom appeared to be regulars, and several people (possibly regulars) were having breakfast. But after these two disappointing experiences, I have not returned.
(2)T M.
I have resisted joining Yelp for a long time, but the past three experiences at this establishment have convinced me to join. This bakery has great sandwiches and a unique wine selection. I usually would stop in a few times a week dropping around $25 bucks on each occasion. It's a little pricy but high quality is worth it. The poor service however is not. The staff is arrogant and rude. God forbid they exhibit professionalism and passion for their products. When you choose to patronize this establishment let it be made clear that they are doing you a favor. Some people have very negative opinions of large chains such as Starbucks. Granted, the quality you can't compare but they could take a few pointers. Is a pleasant greeting, please and thank you and a bag for your items too much to ask for? Save your money and your respect. After all these reviews it is clear they just don't get it or don't care. I believe its the latter.
(2)Nathan E.
This is a high end rustic bakery with creative sandwiches, coffee, some savories and a fine little wine selection. My favorite is the quiche Lorraine. The owners do seem to have some blind spots such as parking their hideous white Ford delivery vans in front of the storefront thus preventing diners from seeing out the front windows and, obviously, obscuring their own signage--it's just bad feng shui and bad promotion. The counter help is frequently insolent and self-pitying. They're probably feeling overworked, but still, they need to suck it up like the rest of us grown-ups do and get on with serving. The coffee is frequently rough, not low quality, just too strong and I'm not a fairy about strong coffee. I'm telling you the coffee is often rough. This place is very small for the volume of business, and as a result, I get annoyed by the intense competition for personal space.
(4)Owen E.
I really try hard to like this place but cannot. The service is provided by several very slow and disinterested individuals, who rarely use sanitary wax paper when handling food and look as is they could use a quick shower. The pastry allways tastes like sauteed onions and/or peppers..not very appealing in a choclate cake or other pastries. I think the ventialtion system where they saute out back is lacking. I thought the bread would be better, some is better than others. They could really use a guest comment box. I will say the coffee is good.
(1)Tracy Y.
Three is being generous. I love their stuff and the Honey's mom always buys us bread there when we're in town but the prices are off the charts! Seriously $9 for a sandwich! The Honey's sis (love you Dr. E!) used to work there and bring pastries home so I never really PAID for them. We went there the last time back for the first time on our own. I got a Orange Coconut scone. Opened the bag in the car, took it out and said "where the hell's the rest of my scone?" $2+ and it's the size of my computer mouse. The Honey's cheddar snail was just as small and even pricier! If I lived in the Cambridge area, I'd picket the store because the prices are insane but the sad thing is people are paying them! 4 on quality 2 on pricing. Oh, the whole roasted chicken is super tasty. Just see if you can find a mom to buy it for you.
(3)Mags L.
$7.25 for a grilled cheese sandwich - seriously? and it doesn't even come w/fries or fancy chips. to be fair, i saw the price and ordered it anyways. i only got through 1/3 of my sammich. i don't like sour dough. i was fooled 'cos they called the bread some other magical special name, but turns out it tasted like sour dough. i'm not sure who's more annoying: the "hipsters" that work there or the "boho" cambridge mommies w/their "boho" cambridge babies. but again, it's my fault, i knew all this and chose to go there anyways.
(2)John S.
not terribly impressed 1 Waitstaf was annoying, we asked it for to go , we were given a sit down order, they seem disinterested totally unorganized 2 Ordered a mocha cappucino, half of the cup was pure millk foam 3 The sandwich was overpriced... and not very tasty at all and didnt even include the ingredients listed. no taste dry pulled pork 4 Four dollars for a cupcake? you're kidding me! Never going to go back except for a loaf of bread
(1)Jim H.
What are we to make of this place? The bread, the baked goods especially, and the soups are fantastic. Buy an oatmeal coconut pecan cookie and you may have the intention of sharing it because of its size, but good luck--you'll probably eat two of them. Ditto the walnut bread, the gumbo, the lentil soup--goodness all around. And little mentioned but worth noting is the selection of wines, port and sparkling ciders. Somebody knows what they are doing on this front, the descriptions are actually helpful, and the prices are quite reasonable. But do we really need an $11 tuna sandwich that is mostly bread and really not all that special, in spite of the name? So yes, there are a few clunkers and the staff is, well... the staff is what you might expect for a place like this. Look, it's a bread oven with seating for 20 and you are ordering at the counter anyway. So, yes, you may encounter a less than helpful staff person, but it is more likely that they are just in their own head and shocked to find you in front of them asking a question that has nothing to do with post-modern impressionism. But honestly, wouldn't you rather have a little character in a place like this anyway, warts and all? Give me the quirks and the spotty service. If I want the competence that accompanies bland uniformity, I'll head to Panera--and regret it every time.
(4)Emily L.
Hi-Rise -- yummy sandwiches, albeit a little expensive. Good options for the vegetarians and the meat eaters in my life. The kids menu isn't adventurous, but it makes my kid happy. Wish there was more seating and, especially, that they had high chairs. (The location closer to Harvard Law School does.)
(4)Flounder R.
The food is good, don't get me wrong. My problems with this place is that they are over-priced and (more important) the workers are pretty obnoxious. I went in before work one day at around 7:40am. I ordered the Hi-Riser, their incredibly delicious version of an Egg McMuffin. The person behind the counter said that they didn't serve Hi-Risers until 9am. I then said, "Isn't the Hi-Riser a breakfast sandwich?" He reply, "No, it's a brunch sandwich." Seriously? Of course, this hasn't stopped me from going there a few times a year for the Hi-Riser but each time I shake my head at the pretentiousness of the staff.
(3)Andrea B.
The sandwiches - yes! The cookies - yes! The homemade Oreos - yes yes yes! The prices? Nah. That just about sums up Hi-Rise. I could gush and gush about how good my sandwich was, and how good the baked goods were. And I will do that. But twenty four dollars for a sandwich, three baked goods, and a lemonade??? OUCH!!! Now that we've got the complaints about wallet damage out of the way, let's talk about the food. I ordered #57 - braised short rib, cheddar, pickled onions, horseradish aioli, and arugula, all on a fresh baguette. It was epic. Incredible. So good. The meat was so juicy and tender. So full of flavor. The sandwich was gigantic though. I was full after just half, and I came there STARVING. They should consider selling half sandwiches, actually. Those little homemade Oreos are insanely good too. And you can watch them bake them fresh while you're there munching on the ones you just bought. They're not too sweet, they're just perfect. My chocolate chunk cookie didn't disappoint either, but it's the Oreos that I'd come back for. This Hi-Rise location is kind of in the middle of nowhere, but it is indeed bus accessible. Or you could just jog there like I did. Then you won't feel the slightest bit of guilt as you munch on all your treats! To sum up - hefty price tag, but overall, definitely worth the money and the trek.
(4)Ronin O.
Pricey. Absolutely. But, the sandwiches, breads and desserts are simply among the best, if not the best, that I have ever tasted. The chocolate chunk cookie is so good that I cannot enjoy any other chocolate chip cookie. The staff is usually friendly. The coffee is very good.
(5)Anya T.
Hi-Rise doesn't, I suppose, need me raving about it. Everyone knows how delicious it is. But I'm going to rave about it anyway. Here goes: I live around the corner from Hi-Rise--go to yoga across the street and am often at the library catty corner from it with my kids--and I come here way, way too often. Everything they offer is incredible. The coffee (Counter Culture) is the best in the neighborhood. They make a great Arnold Palmer and their straight lemonade is delicious. Their bread is my favorite, especially the flute. I love all the breakfast sandwiches, but especially the Green Eggs and Ham and the Counter Service. Their soups! In the winter, I eat their soups for lunch at least twice a week. And it's hard for me to go a day without buying a cookie (my favorites are the ginger molasses and the almond macaroon) or a piece of the beyond-the-scope-of-anything-you've-ever-tasted vanilla loaf cake. You have not lived until you've eaten it. I sometimes get take out meals from here, and love especially their roast chicken. Basically, I love this place. Including the incredibly sweet folks who work behind the counter and bake the bread, who are always giving my daughter dried apricots or a free muffin. And I love the owners, too, Cynthia and Rene, who are always around, with their beautiful, sweet daughter Lucy, and always have a "hello" for you. People who complain about the prices should bear in mind the love, and the care, that goes into every element of this business, which is truly a family enterprise, and one which I feel hugely grateful to have nearby!
(5)Lara H.
Hi- Rise is my go to in the neighborhood, and all high-price jokes aside, its worth every penny. The coffee is good and strong, and their cheddar snails are possibly the only thing I will wake up early to go get on a cold Cambridge morning. Their sandwiches are delicious and there are no words to describe how good the vanilla bean loaf is. Attire: Wear your best sweats and morning outfits. Downsides: Their sizes of latte drinks seem to have diminished into one small/medium size with a very hi-price, and there are no soy-milk subs for our lactose- free friends. Also, NO WIFI. This is a big one for me.... but not big enough to stop me from grabbing the greatest bread in West Cambridge.
(3)Matthew B.
If you want a coffee to go, I think you're missing out on what this place has to offer. Hi-Rise is a destination. Living slightly off the beaten path makes it a blessing if you want to sit with a book in the morning and enjoy a damn good cup of something warm. What makes them really stand out is the breakfast sandwich selection. While it's not inexpensive, you can pick up a bacon, spinach and egg sandwich on a potato bread bun that will make your morning. I consider it a treat worth dropping in. To date, they don't carry soy or almond milk. If lactose isn't your body's favorite compound, then you better stick to Americanos or a black cup of coffee. A random side note - they also have an incredible selection of bourbon on a shelf in there. I feel weird perusing it at 8am, so I have a plan to head back some eve and pick up a bottle. Wear your nicest puffy jacket there in the winter or you'll be a fish out of water. The clientele are often put together. It's not the place to walk to after rolling out of bed.
(4)Jess S.
I stopped by Hi Rise without reading any of the reviews and now that I have, I am surprised so many say the staff are rude! Disappointing to hear. For me, everyone was actually perfectly nice. I asked for soy and the girl working politely said they don't have it but recommend the homemade almond milk instead. The almond milk was interesting. I've never had it of any sort before so I was caught off guard by the residue left in your mouth after you take a sip. Maybe this always happens? Anyway, the flavor was pleasant and it's kind of like getting a snack and a drink? Delicious cranberry cookies. Soft and fresh. Also enjoyed the coconut macaroons. And it smells heavenly inside. I like that you can watch the bakers do their thing, but they could definitely rework the seating and fit more in. Overall, I'd like to go back to try a sandwich!
(4)Nicholas C.
Great food. Functional but sometimes very rude service. Snooty establishment, but still good.
(3)Jenny R.
I love their treats!! Their coffee is some of the best and the environment is very sweet. To be honest, I enjoyed their first location better as I used to nanny around the corner a number of years ago and it was more rustic and homey. They have done a decent job with the new place and it's all shiny and new, but I miss the picnic table and benches. I also had a no wifi problem. As a writer who frequents cafés, I would say that's a minor glitch. If you're looking for AMAZING coffee & treats come on by....just don't expect to do anything other than chat with your adoring friends and loved ones, you won't be working here!!
(4)Sarah B.
I have been here a number of times over the years. The food is delicious if overpriced, but every visit I am astonished by how rude the employees are (at both locations.) This morning takes the cake. I walked in at 7:50am and was told that they wouldn't be open for another 10 min. I said "okay, I'll just take a seat and wait." The employee then told me I would have to wait outside. It is 5 degrees with a "Realfeel" of -18 this morning. I can see no reason on a morning such as this to make a customer wait outside for 10 minutes in dangerously cold weather. I won't ever be returning.
(1)Fiona D.
The food is delicious (if over-priced), but the staff are not always particularly friendly and I have concerns about the hygiene of the place. I was once waiting at the bus stop out front during off hours and saw a mouse running around in the bakery window. I went back recently figuring maybe the problem had been resolved, and got a sandwich to go. I got home, opened the wrapping and discovered there was some sort of silver paint on the side of the bread. I might go there for a beverage but I'm not going back for food again.
(2)Dave R.
Guys...can we talk? Guys. Can we talk for a minute? Guys, we need to make sure we know that 'corn bread' is not the same thing as 'cornbread.' Y'all just have white bread with corn in it.
(3)