4. Restaurants

Voltage Coffee & Art

295 3rd St, Cambridge, MA, 02142
  • (617) 714-3974
  • Store is closed

Voltage Coffee & Art Menu

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  • Traveler K.

    Coffee tasted bland today.

    (3)

  • Lara W.

    I am obsessed with this place. Like, move-to-Cambridge-now because of Voltage kind of situation. Starting with the space itself, they have nooks and crannies and shared tables a plenty so you can have any type of solitary or social coffee shop experience. I sat next to a woman in her 80s and had an amazing chat. I also overheard some political activists having a meeting about the Patriot Act as I had my head buried in some work. And then there are daters, and laptop-users, and book clubs... The ambiance seems to draw a creativity out of people. There is even a mailbox for Deliver Me: an unreliable mail system where you write a letter and hope someone picks it up and delivers it by hand to the address you've written. There are only 6 other places in the country with this set up so far, so way to go Voltage for being ahead of the curve. But none of this would be possible without the QUALITY of their menu offerings. The coffee is artful and tasty. Really good cup of latte. THE BREAKFAST ENGLISH MUFFIN is so yummy I can't stand it. Caramelized onions really bring it home. And the crepes are yummy too. I'm just so happy eating here that I have to encourage you to do the same. Props to the barista who started singing along to Regina Spektor beautifully during one of my visits. That's exactly what I'm talking about.

    (5)

  • Mitali T.

    Service can be slow but the coffee is amazing. It is slightly pricey but sure beats the coffee at Tatte or Area Four, the other spots nearby (though I'm still a Dunkin Donuts lover!).

    (4)

  • Kenneth R.

    On our first visit, we got an espresso and a cappuccino. The espresso was bitter and not especially glorious in any way. The cappuccino had a bunch of milk on top, but there was no latte art as in the numerous photos of this place. My expectations were very high because of the five-star reviews by my friends, but I walked out shaking my head in disappoint. Watt was going on at Voltage? We decided to give this highly-regarded establishment a second chance: I ordered a pour-over ($4). The pour-over was made from a Central American coffee and was excellent! OK, that was a real data point. It's true as well that the Voltage rooms are set up so that it's easy to work, study and chat. I could imagine becoming a regular if I needed a "home away from home" for writing yelp reviews and attending to other business. Conclusion: four stars. But back to the coffee: I'm worried about possible inconsistency and would need to come back several times before agreeing that Voltage is The One.

    (4)

  • Ray T.

    Google Maps- Y U no say Voltage on summer hours? U say open 9-3pm but place close and no wireless. Ok, but seriously we walked by and the place looks pretty cool from the outside! Never got inside this Sunday morning in July, but when they resume regular hours, it will probably be super comfy. 5 stars for esthetics alone! Probably call (who does that anymore) or check the website for hours.

    (5)

  • Shanfan H.

    I think the bar tenders here feel too good about themselves. This place is overrated just because they got a tasteful interior design and some pieces of painting hanging - but com'n. This cashier seemed very annoyed to explain to me about one of their menu items. And when he needed to write down my name he wouldn't even bother to ask for the full spelling, instead he said "uh I'll just write sh-- well, shan." Does a person working in a well-decorated cafe really need to behave this arrogantly? Plus their coffee wasn't anything special.

    (1)

  • Alma C.

    the espresso I had was from the small batch local roaster Barismo, and was described on the daily chalkboard as "lemon custard", "lavender", and "chocolate finish".... yes, it had kind of a smooth acidity, floral note, and rich satin finish, so, uh, i guess that's about right?? in any case, the drinks i had--the aforementioned espresso and a mocha (which was made with their own chocolate syrup concoction with the chalky and alkaline qualities of good chocolate)--were no doubt the best espresso drinks i've experienced in the boston area so far. the only thing that set off an alarm in me was the milk containers (empty? not empty?) which were left unrefrigerated on a shelf near the unopened packages of soy milk, not sure what that's about. bottom line, i'm picky about my coffee, i liked my drinks just fine, and i'll be back for sure.

    (4)

  • Craig Z.

    Staff was very nice and helpful. Comfortable, though with all the space they really should squeeze in more seating. Only been in once, but my cappuccino did not rock my world, frankly. Didn't find the espresso, the milk, or the preparation up there with the best of them.

    (4)

  • Brigit C.

    I get a volt of electricity coming here. Voltage has a nice variety of hot and cold beverages, from straight espresso and pour over coffee to flavored lattes and hot chocolates. For each drink, the baristas grind up the beans right in front of you on the spot, and they make it look so easy and effortless. My friend and I stopped in and found it to be full of happy patrons. The smell of the coffee beans was heavenly and filled our noses as we tried to decide what to get. We got a Beyond the Sea latte (caramel and salt), a Paper Plane latte (cardamom, rosewater, and honey), and a Midnight Sun hot chocolate (cinnamon and capsicum). We had several people in front of us with multiple drinks, but the baristas were pouring them efficiently and in a decent amount of time considering each drink was ground up and crafted from scratch. We stood there, close to the counter, in awe watching as they made each cup. For our caramel latte, the head barista sprinkled the top with salt around the milky heart he had just made. Our other drinks featured similar beautiful latte art, with a special rose on top of mine!! The coffee is excellent, and the flavorings are so unique and enjoyable. The caramel/salt latte was nicely flavored, with the caramel not overwhelming the espresso. The cardamom/rosewater/honey latte was good, but it was really my taste flavor-wise, though I love honey; the rosewater seemed to dominate a little more, but if you like these flavorings, it was very well done. The stand out for me on this one visit was the hot chocolate. It was very flavorful, but not overwhelming with spices in any way. It was (yes, it's long gone now--within fifteen minutes of getting it) absolutely delicious and one of the best hot chocolates I've ever had. We got the small (8 ounces, or exactly one cup) for all of our drinks, and it was the perfect size to satisfy my coffee and chocolate cravings. Not only are the drinks outstanding, so too is the service. The baristas were extremely kind and welcoming. They made our visit very fun and like we had been there many times before, though it was only our first. The head barista, in particular, was absolutely supreme, both in crafting each drink and in being personable with customers. The atmosphere is very comfortable and open, too. It has an artsy vibe, with sculptures as well as paintings along the walls and books against one back wall, so it lives up to the second piece of its name. It has an ample of amount of seating, inside and out, and Wi-Fi. I'm planning future visits during which to try each of the flavored lattes and hot chocolates. Like the message on the wall: "This is where you'll find me."

    (5)

  • Sophie P.

    Voltage has been on my to-do's for awhile, as I have been on the quest to find the best coffee shop in Boston. Unfortunately, Voltage does not make this list for me. After brunch across the street, my boyfriend and I wanted to split a latte at Voltage. The wrong's: - The place reeked of synthetic cooked sausage, in the worst way. The interior reeked of a rich oily stench, which I can only imagine came from cooking really bad sausage. I couldn't sit inside because I thought I was going to puke. Good thing there's outside seating. - The staff was not friendly at all. We were deciding what drink to order and the cashier asked, "Is that it?" staring at us to make a decision when there was no one waiting to order behind us. - For a coffee shop boasting an art gallery and great latte art, I was appalled by how my latte came out. I ordered a soy latte, for here, and I couldn't believe they would give a customer a latte that looked like that. PLEASE SEE PICTURE BELOW. I won't be returning to Voltage - I'd rather get Stumptown from Tatte across the street.

    (2)

  • Espresso T.

    I come to Voltage often because I like the decor of the place. The coffee here is fine (not great) but the decor makes up for it despite the general lack of seats. But, my visit today has been awful because I am presented with a a plate of toast that really tastes bad, and I am stuck with 4 large pieces of bread without wanting to waste them. The last time I was here I tried this same toast with agave and salt item and it was so good that I was actually craving to come back here. Today, it seems like a new person made the dish and I got presented with barely toasted bread with barely any agave and salt. Better food quality control please!!!

    (2)

  • John S.

    Voltage is excellent for both lattes and pour-over brewed coffee. I don't drink flavored lattes or coffees so cant comment on those. To-go or drink in-store with a nice ceramic mug. Not a lot of pastries or frills, but great open space. Wish the wi-fi didn't require a code and more comfortable chairs would be nice. If you want to enjoy a really good latte in a comfortable space, Voltage is hard to beat.

    (5)

  • Penny S.

    The coffee here is amazing. Delicious, smooth - and so many fun twists to try - my favorites are the salted caramel and the Atticus Finch (vanilla). My first visit, they were blasting punk music... so I would've given it 3 stars after that visit. But every trip since it's been mellow music, played soft enough to think... the way a coffee shop should be.

    (5)

  • Helen W.

    Lattes with unique flavor combinations that are the creation of its owner. Friendly staff and artwork top off the offerings.

    (4)

  • Eric F.

    Great cafe in the Kendall Square area. You're basically in an art gallery as soon as you step in with cement floors, spacious seating and quality artwork all around. The baristas are friendly and efficient, not to mention that they make a good latte. The pour overs are also quite good and very well-priced at only ~$2.60 for a 12 oz cup. The free WiFi's pretty fast too which makes for a good place to study or get some work done.

    (4)

  • Mike M.

    In terms of decor, Voltage has a real clean, pristine look to it. Very wide and spacious, but it has a vacant feeling. The art is somewhat interesting, but in general doesn't seem to fit with the rest of the cafe. Not a big fan of the interior. The coffee, on the other hand is fab! For coffee brewing methods, they only do pour overs, espressos and drip coffee. The coffee usually comes from Barrington, and is sourced from the usual spots (Kenya, Guatemala, Colombia). The coffee is pretty solid, definitely better than many of the alternatives in Boston. They also have a pretty wide selection of lattes, hot chocolates, and teas, but I personally can't vouch for any of those.

    (3)

  • Eric J.

    Best coffee (pourover) I've had in Cambridge, possibly the best in Boston in general. Service is pretty good and the rotating art is nice as well.

    (5)

  • Erica T.

    I really wanted to like this place. Is this the used first sentence of a bad review? Located in an upcoming area (and close to my apartment), I was excited for a coffee shop. However, I don't think I will frequent this place any more. The lattes came in cups that had chips on them (HUGE pet peeve of mine, it should be your pet peeve too). How are you supposed to drink your latte when the handle is on the right and right where you are going to drink it, there's a chip on the cup? Never mind that it's a bacteria trap, you can cut your lip. First I thought it was a fluke, but it happened two more times. I think that a coffee shop whose main focus are their drinks, the least they can do is serve it properly. Why ruin a beautiful foam heart with a cheapy chipped cup. Sad. Also, I think that the sugary syrup masks the burnt taste of their espresso grinds, but that's not a good thing right? Baked goods did not look good and also did not taste good. My muffin from BJ's tasted similar to the one I had here, hmm. Oh well, I really like Area 4 mochas!

    (2)

  • Cathy S.

    This is my trendy and welcoming neighborhood cafe (talking about the art work and nice baristas), my savior on those god-damn-it-i-cannot-belive-i-have-to-get-up-this-­early days (talking about espressos) and my accompany whenever i need to hop on that long long ride to NYC (Cappie, Chai latte, etc...and hello America! How about some super-fast railroad like those in Japan and China? 4 hours from Bean Town to the Big Apple in the 21st century? Seriously?) Oh and they use biodegradable vegware. Kudos to that.

    (5)

  • Sumin S.

    This is based on my one visit to Voltage. I was super excited to check out this place after my friend raved about it. I also am obsessed with caramel & sea salt so was really looking forward to trying the Beyond the Sea latte (homemade caramel and salt ). Unfortunately I think I just went in at the wrong time. The barista seemed overwhelmed and flustered even though there wasn't a huge crowd. The drinks took a while to be made, and even after a long wait, they weren't that good - couldn't really taste the caramel or the sea salt. They definitely didn't look as pretty as some of the photos on Yelp do. We ordered small drink sizes but they gave us large, and when we asked for a credit, they said "we don't have time for that right now." Mediocre latte and rude service. My friend assures me that this was an unusual experience. I hope she's right and would love to go back here.

    (2)

  • Marianne C.

    A latte made with coconut and ginger? Yes, yes, yes.... One of the baristas appears to be conducting a science experiment with these ceramic funnels, but otherwise this is your standard coffeehouse with art hanging on the walls sort of place. It has a clean, aesthetic feel, so it is certainly not cozy, but it fits with the other places around here. Overall, it seems to be a nice, quiet place to have some coffee, or drink an exotic latte, such as the Eclipse, and get s bit of work done.

    (3)

  • Kathleen M.

    I'm new to the Kendall Square area and was so excited to find this place! Besides the perk of being a minute away from my office, the staff is friendly, and the lattes are incredible. They definitely put time & effort into making them perfect even topped off with some design work in the foam.

    (4)

  • Duaa M.

    Voltage Coffee and Art is that warm embrace away from the chilly atmosphere of so many cooperate coffee shops. With its uniquely flavored beverages and its delightful baristas, As soon as you walk through the tall glass doorways, there is a sense of encompassing bliss as the aroma of fantastic Barismo coffee fill the area. The serenity is only broken by the clap of the grinders and the delightful squeal of the milk steaming to a watchful and mindful consistency and temperature. Order the Atticus Finch and its rapture will surround your every sense. You can bring a date here, catch up with friends or have a work meeting. Also, just a tip, I use Level-up here...it helps keep the coffee tab down :)

    (5)

  • Leonid S.

    Their espresso is unexpectedly AWESOME. Be sure to check out the paintings on the walls, the "& Art" is rightfully earned.

    (5)

  • Hilary B.

    Love all the coffee options. Regular lattes are great. I usually get the Madame X - very yummy. I've had the caramelized onion and fig panini, it's pretty good.

    (5)

  • Laura M.

    Easily the best coffee in Kendall. They serve both Barrington and Barismo beans. The Beyond the Sea Latte is perfection: real caramel mixed into a latte topped with flakes of sea salt. It sounds very sweet, but it's not. The thing is otherworldly, but don't get it iced. Just doesn't translate. I had the breakfast sandwich for the first time today, and it was good. Avocado and grilled onions are always welcome, but could use a little more cheese on my egg&cheese. They seem to have fewer chairs than tables. Maybe they keep breaking or perhaps a ploy to keep people from lingering too long? Either way jockeying for a spot to sit is the biggest drawback.

    (5)

  • Cha Cha W.

    Jolt to my heart! Madame X where've you been all my life? I love the latte's here and I don't even like coffee. Best of all is the nice airy space to spread out and work in. There's wifi if you purchase something and I can't help but to purchase something. I forgive you for not baking in house cause the Iggy's is pretty good. Parking is a bit of a pain especially if you have a city of Cambridge parking pass already; not a major deterrent from me coming here, I'd happily circle around looking for a spot. Plenty of paid 2 hour parking otherwise. The only downside is they're not open late or on Sundays. *wimper* Say, who thinks it'd be pretty funny to paint a door onto the floor to ceiling wall of windows and watch people slowly come to their senses. It'll be like the Windex commercial with the pigeons. Awesome!

    (5)

  • Alei S.

    The variety of drinks is great. They have stuff you won't see anywhere else. I love the art they display in the seating area. The staff is always really nice

    (4)

  • Phil R.

    Voltage was a much needed addition to the coffee community in Boston/Cambridge! The staff there really seems to enjoy what they do, which always leads to a better experience for the customer. Lucy is such a pleasure to visit with anytime I come in the shop:) Their menu is interesting and it is always great to see a shop make anything they add to their lattes in-house. Their creativity knows no bounds! I still think about the pour over i had that was a blend of a couple African coffees they threw together at the shop... incredible sweetness, crazy fruit and floral notes with a finish that still hasn't stopped! A must visit for anybody traveling through the Boston area!

    (4)

  • Jamay L.

    Voltage may very well be my new favorite coffee shop in Boston/Cambridge. Echoing Scott T, it rivals my favorite cafes in NYC... There have been a lot of reviews about the coffee. The exotic latte menu is indeed impressive, and each latte I have had there has been artfully presented and delicious. But what makes this place MUCH welcome in Kendall Sq is the SPACE and the WIFI. If you're a student or a freelancer or an entrepreneur, this cafe has the tables, corners, outlets, art, and light to help you be both productive and inspired. I almost don't want to write this Yelp review as I'm sure it won't be long before it'll be hard to find a table @voltage, but I also want Voltage to do well, and to share its awesome-ness with others. The only feedback I have for Voltage? Offer larger drink sizes, non-fat milk, and more snack/pastry/food options! You're losing revenue opportunities right now. Otherwise, thank you for the much-needed addition to Kendall!!

    (5)

  • Lynn P.

    This place has lots of seating areas. Nice place to have a private talk with friends. I think their lattes are good..better than Starbucks'. They have great latte flavors and the foams are just right~ However, only thing that I complain about their drinks is that they are not hot enough for me..like lukewarm I would say. Their customer service is OK...not over the top or anything. Over all, I like this place.

    (4)

  • Brian D.

    Sung in the key of: 'I just had way too much coffee and there is nothing you can do to stop me from screaming this song in my faux-death metal voice' COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE TOAST COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE BUY MY ART AT VOLTAGE I HAVE SHOW OPENING THERE COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE AND EAT SOME TOAST Seriously. Craft coffee. Quirky, read that as awesome, space. Eclectic music. Awesome staff. And, well, they host art events that are the exact opposite of pretentious.

    (4)

  • Karen L.

    I find the service here super-bored and disaffected, and the coffee kind of unpleasantly bitter (they use the fancypants individual drip method here, which is supposed to be superfantastic--other people may love this). However, the space is really, really gorgeous, with chic fittings and genuinely interesting art, and the owner herself could not be lovelier. I cannot wait for this place to start staying open late, and to be open on Sundays (please?). Also, they should relocate to next door to me.

    (3)

  • Scott T.

    Voltage is reminiscent of the better coffee shops I frequented while living in San Francisco. Local roasters, single-drip coffees and outstanding espresso. They geek out about the coffee and obviously care about their craft. An absolute welcomed addition to Kendall Sq. and I happen to be fortunate to live right around the corner. Oh, and there is art! If you like Dunkin Donuts, don't bother. However, if you'd like to see what coffee is really supposed to taste like, stop by. Everyone is super-friendly and they'll make you something delicious.

    (5)

  • Natalia V.

    Great coffee, and great atmosphere for doing work or hanging out with people. It's so hard to find strong coffee in Boston, but this place definitely lives up to its reputation!

    (5)

  • Nicole B.

    While the decor was a bit unusual for me -- I like my cafes on the cozier side and Voltage favors airy seating, blank space and spartan furniture -- any qualms were put to rest by the not one but TWO amazing lattes I had this morning. Don't get me wrong, I'm not easily impressed when it comes to shot pullin'. I'm not a snob by any means but I was a barista for three years and I know my stuff. I was unfamiliar with the espresso they had up that day (Barrington Dark Roast) but it was smooth and delicious with nice chocolate notes. Now onto the best part -- their menu of brilliant and unusual flavor combinations for lattes (because let's face it, a skinny vanilla gets boring pretty fast). Not only were they unique, everything is made in-house! I was blown away -- and you can actually taste the difference. I was torn between the Beneath the Sea (caramel and sea salt) and the the Atticus Finch (vanilla and burnt sugar/literary references FTW) -- I went with Atticus and opted for Beneath the Sea when I went back for seconds. The staff is knowledgable, pleasant, and I believe I had a lovely chat with the owner, Lucy, about how Kendall Square is about to explode. And I feel like it's largely Voltage's fault. Delicious. Go if you can.

    (5)

  • Ginnette P.

    Went there for the first time tonight and how refreshing..I overhead someone talking about this place coming to Kendall Square a few months back. I had the Mt.Olympus tea - the menu is great and I can't wait to go back and try more...

    (5)

  • Meenee W.

    Innovative, Expansive, But Way Too Loud The cafe menu is innovative, offering many unfamiliar tastes and combination. The place is expansive, bright and beautifully decorated. In contrast, the ambiance is upset by piercingly loud music. Most people don't go to cafes to listen to music, so it must remain in the background. Instrumental jazz or new age would complement the pleasant menu and art.

    (2)

  • Christopher B.

    Voltage has a nice, trendy modern interior, with art on the walls and lots of techy and artsy hipster sitting around with their laptops and phones and books. When they first opened, I went there and was impressed by their hot chocolate. I don't drink coffee, so that's definitely my beverage of choice. But I've been back twice in the past week, and both of the flavors of hot chocolate I tried (the ginger and the mint) were just watered down. I had the intention of getting breakfast, but none of the baked goods looked all that appetizing, so I just punted. Oh, Voltage, what happened? Why are people still coming here? I guess the coffee must be pretty good.

    (2)

  • Melissa T.

    This not-so-little coffee shop seems to be little-known as yet, and while I'd kind of like to keep it that way for rather selfish reasons (it's an amazingly calm and quiet place to work, with a great aesthetic!), I'd rather let other people know about it! Lucy, the owner, was extremely friendly, the latte I ordered was made with care, and there was that feeling that I (the customer) was getting more than just my coffee - I was sharing in someone's vision of a quiet, peaceful, and energizing place coffee shop (which just as a bonus has an open, airy art-gallery feeling). Wonderful coffee, great vibe, cool small business. Oh, and for me, AMAZING location.

    (4)

  • Joshua D.

    Voltage is trying to walk the fine line between giving customers what they want and producing exceptionally fine sometimes time consuming product. I can say without hesitation that their attention to detail and technique rates them near the top. I love this cappuccino. Offerings include house and guest espressos. Baristas recognize the time and idiosyncratic nature of learning the best method for each offering. Seen here: Barrington Coffee Roasters, Barismo, Ritual Coffee Roasters Milk from High Lawn Farm!

    (4)

  • Liz M.

    YOWZA Love it. Just a really clean and chill place. I suddenly feel detoxed upon entry. The bathroom is clean, plenty of outlets and.... CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZELS FOR THE WIN! The many different lattes are cool, slightly costly. Maybe you can bring your own cup and feel like a regular... I got the agave nectar soy one... yummayyyyy I love the hipster art on the walls too....mad chill ... maddd chill...

    (4)

  • Mark O.

    Amazing coffee, creative tea-tails (you have to get there to know what I mean!), and intelligent, passionate baristas. Plus, there's a bunch of funky coffee contraptions behind the counter that make amazing coffee. I'd love to see them offer an "at-home-barista" meet up or something of the sort, where baristas explain those crazy machines and why they use them over your Keurig.

    (5)

  • Jody L.

    Fantastic coffee--both the cold brew and the infused lattes were on point really cool atmosphere--loved the art that was displayed. great baristas, and really nice clientele. make sure to give this place a try!

    (5)

  • Dolly H.

    I would give more stars except that the service is SLOW. There were 3 people ahead of me for take-out coffee today and it took 17 minutes to get my small latté. This is a common problem at Voltage, so don't go if you're in a hurry. I'm a frequent visitor and the line, short or long, always takes 10+ minutes. There's no system. With that said, the coffee is beautifully done and tastes excellent. The food is extremely tasty and worth every cent. So, go if you have time to sit and enjoy the art. Skip if you are on your way to work or need some caffeine during lunch.

    (3)

  • Steve R.

    After getting tired of Dunkin Donuts coffee (just moved here), I found this place in Cambridge and am very pleased to find a local coffee shop like this. I was impressed with the creative lattes and hot chocolate that the owner came up with. All the syrups are homemade and each drink is made with care by baristas. I recommend the panini sandwich with caramelized onions, too.

    (5)

  • Had H.

    Yay! They now have whole milk, 2%, skim and soy milk! THANK YOU! And.. when you go, try the toast and jam. YUM!

    (4)

  • Jenny H.

    I've only stopped by here once so far, but I'm a fan! I love the space, bright and airy - somewhat like an art gallery like another reviewer noted. They have an interesting array of "gourmet latte" drinks with combinations like earl grey infused or cardamom rose water. I tried a relatively tame latte with vanilla and burnt sugar. It was good and I'm definitely interested in trying some of their other creations. I've also heard that their drip coffee is good.

    (4)

  • Tara B.

    If you're serious about your coffee, then this is as artisan as it gets. I love the concept that you just walk in and saddle up to the espresso bar and a barista comes over to take your order. It's relaxing, personal. Not for you if you're in a hurry. Everything takes time. Drip isn't poured from a carafe that's been sitting for hours. Honestly, I don't know what they do with it, some sort of magic coffee chant or cellular osmosis but it takes a few minutes. And it's delicious. I'm more of a latte girl myself. And there's all these housemade, handcrafted syrups. My personal favorite is the Eclipse, coconut & ginger. Awesome. The space is really cool. Lots of little nooks to escape in a book or get to know someone on a date. In fact, this is the perfect first date coffee shop.

    (5)

  • Jessie C.

    I didn't even know this place existed until a friend of mine recommended that we meet here for coffee - yay! I'm hooked. The price is high for a latte but the flavors they offer and the look and feel of the place is worth the price - not an every day treat but maybe once every two weeks kind of place.

    (5)

  • Lindsay L.

    Boy do I ever wish Voltage Coffee was there when I lived in Third Street all those years ago! A sucker for cardamom, I went off the beaten path for testing out a new place and ordered a double small soy "paper plane" latte, which the lovechild of their homemade cardamon, rose, honey syrup combined with the espresso. OK, so maybe I couldn't really taste the rose, perhaps because of the soy, but the overall result was a delicious latte that I want every day. Fortunately for my pocketbook, I don't live nearby. :( I also ordered a chocolate ginger snap, which was more ginger snap than chocolate, but that's OK; it was phenomenal -- good and spicy. I wolfed it down shamelessly. What I loved about this place, aside from the simultaneously minimalist and kitschy interior, is that, even though I ordered what would usually be very sweet foods, I did not walk out of there with a sugar rush. I could actually taste what I ordered! Including the amazing coffee. What a high quality addition to the neighborhood.

    (5)

  • James A.

    This place is fantastic. It's not quite the best espresso I've had in the Boston area (that award goes to Simon's) but it's pretty close. And what it lacks there (not much), it more than makes up with a fantastic ambience - it's bright, open, huge ceilings, nicely designed and cool artwork up everywhere. There's just a certain something about it that makes it feel like the inside of a well-funded startup.

    (5)

  • Aaron P.

    Nice location. Creative menu. Long lines at "rush hour," weekdays 1pm - 4pm. Related, brisk and unfriendly staff behind the counter: no receipt, no attention for a wifi code after waiting at the line again with a drink in tow. Latte (sea salt variety) is quite good. Art on the walls is a great touch.

    (4)

  • Erin C.

    The Lattes here are delicious, both caffeinated and decaf. The space is nice and airy and good for working. And so far I have loved every art installation, especially the current Baptista one; this is a first for any coffeeshop/gallery (I am very picky). BUT, there are some cons. The food selection is very minimal, although I do love the animal crackers. The paninis are pretty good (usually a choice of two a day); there was obviously a lot of thought put into each creative concoction but they are not all hits (subjective judgment, obviously). Also, the music is generally not upbeat and sometimes makes me want to bang my head against a wall. Why not play Feist or Cat Power or Sia...something more palatable? I have far from mainstream music tastes and I also like the Decemberists BUT listening to them moaning about a dark and twisted world for hours on end is pretty awful. Whoever chooses the music should be cognizant that the music is not ONLY for their personal enjoyment but should also be inviting to patrons!!!

    (4)

  • Sandy W.

    There's brown sugar in a cup now~

    (4)

  • Jenny Z.

    I love this place! For more reasons than one, I keep coming back here. I jumped started my espresso love in Italy, and have since been trying to refine my taste for espresso and coffee. This place is near school for me so it's convenient to come here. But I could also have my pick of on-campus cafes (none of which compare to this place), so why come here? The service here is good and I love the latte art--as well as the art on the museum-like walls. The menu has a great selection of lattes with homemade syrups (with great names!) as well as other great hot drinks like a good drip and great hot chocolate. And this may sound strange, but I really like their glassware--I think what a drink is served in is very important for good enjoyment of the drink. I've also tried several of their sandwiches and soups--all were delightful and showcased a veggie or a fruit and tasted very fresh and thankfully not too salty! The bread is also great whether you get a sandwich or toast. Overall, I just love the menu. I also love the environment. I tend to come here midday on weekdays, so I can generally find seating. It's a good place to do some work (and there are plenty of outlets!) or hangout with a few friends. The interesting wall layout makes for a good museum-like feel that allows you to choose more sunlight or less (I personally love the huge glass windows/walls), big table or small, etc. The music is a bit of a hit or miss for me, but it generally is a bit off the beaten road. Voltage is a good mix of minimalistic modern. Just wanted to say I love this place one more time before ending my review.

    (5)

  • Olivia v.

    4 stars because the intense cold brew coffee (used to spike part of the sugary "Dude" coffee-mocktail) is a rich, thick, bourbony, almost molasses'd marvel. Ask to try it on its own if you're ready for a nearly syrupy intensity of caffeine. Blew my mind. It really ought to be sold on its own! I would give you 5 stars but I can't afford to come here very often given your prices :'( I suppose the price tags do make sense, though, given your upcoming biotechy location. The friendly and engaging owner (schooled in coffee on the West Coast, zero surprise) tells me she'd make a non-sweet version of the lattes except she wants to stick to natural ingredients, and it's hard to find something traditional to dissolve flavoring into. I will continue to cross my fingers for anti-sweet-tooth alternatives to appear on their menu. That said, the sweet flavored lattes are still interesting and my cup is always empty after about 15 seconds.

    (4)

  • Diane I.

    An awesome coffee shop close to my house. YAY! Very cute, nice vibe. Perfect for doing work - and free wifi. Lots of outlets. The artwork here (at the moment) is pretty good - I'd consider buying some. I love ceramic drip coffee - unfortunately the coffee here isn't as delicious as Blue Bottle in SF or Intelligentsia in Chicago, but glad someone is doing it somewhere. Still pretty good though! This place is definitely worth checking out - a different kind of cafe than almost all of the others in Boston and Cambridge.

    (4)

  • LeeAnn T.

    I pass by Voltage twice a day on my way to and from work. It is impossible not to stop in on a regular basis because the drinks are delicious. I highly recommend the Madame X, it is great hot or cold. The baristas are always nice and the atmosphere is relaxed. You must stop in.

    (4)

  • caley t.

    Come here instead of starbucks or ABP, definitely. You'll be glad. It's drip coffee, so it takes a little longer, but it's worth it. Their specialty drinks have names that come from the classics-- I recommend the magpie or the atticus finch. They also have delicious exotic hot chocolates. Everyone that works here is really cool as well, and the atmosphere is super nice- it's an art gallery as well as a coffee shop, and the art is constantly changing. They also serve pastries, toasts, and paninis. The paninis are written on a board and change constantly-- never tried one, but they always sound delicious. The pecan buns I have tried though, and they are a definite win. Downside: never open on a sunday.

    (5)

  • Erika G.

    Working in Cambridge just got that much better! The Madame X latte was amazing and I always love the added touch of "foam art." The flavors were complex without being too sweet or masking the espresso (the most important part) The front counter reminded me of a cupcake shop but the rest was reminiscent of your friend's cool trendy loft with lots of original art. I hate to complain about the food because really there is nothing that goes well with coffee that isn't a dessert. Buuuuut, while I appreciate the effort of trying to offer sandwiches, they don't hold a candle to the inspiration behind the lattes. Although I do LOVE ants on a log....

    (5)

  • Kalie E.

    Super cute coffee/art studio just outside of Kendall Sq. I was prepared to pay $$ for a coffee, my husband got a hot latte (with a heart swirl in the froth btw) and I went with an Iced Latte and we were pleasantly surprised at how relatively inexpensive it was. I loved the artwork that adorned the walls. The shop itself is very spacious and open, much like a gallery. I took a star off for the (slightly) snobby baristas and also for the confusing menu placement (you need to grab a menu at the counter) I was expecting coffee options/flavors to be written on large white board behind counter, and menus were hidden by another customer's handbag, when it was our turn to order, I didn't realize they had salted caramel lattes! Next time I guess!

    (4)

  • Alek C.

    Enjoying a rose-flavored latte, using free wifi in an open, light-filled room. This place has instantly sealed its place as my favorite coffeeshop in Boston. It is replacing Simon's due to the atmosphere and creativity seeping through this place. the only thing possibly wrong with the place is the location - it is in that awful warehouse / luxury condo district of east cambridge, but perhaps it is for the best. if this place were any more convenient, i'd never be able to find a seat!

    (5)

  • Em C.

    Voltage has the strongest espresso drinks I've ever had (based off of my previous Starbucks habit). This place has become exponentially more popular in the past few months as word spreads about their delicious coffee. I would compare it with Simon's Coffee Shop in Cambridge- except the atmosphere at Voltage is more subdued. It fits very well with the up-and-coming trendiness of Kendall Square. Think Za, Evoo, Meadhall... Voltage. The baristas are extremely nice and always do the nice 'design' foam on the top of your latte. ps- try the "donut muffin" which is pretty much a fried cardamom-reminiscent muffin-shaped donut... complete with a sugary malasada-like shell.

    (5)

  • Jeanette D.

    The coffee here is absolute perfection. I'm usually a black coffee or americano kinda gal, but on a whim I tried the Atticus Finch--one of Voltage's exotic lattes. DELICIOUS! Unique, subtle, special. I love that they put 2 shots of espresso in every drink too. Seriously this place is great, by far the best coffee/espresso I've had on the east coast. Voltage now offers paninis at lunch and pastries and toast at breakfast--it's all tops. Most highly recommended. The only caveat is that it does take a little while to get your order. Even the coffees are drip while you wait, so leave a little time if you're trying to grab a morning coffee. The staff is great too--5 stars all around!

    (5)

  • B L.

    Great coffee, great service, great atmosphere! This place is great! P.S. Dear Voltage, I'm sorry I broke your glass and spilled coffee everywhere today. :(.

    (5)

  • Sara S.

    Most unique latte menu I've ever seen in my entire life. Delicious coffee. Convenient location. Free wifi. Nicest staff ever. YUMMY food. Oh yeah, and independent! What else could you want?

    (5)

  • jen h.

    They fixed the music! Now you can savor your specialty latte to some awesome shifting soundscapes. Something I forgot to mention in my previous review: I love that they offer little snacklets -- animal crackers and chocolate-covered pretzels -- by the scoop. Maybe they should shelve the baked goods altogether (they semi-hide them behind the counter, anyway) and expand their array of cookie jars? I'd gladly pay a buck or two to have a couple oreos or speculoos with my coffee.

    (5)

  • Tom E.

    This place rocks. Try the cinnamon toast - you will be glad that you did.

    (5)

  • Erik S.

    So I went to Voltage yesterday and was really stuck by the nice space they have. They have a bunch of pretty cool art up on the walls. They also have plenty of seating. I ordered the 8oz latte. The equipment they have isn't necessarily the top of the line, but the owner does a good job with what she has. The espresso in my latte was Barrington Gold, which I like, but I feel that it lacks subtlety in the flavors. The texture of the drink was pretty good, but there were a fairly significant amount of bubbles in the microfoam. Anyway, it's a real nice place and since the Corporate HQ of the company I work for is right across the street, I'm sure I will be back at some point.

    (4)

  • Noah K.

    Been trying out Latte places all around the USA and I can definitely say this is one I am going back to a second day in a row. Very yummy.

    (5)

  • Shang S.

    Came in here for a quick catch up with a friend. Love the art on the wall, it's definitely a very industrial feel. As far as coffee shops go, it's pretty run of the mill

    (3)

  • David H.

    Brilliant, industrial chic... Great coffee, but try the fig panini. My favorite new (to me) coffeehouse & only two blocks from my office.

    (4)

  • Gwen S.

    A straightforward cup of drip is hand-brewed by pouring very hot water into freshly ground beans into personal cups. You couldn't get fresher unless you waited while the beans had been roasted. Lattes come in insanely mouth watering flavors, for instance the Madame X, featuring Earl Grey infused white chocolate ganache, or even the hands-down winner, Atticus Finch, that contains vanilla with burnt sugar. Make no mistake: These are no cloying, gimmicky drinks, but rather artful blends subtly kissed with flavor. You won't get a speedy cup here and be on your way. Like perfection takes time.

    (5)

  • Allyssa M.

    Tastefully functional. Artsy without the kitsch. And the Paper Plane latte is worth the journey from anywhere in the Greater Boston Area.

    (5)

  • R H.

    The lattes here are amazing, the ambiance is nice, the service is good, and there's wifi for 2 hours if you buy something. The price is reasonable for a latte as well. The only reason why I can't give it 5 stars is that they don't serve regular coffee. On days when I realize I don't have any ground coffee in my apartment and don't have time to buy some, go back to my apartment, and make it, it would be nice if they had a cheaper alternative to lattes so I can get my caffeine fix. The ambiance is unique: it feels like a combination between an art gallery and a coffee shop. I like it a lot.

    (4)

  • Michele B.

    The beating heart of Kendall Square.

    (5)

  • Kay S.

    Oh Voltage, you are a bright spot in the meh-ness of Kendall. The first time I came here, I was very put off by the ridiculous crowd and lack of tables. (I still think they can still have lots of open space with a few more places to sit.) However, subsequent visits have mitigated that experience substantially. First off, the coffee is really good; I have never been disappointed (although statistically I guess it is bound to happen). Even the flavored coffee, which I am usually wary of for being too sweet and/or artificial tasting, and the iced espresso drinks, which can easily get too watery, are fantastic. I love the large windows, and although the art isn't always good, the vibe is great for chatting over coffee. I couldn't work here on a weekday, but on the weekends, it's a prime environment for laptop-camping. The service staff range from 'eh' to awesome, but I've never had a bad service experience. And I actually like that they scale your internet to how much you buy; especially because they aren't uptight about giving you a bit more time if the place isn't packed. I think if the layout improves a bit, this may become my favorite coffee shop in the area.

    (3)

  • Courtney M.

    Probably my new favorite coffee place! Went there because of Groupon, and so happy with this purchase. Love the fun specialty lattes. We ordered the Madame X and the Beyond the Sea--both a great and unexpected twist on traditional latte flavors. The environment is open, bright, and bright. It's a relaxing place to enjoy your coffee and definitely worth a visit!

    (5)

  • Lisa I.

    The decor is great and it's a relaxing place to do work, if you get a seat that is. Voltage can be really busy so if you have a big group, this is definitely not the place to go. More ideal for a low key afternoon where you have time to get an expensive latte and stay for a while.

    (4)

  • Elle J.

    This is by far the best coffee in the Boston area. I love their cappuccino!! They make it perfect every time. The staff is very friendly. The ambiance is modern and relaxing. They could improve on their selection of pastries but if you love coffee, this is the place to go to!

    (4)

  • Jeff K.

    Everything about this place is great - coffee, atmosphere, location. Has a silicon valley feel to it.

    (5)

  • Steve S.

    Who needs Starbucks when you have Voltage? It's cheaper and it's BETTER. Their selection, although not as vast as Starbucks, has some great quality cups of joes and lattes. Their iced mocha is to die for. On top of that, they really know how to make you an iced coffee - the coffee touches ice several times during the process to ensure your coffee stays cold. Besides the neat artwork and cool modernesque setting, this place is a great spot to study, meet a friend, or just grab a good coffee. Two thumbs WAY up.

    (4)

  • Logan J.

    i went when this place was just opening, and i was very disappointed. the coffee was really bad and the flavors of the coffee all tasted the same--salty. yuck! the space is cool and could potentially turn into a fun place to be around...but when i was there, it was far from its potential.

    (1)

  • Emily G.

    great coffee. great curry sweet potato panini. They need to step it up on the baked goods and variety of lunch options to get more stars. Glad to have a good coffee option close to the office though - finally.

    (3)

  • debra b.

    Had a wonderful experience at Voltage recently. Myself and another cafe owner met here to check out Voltage. We were greeted by a very impressive "barista" (Greg). He spent a good amount of time explaining the menu to us, patient and friendly! Our espresso drinks, sandwiches were excellent.

    (5)

  • Nadia A.

    The interior of the place is a little odd for my liking but others seem to think it's chic...Pipes across the ceiling and an industrial feel are not the coziest in my opinion, BUT, I have to say their iced lattes are awesome. The staff is friendly, too. Yeah, I'll be back...

    (4)

  • Helen H.

    Initially, I was very excited to go to a cafe that's not Starbucks, especially after viewing their latte selection. So I got a 5-drink punch pass from Groupon, which was a good deal - 5 four-dollar drinks for $10. The first time I got "Paper Plane" latte, which tasted nice and very different from what I have tried before. The only disappointing thing was that they did not have skim milk, only 2% - i assumed they just ran out that day. As it turned out, they also ran out of ingredients for the "Madame X" latte that I really wanted to order. The second time, I was inside for quite a while - around 2 pm on Friday it was very busy. The owner of the cafe took my order by using a stamp assigned to the latte ("Beyond the Sea") on a piece of paper and wrote my name on it, which I thought was very cute. But again, they did not have skim milk - apparently, they just don't carry it. I stayed in the shop for a few hours, working on my laptop (you need a receipt with a password to access wi-fi). What i did not realize is that wif-fi access lasts only 2 hours and when I asked for another password, I was told that I should buy another drink, which was slightly frustrating. So I got "The Thieving Magpie", which was slightly better than "Beyond the Sea" which left me a bit disappointed. Of course, after I purchased the second drink to get 2 more hours of wi-fi, I was told that the store is closing in an hour for exhibition installation, of which i was reminded 20, 15, and 7 min before closing by the cafe workers. They were polite about it, but I don't work very well when someone distracts me every five minutes. Overall, it's a nice place with good drinks.

    (3)

  • Greg S.

    Working at MIT and living in Cambridgeport, I've had a hard time finding a coffee shop with both good atmosphere and quality coffee (particularly espresso-based drinks). Finding Voltage was like mana from heaven. I got a phenomenal latte with perfect consistency of milk. Beats the pants off anything in the Central/Kendall Square area. The hand poured coffee brews and wide array of flavored lattes are tantalizing. The care with which the baristas make their drinks is evident every step of the way. The atmosphere is phenomenal. The space is energizing, bright and gorgeously designed. Rotating art exhibitions are a special bonus. The place can get quite busy during the day, but I've never waited long to find a seat. Voltage will be a staple in my routine for the foreseeable future.

    (5)

  • Dan S.

    For a self-described SF coffee snob the Blue Bottle drinks here were the best in Boston. I'd come back for the Paper Plane alone. Mmm, cardamom...

    (5)

  • Esther Z.

    It's good coffee in a cool space - but I haven't had anything that wowed me. I'm kind of bummed about that actually. Nevertheless, I will still visit because it's close to work and a decent place to chat with a friend.

    (4)

  • Rebecca S.

    I'll be interested to see how long Voltage can continue as it's set up. Divided into a few different open rooms, with plenty of wall-space for gallery-style displays of local artists' work that are available for purchase, Voltage feels less cramped than 1369. It's a bit pricier than 1369, and its latté isn't quite as good as 1369's. On the other hand, if you're looking for free wifi, Voltage delivers -- with a caveat: They've restricted the amount of time customers can avail themselves of the wifi, based on how much food/coffee is purchased. This seems like a perfectly reasonable way to address the demand for seats, but only time will tell if that will be sufficient to keep profits at an acceptable margin, or if they'll have to resort to adding more tables and chairs. I hope they stick around for a while -- Cambridge needs more good coffee shops!

    (4)

  • Leon B.

    Ok, so my friend and I just had a horrible experience waiting 30-40 minutes for her salad across the street at Tatte. There was nowhere to sit there, so we came over to the outdoor seating area of Voltage, which was mostly empty, and sat down, intending to have our lunch and then get a drink from Voltage. As soon as we sat down, a waitress came by and told us that "outside food and beverages are not allowed", shooed us away, and told us that there were some picnic tables nearby (which there weren't). She didn't ask us if we wanted to order, or if we were going to get a drink, or anything like that. Just pushed us away, no questions asked. In the end, I got a coffee at Starbucks (ugh) after lunch. If Voltage doesn't want me sitting in their seating area, they won't be getting my business.

    (1)

  • Milz G.

    This is a must-try coffee shop. It has all the makings of a true winner ...excellent coffee, tea, chai, lemonade, nifty noshings and of course, the wonderful staff!! This place rocks!

    (5)

  • Andrea P.

    They put a lot of love and care into each drink. They are passionate about new and different ingredients and every cup of coffee is fresh. The space is incredible. The art is amazing. I think they have new artists every 3 months (or weeks) or so. And it's great to check out the work of local artists. The ordering process is great too. You just kind of walk up and wait for someone like a bar. Then they stamp your cup with the logo for that drink write your name on it and a few minutes later you get your drink. It's lovely.

    (5)

  • Andres M.

    I am giving 4 star because I am really happy to see more good places opening in Kendall Sq. The second time I went there they had live music, which I liked. I don't drink coffee so I can only say that their chocolate and croissants are good. I wish they had more power outlets and that it was open more days and for longer periods of time.

    (5)

  • Cashmir D.

    Voltage Coffee & arts is fantastic! The passion for coffee and quality products is fascinating and this results in probably the best coffee in Cambridge! Offers that peace and quiet that you should expect from a quality coffee shop. Definitely worth a visit!

    (5)

  • Karen F.

    Modern. Friendly. Artsy. Bright. Close to the T. Review is more for ambience/going-to-a-coffee-shop-to-do-work and not for their actual coffee. Iced coffee isn't amazing (I'm obsessed with cold brews and theirs aren't) but they do individually drip it. Bathroom has multiple stalls and are clean. Yep. Next time I'm in town I'm doing work here!

    (5)

  • Thomas B.

    This place is awesome. The latte flavors are unique. The staff is really friendly. The atmosphere is chill. I came here because of a groupon, but I will be back many times more on my own. Try it out!

    (5)

  • Patrick M.

    I've been waiting for Voltage Coffee to open since first hearing about it, and it has been worth the wait. Lucy's pulled together a great shop, with a focus on high quality drinks. With a number of power outlets and free wifi (not sure from where - but who cares? It works!), it's sure to be a hit with local MIT students and the Kendall Square tech folks.

    (5)

  • Asb E.

    In general, this is a great place. I've come here a dozen times or so, and its pros outweigh the cons. The cons are all about food, though, and that makes this place just a wee bit annoying around lunch... Pros: - Good coffee, good atmosphere and art. - Great basically-free wireless. - When they're good, the big thick slices of buttered toast are great. - Some people have complained about the baristas, but in general I think they're fine. Cons: - Two-sandwich menu doesn't really rotate, they've had this same not-so-good coconut sandwich on the board for weeks (at least on Fridays), and they often run out of sandwiches by 12:30 - Those thick slices of bread are great when they're fresh and buttery. If they're stale and dry, the thickness makes them pretty bad - Breakfast sandwiches end at 10:00. Not the end of the world, but when they're other options aren't so appealing... Most other local fancy coffee places have breakfast sandwiches for longer So, basically, they're very good, but it would be even better if they sorted their food issues.

    (3)

  • P'raka ..

    It's not bad and I really should give it a shot - but I just wanted to warn people that this is NOT the place to go for a FAST cup of coffee. If you have the time to wait around for some guy to artistically swirl hot water over your filter to dampen it and then continue to slowly swirl hot water over your coffee grinds and watch it slowly drip into an awaiting mug, then by all means get some coffee here. It's quite good. Just not fast!

    (3)

  • Iris M.

    I'm not sure how I feel about this place yet. I've been here on a few different occasions with different groups of people. On one hand it's conveniently located in the Kendall Square area, adding much needed life to the incessant dullness. I've had lattes, tea, hot chocolate and the toast with Jam. I enjoyed it all. I like the space with all its weird art. It's mostly a young crowd and a lot of professionals. I also like that it's not too crowded and you can bring in your computer. There's always a seat. The staff seems to be a mix of friendly and stale. Still, it's in the area.

    (3)

  • Kristen L.

    I stumbled into Voltage on Presidents Day after an unsuccessful attempt at accessing wifi at Beantown Coffee House in Kendall. What a great find! There was plenty of seating available, and the layout afforded quiet privacy to those wanting to work. The coffee shop/art gallery hybrid is unique, and the space is very modern minimalist. The only downside is the menu is fairly minimal as well - very few options in terms of food. But the coffee was good and brought to my table by a friendly staff member. Will definitely return here again the next time I'm looking for a change of work scenery!

    (4)

  • Erwin C.

    Owner Lucy Valena has temporarily grounded her coffee cart and put down roots in Kendall Square. Voltage Coffee opened softly today but is already serving well-prepared coffee and tea. This is a welcome addition to the area for specialty coffee drinkers. The coffee program at the moment features beans from with guest coffees to come. Barrington Gold Espresso Blend is being pulled for espresso drinks and dual-Ethiopian blend called Vanitas brewed via the pourover method. A good number of "exotic" flavored lattes are also on the menu with names to match ("Devil May Care", "The Thieving Magpie", and "Atticus Finch" are a few). I'm also looking forward to tasting one of their hot chocolates like "Besos Fuertes" (ginger root). Food will be coming soon. The space is light and airy due to plenty of wall-to-wall glass and high ceilings. There are a number of small tables available for seating in a gallery area to take in all the hung artwork. As a resident of Mid-Cambridge, I'm glad to finally see a good coffee option in East Cambridge.

    (4)

  • Ben L.

    Good coffee, modern, minimalist feel.

    (4)

  • Lucia L.

    Love the atmosphere of this cafe--lots of natural sunlight and very spacious, almost like an art gallery! We got two iced Americano's...they were okay. I really liked the little flower arrangements they had on the counter. I'm a sucker for little glass jars! Can't wait to come back to try their special lattes.

    (4)

  • Sara G.

    Great coffee, really nice space. I wish the wireless was free, although I understand that it keeps the place free to sit and enjoy your coffee. Will definitely be back to try one of their flavored lattes--and the regular iced latte was delicious enough!

    (4)

  • jade g.

    I love the drip coffee - very flavorful and fresh, although it does cool down too fast in the white ceramic mugs...maybe next time I'll ask them to heat the mug for me. The nooks and crannies cut down on the noise level so it's quiet enough to study. Definitely nice to have a coffee place in the area, though I wish they were open later.

    (5)

  • Carissa D.

    Mmmmm Voltage - FINALLY a coffee shop comes to Kendall (no, Starbucks, Au Bon Pain and DD do not count). My work week just improved 10-fold. Coffee's great, flavored lattes are like little caffeinated desserts and the staff is friendly and happy. Only trouble will be restraining myself from coming in multiple times a day... thank you Voltage for bringing real coffee to Kendall! Now, one small request - can you please please open on Sundays?

    (5)

  • Nick C.

    I am at Voltage Coffee right now, and I LOVE it! First, the space is beautiful, just the right mix of open space and little nooks to settle yourself into. The high ceilings and expansive wall space give a calming atmosphere and really set off the great art collection. It's an unassuming and beautifully open space that is lovely to spend time in. They have free wifi which means I could probably spend all day here. Next, the coffee! It being my first time here, I have only tried one drink, but it is delicious! I'm currently enjoying a paper plane, that being a latte which is infused with cardamom and rose syrup. The owner Lucy assures me that the name wasn't intended as an M.I.A. reference but to me it always will be, which earns this fantastic drink a special place in my heart. This is absolutely my new favorite hangout. I'm going to be here all the time! Love.

    (5)

  • Andrew M.

    Voltage provides great coffee in an underserved location. Lucy, the owner, is really enthusiastic about providing an artisan experience and this place delivers. My only criticism is the atmosphere: a little bright and somewhat barren.

    (5)

  • DJ M.

    I am a big fan of coffee shops and Kendall square needed something desparately. The idea of coffee and art is great, however most of the time when I was there, there was no art , just plain white boring walls. It came to a point that the place was just simply boring and not very inviting to sit, relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. Food is mediocre at best with a very limited menu. Needless to say, I crossed the street (literally) to a new bakery/coffee place...more expensive for sure, but much more pleasant and relaxing.

    (2)

  • Danny K.

    I think the concept of the place is great, the decor gorgeous but the proprietors really need to put that same kind of passion into making world-class cappuccino, and at this point it is not. The problem is that they need to master making the proper consistency of milk foam. At voltage the foam is too stiff, bubbles are too big. Not silky smooth at all; it has more the consistency of overbeaten egg whites- as such it tastes of air and the sweetness of the milk is lost. This explains why they cannot make fine patterns in the foam. They need to aim for a transcendental coffee-milk-air mixture that has sweetness of the milk and depth of the coffee.

    (3)

  • Kathryn R.

    At last! Good coffee in Kendall Sq! Space is airy, baristas are friendly and knowledgeable about their craft and what they are serving. You can't go wrong with any of their flavored lattes; of course they have the standard coffee menu. For me the best part is that their Soy Milk is organic and unsweetened. Beat that, Starbucks!

    (4)

  • Shane T.

    Lots of seating in an open modern look with a friendly staff. Live music when I was here on Saturday afternoon. Excellent late and chai latte

    (5)

  • Tessa C.

    This is the best coffee shop... EVER. I feel bad saying that because I work at a Starbucks, but this place is so original with amazing coffee. This place has everything: the staff is so nice, awesome vibe, originality, and delicious drinks. I love that everything is homemade. I can really tell that they care about what they are doing!

    (5)

  • Alisa K.

    I live close to this cafe but hadn't gotten around to trying it till yesterday. Went there for breakfast with a friend before work. I got the roobios tea, which was delicious - full bodied, flavorful, enchanting (can you call a tea enchanting?). She got the coffee, which she said was phenomenal (and she knows her caffeine). We also got the bread and toast, which was hearty and not only buttered but ALSO jammed - yes I know that's not a word, at least not in that context. The jammed bread was very plentiful so we shared it, and it inadvertantly tided both of us over until dinner time (we both accidentally missed lunch because we were busy, not because we have an anorexia pact). In other news, this place has free wifi and a lot of open seating and good lighting. It seems like a great place to study, grab a quick bite with a friend, or just pick up coffee or tea on the go. I will definitely be going back.

    (4)

  • Nora X.

    I'm totally obsessed with this place. Pros: great space, killer pourover, generally good flavored lattes (especially atticus finch, but there are some weird ones in the bunch. like the lemon one). wifi, really tasty food as well Cons: usually a longer wait for your drink.. don't be in a hurry. sometimes super crowded. pricey semi-con is that the staff sometimes is too cool to be there, obviously. why else would they roll their eyes at you? i kid, anyway, the owner is fantastic and super sweet. you should wear your fake tat sleeve though.

    (5)

  • Lynn D.

    Really good. Voltage takes their coffee seriously. They have a cool, modern interior, with some nice-looking local art work hanging on the walls. Thinking Cup still has them beat as far as their lattes are concerned, however. The wifi situation is somewhat lame. You only get something like an hour or ninety minutes per purchase. Finally, something needs to be done with the space in the back. The front of the cafe is great, but the back looks like someone got tired of putting effort into the interior design. With several empty, white walls, and tables that are discretely spread out over concrete, it feels cold and stale. Finally, someone needs to sweep the floors in this place. The floor around my table in the front of the cafe was disgusting.

    (4)

  • Matthew S.

    It's $3.25 for mediocre iced coffee. I'm not sure how this place gathers enough customers to stay in business.

    (1)

  • Christine D.

    Came here one week and got an almond flavored lattee- DELICIOUS. Came back the next week and got a sea salt lattee- DISGUSTING. I'm honestly still sad months later that I spent $6 on a lattee only to dump out. It was like legit drinking pure salt and water, I still remember the horrid taste, I don't even know why they sell such a disgusting drink. Ugh

    (2)

  • Matteo C.

    Just love it. very spacious...never overcrowded..stylish with always some art exhibit going on. Perfect for having a chat or just reading or studying.

    (5)

  • Jon F.

    Pricey but delicious coffee

    (4)

  • Heather G.

    Please tell me why every entrepreneur, VC, and MIT-tech-obsessed student wants to meet here for coffee. Not understanding it. With Tatte across the street offering good coffee, FOOD, and a nicer atmosphere, why does everyone still want to go to Voltage? The real issue I have is that whomever owns this place obviously did not consider the queue setup when laying out the shop. When you walk in, the coffee bar is right in front of you, giving space for a line about 5 people deep to line up before they hit the door and become a fire hazard. 5 people deep, you say. That's actually quite a few people, you say. Wrong. The service here is also very slow, so 5-people-deep is actually a miracle of God, when it happens. Generally, when I have been, the line awkwardly winds around, folds on itself, and people end up clustering near the merch display quasi-in-line. Then, when new people come in the door, they have no idea if the cluster is waiting for their coffee to be served up, or are waiting to order. Thus begins an epic battle of stare-downs when those who are clustered, waiting to order, stare down those who just walked in the door and stand at the end of the line at the place before it starts curving around. Long story short, bad news. And not at all relaxing. Don't even get me started about what happens when you come in WITH people. you're trying to have a conversation, be nonchalant, stand in line to place your order...all the while watching the door like a hawk to see if anyone is mistakenly coming in at the wrong place in line, or watching your little cluster to see if anyone is forming a real line as you move toward being helped. You're not even listening to what your friend is saying anymore. you're pretending to listen, but mostly trying to mentally will the line to form in a straight, logical manner. That aside, there are a few other things about Voltage that I personally don't love. The cafe space looks really bare and industrial, like it's a pop-up coffee shop opened up in an abandoned storefront space rather than a permanent fixture. Beyond that, I like my coffee shops to have a few savory food options, and with Tatte across the street hocking delicious salads and sandwiches, Voltage just can't compare. 10 times out of 10, i would go to Tatte across the street for better atmosphere and more choices for the same price and slow-ness. At least their queue makes sense and there's space to line up.

    (2)

  • Sara C.

    This is a super cute cafe, feels very trendy without being snobby. I had a Madame x latte (earl grey and white chocolate), which was unique and tasty. At least in the summer months, when MIT is not in session, it wasn't too crowded. They have free wifi, making it a good place to work for a bit, though you wouldn't want to be here all day as the chairs are not the most comfy.

    (4)

  • Liliana C.

    Great space, great coffee. Farm fresh milk in the lattes. They also make a noteworthy hot chocolate. We come here regularly, and will continue to do so. There's no coffee place better in the area, or even really in the city for that matter... Also, super friendly staff!!

    (5)

  • Kevin S.

    Possibly the slowest most bored baristas and coffee shop people I've ever witnessed. Must be part of the slow coffee movement. Still in line after 15 mins with only 6 people ahead of me. Got to front of line only to learn that my drip was a pour over. Better be good.

    (1)

  • Melanie W.

    Very unique latte creations and a great place to hang out or study. My personal latte favorites are the Thieving Magpie and Beyond the Sea. Their toast and breakfast sandwiches are also pretty good. Be sure to ask for a wifi code when you pay. Another plus - they accept LevelUp for payment!

    (5)

  • Moe S.

    I really want to like voltage - buts it's honestly not special. Don't get me wrong, their coffee is better than Starbucks, but I really except a lot more from an independent coffee shop, with an owner that lives right in town. Honestly, they're sort of slow, and expensive and I'm not quite sure what I'm paying for. If you want a better ambiance and better customer service for around the same price, try Thinking Cup.

    (3)

  • Linda B.

    This is a really cool coffee shop/gallery/tech meeting space. Being really close to MIT in Kendal Square and really close to the offices of Tech Stars this place attracts the type of people you'd expect. You can just feel the brain power looking through the glass entrance and walls facing the street. I just loved the Beyond the Sea which blew me away. My only two gripes are that this place is usually crowded so it takes a while for the barristas to make your coffee and that the wifi is limited by the purchases you make. I believe if you buy something for less than $4 you get 1 hour of wifi and if it's over $4 then you get two hours. I don't mind that terribly and I realize they do it because otherwise no one would leave this cool techy atmosphere.

    (5)

  • Rebecca Y.

    Fantastic! I love the unique lattes here, and they make their own syrups! The burnt caramel one was my favorite. It's a great place to sit down and read a book and drink coffee, but not the best place to do work (you have to pay for internet by the hour, pretty annoying).

    (4)

  • Hijo d.

    This is really about a 2.5 as far as the coffee drinks. Too much milk in the iced latte. They had just run out of toddy when I got there. Would have liked to try it as was not familiar with the roaster. Iced latte was a little spendy at 4 clams based on the quality. Staff was really friendly. Liked the space for the most part. Lots of open areas. I will say that there was not a lot of seating -- and it was pretty busy. The patio outside had a few tables that were taken. There was some major territorial(ism) going on...people with a seat next to them on the bar had their life spread out and made no offer to consolidate. The shop is in the lobby of what looks like a new condo building, which seems to be what is going on all along Kendall Square. Place has potential if they could get their coffee dialed.

    (2)

  • Katie R.

    Nestled in the steel-and-glass streetscape of Kendall Square, Voltage was far enough off my beaten path that, although I'd heard of it in passing, I hadn't made the trek until invited specifically by a friend of mine who had been bewitched by the menu's offerings (tempting her across cyberspace). We set a coffee date (more accurately, a coffee and baby date, as we each had 7-week-old infants in tow) for a blustery Friday afternoon, and the gears were set in motion. I arrived a few minutes early for our rendezvous, and took the time to soak in the surroundings. The cafe very elegantly recognizes that it should be warm and inviting, while cool and collected, with its white gallery walls housing quaint and quirky canvasses (while we were there). The menu was like a guide to the circus, promising lattes with exotic flavors and scents such as cardamom, rose water, and fleur de sel, alongside the comfortable stand-bys of vanilla, caramel, and chocolate, but combined in interesting and tempting ways (and with playful names). At $3, can you help but try? If Starbucks with its array of sticky syrups and sprinkles represents one end of the specialty latte spectrum, Voltage takes the other, highbrow end. The flavors are subtle, never overpowering the espresso at center stage. The baristas, too, are not mere button-pushers; no, these men and women can pull a sweet shot and pour an impressive latte, and are courteous and a bit chatty, too. I handed over a well-worn travel mug, and received a steamy cup of deliciousness, and was tickled to see that the barista had drawn a rosette with the espresso and steamed milk (not an insubstantial feat in this particular mug - no other cafe in the area, not even my beloved Simon's, has done as nicely, before or since). I sipped my latte and enjoyed the company of my friend amidst the art (she had a nice view out the wall of windows and could people-watch a bit, as well as one can do on a Kendall side-street), thinking that if only the shop weren't in Kendall, I might become a regular. But then, the sleek, almost stark interior would seem jarringly cold and out-of-place in most other neighborhoods; in Kendall, it seems almost cozy by comparison to the outside. Besides, like the circus, it's better appreciated in moderation, on special occasions (as if one could tire of the long list of treats they temptingly offer).

    (5)

  • Alex T.

    This place is as advertised. When I visited, they were featuring art inspired by basketball. I thought I was in heaven. Strong coffee & NBA art?! I loved it! Voltage takes coffee very seriously as well. They don't sell much else and they use slow drip method for a rich and deeply brewed taste. If you love coffee and art like I do, you know you have to check this place out.

    (4)

  • Mrs. G.

    I like Voltage, it has a nice vibe with all of the art work around. The coffee is pretty good and they do art on the coffee or latte itself which is a nice presentation. Most of the coffee I have tried was a bit bold for my taste. I also found the staff weren't that knowledgeable about the flavors-they seem very spacey. The greek yogurt they source is really good-probably the best I have had. I would recommend that they put the granola on top instead of on the bottom of the cup because the greek yogurt is very thick and hard to mix. All and all I would probably choose Tatte across the street, but Voltage has a nice vibe too.

    (3)

  • Kanchan S.

    Amazing Coffee Latte!!

    (5)

  • Emily L.

    Delicious! The husband and I (well back then, boyfriend) discovered this place the week after it had opened, and we couldn't believe our grad student luck -- another great coffee place within walking distance of campus! Lucky MIT. And now after Voltage has been around for a bit longer, I have to say it still holds its charm. There's great local coffee. The hot chocolates are decadent. Their teas are loose leaf and there's a good selection of them (try the rooibos). I just wish their flavored lattes were a bit less subtle (a big plus for not being overly sweet, but a minus for sometimes having nearly-imperceptible flavor). And I appreciate their limited-but-tasty food: try the dried apricot granola sometime, or their grilled corn muffin with jam -- they'll satisfy a mid-afternoon stomach rumble. Although sometimes Voltage can get pretty crowded with "campers" (people like me who huddle down with their laptops for hours on end, although wifi is free for 1 hour), you can usually still find a spot in one of their many nooks. The space is bright and airy. The walls are covered in a rotating display of funky art. Art and coffee... what's not to love? P.S. They also have a nice selection of roasted beans for sale, for those of you who grind and brew your own at home.

    (4)

  • Armin F.

    Great and chill coffee lounge for the occasional break during work. Favorite drink is the iced latte with burn sugar and vanilla flavor or Atticus Finch...

    (4)

  • Tharathorn R.

    I have been a regular customer to Voltage for the past years but I only recently become more active on Yelp, so I think it's fair to just give a review/rating now. I was on my way to meet with a friend at Leisure Station. I thought the decor was nice so I thought I wanted to check it out. The first time I was here I ordered 'MADAME X' (Earl grey infused white chocolate, steamed milk and espresso) on their flavored latte menu. I thought I was pretty good but it was a bit too dense and sweet for me. I have tried many of their teas (MEM teas), flavored lattes, espresso, iced cold brew coffee in the summer, and their iced invention called the DUDE (iced brew coffee, espresso syrup, and a bit of cream) this past summer. I love all their beverages. My favorite is the paper plane (cardamom + rose aromas in lightly sweeten latte is a wonderful flavor I cannot get anywhere else :)). The cafe decor is great. It's almost like an art gallery inside. It has big glass windows on all side facing the street and white walls with lots of art pieces. They put up new sets of art pieces every few weeks. Coming to Voltage is like having a really good cup of beverage in an art gallery. They carry a small selection of pastries, and coffee snacks (animal crackers, some sorts of chocolate beans, and dark chocolate covered almonds). They recently starts serving breakfast paninis. I haven't tried any of their snacks/foods. The cafe location is actually NOT on my way to work or anything, but it's not far. Over the years I have dragged myself to this cafe time and again when I need some comfort and caffeine fix :). This is not a place to go grab a quick cup of jo before starting a work day, but it's a place for a nice afternoon break for oneself or for meeting and chatting with someone. I have taken friends from out of town here on many occasions and every single one likes it. So for me, it's a 5 star on the coffee, 5 star on the ambience, and 5 star for their originality both in combining a cafe and an art gallery and in creating uniquely flavored beverages. Finally I give it a 5 star for consistently being a wonderful sanctuary for me :).

    (5)

  • Lvbleuhydrangea ..

    The pour over coffee was really really good. Smooth, nice flavor and not too strong. Great atmosphere and staff were very nice. I visited in the morning around 9am during the week so it wasn't too crowded and easy to get a table.

    (5)

  • Raphie B.

    The Beyond The Sea latte (with caramel and sea salt) is perfect. Sweet, but balanced with the right amount of milk and espresso, and with just enough sea salt to really make the flavors pop. Did I just say something as cheesy as "the flavors pop"? I did. Because they do. The space itself is an art gallery which feels a bit cold. The side with the coffee bar feels a bit warmer / friendlier, but overall the vibe is not super welcoming. It's not the kind of shop you settle into for a coffee and some quality reading, but it is a great shop for getting some work done or grabbing an great quality cup of coffee to go.

    (4)

  • Sarah M.

    Fabulous, hipster coffee shop nestled in Kendall Square. Cant say much about the coffee but the hot chocolates are just the perfect balance of chocolate and sweetness laced with gorgeous foam art. Perfect place to study or chat.

    (4)

  • Morgan P.

    Yum!!

    (5)

  • Miguel G.

    Bottom Line: Expensive, but appropriate price for location. Working owner and employees are genuine. Products are high quality, creative, and flat-out delicious. Extended Review: Let me begin by saying that I go here every morning. The "Paper Plane" latte is a coffee version of the Indian dessert kheer, made with cardamom, rose water, and honey. It's the best coffee beverage I've ever had, and I was a barista for 5 years in high school and college, toiling in the espresso laboratory that is free to Starbucks employees. I've been thinking about it lately and it may be the best drink I've ever had- like, the best liquid I've tasted in 30 years of drinking things. If not THE best, definitely Top 3- and the fact I don't know what the other two would be indicates it's probably No. 1. A 12 oz latte after tax is $4.55, which is high anywhere you go, but the location (Voltage is SURROUNDED by billion dollar pharmaceutical companies), the ingredients, and the consistency of product warrants it.

    (5)

  • Tugba B.

    This place is my favorite coffee shop in the whole Boston area. It is one of the few spots where you can really chat, read a book, or spend quiet time - an opportunity which I could not find in the US very often since I've come. The only drawback is that it is sometimes too cold because of the air conditioner. Feeling fresh is nice, but sometimes I feel so uncomfortable that I feel the need to leave the place. Still, it deserves the best rating.

    (5)

  • Kev M.

    Alright, finally an experience lame enough to make me want to log into Yelp and rail on a business! Free wifi? Not quite. I've been there before, so I was well aware you need to buy something and the cashier can provide you with a code to login. Seems fair to me, usage should be reserved for customers, but the time metering is a bit much. The clincher for me was that the barista didn't even bother giving me a receipt or the wifi code with my order. Inattentive, uninterested employees. I'm down with cohesive teams in a work environment, but ignoring me while you're being chummy with a coworker and walking away together for a smoking break or whatever you needed to do before you were done servicing me is just rude. This experience was a bit of an outlier, but I've never had engaging, warm service in all the times I've visited before. Finally, don't order the ice coffee. Voltage's ice coffee concoction has the flavor of steeped, used coffee grinds: supremely bitter and watery. Perhaps the barista was trying to punish me for unknowingly insulting him with this order, but it is possible to make a great ice coffee and Voltage does not have it. It's so bad, why bother having it on the menu? This cafe barely had a pulse with me before, but it's on my DO NOT GO list until it makes some significant improvements.

    (1)

  • anthony L.

    4.5 if I could. Love this place. It's right near my office, and in the heart of kendall square -- so it's pretty convenient. The coffee is fantastic. They have two kinds on their "menu" (a litle sign near the register) -- never bothered to find out of there are additional specials or anything because the basics are perfect for me. The people there are also nice, although the place gets busy so time for chit-chat can be pretty much eliminated. The wifi: Love the system actually. Spend $4, get 2 hours of wifi -- that seems more than fair. You have to ask for the passcode, which isn't a big deal. My one gripe is out of the 5 times I've been there, the wifi has crapped out or become too slow at least once during 3 of them. But when you're eating one of the best scones around, and the coffee is calming your nerves -- who cares? Do something offline for ten minutes, and the internet should be back to normal. that actually reminds me -- the baked goods are also pretty killer from what I've had.

    (4)

  • Dorothy W.

    Yes....open Sundays...Thank you, Voltage.

    (5)

  • Giulio C.

    Voltage lost a star from me when they jacked up their sandwich prices 20% from $7 to $8.45 That's a bit pricey for some wholegrain toast with no animal protein inside. Guess they are copying the obnoxious Tatte chain and trying to move upscale? I'll also dock them for misspelling Hemingway. Hey, if you're gonna have a sandwich named "Arouet," you can spell Papa's name right. RIght? Other than that, Mrs Lincoln, the art gallery-cum-library vibe is OK. But just try dislodging an entitled hipster from his/her table - they're all about to get another round of VC $$$, so they don't care.

    (3)

  • Jordan C.

    Usually when I think of getting a slip of paper I might be worried about my job, but at Voltage it usually means I have some almond-y goodness coming my way in the form of "the Magpie" - one of the many unique and delicious lattes on the menu. Each latte has it's associated insignia and stamp. The stamps are great, but its the lattes themselves that makes me want to collect em like Pokemon. Once I can get my nose out of my cup I look up to see some awesome art! Like any gallery, sometimes I can really appreciate it and other times I don't understand it. In any case it makes me feel less uncultured. Nice place to sit and read/study/chat. Latte excitement also includes sea salt + caramel, lime + agave, and cardamom + rose water + honey, all of which are nicely balanced and perfect to sip. Food is also a plus. A bit pricey, but at least the breakfast sandwich was worth it, on tasty wholesome grilled bread with a nice spice. I think the food options change frequently, so be on the lookout.

    (5)

  • Sara B.

    Went here this past Thursday during the insane snowstorm that threw up snow and rain simultaneously, peppered with wind strong enough to loosen botox on someone's forehead. Anyway, thoroughly enjoyed a caramel sea salt decaf mocha. Prepared perfectly, and coffee was the best quality.

    (5)

  • Rachael R.

    When it's sunny I like to walk over the bridge from Beacon Hill to Voltage, possibly stopping at the Clover foodtruck for squash dumpling (aka donuts). If I have friends visiting, I invariably mention that I like supporting Voltage because the owner is a sweet girl who believe in the possibility of Boston being as cool as it should be. It's also a real relief to finally have a shop in the downtown area that can do beautiful cappuccino foam. Get one of the $2 snacks. Generous helpings and they'll balance the caffeine rush.

    (5)

  • Damien S.

    Quaint and quirky with dimensional art adorning prison white walls, you might be confused and end up buying Progressive insurance. This is Voltage. Sprouting in the heart of nerd nouveau, the coffee shop/cafe/studio fits the niche perfectly. Wonka towers of filtration, contraptions set to extract espresso on the slowest schedule for homage specialty drinks to The Big Lebowski, and animal cracker tapas all have their place beside biotech belles and genome gents. Where space exists, more than a few pieces hang with love from the eggshell walls. Java standards run $2-4, including specialty espresso drinks and flavored hot chocolates. An avid avoider of one, I took to the other, ordering the 8oz Midnight Sun (hot cocoa with cinnamon + capsicum, $3.50) and a little nibble of toast ($3). The toast came smeared with evidence of indecision: one piece slathered with butter and berry jam, and the other classically sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. My hesitation about spending $3 on two pieces of toast smothered under the density of these slices. Mammoth, filling and worth every penny. While quite warm and certainly delicious, the specialty spices for the hot chocolate could have stood a little reinforcement. Maybe another pinch to jettison them from super-subtlety? Note to patrons: even if your order is on the go, don't even sweat getting a lid for the hot chocolate. The slightly sweet milk foam is so thick, it keeps even the roughest car rides free from spills and chills.

    (4)

  • c h.

    Don't be confused. That whole front portion that looks like an entrance? That's a window. Not a door. I had a superb americano and a tasty cookie for a bit under $5. The staff was very friendly when I showed up (noonish) and it was quiet with plenty of space. I do wish that their self serve water cups were larger.

    (5)

  • Seb L.

    Excellent coffee shop. They have some great coffee that is freshly made right in front of you. The shop is clean, open and has a "loft" feel. There is a great entrepreneurial energy at this place which makes is a great spot to work/study. They also have a large bike rack in fron of the store which makes it very convenient for cyclists. Highly recommend.

    (5)

  • Whitney S.

    Free Wifi (60 minutes for a coffee purchase, longer with add'l purchases). Great seating options, but they fill up quickly. Ideas were flowing between tables - to the extent that I watched a stranger walk up to a table of two who were brainstorming ideas and jump into the conversation. The sense of community was palpable. Wonderful coffee, pleasant baristas, delicious looking snacks and sandwiches and an overall communal vibe provide the perfect space to get things done. Another bonus: local art! (and it's actually pretty good)

    (5)

  • Camille D.

    I want to like this place, but every time I leave frustrated. An extremely expensive latte takes about 20 minutes to appear. The staff is nice enough but always seem overwhelmed or confused by the orders they are making. If you do come, stay awhile. While the space can be a bit challenging to find a seat in, you are always richly rewarded by being surrounded by the energy of Kendall's best out talking up their new companies. While the coffee is good, the time commitment is definitely not worth it, if you aren't sticking around for the afternoon.

    (3)

  • Shaina P.

    Props to the wonderful art on the walls and in my latte, the bright mornings, the friendly staff. The unfinished look of the space itself screams for the featured art (nerd nouveau, well put, Damien) to carry it to a higher level, but the random permanent finishes of B&W patterns on the coffee bar (for me) clashes with the vibe and makes the unfinished look feel unintentional. This establishment lends itself better to patient coffee appreciators and people who plan to stay for the long haul, not for the local business peeps. As I frequent Voltage during the work week, I am busy and therefore wish to drink my coffee faster... and eat my breakfast sandwich faster (whose health factor is reflected in its unfortunately bland flavor... give me melted cheese and a little salt; something to hold this mammoth sandwich together!). I guess I'm left wanting much more than the single brewed java and more than even the beautiful Iggy's bread. As the art helps to elevate the feel of the space, may the coffee and food be elevated (by something more), too!

    (3)

  • Damaris S.

    I love... love... LOVE Voltage's coffee and hot chocolate. I have not tried the food here... so this review is limited to the drinks. But as far as coffee goes, especially the flavored lattes, they are excellent. They serve them hot or cold, your choice. I tried them all, and you can't really go wrong on your choice. In the summer, try their lemonade (freshly squeezed)... it is very refreshing. My favorite flavored latte: Beyond the Sea, with caramel and sea salt. mmm. Atticus Finch is very popular. Madame X is pretty awesome too. Extras: The art display is a bonus. I really like the one on display right now, Danielle Festa: Dress Code. Very interesting works of art, which consists in paintings with added textiles for a very cool effect. It just gives the impression the subject is coming out of the 2D world to transition into the 3D. Back to reviewing Voltage, the ambiance is laid back, with good service. There is plenty of sitting indoors, with a few tables outdoors, perfect for days like today.

    (5)

  • Deanna D.

    Lovely café with delicious and artfully poured lattes! The café & art concept is nice...maybe a bit trendy but cool. The space is clean, simply decorated, bright, and roomy. The order process was quick and seating was plentiful. The barista was friendly and made a lovely vanilla with burnt sugar latte and cappuccino. The prices are reasonable for the quality of coffees. The banana chips & squash cake were also good. They even have ceramic drip coffee which is great. Overall a great find which is walking distance from Kendall Sq. and it's even open till 7pm which is pretty late for the area. I will definitely be back!

    (5)

  • Chris M.

    this place is right by my work. It's super swank and artsy. Their drink list is all sorts of sophisticated, and they have symbols for each one of their drinks. I had vanilla and burnt sugar, it was called Ace----something or other.. It was delicious. Though ordering here makes ordering a quad pump triple venti skinny soy latte from starbucks easy. I kind of just stood at the register and was like, can i get a latte, and can i get it with vanilla. She then pointed to some card and was like "oh this" I was like sounds good. And it was good. It's a place that takes coffee making as seriously. So they earn their business, and you get what you are paying for. If you are a coffee snob, this is the place to go. I'm 10 percent hipper for having purchased a drink from there.

    (5)

  • Shirin K.

    May be the best coffee I ever had. Vanilla, burnt sugar flavor is unreal. Not too sweet. Def coming back!

    (5)

  • Neal K.

    This is just a review of their cold-brew coffee. It is pretty bland and watery.

    (2)

  • Lisa S.

    I'm glad that this place didn't exist a few years ago when I was in college- I would have been here every day to buy some of their "exotic" lattes! I got the chance to try Voltage after my sister sent me a Gilt City deal for 10 free lattes or hot chocolates. The decor is a bit unassuming inside, very open and minimal. There wasn't one big menu displayed, which confused us, but a few smaller menus scattered around the counter. I ordered the atticus finch (vanilla with burnt sugar) and my friend ordered the madame x (earl grey infused white chocolate ganache). Each were regularly $3.50 for 8oz and $4 for 12oz. I told the barista I couldn't have dairy- and he knew exactly which toppings had dairy in it, and made my latte with soy milk instead of regular milk. Their food choices were limited, but my friend ordered the toast with jam ($3). They also had two panini specials, and both sounded absolutely amazing. We sat down- there were lots of tables and they were spread out. I saw a good number of people working on their laptops. Overall, it was quiet (my friend and I were probably the loudest- sorry people who were working!). Both our lattes were delicious and just got better as we kept drinking. The toast came out and was HUGE and the bread was thick and amazing. If you don't like jam, it also had options to come with agave & salt or cinnamon sugar. The artwork kind of freaked us out- they do rotations of artists in the area. We sat next to this picture of a rainbow with what looked like 3 rabid zombies eating the innards of a horse (literally, the innards were being pulled out of the horse with flies buzzing around them). While entertaining, it's not quite what I wanted to be looking at while eating and drinking. Overall, definitely a great place! I would definitely come often if I worked or lived in Kendall Square. It would be great if they could display a big menu somewhere, and offer more food choices.

    (4)

  • Yuki S.

    Their latte is very different from others. The flavor is biter but the taste is mild.

    (4)

  • Marilyn C.

    I heart this place. I liked it the first time I went and then the second time I found out about the chocolate covered pretzels and that's when it became love. The staff is so nice and I think the whole idea of the place is cool. I also live right nearby so it is very convenient to pop in every now and then. It is such a neat space for events - I haven't been to an event here, but I just feel that way about it haha. Maybe I am just jealous of when I walk home and it looks like there is some sort of event happening there and I want in on it?

    (5)

  • Jade R.

    Maybe I just didn't order the right thing.... I was just definitely not WOWed, and to be quite honest, a little sad... I ordered an 8 oz Mocha which ended up costing me $4.50. (.50 is tip). Thats ABSURD! It wasn't even the best I've had.... it was actually pretty mediocre. Ugh. I am willing to give this place another try, but I think I need to read other Yelper's suggestions and pick something on the more unique side... maybe then I'll bump up the stars. *** The service was great though. Very personable.

    (2)

  • Meg B.

    Art can be expressed with food and painting. I have been wanting to come here for months ever since I heard it opened. I finally trucked it over to Kendall since I had some studying to do. First and foremost: look for the doorway on the side. It is not located in the front where one would expect. I almost made a comedic entrance...or an attempt at one. The staff is very friendly and patient considering my indecisiveness because now that I was finally there I was overwhelmed with what choice to make of the eccentric lattes. I didn't want to be lame the Magpie or the Atticus because they seemed to be a latte flavor you could find at any other coffee shop. Fail. I totally chose the Atticus-Burnt Sugar and Vanilla. Amazing? yes. I was also starving and got their paninni (no spellcheck for that one) with fig. I'm not a lover for bread...but damn Flour you have competition. After I finished my latte I was tempted to go for another. But I have to keep my mind and wallet in check. Till we meet again Voltage...I have the Eclipse flavor in mind- ginger & coconut.

    (5)

  • Jenessa C.

    The salted caramel latte has large chunks of salt that were surprising at first, but overall the drink was delicious. A delicate design was crafted into the top of my drink. Staff was friendly & knowledgable. The atmosphere was an art gallery, which was fun. They close early on the weekends, so it is obvious most of the clientele is business people from the office buildings nearby during the week.

    (3)

  • Nan A.

    Returned on a week day, good mix of business and cerebral pursuits and various kinds of seating with open and more enclosed nooks, large conference tables for groups, high and low tables for pairs and solos, seating for privacy, seating near windows for people watching, new art and artistic subtle sophisticated beverages. I tried the Italian soda drink with lime and agave, with decorative shavings of lime rind on top. So refreshing, I could ALMOST give up coffee for these.

    (5)

  • Ziad E.

    I love the type of coffee at voltage coffee. They are a real coffee house that selects their beans and takes pride in every brew. The only other place nearby is Tata's which in terms of tastes sucks. It can get busy at times is the only downside!

    (5)

  • Nik B.

    Offering a variety of flavored lattes, Voltage is a refreshing change of pace. In an age where the latte art is becoming too common, Voltage supplements it with flavor. I ordered the Kitsch and the Cactus. It was a very inspired latte featuring lime peel and agave. A word to the newcomer - if you want to taste the flavor throughout your drink, destroy the latte art and stir! Needless, to say, most of my drink tasted like a normal latte. When I got to the bottom, it was a mix of stark espresso and sweetened lime. Regardless of the mixing job, the taste was incredible. I'd never have thought to mix lime with espresso, but Voltage pulled it off. The other plus: real visual art in addition to your late art. The walls are plastered with pieces from different artists, allowing Voltage to serve as an artists gallery in addition to coffee shop. The only complaint I have about Voltage: not open late enough! What is it with all the cafes in Boston shutting down so early? Where do all these academics go to get their study on late at night? The library? Lame.

    (4)

  • Glenn M.

    Its decent enough, a good place in the area to get tea. Not being a coffee drinker, they have an awesome mellow "Greek Mint". They also do blooming tea if you're in to that sort of thing.

    (4)

  • Sarah G.

    Do you love fancy lattes??? Do you love sitting in a cafe where you can't actually hear the other people next to you typing on their laptops or talking about their lives while you are trying to focus on your own work or your coversation with your friend? And Do you love cool art to stare at as you ponder your life while sipping an awesomely delcious latte?? Well if you said yes to those things, then Voltage Cafe is for you. This place is pretty cool and I wish there were more places like this in the area. They have one of the best latte lists I have ever seen where they use sea salt and caramel and other fun things infused into their latte creations, almost as if those lattes themselves are an additional piece of art to add to this cafe. Because all around you are pieces of real artwork that often change and provide great conversation pieces as well as decor for the cafe too. And they even have free wifi here too! Seems pretty perfect right? Well they do have limited hours and because they actually spread out the tables so you aren't breathing right on top of each other, you may make the trek out here to this cafe and not find a table right away. BUT if you are lucky enough to get a table, trust me when I say taking in those extra calories for one of their lattes is totally worth it.

    (4)

  • Jean B.

    I feel pretty lucky to have this place right near where I live. Exceptional low-key service, truly beautiful coffees. Hipster zen.

    (5)

  • Ethan R.

    Hipsters / Artisan Espresso / Art. If you've ever been to Barefoot Coffee in Santa Clara, this is the East Coast equivalent. And I love Barefoot. I highly recommend their Agave syrup drink here.

    (5)

  • Ben F.

    The coffee is good. However, "sullen hipsters" captures it to a tee. There's five hipsters behind the bar, three people ahead of me, and I just waited 13 minutes for a basic latte. It takes a pretty good coffee to be worth a 13 min wait. It had better be extraordinary, which this coffee is not.

    (2)

  • Clare F.

    VERY good quality coffee. In a sea of Au Bon Pain and Starbucks, Voltage really delivers. An added bonus are the $1 scoop snacks - chocolate covered almonds, animal crackers, banana chips. I just wish that the scoop amounts would be equal. It was VERY obvious that management instructed the barista to make the chocolate almond 'scoop' a mere half scoop, and to load up on the animal crackers.

    (4)

  • Samuel F.

    I really like the lattes at this place, and for those who like a bit of the syrupy-sweet, they have cutely-named flavor combos to enhance your latte or hot chocolate. Good selection of pastries, too. It's a cute cafe in general, and a pleasant place to hang out.

    (4)

  • Patrick S.

    The coffee is really good but there is definitely that boutique coffee shop--over-pierced-if-you're-not-like-me-you-suck air about many of the employees. It's too bad because it's nice to see a local business with better quality than some place like Starbucks, but the employees need to be a little more tolerant of diersity - when someone simply wants an iced coffee one shouldn't roll their eyes and send them to Dunkin Donuts.

    (3)

  • Mike B.

    solid cup o java...whether you like fancy or "tweaked flavors" or not ...they still make high quality, artisan style coffee. I'm a fan of anyone who treats their job as a craft and they clearly do! Guess what, America DOES NOT run on dunkin'! i wouldn't even get out of bed if it were my only option for coffee. (sorry dunkin' lovers, just being honest) check out these 2 exotic lattes: DEVIL MAY CARE - molasses and lemon zest BEYOND THE SEA - my fav, caramel and sea salt. perfect!

    (5)

  • Sushmita M.

    Voltage now has beer, wine, AND opens on Sundays. Congratulations, you win every star.

    (5)

  • Stephanie F.

    This place is a treat for me. First, for $4/latte for an 8oz cup, that IS a luxury! But the artistry of the drinks is what you pay for. Like, a cardamom-rose water and honey latte, or , an early grey white chocolate latte, or vanilla and burnt sugar one (these are the ones that I've had that I totally recommend.) Want to know how much I love this place? For a week, hubster and me were being really good about french pressing our coffees at home and saving on our caffeine bill. On that Friday when we realized we were nearing the end of our bag and that we were getting a late start to our day, I proposed the idea of treating ourselves to a luxurious cup of Voltage latte. We both drive to East Cambridge, get kind of unlucky trying to find a spot, and agree to park in the metered spots in front of the café. I'd stay in the car, while he ordered our lattes. As I play on my phone I realize on my FourSquare check-in you can get 50% off (PS: tip alert!), got excited and ran into the café to show him and maybe save some money for us. Well, for the two minutes I was in the café a stupid Cambridge police guy starts writing me a parking ticket even when I ran out and told him I'd move the car right away (which I did). Our Voltage trip ended up costing $33. Though I reeeeeeally hate paying for parking tickets (who does anyway?), I must say... the coffee was totally worth it. I just wish I had gotten the 12 oz instead because my frustration at the Popo tired me out.

    (5)

  • Wilma E.

    I fly like paper, get high like planes -- if you catch me at the border I got voltage to my name. Yes, the paper plane is where it is at! Truthfully, there's not a bad tasting beverage in the house. Try them all. This is place is great. The art is a little scary and I swear I saw this white man who looked just like one of those paintings.

    (5)

  • Louis G.

    Chill atmosphere, no attitude, fresh morning brew.

    (3)

  • Deb E.

    Great lattes. A little pricey, but it is a cool atmosphere. Colorful artwork and colorfully painted walls contrast really nicely with the wooden tables. If you can get a seat (hard to do during peak times), there is plenty of space to spread out with a laptop or papers.

    (4)

  • Benjamin O.

    Okay coffee, wildly overpriced. $4 for a small cup of pourover coffee?? Maybe this is the norm for Boston; compare this to Philz pour-over on the west coast and you have the choice of a couple dozen better tasting blends, and the same cup is $3, or $4 for a cup twice the size of Voltage. No smile from the hipster taking the orders and my life savings. If Philz makes it out here, this place is toast.

    (2)

  • Misty S.

    It's nice to have a local coffee option in Kendall. A colleague and I tried Voltage today and I will be happy to go back. They have 3 cute menus- one with "standard" coffee, one with their extensive and creative latte and hot chocolate menu, and a tea menu as well. I got a large americano (large is 12 oz, small is 8oz) with house made "burnt sugar" syrup. It's very, very smooth and comforting. My colleague got a coconut ginger latte. She said it was tasty and not overbearingly sweet. We also got a package of animal crackers which my friend described as "fricken' incredible". Slightly pricey. 8oz lattes, which are very small, are $3.50 and 12 oz lattes are $4. The atmosphere is nice- clean and bright with some artwork and a sitting area.

    (4)

  • Chris D.

    Fantastic fantastic fantastic. Coffee/espresso nerds should add Voltage to their 'must visit' list. My new place to work/drink and manage time in between meetings in Cambridge whenever I venture out from the warm embrace of the home office in roslindale. Today I spent every dollar in my wallet trying 12oz versions of their bespoke latte creations. I'd stick around to try the pour-over single cup brewed coffee as well but I need to function and speak coherently at an important meeting this afternoon. Will be back.

    (5)

  • Eunice R.

    Why I Love Voltage 1) Specialty Lattes at ~$3. So reasonable! The "Paper Plane" is especially good. 2) Latte Art that actually looks good. 3) High ceilings. Thank you Lord. I can breathe clean air. Voltage doesn't have that "cozy" coffee shop atmosphere that I'm not too fond of. 4) New art every few days. 5) Awesome service. 6) Right next to a super delicious Mediterranean wrap place. 7) Even though WiFi isn't free, they give you the code. $4 = 120 min. Besides, you shouldn't be mooching off free internet. *Note: Get coffee at a coffee house. Probably not the best idea to get paninis, italian soda, etc. here.

    (5)

  • Gale S.

    I have to preface this review with the fact that I know little about coffee besides that I like to drink it and I like it strong & hot. I also don't like it sweet, which made the following a true "challenge." My coworker decided we should challenge ourselves to drink all of the Voltage specialty lattes and hot chocolates in the month of December. These are gourmet drinks sweetened with fresh herbs, infused syrups, and even citrus rinds, among other things. I'll keep it as brief as possible and rank each drink (1 high, 11 low), with a brief comment for those notably good or less good. 1) "Beyond the Sea" - Homemade caramel & salt - There is nothing fancy or complicated about this drink. It is just delicious. Rich caramel flavor. Salt is an afterthought that I enjoyed. 2) "Madame X" - Earl Grey infused white chocolate - Not as sweet as anticipated in a good way. Strong tea flavor complemented by creamy white chocolate. Complex, layered flavor. 3) "Plaid Jacket" - Fresh peppermint hot chocolate - Subtly minty, no toothpaste! 4) "The Eclipse" - Coconut w Ginger - Strong ginger taste. Instant re-belief in the challenge after prickly cactus (see below). Coconut adds sweetness but lacks flavor. 5) "Atticus Finch" - Vanilla with burnt sugar 6) "Besos Fuertes" - Ginger root hot chocolate 7) "Paper Plane" - Cardamon rose water with honey - Simple rose/honey flavor. Smooth to drink but does not stand out. 8) "The Theiving Magpie" - Traditional almond rapture - Very traditional 9) "Midnight Sun" - Cinnamon & capsicum hot chocolate 10) "Kitch & the Cactus" - Lime peel and agave - Oddly sweet and sour. Consensus is that citrus does not belong in coffee. Even hipster coffee. 11) "Devil May Care" - Molasses with lemon - Smells like tomato sauce. First taste reminiscent of a lemony mixed drink. Needless to say, not a fan. The real test will be what I order when I go back. I think it'll be a plain latte, and I think it'll be delicious.

    (4)

  • Raf S.

    This may be my favorite Cafe in Boston, hands down. The typical, cozy cafe atmosphere has been traded for the space and sunny natural light of an art gallery. Usually there are oodles of seating available due to the fact that it's still a relatively under-the-radar place. Oh, and the coffee and lattes are high end, no other way to put it; the baristas truly really care about how well crafted each drink is. However, this being said, don't skimp on the tip!

    (5)

  • Tracie B.

    I had an excellent fig and cheese sandwich there the other day while in Cambridge for work. The coffee was also very good and even though I ordered it about a half hour after my sandwich, the staff remembered my name. My only disappointment is the WiFi set up; you need to purchase time through a 3rd party vendor. In this day and age when free WiFi is everywhere, it was a bit of a surprise and hassle.

    (4)

  • Emma T.

    I love this place! The atmosphere is awesome and so is the staff. I stop in just about every morning for my coffee and scone fix. There lunch and breakfast sandwiches are so tasty, and at a great price.Great place to go and do homework or just hang out. If you are running late or in a hurry I would have to say, come back another time. They take their time making the coffee drinks, which I think is a good thing, but hard when you are in a hurry. .

    (5)

  • Colin F.

    I've been told, repeatedly, that I need to learn to walk past a coffee shop. I rarely-- ever?-- walk past Voltage. Of the cambridge/greater boston greats, this is my favorite stop. I've had sips of friends' lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos, but I don't come here for the espresso(it's good, though-- and at voltage, every barista is a good barista). I come here for the brewed coffee. I have had pour-over and cold brew at Dwelltime, High Rise(Mass Ave), Barismo, Thinking Cup and many others in the area. And the ones I just listed? I only have nice things to say. I love 'em all. But I love Voltage the best. The difference is in the selection and the legitimate enthusiasm. Every member of the staff has an unpretentious love of the coffee. And it was at Voltage that I was introduced to Coava, a specialty roaster I've now gotten orders from(Girasoles-- and they roast and ship to order!). My understanding is they don't serve it elsewhere in the area. And believe me, I go to a lot of coffee shops in the area. As far as the brews go, they seem to prefer the floral/fruity/delicate end of the spectrum(of what I've been able to sample, all Latin). Gentle acidities and a general lack of bassy oomph(not the roasty kind, I mean the partially washed nonfermented bassiness of a strong east asian coffee). The lighter, sweeter(sometimes tart) end of the coffee spectrum. That works for me. Very much in line with my preference. I can't wait until we get some great African coffees at Voltage-- Barismo just brought Ethiopian coffee back into the fold. One last note: Great customer service is hard to find in the specialty coffee arena. It just is. And I'm exactly the kind of super friendly dude that gets eyerolls from pretentious baristas. Voltage does not have this problem. They are awesome, to the last person-- I'm sure that's all thanks to Lucy, the owner, who has one of the best customer service smiles you've ever seen(I've seen her flash it at folks who're downright rude, and seen them reciprocate). That's probably the most valuable talent of all, right there. I know it's a long review. But they really are that good.

    (5)

  • Andy M.

    The coffee is decent. The space is nice. But I have to say the service is sub-par. The baristas aren't overly pleasant. Worse than that, the wait is ALWAYS long. They usually just have one barista making espresso drinks.

    (3)

  • Benjamin N.

    Best coffee and cappuccinos I've found yet. Amazing breakfast sandwiches as well, and the friendliest service around. What else can I say?

    (5)

  • Ike S.

    Cool art, great coffee. For some reason the interior isn't too comfy to sit in for that long, but its still a lot of fun to walk around and check out art while sipping a delicious espresso. Well crafted coffees!

    (5)

  • wing n.

    coffee is great, the space is awesome! love the art and the environment : )

    (4)

  • Amy L.

    They had pretty interesting lattes. I got the earl grey one and it was pretty good though a bit pricey. Their earl grey tea was okay and came in loose leaf though the pot was pretty stained. I got the fig, onion, and cheese panini which was palatable but not that good. Overall I wasn't very wowed. My opinion of it teetered around a 3.5 but service wasn't that great. The shop itself is very pretty, though. It's surrounded by glass and seems to be a good place to study or people-watch.

    (3)

  • Lisa L.

    Voltage isn't a place to go when you're in a hurry. The line is long and, worse, they are understaffed. I've waited 20 minutes for a latte before. That said, that latte was damn good. Were it not, I wouldn't be giving this place 5 stars. I dare say this is the best coffee in the entirety of Cambridge - I can find nowhere which begins to compare. Their beans and brewing method are uniquely perfect. I'm usually a purist, but Voltage makes the most delicious flavored lattes ever. I recommend the "beyond the sea" latte, but their espresso is also unparalleled.

    (5)

  • Cwot W.

    I like it. They pour drip coffee for each individual cup and the menu is simple. Plus everyone working here dresses in the same fashion. Like a Robert Palmer video. Great stuff!

    (5)

  • Christopher C.

    One of the best cafes in the Boston area. A really nice space, wi-fi that works, and great coffee. Great coffee!

    (5)

  • Patty P.

    This coffee shop is my new favorite and the best is East Cambridge! The speciality drinks are delicious and have great names. The toast breakfast dish is large and really scrumptious and the service is friendly and helpful. The art also makes it a destination. My father and I go to peruse the great talent and drink amazing coffee what else can you ask for?

    (5)

  • Brittany M.

    I feel the need to comment because of the few negative responses I've read! I can't believe anyone would down talk this place on their coffee. Perhaps the service, if someone was having an off day (just like anywhere else) but every drink I've had here was on point. I've had a Guatemala pour-over, the Beyond the Sea latte and the Devil May Care latte. The flavours are all quite subtle but the combinations are really unique and interesting. We dicked around talking to the the few people behind the counter and all of them seemed nice enough. The barista today actually ended up being the owner and told us all about her history with coffee and what inspired her to open the place and stuff. All in all the put up with us, they have a great atmosphere and delicious coffee. I will be back!

    (4)

  • Apolinaras S.

    Great espresso, nice staff, but they really need to re-think seating. 3 times I have been there, twice there was nowhere to sit.

    (4)

  • David P.

    This is a gem of a coffeehouse. Pour over coffees, delicious flavored lattes... my favorite is the vanilla with burnt sugar. The toast with jam is delicious and will fill you up. Prices are very reasonable. I love that there is always art to look at, and the music they play is good / appropriate. Oh- and there's free Wifi. Check this place out before it becomes better known and near impossible to get a seat on a weekend afternoon. This is easily my new favorite weekend work place.

    (5)

  • michael l.

    The space was open and well lit. Contemporary art decorated the walls and indie rock music played in the background. I stayed for a couple hours and relaxed. I generally try to avoid flavored coffees, but I had to try since it seemed to be their specialty. I ordered the vanilla burnt sugar latte. It was pleasingly not as sweet as I expected and the flavor was not overpowering, but still too much of a change for my taste. The hand poured coffee of my neighbor smelled really good and next time I'll definitely go back to try that to please the conservative coffee drinker in me.

    (4)

  • Sara G.

    oh no, where am i supposed to stand, there's no cattle-herding lane markers... turns out, it's quite nice, to walk in and figure out that you just stand at the bar and a nice barista comes over to help you. coffee is not poured from a pony-keg of coffee that has been sitting there for god only knows how long. coffee is fresh brewed, in a single filter lined device, for your soon to be caffeinated body to enjoy. my 8 oz coffee was $2, which, might seem expensive to some, but it was tasty, so i didn't mind. how much is burnt starbucks coffee anyway? let's keep it in perspective, people. the store space is clean, bright, and had a few art pieces hanging on the wall. i think they just opened this week, or recently, but i can see real potential with the space, if they choose to hang more art pieces. above all, the staff was friendly and nice, and those two attributes rank extremely high with me. thanks for the 2pm pick-me-up, Voltage, I'll be back!

    (4)

  • Anushka A.

    I'm at Voltage as we speak--- I live close by and have passed by it a few times and peeking in it looked like a funky little coffee shop with art- nice combo. Decided to skip the starbucks and venture here instead. they had a women's event going on (every thurs am- nice touch) and lots of open space and lovely light pouring through. The barista was great (awesome energy) and even let me smell the teas before making my selection! Take that- starbucks!! Now on to enjoy my scoop of Animal Cracker snacks- yum. Wish they took American Express but overall I'll be coming back here again soon. :)

    (4)

  • C C.

    I feel like I never had a real cappuccino until today! Starbucks, D&D go weep!! The foam on top was so dense and rich and the complexity of the flavors in the espresso astounded me! I wish they sold some sort of delectable pastries to accompany..

    (5)

  • Kathryn H.

    Voltage is wonderful. The staff is super friendly and the drinks are always perfect. I love the tea selection. Only a few things I'd say need improvement... I wish they had more hours and were open on Sundays as well as having more seating.

    (5)

  • Jerry H.

    Best cappuccino in Kendall Square (and probably Cambridge). along with thinking cup in Boston my 2 favorites.

    (5)

  • Jake D.

    One of the best in Cambridge - high quality beans and milk and competent barista's create great shots and macchiatos.

    (5)

  • K. O.

    I love the idea of a coffee shop in the area and the drinks are fantastic. Unfortunately for me, though, a good coffee shop requires some comfy couches and the seats here are far from comfy. But as one of the only independent coffee shops in the area, I try to support it when possible.

    (3)

  • Amy L.

    The baristas are extremely friendly. The latte flavors are unique. I love the paper airplane. I have been here 5 time already never had any bad coffee or hot chocolate. Sometime it does get crowded but it is worth it. The curry yam panini is yummy!

    (5)

  • Greg N.

    We were staying at the Kendall Hotel looking for a good coffee on a rainy Easter weekend. Found this on Yelp and had a great experience. Super nice staff that let us sample some flavors before we selected our latte. Friendly chat while we waited.

    (4)

  • Chris B.

    Best soy lattes in Cambridge -- they use soy milk that isn't too sweet, and are expert at doing latte art with it too. Kudos!

    (5)

  • Michelle A.

    I tend to prefer cozier coffee shops but was pleasantly surprised by Voltage. The service was excellent, as was my tea. Everything also seemed very reasonably priced, and I enjoyed the lighting.

    (4)

  • Jen S.

    If I was a local, I'd definitely come here regularly to get some work done and hang out with friends. Their coffee and lattes are super unique because they're named after authors and they taste delicious. If you appreciate the arts and shops with cool designs, you'll love walking in and just roaming around the various rooms. When the hubs and I got our drinks two things bummed me out: 1) I asked for it in a to-go cup but they put it in a regular cup. 2) The latte design looked more like a scribble.. so I felt kind of jipped from the "experience" Yet, the cashier was kind and it tasted scrumptious.

    (4)

  • Kara N.

    I would have given it 5 stars purely for the aesthetic, but the baristas could have been a bit friendlier and I found their lattes to be a bit bitter. A plus for creativity in specialty drinks, just came a bit short for me taste-wise. Overall, it is in a super convenient location, is a great place to get some work done and grab a snack or two. I would recommend to a friend.

    (4)

  • Katherine H.

    Their coffee specials are great and it's also a good spot to stop in for a plain coffee as well! Really high quality and a nice atmosphere if you want to sit and read or work for a while. The breakfast food is pretty good too - they have crepes and sandwiches and everything came out reasonably quickly!

    (5)

  • Jane L.

    This cafe has diverse selections for the coffee so visiting here multiple times will provide you the "real" vibe of this place. I enjoy picking the random books from the bookshelf and reading it while drinking the coffee. The artistic coffee is always plesant to look at and to drink.

    (5)

  • Danielle G.

    The lack of friendliness and disappointing baked goods will unfortunately keep me from becoming a repeat customer. Don't get me wrong, the coffee was VERY good. Definitely 5-star good. But the coffee-shop experience I love just wasn't there. Baristas seemed a little smug and I've had much better pastries elsewhere. I wanted to love it, but it just wasn't happening.

    (3)

  • Tanya S.

    This place is very enjoyable. Quality pours, delicious lattes (my friends who only drink black coffee love lattes here). I've really enjoyed their flowering tea and jasmine tea. Delicious, subtle flavors. That being said, it is pretty expensive, and I just got used to Starbucks prices. Guess you also pay for the experience. Service has been friendly whenever we stop by after lunch. Customers seem chatty and friendly too.

    (4)

  • Naomi B.

    If you're longing for an escape from Dunkin Donuts, and dream of craft espressos, then make sure to stop by Voltage. I stumbled upon this shop while apartment hunting a few years back, and really enjoyed one of their specialty lattes. You won't find a standard Starbucks list of drinks here which is really refreshing, especially for an enthusiast like moi! The baristas treat each order like a work of art, which make the prices completely justifiable. I recommend going out of your way to visit Voltage.

    (4)

  • Allison H.

    A year later, and I still love Voltage! If anything, I think they've stepped up their game. A few thoughts: COFFEE+ART: The coffee is amazing. I'm sipping a Kitch and the Cactus Iced Latte and feeling very happy indeed. The art right now is also gorgeous, definitely worth coming to sit and enjoy the ambience. FOOD OFFERINGS: In the last year or so, Voltage has tried their hand at making some savories to complement their bakery sweets. I've been disappointed in almost all of their food-fare EXCEPT for the breakfast sandwich on Iggy's 7-grain bread. I would have attached a pic, but it was so delicious I ate it before I got around to it...womp, womp. If you're looking for a food to go with the coffee, I'd recommend that, but the crepes have a kind of slimey texture that I don't enjoy. HOURS: My only complaint is with the (no longer new) weekend business hours -- closing at 3pm is a huge bummer for me, because I love to work and drink their coffee on the weekends, and it sucks to get kicked out when you're being productive. If Voltage could take their food offerings to the next level and stay open late, I'd probably never leave this place. So maybe they're holding out to ensure I maintain my social life. The super friendly and talented staff are always thinking of the customer :)

    (5)

  • Nique F.

    Coffeeshop jackpot! Voltage really has it all with their modern sunny space, creative latte menu, scrumptious and afforable breakfast items, art-filled walls, and free wifi. I had the Plaid Jacket latte, infused with cardamom and ginger. Kind of like a dirty chai, but more subtle. Even more delicious was the egg-avo-cheese breakfast sandwich on seedy whole grain bread. I was seriously in awe of this bread! There's lots of seating inside & out, and the vibe is chill and welcoming. I stayed for a couple hours to get some work done -- would easily make this my local coffeeshop if I lived in Boston.

    (5)

  • Adam R.

    The specialty lattés are fantastic. Atticus Finch was a bit sweet, but lovely, and I tried another nice one with a unique blend of rosewater, cardamom and honey. (I get the sense that all of the specialty drinks are going to be a bit sweet.) The atmosphere is nice enough and it's a good space to work in. Unfortunately, the employees all seem to fall somewhere between surly and outright rude. I got a smile from one woman who took my order after a fair amount of happy small talk, but the rest all walk around with attitude and a chip on their shoulder. I may pick up a drink to go because it's close to where I'm staying, but I don't plan to spend any more time there. Hardly the most expensive cafe around, but not worth that kind of experience.

    (2)

  • Helena C.

    Was really surprised by all the flavors of beans they offered for their lattes. It got me really excited when I ordered one that had essences of ginger and molasses. The flavors weren't too evident though when you drink it. And maybe this is my bad - but I wasn't expecting it to be as sweet as it was. It wasn't overly sweet either. What I mean is that I was expecting to taste more of the bean and essences rather than the fact that it just tasted lightly sweet. The latte still tasted good though.

    (4)

  • Sharon Z.

    Safe haven from the rainy biting cold of Boston winters. A slice of sanctuary away from one of the busiest squares in Boston. Stumbled upon t his coffee before a customer site visit this morning after a long drive and a freezing cold walk in the gloomy rain, desperately seeking some mandatory morning coffee/breakfast and a place for to do some pre-work work. Name sounded familiar from mentions in the past, a coffee shop and an art gallery, what could go wrong? Modern, clean, minimalist design with displays of art along the walls, a large book shelf in the back of the cafe with books encompassing everything and anything. A cup of mocha with some art on top, delicious and not overly sweet. A cup of granola with dried apricot and pistachio, slightly roasted and tasted like perfection with lingering smell in the nostril and its rustic aftertaste on the taste buds. Love.

    (5)

  • Mary T.

    Art gallery+coffee shop? That's double the awesome! I was excited to try this place and I had high expectations, but I was kind of let down because it seemed like a regular small-size coffee shop with some featured artwork. I like their concept, but I wish it was executed better. They should display more artwork. I guess I am comparing this place to another art gallery/cafe in LA that I used to frequent when I lived in LA and I imagined this place to be like that. I got a latte and the price is pretty standard here. I thought my latte had a strong bitter-y finish and it was too fruity and acidic for my liking. Maybe they over-extracted the coffee. Overall, it was not bad. This place is nice to go for a coffee date or catch up on some work/study.

    (3)

  • Susanna L.

    Wow this cafe is such a great find! Tons of seating, free wifi, lots of natural light, in a beautifully decorated space that feels at once artistic and homey at the same time. Came on a wed afternoon and there were a lot of people but it still felt quiet enough to study. Also have specialty flavor lattes, sandwiches, pastries, and crepes. Perfection!

    (5)

  • Court S.

    I love places like this. Being in the area I needed to check off another bookmark so I decided to stop in and grab an iced mocha and check this place out. I think the concept is genius. Two of my favorite things, coffee and art under one roof. Being an artist myself I greatly appreciate the modern & colorful art pieces that are on display throughout the cafe. There is also a large section of books on the back wall that are guaranteed to keep you engaged for hours. There seems to be plentiful seating, but on the day that I came (Monday 3pm-ish) every table and chair were occupied. My guess was that these people have been planted there for hours. Shoot, I would be too. Other notes: -Metered street parking. -Outside seating. -The coffee bar station is an old fashion card catalog. It's really cool and nostalgic. -My iced mocha was rich with a deep, smooth dark chocolatey flavor. -The employees had indifferent personalities. Not too friendly, but not too unfriendly. I'm guessing they're artists. I've been around enough artists to know when their experiencing a creative block...similar to what I'm going through at the moment. -Overall cool space to hang out, get some work done, people watch, get inspiration, etc.

    (4)

  • Mel C.

    I'm updating my review because unfortunately the Voltage of 2014 isn't the Voltage of 2012. There has been some noticeable turnover in the baristas at Voltage. Service has worsened in quality and efficiency (I know it's Monday morning but you can pretend to be nice for 5 seconds while you take my order). I agree with the general sentiment here that a coffee shouldn't take 15 minutes, especially even if there are only 2 people in front of you. The owner is still great. The staff, eh. The coffee is still (generally, except this 1 barista who is pretty bad) excellent though. The lattes aren't a Starbucks sugar bomb and the iced coffee is nice. Same with the art. I appreciate the artists and supporting the local scene. Yes, Tatte is across the street. Yes, I will sometimes pop over to Tatte when I know that if I wait at Voltage I will be late for work. Still, there's something about the Madame X that will keep me coming back despite the dip in customer service. Oh, +1 for LevelUp.

    (3)

  • Billie W.

    Came here for a meeting and had the Thieving Magpie. Great presentation, awesome decor, good coffee. My only complaints: the lines do get long, and seats are hard to find, my latte design came out meh.

    (4)

  • Fifi B.

    I know I always do 5 or 4 stars, but that's because I only write reviews on things I like. Anyway, I come here a lot and I love everyone and everything. My favorite drink is paper airplane and my favorite person is Lucy. Come here if you're into drinks with designs that are full of flavor.

    (5)

  • N A.

    Used to be nice. Horrendously slow service, with pretentious baristas. Too busy to move service along and too quick to complain because the line is forming...

    (1)

  • Grace C.

    Interesting takes on lattes, I don't usually like to drink or eat flowery things but if you're feeling adventurous, try the one that has rose in it. I like their sandwiches as well - I think they're almost all vegetarian options? Love their art that's showcased and the last time I was their a whole wall was dedicated to stacks of books!

    (5)

  • Matthew B.

    I continue to love working down the street from here. The coffee is phenomenal: especially an iced one on a warm summer day. Some additions: - I still dig the Atticus Finch for it's flavor + caffeine - love their breakfast sandwiches - enjoy a lavender scone now and then Between a great menu, adorable hipster vibe and plenty of seating, I can't help but love every time I'm in here.

    (5)

  • Maria D.

    You generally don't expect a Starbucks aficionado to try local coffee shops, in part because we are so satisfied with our mass-produced, predictably-priced, heavy-milk, low-coffee drinks. Well, I stopped here with a friend, and he trusted my instincts as I ordered. I ordered us both a pour-over (the Costa Rican blend), and the coffee was some of the best I've had in Massachusetts. It still wasn't as strong as I'm used to drinking my coffee, but it was very, very good. If you have $4.00+ and would otherwise go to Starbucks, go to Voltage for your coffee. You won't regret it.

    (4)

  • Jake E.

    I seriously don't understand the hype around this place. I've patronized Voltage two times now and have come away with a decidedly below-average cup of coffee on both occasions. Maybe their fancy artisanal blends are better, but I can assure you that their regular coffee is nothing special. Both times I ordered, I paid double what I would at Starbucks for a cup of coffee that was a mere fraction of the quality. That alone wouldn't warrant a two-star rating, but I have three other grievances with the shop: 1) They have the most bizarre way of making iced coffee. Rather than using small ice cubes or shaved ice, they literally just plop a big block of iced into your drink. And I'm not exaggerating here: the ice is about the size of a small Rubik's Cube, ~2.5 inches on each side, I'd say. The flip side of this is that it takes forever for your drink to cool down (surface area to volume relationships, anyone?), leaving you with a cup of lukewarm coffee that tastes like it's been left out on the counter for several hours. Adding insult to injury, this makes the coffee hard to drink....unless you were to first bore a canal through the ice. 2) The soymilk they have on hand always seems a bit (ahem) stale. Both times I've ordered, I've seen my drink swirl like a snowglobe with white sediment once the soymilk was added. The drink tasted fine, but I think most would agree that's kind of off-putting and suggestive that the expiration date is fast approaching. 3) The employees' attitudes leave much to be desired. I understand they're going for the whole "apathetic hipster ennui" vibe, but it's just too much for me. They just come across as inattentive and rude, in my opinion. I can guarantee that you could walk into any Starbucks (or even most Dunkin Donuts, for that matter), and you will receive better customer service. I almost think it's laughable that they prompt you for a tip if you pay by credit card, but maybe that's just another part of the irony. All totaled, I will definitely not be returning. I gave Voltage another go thinking I went on an off-day the first time and my second experience was even worse than my first. It's just too expensive, and too mediocre to warrant any more of my business.

    (2)

  • Yahor D.

    While being a little pricey, voltage shows a great deal of understanding of coffee culture. A pleasant spot to get your favorite coffee drink and a delicious snack.

    (5)

  • Lauretta L.

    This morning at 8:15 am, I made another check off my Boston bucket list. Woo! In line with my recent goal of breaking out of my comfort zone, I went with the Paper Plane latte, instead of the usual "sea salt and caramel" or "burnt vanilla sugar." How the barista balanced the mild flavors of rose water, cardamom and honey are beyond my mental capacity at 9 am, but I am impressed. Light, soothing and refreshing; you could almost forget that it packs a caffeine jolt. With Scoutmob and Levelup, my morning caffeine was $1.41. The Union Square Donuts were tempting as well (Fridays only) but I resisted this time... Update: tried the breakfast Sammie (7 grain, avocado, egg, cheese and tomato jam) that is served hot off the press. Delish and kept me full for 6 hours!

    (5)

  • Emerson W.

    Oo, so hip. So wanna-be Silicon Valley swag. So Kendall Square. Coffee: A Crapes: A+ Vibes: Yup. Sterile white walls and polished concrete floors meet prime pantones peppered with organic matter art installations and other interesting pieces of dangling artsy decorum (*swoon*). Getting a seat took about 10 minutes, but the wait was worth it. For the size of the space, they could definitely fit a fair amount more tables, but I also like the aesthetic of its spaciousness, not to mention the ample elbow room once my inner conquistador acquired a plot. They have almond milk, which in Boston is apparently a tall order, plus a good list of interesting latte flavors under their "exotics" section, although most are fairly mild and spiced with indistinguishable flavors from far away lands / the market down the street. Having said that, all were very well made, frothy, smooth, and scrumptious. 9/10 would Voltage again.

    (4)

  • Christa S.

    I like this place. The woman with the short blonde hair (she seems like a manager or owner) was super sweet and chatted for a bit with my friend about how they make all their syrups/flavors in-house, for which I extend two thumbs way up.I didn't really check out the art, but the iced mocha that my boyfriend had was really good and so was my pour over. I'd come back the next time I'm in this area (probably to go to the Garment District.)

    (4)

  • Lanya O.

    I love this place. It was not too busy when I got here around 11am on a Wednesday. I got the DELICIOUS salted caramel latte, and the avocado, cheese, and egg sandwich. Both were perfect. I love the atmosphere of this place. There is free 3-hour wifi, lots of outlets, good seating, and is close to the T. I will definitely be back to work here when I'm in Kendall.

    (5)

  • Rachel B.

    Voltage served me probably the best dirty chai of my life. The pastry/food selection seemed limited, but I thought this was okay since that wasn't what I was looking for. The atmosphere is hip but not pretentious, so with all this in mind, I would say Voltage is basically everything you could ask for in a great coffee shop.

    (5)

  • John I.

    A very watery mocha. A major disappointment. Ambiance was OK with clean bathrooms and free wi-fi. Chairs were of adequate comfort and art/book area was nothing worth noting. Sorry. Best of luck in Boston.

    (1)

  • Ditch Q.

    Best Coffee in the area!!! I avoided this place like the plague when they first opened up. I assumed it was some overhyped hipster joint and I would walk by while on my way to another restaurant. How I wish I had stopped! The coffee is amazing! I now come here often to purchase coffee. (To be fair I have never purchased Tea or any food item.) I love the cardamom coffee and the mocha's! They take real care to ensure it is prepared well. I have seen them prepare tea and it is definitely an art! Great coffee house!

    (5)

  • Sha P.

    Cool place and nice decor. I had the crepe and my husband got the breakfast sandwich. It was descent but I wish the portions were a bit larger.

    (3)

  • Andy L.

    Great atmosphere in a gallery-like space. Sleek and inviting at the same time (those two often don't coexist). Breakfast sandwich (on an amazing local english muffin) is hella good! They take the coffee pretty seriously, and feature some local roasters. I got a pourover on each of 2 visits and they were solid though not mind-blowing. (Didn't try the specialty lattes). On my second visit I got the breakfast sandwich again, and the guy who took my order remembered I asked for salt the first time, and provided it without me asking - great service. Locals gather here - this is far from your hectic corporate coffee spot. I'll definitely be back.

    (4)

  • David G.

    Dam good coffee period!

    (4)

  • Natalie J.

    I stopped by Voltage for a post-run coffee date with one of my girlfriends. The ambience was perfect! The walls are lined with unique art and there is even a full wall bookshelf. My friend and I grabbed a window seat to enjoy people watching. She ordered a lavender tea latte, and I ordered a pour over Costa Rican coffee. We both agreed that the ambience was incredible but the drinks were just okay. The place was so cute that I'd probably give it a second chance, but I've had much better coffee at other independent coffee shops around Boston. Also, I have noticed that using an iPad to process payment has become a popular option at many businesses, but it felt like the barista was hovering over me to see if I'd leave a tip (which I did.) It just feels a little awkward.

    (4)

  • Jiyea C.

    I love! Voltage is probably the only reason (so far) I make it to Kendall. (For some reason, Kendall Square remains unconquered territory as my friends and I just end up going into Boston when we head south of Harvard Square on the T.) I've tried a variety of their specialty lattes, and none of them have disappointed! Staff here is friendly and prompt. You get an hour of free WiFi with purchase. I've also noticed that now you can get beer here! Keep your eyes open for a deal on Scoutmob; once in a while Voltage pops up and you can basically get a latte for around $2!

    (4)

  • Jessie W.

    This coffee shop was recommended by a coffee-blogger Lyft driver we had on a work trip in Boston. A month or two later, we happened to walk past it and were not disappointed! I had a delicious latte and a wonderful granola + yogurt breakfast. Would have given five stars if it had some gluten free options :)

    (4)

  • Layla S.

    Best coffee in all of Cambridge. The Crepes are also good! Don't sit outside on a sunny day though -- the glare on the metal tables are blinding. Doesn't stop me from loving this place!

    (5)

  • Stephen S.

    Voltage Coffee & Art offers delicious, creative lattes, in a cozy little cafe in Cambridge. I was impressed that despite being flavorful their lattes come off as neither too sweet nor too overwhelming. I had the eclipse (coconut and ginger). The barista making my latte was super nice and made it up with a smile. It did take a little bit of time, but that's the price for a well-crafted latte. I totally understood, the dude in front of me though was getting all impatient. Chill out man and have one of the best cups of coffee around.

    (4)

  • L. F.

    The regular coffee is too acidic--I have to order espresso drinks to avoid this. I would also second other reviewer's assessments that the baristas are not friendly, there could be more art on the walls, and that the pastries are middling (although, it's nice that they're miniature). The savory and dessert crepes are quite good, if overpriced. Free wifi only lasts two hours.

    (3)

  • Yaz D.

    I'VE NEVER BEEN TREATED WORSE AT A COFFEE SHOP IN MY ENTIRE LIFE: me: iced cofee, no ice please:) cashier: So...you're basically asking for extra coffee. I'm going to have to charge you extra. me: Noooo...I just don't want ice. I've come here almost every day forever, and I've never had to pay extra. Also, no other coffee shop I've ever been to charges..and that's a lot of coffee shops. cashier: Well, I'm not the manager at those other coffee shops. We have really thin margins. I've seen them. me: You have the most expensive coffee in all Cambridge, maybe Boston! cashier: Sorry, you'll have to pay extra. me: Thanks, I'm never coming back here again. Voltage - a word of advice, if you have really thin margins, arguing with loyal customers isn't going to boost them! Teach your managers to respect customers.

    (1)

  • Carla N.

    I really wanted to love this place. The cashier could not have looked more miserable and unwelcoming. I ordered one of their specialty iced coffees with soy milk and a scone. The lavender scone was tasty so one star for that. It turns out they used regular milk in my coffee (I had a hard time telling the difference because of all the additional sweet flavors) and I got VERY sick as I am lactose intolerant. Thanks guys. I get that mistakes happen but that coupled with a bad attitude - I think I'll go elsewhere.

    (2)

  • David B.

    I like the vibe here. Voltage is backed by venture capital, and this place definitely has a startupy kind of feel. While waiting for your pourover drink just close your eyes and listen to the pitches being made to potential investors. However, I'm suspecting they might have used some of their startup funding to develop replicants rather than hire actual humans. My cashier expressed zero emotion during the whole time she took my order. Not even the faintest trace of a smile, or a thank you. I've only had the pourover coffee. It's pretty good--they use porcelain filter cones which improve the flavor, but it was still a bit weak for my taste. And at $4.00 a cup, I'm not sure if it's worth twice the cost of a pourover at Starbucks.

    (3)

  • Yoshi K.

    This place is great! Great ambiance with beautiful and fun drinks. They have a big wall in the back that's full of books ($3 for regular books, $5 for art/coffee table books) and art scattered all over. Really cool stuff. This would be a GREAT place for a first date, or just to hang out and work for a few hours.

    (5)

  • Rude Awakenings From Planet Z.

    short and sweet review. outside of Seattle, this is the ONLY perfect latte you will ever drink AND their crepes are life-affirming. they gladly take credit cards AND have those handy dandy mini-tablet registers which make everything so quick and easy. KUDOS to you! my only advice is, your cafe has "art" in the title, I want those walls packed full of art more so than they are. overall, awesome. go there now! Tell them Rude Awakenings from Planet Z sent you.

    (5)

  • Kevin R.

    Cool coffee shop with plenty of seating. Tried the egg and cheese with onion on English muffin and raspberry jam crepe. Both very tasty. Pour over Ethiopian coffee and loose leaf tea to accompany. Nothing bad to say, would come back for more coffee or goodies.

    (4)

  • Carrie J.

    This is a super clever concept, serve people great coffee and tea and expose them to stimulating art while they work (or meet up with friends) using your free wifi. It really feels like you are sipping your tea in an intimate art gallery, a great change of pace from the hustle and bustle of an average coffee shop. Overall, good food/drinks and a great atmosphere!

    (4)

  • Spencer T.

    Folks, this is the real deal. If you're a coffee snob, art snob, serious about fresh made (in-house blended) teas, cool hip people, and staff who give a damn about your happiness in a cup (and overall well being) this is the place. This is just down the street from me and I'm here often. Great for business meetings, hanging out with friends, investing in some ME time, or simply finding a place to disappear for a bit and read a book/email/game. Voltage offers indoor or outdoor seating, bar, table and large group seating and great vibes all around. Check out the Chai (made in house and amazing if you like strong cardamon like I do) and the Vegan chocolate cookie is a must.

    (5)

  • Mace O.

    There's quite an interesting vibe here. I brought my dowsing rod with me, suffice to say, the artwork on both the walls and baristas were imparting a bewitching kind of energy on the participants. I speak as both a customer, and a somewhat rusty observer of human energy fields from my younger days of shamanic training for individuals and the collective. Giving them 3-stars because I don't like coffee.

    (3)

  • Raisa S.

    I found this place by accident and realized it was perfect walking distance to stroll over during my lunch break at work. I would also consider it dangerous. They use barismo coffee beans which is my absolute weakness, and the two times I have gone so far my latte was made perfectly. I wish I noticed the specialty lattes on the wall because they sound AMAZING but that will be for next time. I got an iced chai with a shot of espresso and it was delish! Although all that caffeine at 4 pm wasn't my brightest decision. The art on the walls is a nice addition, this place definitely screams hipster.

    (4)

  • sasha h.

    I've been going here for years and I still love it but i love it so much more now that they have delicious crepes! try one, any and all, they are wonderful.

    (5)

  • Duncan L.

    This is a great cafe to get work done. I have never not been able to get a table with a plug nearby and a view of either out a window or next to some of the art. The coffee is delicious (Barisimo, I believe), and the food quite tasty. Come by on Friday and get some Union Square Donuts - but show up early, as they are known to sell out very quickly (I once missed them by mere minutes!).

    (4)

  • Marianna K.

    A really cool place - I loved the ambience and the decor of the place - it's very welcoming and artsy. I ordered an Americano, a Cap and a corn muffin. The corn muffin was just perfect - crispy top and edges and light and soft inside. The cappuccino was beautiful, and, I was told, tasted good. Americano was a little weak for my taste and a little sour. I love artisan coffee overall, but I guess I like slightly bolder taste.

    (4)

  • Sophie G.

    I ordered a plain old cold brew (celebrating the first genuinely beautiful day in boston since I don't know when!) with a little room for milk. Absolutely delicious! Seriously, noticeably better than other coffees I've had in years. That being said, the guy ringing me up was very uninterested in taking my order. Now I'm not saying taking my order for iced coffee should be the highlight of his day, but this was borderline rude. He hands me my cup, and it has two MASSIVE ice cubes in it. At first it was really neat looking, but then I tried to put the straw in. Does anyone else struggle with this, or am I alone in the universe? The ice took up so much space that the straw doesn't go in!! Fashion over function, I guess. If the coffee wasn't so damn good, I would give two or three stars, but wow. I'll deal with rude people and behemoth ice for this!

    (4)

  • Cleo H.

    I always stop by here if I am in the area. I love their speciality lattes! The flavor combinations are amazing. A few of my favorite are: Paper Plane: cardamom, rose water & honey Beyond The Sea: homemade caramel & salt The Eclipse: coconut with ginger simple syrup Atticus Finch: vanilla with burnt sugar For just a regular cup of coffee each cup is brewed individually and using a scale. The water is weighed out to ensure a fantastic cup of coffee. There are also hot chocolates and Teas for the non coffee drinkers. There are also baked good and crepes. I have not tried them but they look delicious!

    (5)

  • GG C.

    I was waiting for a friend to finish up a meeting and I was desperate for a hot chocolate and a warm place to sit and read for an hour. Everyone had recommended Voltage - a typical Cambridge place, plus ART! plus BOOKS! plus insane number of bearded hipsters (but ones who actually have jobs; unlike the types you find in Inman Sq). The space is open, light-filled and has high ceilings and even with a full house, doesn't feel crowded or claustrophobic. I think there are deliberately fewer tables and chairs than there could be, but I don't mind. I couldn't get a seat, but a nice guy offered me half his table. I worked, he worked. The vibe was bustling but pretty relaxed, the counter staff all smiles, the barista a bit harried (but fair enough) but cheerful enough. Ok: the important stuff: The ginger hot chocolate wasn't very ginger-y, but delicious nonetheless. My mini cinnamon scroll/pastry situation was tasty and the perfect size. I will definitely go back for weekend crepes and a mimosa. Voltage, you will never replace Crema in my heart, but I think this might be the beginning of something special. [NB I didn't look at the Art, I like the concept, but it was a bit meh. The books on the other hand, they filled me with joy.]

    (4)

  • Candy W.

    This is one of those places where I'm sad that I like it so much. It regularly forces me to question whether I should fork out $4 on a latte that day. Thankfully, my boss takes me here often enough and ends up treating me most of the time (uh if you're reading this, thanks for feeding my addiction!) Madame X and Beyond the Sea lattes are my clear favorites, though the other flavors lag just slightly behind. - Madame X is described as a "earl grey infused with white chocolate ganache." The subtle hint of earl grey is a really nice touch. - Beyond the Sea has a great caramel flavor with sprinkled salt on top. I only get it when I dine-in though, because it tastes much better when it's hot. Note: Make sure you don't get all of the salt in one sip... because that'll be one salty sip =S Do take the time to read the menu. Every drink has an fancy name along with a succinct flavor profile. I normally do not enjoy flavored lattes at other venues because the drink becomes much sweeter (ah hem, hazelnut/vanilla latte at starbucks). At Voltage, the flavors are simply that and does not imply additional sweetness unless the ingredients are sweetners themselves i.e. Agave, White chocolate, Caramel. There are some slight cons: - The lattes always come lukewarm, I wish they were hotter. - It does take a longer than expected amount of time for them to make your drink. Be prepared for the whole process from ordering to receiving to take ~12min. - The hot chocolate was a bit lackluster. It didn't taste all that special, probably something I could have made at home. Great place to have in Kendall Sq!

    (4)

  • Foodie Z.

    I'm a huge fan of Voltage, and this place makes it (slightly) easier for me to get out of bed 15 mins earlier than necessary (because it takes 15 mins to get a coffee). It's all worth it. Especially if you get the Beyond the Sea or the Eclipse. Or just the cappuccino.. The breakfast sandwich is top notch. Get the classic (multigrain bread, cheese and egg, avocado and roasted tomato, onions optional). I might be exaggerating when I said 15 minutes, but the sandwich will actually take that long. So get up early, and go enjoy Voltage!!!

    (5)

  • Viv C.

    The first time I came here I did not like what I ordered, I'll be honest. Then again I don't drink coffee very often. Yet again, maybe that flavor really was just nasty. However I rarely rate things having gone once. After having been back a number of times I would have to say the coffee flavors are either very delicious or unique and good. Sometimes it just nice to have a coffee that doesn't taste so generic (like your typical breakfast blends) and has layered rich flavors you can't recall tasting anywhere else instead of chemical sugary crap flavors. I really like this place and the coffee is good enough to make me walk in when I had intended to walk by and I walk this area a lot. There is not enough art to call it a gallery in my opinion (yes, some successful galleries do have limited pieces), but there's enough to enjoy it as you sip your coffee.

    (4)

  • Rina L.

    Could be the nostalgia talking, but I'm actually really fond of this place and not sure why I gave it three stars, carrots notwithstanding (see previous review for details). I'd love to go more often, but every time I think about it, it's the weekend, which means it closes at 3... sigh.

    (4)

  • Jason M.

    It's a pun, right? I'm talking about the name. I mean, yeah, there's art everywhere. Beautiful paintings and prints and drawings adorn the walls. The name is accurate, but they're probably not really talking about that aspect of Voltage Coffee & Art. While the art is on the walls, the art is in the mug. Voltage offers some of the tastiest pour-overs in the city. Bristling with flavor, it's a crime against humanity to add sweetener to the coffee. And beyond the pour-overs? Lattes. Brilliant, odd lattes with ellegantly steamed milk and latte art. Flavor profiles that include burnt sugar, sea salt and earl grey tea. Voltage is full art, some of it is just a little closer to your mouth.

    (4)

  • kem p.

    Ordered a small coffee latte. I had high expectations due to other reviews but what i got was basically a bitter burnt taste coffee with milk. Tasting cup probably better since they use stumptown beans

    (1)

  • Katie T.

    I don't understand any of the great reviews of this place. Why would you go here when Tatte is right across the street? All of the baristas seemed absolutely miserable and were unhelpful, I felt completely unwelcome and unwanted. Their small is 8oz and the price is crazy. I am absolutely not impressed.

    (1)

  • Marco O.

    This is the great coffee, especially compared to other chain coffee shops. Absolutely no comparison. Near the kayak rental so perfect to sip after kayaking!

    (5)

  • Didi S.

    SO RUDE. The barista calls me: my $5 latte is ready. As she sets it down, part of it spills over the side of the cup and onto her fingers. She wipes her hand off and pushes it towards me, letting it disrupt whatever heart-shaped design she made and getting the cup even stickier. No wiping of the cup. No apology. No shame. Luckily the lattes are really tasty and it's a really cute environment, lots of natural light. But really, the service is god-awful, just like their mini croissants.

    (3)

  • Cathy B.

    Two words: Iced lattes! The specialty ones are amazing. The place is very spacious and I love looking at the art. I do wish they sold food here too besides croissants, but you can definitely walk across the street to Tatte (another great place). One con- They are closed on Sundays :(

    (5)

  • Cassy H.

    Located near the Kendall/MIT T stop, this cafe combines two of my favorite things -- art and coffee. Yes, it's a coffee shop, but the overall ambiance of the place reminds of an art exhibit with classic, clean white walls. Indeed, Voltage Coffee & Art features the work of different local artists every couple of months. What a brilliant idea. In addition to beautiful art displays, this place serves pour over for less than $3 for 12 oz cup. Drink your pour over without cream or milk; simply add sugar. You'll taste subtle sweetness from the sugar and nuanced fruitiness from the coffee beans. I think adding milk or cream would take away from the uniqueness of a pour over. Anyway, I also got two slices of toast with raspberry jam (see photo). It really does taste as good as it looks. :) I definitely recommend this place for someone who wants to enjoy a fine cup of coffee, admire pieces of artwork, read a book, do some work on his/her laptop (yes, free wifi; I think you have to purchase something and ask for a code).

    (4)

  • Joe I.

    The super friendly guy at the register when I visited haunts my memory as I write this review. Dear Super Friendly Register Guy: This is not about you. You rock. Know that you are super, and friendly, and I want you to be happy. You are the only reason is is a two star review and not a one star review. Dear The Rest of My Experience: You suck, and I hate your stupid face. Bitch who made my coffee? You are a bitch, and I hope you get bunions. And you suck at making mochas. Seems to be a drink you should probably have nailed, but you obviously either were not listening when you were taught, or you were having some sort of mild seizure when you were making mine, because it was shitty. And you were mean besides. All tables occupied by snarky looking hipsters except for what appeared to be a kid's table that had a giant naked lady painted on it. First, if this was a kids table, that is a seriously awful choice. And if it was a table for shorter adults, that's odd. BOO.

    (2)

  • Holly M.

    There is no reason one should have to wait a good 15-20 minutes for a cup of coffee, I'm sorry. I'd rather go to Tatte across the street for coffee. I also dislike paying $4 for a tiny cup of coffee.

    (2)

  • Tyler L.

    A great work and hangout coffee shop. Lots of space in the back decorated with cool art. Drip coffee was awesome, very tasty and not burnt or bitter. You have to ask for milk which is a bit odd, but whatever. The spinach and goat cheese crepe was excellent and tangy though fairly small for the large price. Staff was a bit odd and coffee snobbish, but made a good cup of Joe. Very fun people watching with the tech companies nearby.

    (4)

  • Jamie B.

    The space is fantastic - well lit by natural light with some cozier areas in the back. It's very clean and spacious. Definitely a great place to hang out and catch up with a friend or do some work. I got the Paper Plane latte - not too bad, the milk was perfectly frothed and creamy. It seemed a bit bitter. I actually wasn't a huge fan of it, not because it was poorly made, but because I discovered rosewater and cardamom just isn't a great combination for my taste buds. I could definitely taste those flavors,so they're not bullshitting about putting those ingredients in (or covering them up with copious amounts of milk). I thought it was very reasonably priced considering most coffee shops charge +$4 for specialty drinks. I'll come back to try some of their other drinks. The current art show is unobtrusive and pleasant to look at. I'm a big fan of impasto oil painting. Check it out!

    (4)

  • Emily M.

    $4 for a small black coffee that didn't taste good and slow internet. What am I paying for?

    (2)

  • Lil M.

    My fave coffee place. Try Paper plane (cardammon & rose water added) and Kitsch And The Cactus (lime peel & agave) if you want to try unusual yummy flavors. I also love that on every cup, they do go out of their way to make a nice artsy design with the steamed milk (leaf, heart etc..). Overall, I give them a 4.5. It would be a five if they remodeled a bit the front receiving area. The location is quite corporate and the shop is starting to look a bit tired on the front where the register is and coffee is made. The back of the store with the tables and the nice artwork exhibits looks great so it would be nice if the front also captured this.

    (4)

  • Stella N.

    love the vibe here, came here while trying to pick a nice place to study at. didn't know what to order but i absolutely love the atticus finch and would definitely come back for it again.

    (4)

  • MB C.

    The coffee isn't as strong as I like it at home, but the tea was very nice and their food offerings are quite tasty.

    (4)

  • Bree G.

    This space is quaint. Very quiet and clean. Excellent place to get work done and admire artwork. Treat yourself to one of their lattes!

    (4)

  • L T.

    There are so many good things about this place, the atmosphere, art, location macaroons. love it, and they make some of the best cappuccinos in Cambrdge!

    (5)

  • Caitlin F.

    Coffee is really nice, as are the crepes, and the place has a lovely atmosphere with friendly staff. Sadly, it's a little pricey, and there aren't any power outlets that I've been able to find to charge my laptop. Wifi is also kind of dodgy and only sometimes decides to work, which is frustrating if you're trying to get work done.

    (4)

  • Alexander N.

    Best coffee in the area, and a great place to spend some time studying. Staff are also generally pretty nice. Highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Kelly O.

    Such cool, unique latte flavors here. I tried an iced latte flavored with Earl Grey white chocolate ganache, and it was really interesting and complex. If I were in the neighborhood, I'd definitely return to check out some of the other flavors. Tip: they're on LevelUp ($1 credit) and Scoutmob (50% off your order), so you can walk away pretty cheaply. Also, bonus: they have beer.

    (3)

  • Xenia A.

    The coffee is delicious, with all kinds of exotic flavours, and same goes for the various pastries, and as a space, this place is fantastic!! It's perfect for both working and for scheduling meetings for your burgeoning start up. The huge book wall at the back is great, as are the changing art shows on the wall.

    (5)

  • Robot N.

    Voltage had much higher quality a couple of years ago. The pour over was mediocre at best. The atmosphere is nice. There are books to read while hanging around.

    (2)

  • Bradley N.

    If you like a really good latte, and if you enjoy looking at modern art in an appropriately high ceilinged setting, then you definitely will like Voltage. It's really as simple as that. But, if you are looking for something more complicated, then read on ... The natural tendency when coming from a cult coffee area (SF, Portland, Seattle) is to compare Voltage with places you know, like Blue Bottle or Verve or Stumptown or Ritual. But those are roasters; this is a coffee shop with a flair for the artistic within blocks of MIT. It's very Boston/Cambridge, not West Coast at all. The latte menu is exceptional; the loose teas - judging by the exquisitely fragranced jasmine my companion ordered on our recent visit - are very well chosen. And the great light, abstract art, and general intellectual/artsy feel of this place make it unique. Awards and recognition are sure to follow, and it's obviously got a cult following on Yelp. So what's not to love about this place? Quite simply: nothing at all. When it comes to coffee and art, you know what you like instinctively. I got a powerful jolt of happy/hip vibes when I entered, and that was enough to make me stay, and - eventually - to return when the time is right for that all-important second visit.

    (5)

  • Heather F.

    Exotic latte selection - I tried the paper plane that had cardamom rose water in it. I also loved the vibe and the art on the walls. Great coffee shop in bean-town!

    (4)

  • Megan C.

    Raw Minimalist Coffee House Clay drip Drip coffee without the BPA :) Fine things should be savored. Clean sleek layout + fast wifi. Ran into another yelper here as there were limited seats - offered to share my table... such a small world. Love love love the spacious open feeling, and enjoy the coziness of the accent walls. Date Rating: 2 Pick up Scale: 2 Strong Suggestion: Don't mind the line it's worth the wait.

    (5)

  • Rick B.

    I used to love Voltage, but I had to leave it. Typical Voltage experience: Pay for a cup of coffee, then the cashier goes into the back room. A few mins later she comes back out and stares out the window for a while. You ask about your coffee, she says "oh, okay" and starts making the cup of coffee. Five mins later it's done filtering but the cashier is talking to a friend and you have to ask her to put the coffee into your cup. The coffee itself is great, the woman who runs the place is really nice, and the space is pleasant, but the service is too frustrating to waste time with. Go to Tatte across the street instead.

    (2)

  • Rachel R.

    Voltage can hold twice as many tables as they have, which is irritating/vaguely funny when you're playing the the table-lurker vulture role, breathing down a stranger's neck, poised to throw your coat over a chair and mark your territory before that beyotch in the knit hat has a chance to "innocently" try and steal everything you've spent the last miniature eternity waiting for. But, once settled at the wide, bare table, work sitting in front you, adequate room to stretch behind you, Voltage becomes the best coffee shop in Boston for actually accomplishing things. I usually kick-start my study session on a positive, caffeinated note with a "Beyond the Sea" latte, made with homemade caramel and sea salt. Other exotic lattes, like the Madame X (earl grey and white chocolate ganache) and Atticus Finch (burnt vanilla sugar) sound sexy, but are both so mild I wouldn't be able to identify the flavors without knowing them beforehand. Running out of steam? A $6 panini keeps the creative juices flowing and the stomach from rumbling. Running out of motivation? A $1 scoop of chocolate covered almonds or pretzels makes an excellent reward system for productivity (and they're not actually good enough to want more than a dollar's worth of, anyway). Voltage is open into the evening, so aggressively grab yourself a table, settle in, get sh*t done, and slowly dwindle away your funds on tasty morsels.

    (4)

  • Michelle A.

    Coffee and Art. Cool concept. Very knowledgeable about coffee. I'm not a connoisseur so some of it was lost in translation. Good cup a joe though. Not sure I could afford this to be my morning ritual. More of a treat. This is the new Kendall Square...

    (3)

  • Ryan D.

    Voltage specializes in flavored lattes (sea salt, rose water, "Earl Grey infused white chocolate ganache"), with kinda-bombastic names (Thieving Magpie, Devil May Care, Madame X), each with a different stamp that goes with it. You order your fancy latte, and you get a fancy stamp on your cup. Pro-tip: The stamp is way more gratifying than you think it will be. If Voltage was a person, they'd be an insufferable TV-hating calligraphying sweater-wearer with a penchant for the word "penchant" - yet they would play such beautiful theremin solos that you couldn't help but admire them. Basically, I really like the fancy lattes. I just feel a little self-conscious ordering my Atticus Finch (vanilla and burnt sugar). Ps. Sorry for saying sweater-wearer. I wear sweaters sometimes, too.

    (4)

  • Wasim Q.

    Really good selection of lattes and coffees-- the baristas here take their craft seriously and do it with pride. E.g., there's always a nice little illustration of a heart or something in your coffee foam, which you promptly destroy with your first sip. On the downside, the bakery selection is weak. Only a couple of pastries and muffins to choose from. Ambiance is beautiful. Very artsy and chill. This would be a great place to hang out and do work, except they effectively charge for internet (you get like 2 hours free every time you spend at least $5).

    (3)

  • Tharathorn R.

    I have been a regular customer to Voltage for the past years but I only recently become more active on Yelp, so I think it's fair to just give a review/rating now. I was on my way to meet with a friend at Leisure Station. I thought the decor was nice so I thought I wanted to check it out. The first time I was here I ordered 'MADAME X' (Earl grey infused white chocolate, steamed milk and espresso) on their flavored latte menu. I thought I was pretty good but it was a bit too dense and sweet for me. I have tried many of their teas (MEM teas), flavored lattes, espresso, iced cold brew coffee in the summer, and their iced invention called the DUDE (iced brew coffee, espresso syrup, and a bit of cream) this past summer. I love all their beverages. My favorite is the paper plane (cardamom + rose aromas in lightly sweeten latte is a wonderful flavor I cannot get anywhere else :)). The cafe decor is great. It's almost like an art gallery inside. It has big glass windows on all side facing the street and white walls with lots of art pieces. They put up new sets of art pieces every few weeks. Coming to Voltage is like having a really good cup of beverage in an art gallery. They carry a small selection of pastries, and coffee snacks (animal crackers, some sorts of chocolate beans, and dark chocolate covered almonds). They recently starts serving breakfast paninis. I haven't tried any of their snacks/foods. The cafe location is actually NOT on my way to work or anything, but it's not far. Over the years I have dragged myself to this cafe time and again when I need some comfort and caffeine fix :). This is not a place to go grab a quick cup of jo before starting a work day, but it's a place for a nice afternoon break for oneself or for meeting and chatting with someone. I have taken friends from out of town here on many occasions and every single one likes it. So for me, it's a 5 star on the coffee, 5 star on the ambience, and 5 star for their originality both in combining a cafe and an art gallery and in creating uniquely flavored beverages. Finally I give it a 5 star for consistently being a wonderful sanctuary for me :).

    (5)

  • Lvbleuhydrangea ..

    The pour over coffee was really really good. Smooth, nice flavor and not too strong. Great atmosphere and staff were very nice. I visited in the morning around 9am during the week so it wasn't too crowded and easy to get a table.

    (5)

  • Raphie B.

    The Beyond The Sea latte (with caramel and sea salt) is perfect. Sweet, but balanced with the right amount of milk and espresso, and with just enough sea salt to really make the flavors pop. Did I just say something as cheesy as "the flavors pop"? I did. Because they do. The space itself is an art gallery which feels a bit cold. The side with the coffee bar feels a bit warmer / friendlier, but overall the vibe is not super welcoming. It's not the kind of shop you settle into for a coffee and some quality reading, but it is a great shop for getting some work done or grabbing an great quality cup of coffee to go.

    (4)

  • Sarah M.

    Fabulous, hipster coffee shop nestled in Kendall Square. Cant say much about the coffee but the hot chocolates are just the perfect balance of chocolate and sweetness laced with gorgeous foam art. Perfect place to study or chat.

    (4)

  • Morgan P.

    Yum!!

    (5)

  • Miguel G.

    Bottom Line: Expensive, but appropriate price for location. Working owner and employees are genuine. Products are high quality, creative, and flat-out delicious. Extended Review: Let me begin by saying that I go here every morning. The "Paper Plane" latte is a coffee version of the Indian dessert kheer, made with cardamom, rose water, and honey. It's the best coffee beverage I've ever had, and I was a barista for 5 years in high school and college, toiling in the espresso laboratory that is free to Starbucks employees. I've been thinking about it lately and it may be the best drink I've ever had- like, the best liquid I've tasted in 30 years of drinking things. If not THE best, definitely Top 3- and the fact I don't know what the other two would be indicates it's probably No. 1. A 12 oz latte after tax is $4.55, which is high anywhere you go, but the location (Voltage is SURROUNDED by billion dollar pharmaceutical companies), the ingredients, and the consistency of product warrants it.

    (5)

  • Tugba B.

    This place is my favorite coffee shop in the whole Boston area. It is one of the few spots where you can really chat, read a book, or spend quiet time - an opportunity which I could not find in the US very often since I've come. The only drawback is that it is sometimes too cold because of the air conditioner. Feeling fresh is nice, but sometimes I feel so uncomfortable that I feel the need to leave the place. Still, it deserves the best rating.

    (5)

  • Kev M.

    Alright, finally an experience lame enough to make me want to log into Yelp and rail on a business! Free wifi? Not quite. I've been there before, so I was well aware you need to buy something and the cashier can provide you with a code to login. Seems fair to me, usage should be reserved for customers, but the time metering is a bit much. The clincher for me was that the barista didn't even bother giving me a receipt or the wifi code with my order. Inattentive, uninterested employees. I'm down with cohesive teams in a work environment, but ignoring me while you're being chummy with a coworker and walking away together for a smoking break or whatever you needed to do before you were done servicing me is just rude. This experience was a bit of an outlier, but I've never had engaging, warm service in all the times I've visited before. Finally, don't order the ice coffee. Voltage's ice coffee concoction has the flavor of steeped, used coffee grinds: supremely bitter and watery. Perhaps the barista was trying to punish me for unknowingly insulting him with this order, but it is possible to make a great ice coffee and Voltage does not have it. It's so bad, why bother having it on the menu? This cafe barely had a pulse with me before, but it's on my DO NOT GO list until it makes some significant improvements.

    (1)

  • anthony L.

    4.5 if I could. Love this place. It's right near my office, and in the heart of kendall square -- so it's pretty convenient. The coffee is fantastic. They have two kinds on their "menu" (a litle sign near the register) -- never bothered to find out of there are additional specials or anything because the basics are perfect for me. The people there are also nice, although the place gets busy so time for chit-chat can be pretty much eliminated. The wifi: Love the system actually. Spend $4, get 2 hours of wifi -- that seems more than fair. You have to ask for the passcode, which isn't a big deal. My one gripe is out of the 5 times I've been there, the wifi has crapped out or become too slow at least once during 3 of them. But when you're eating one of the best scones around, and the coffee is calming your nerves -- who cares? Do something offline for ten minutes, and the internet should be back to normal. that actually reminds me -- the baked goods are also pretty killer from what I've had.

    (4)

  • Dorothy W.

    Yes....open Sundays...Thank you, Voltage.

    (5)

  • Giulio C.

    Voltage lost a star from me when they jacked up their sandwich prices 20% from $7 to $8.45 That's a bit pricey for some wholegrain toast with no animal protein inside. Guess they are copying the obnoxious Tatte chain and trying to move upscale? I'll also dock them for misspelling Hemingway. Hey, if you're gonna have a sandwich named "Arouet," you can spell Papa's name right. RIght? Other than that, Mrs Lincoln, the art gallery-cum-library vibe is OK. But just try dislodging an entitled hipster from his/her table - they're all about to get another round of VC $$$, so they don't care.

    (3)

  • Jordan C.

    Usually when I think of getting a slip of paper I might be worried about my job, but at Voltage it usually means I have some almond-y goodness coming my way in the form of "the Magpie" - one of the many unique and delicious lattes on the menu. Each latte has it's associated insignia and stamp. The stamps are great, but its the lattes themselves that makes me want to collect em like Pokemon. Once I can get my nose out of my cup I look up to see some awesome art! Like any gallery, sometimes I can really appreciate it and other times I don't understand it. In any case it makes me feel less uncultured. Nice place to sit and read/study/chat. Latte excitement also includes sea salt + caramel, lime + agave, and cardamom + rose water + honey, all of which are nicely balanced and perfect to sip. Food is also a plus. A bit pricey, but at least the breakfast sandwich was worth it, on tasty wholesome grilled bread with a nice spice. I think the food options change frequently, so be on the lookout.

    (5)

  • Sara B.

    Went here this past Thursday during the insane snowstorm that threw up snow and rain simultaneously, peppered with wind strong enough to loosen botox on someone's forehead. Anyway, thoroughly enjoyed a caramel sea salt decaf mocha. Prepared perfectly, and coffee was the best quality.

    (5)

  • Rachael R.

    When it's sunny I like to walk over the bridge from Beacon Hill to Voltage, possibly stopping at the Clover foodtruck for squash dumpling (aka donuts). If I have friends visiting, I invariably mention that I like supporting Voltage because the owner is a sweet girl who believe in the possibility of Boston being as cool as it should be. It's also a real relief to finally have a shop in the downtown area that can do beautiful cappuccino foam. Get one of the $2 snacks. Generous helpings and they'll balance the caffeine rush.

    (5)

  • Damien S.

    Quaint and quirky with dimensional art adorning prison white walls, you might be confused and end up buying Progressive insurance. This is Voltage. Sprouting in the heart of nerd nouveau, the coffee shop/cafe/studio fits the niche perfectly. Wonka towers of filtration, contraptions set to extract espresso on the slowest schedule for homage specialty drinks to The Big Lebowski, and animal cracker tapas all have their place beside biotech belles and genome gents. Where space exists, more than a few pieces hang with love from the eggshell walls. Java standards run $2-4, including specialty espresso drinks and flavored hot chocolates. An avid avoider of one, I took to the other, ordering the 8oz Midnight Sun (hot cocoa with cinnamon + capsicum, $3.50) and a little nibble of toast ($3). The toast came smeared with evidence of indecision: one piece slathered with butter and berry jam, and the other classically sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. My hesitation about spending $3 on two pieces of toast smothered under the density of these slices. Mammoth, filling and worth every penny. While quite warm and certainly delicious, the specialty spices for the hot chocolate could have stood a little reinforcement. Maybe another pinch to jettison them from super-subtlety? Note to patrons: even if your order is on the go, don't even sweat getting a lid for the hot chocolate. The slightly sweet milk foam is so thick, it keeps even the roughest car rides free from spills and chills.

    (4)

  • c h.

    Don't be confused. That whole front portion that looks like an entrance? That's a window. Not a door. I had a superb americano and a tasty cookie for a bit under $5. The staff was very friendly when I showed up (noonish) and it was quiet with plenty of space. I do wish that their self serve water cups were larger.

    (5)

  • Seb L.

    Excellent coffee shop. They have some great coffee that is freshly made right in front of you. The shop is clean, open and has a "loft" feel. There is a great entrepreneurial energy at this place which makes is a great spot to work/study. They also have a large bike rack in fron of the store which makes it very convenient for cyclists. Highly recommend.

    (5)

  • Whitney S.

    Free Wifi (60 minutes for a coffee purchase, longer with add'l purchases). Great seating options, but they fill up quickly. Ideas were flowing between tables - to the extent that I watched a stranger walk up to a table of two who were brainstorming ideas and jump into the conversation. The sense of community was palpable. Wonderful coffee, pleasant baristas, delicious looking snacks and sandwiches and an overall communal vibe provide the perfect space to get things done. Another bonus: local art! (and it's actually pretty good)

    (5)

  • Camille D.

    I want to like this place, but every time I leave frustrated. An extremely expensive latte takes about 20 minutes to appear. The staff is nice enough but always seem overwhelmed or confused by the orders they are making. If you do come, stay awhile. While the space can be a bit challenging to find a seat in, you are always richly rewarded by being surrounded by the energy of Kendall's best out talking up their new companies. While the coffee is good, the time commitment is definitely not worth it, if you aren't sticking around for the afternoon.

    (3)

  • Shaina P.

    Props to the wonderful art on the walls and in my latte, the bright mornings, the friendly staff. The unfinished look of the space itself screams for the featured art (nerd nouveau, well put, Damien) to carry it to a higher level, but the random permanent finishes of B&W patterns on the coffee bar (for me) clashes with the vibe and makes the unfinished look feel unintentional. This establishment lends itself better to patient coffee appreciators and people who plan to stay for the long haul, not for the local business peeps. As I frequent Voltage during the work week, I am busy and therefore wish to drink my coffee faster... and eat my breakfast sandwich faster (whose health factor is reflected in its unfortunately bland flavor... give me melted cheese and a little salt; something to hold this mammoth sandwich together!). I guess I'm left wanting much more than the single brewed java and more than even the beautiful Iggy's bread. As the art helps to elevate the feel of the space, may the coffee and food be elevated (by something more), too!

    (3)

  • Damaris S.

    I love... love... LOVE Voltage's coffee and hot chocolate. I have not tried the food here... so this review is limited to the drinks. But as far as coffee goes, especially the flavored lattes, they are excellent. They serve them hot or cold, your choice. I tried them all, and you can't really go wrong on your choice. In the summer, try their lemonade (freshly squeezed)... it is very refreshing. My favorite flavored latte: Beyond the Sea, with caramel and sea salt. mmm. Atticus Finch is very popular. Madame X is pretty awesome too. Extras: The art display is a bonus. I really like the one on display right now, Danielle Festa: Dress Code. Very interesting works of art, which consists in paintings with added textiles for a very cool effect. It just gives the impression the subject is coming out of the 2D world to transition into the 3D. Back to reviewing Voltage, the ambiance is laid back, with good service. There is plenty of sitting indoors, with a few tables outdoors, perfect for days like today.

    (5)

  • Deanna D.

    Lovely café with delicious and artfully poured lattes! The café & art concept is nice...maybe a bit trendy but cool. The space is clean, simply decorated, bright, and roomy. The order process was quick and seating was plentiful. The barista was friendly and made a lovely vanilla with burnt sugar latte and cappuccino. The prices are reasonable for the quality of coffees. The banana chips & squash cake were also good. They even have ceramic drip coffee which is great. Overall a great find which is walking distance from Kendall Sq. and it's even open till 7pm which is pretty late for the area. I will definitely be back!

    (5)

  • Chris M.

    this place is right by my work. It's super swank and artsy. Their drink list is all sorts of sophisticated, and they have symbols for each one of their drinks. I had vanilla and burnt sugar, it was called Ace----something or other.. It was delicious. Though ordering here makes ordering a quad pump triple venti skinny soy latte from starbucks easy. I kind of just stood at the register and was like, can i get a latte, and can i get it with vanilla. She then pointed to some card and was like "oh this" I was like sounds good. And it was good. It's a place that takes coffee making as seriously. So they earn their business, and you get what you are paying for. If you are a coffee snob, this is the place to go. I'm 10 percent hipper for having purchased a drink from there.

    (5)

  • Shirin K.

    May be the best coffee I ever had. Vanilla, burnt sugar flavor is unreal. Not too sweet. Def coming back!

    (5)

  • Neal K.

    This is just a review of their cold-brew coffee. It is pretty bland and watery.

    (2)

  • Lisa S.

    I'm glad that this place didn't exist a few years ago when I was in college- I would have been here every day to buy some of their "exotic" lattes! I got the chance to try Voltage after my sister sent me a Gilt City deal for 10 free lattes or hot chocolates. The decor is a bit unassuming inside, very open and minimal. There wasn't one big menu displayed, which confused us, but a few smaller menus scattered around the counter. I ordered the atticus finch (vanilla with burnt sugar) and my friend ordered the madame x (earl grey infused white chocolate ganache). Each were regularly $3.50 for 8oz and $4 for 12oz. I told the barista I couldn't have dairy- and he knew exactly which toppings had dairy in it, and made my latte with soy milk instead of regular milk. Their food choices were limited, but my friend ordered the toast with jam ($3). They also had two panini specials, and both sounded absolutely amazing. We sat down- there were lots of tables and they were spread out. I saw a good number of people working on their laptops. Overall, it was quiet (my friend and I were probably the loudest- sorry people who were working!). Both our lattes were delicious and just got better as we kept drinking. The toast came out and was HUGE and the bread was thick and amazing. If you don't like jam, it also had options to come with agave & salt or cinnamon sugar. The artwork kind of freaked us out- they do rotations of artists in the area. We sat next to this picture of a rainbow with what looked like 3 rabid zombies eating the innards of a horse (literally, the innards were being pulled out of the horse with flies buzzing around them). While entertaining, it's not quite what I wanted to be looking at while eating and drinking. Overall, definitely a great place! I would definitely come often if I worked or lived in Kendall Square. It would be great if they could display a big menu somewhere, and offer more food choices.

    (4)

  • Yuki S.

    Their latte is very different from others. The flavor is biter but the taste is mild.

    (4)

  • Marilyn C.

    I heart this place. I liked it the first time I went and then the second time I found out about the chocolate covered pretzels and that's when it became love. The staff is so nice and I think the whole idea of the place is cool. I also live right nearby so it is very convenient to pop in every now and then. It is such a neat space for events - I haven't been to an event here, but I just feel that way about it haha. Maybe I am just jealous of when I walk home and it looks like there is some sort of event happening there and I want in on it?

    (5)

  • Jade R.

    Maybe I just didn't order the right thing.... I was just definitely not WOWed, and to be quite honest, a little sad... I ordered an 8 oz Mocha which ended up costing me $4.50. (.50 is tip). Thats ABSURD! It wasn't even the best I've had.... it was actually pretty mediocre. Ugh. I am willing to give this place another try, but I think I need to read other Yelper's suggestions and pick something on the more unique side... maybe then I'll bump up the stars. *** The service was great though. Very personable.

    (2)

  • Meg B.

    Art can be expressed with food and painting. I have been wanting to come here for months ever since I heard it opened. I finally trucked it over to Kendall since I had some studying to do. First and foremost: look for the doorway on the side. It is not located in the front where one would expect. I almost made a comedic entrance...or an attempt at one. The staff is very friendly and patient considering my indecisiveness because now that I was finally there I was overwhelmed with what choice to make of the eccentric lattes. I didn't want to be lame the Magpie or the Atticus because they seemed to be a latte flavor you could find at any other coffee shop. Fail. I totally chose the Atticus-Burnt Sugar and Vanilla. Amazing? yes. I was also starving and got their paninni (no spellcheck for that one) with fig. I'm not a lover for bread...but damn Flour you have competition. After I finished my latte I was tempted to go for another. But I have to keep my mind and wallet in check. Till we meet again Voltage...I have the Eclipse flavor in mind- ginger & coconut.

    (5)

  • Jenessa C.

    The salted caramel latte has large chunks of salt that were surprising at first, but overall the drink was delicious. A delicate design was crafted into the top of my drink. Staff was friendly & knowledgable. The atmosphere was an art gallery, which was fun. They close early on the weekends, so it is obvious most of the clientele is business people from the office buildings nearby during the week.

    (3)

  • Nan A.

    Returned on a week day, good mix of business and cerebral pursuits and various kinds of seating with open and more enclosed nooks, large conference tables for groups, high and low tables for pairs and solos, seating for privacy, seating near windows for people watching, new art and artistic subtle sophisticated beverages. I tried the Italian soda drink with lime and agave, with decorative shavings of lime rind on top. So refreshing, I could ALMOST give up coffee for these.

    (5)

  • Ziad E.

    I love the type of coffee at voltage coffee. They are a real coffee house that selects their beans and takes pride in every brew. The only other place nearby is Tata's which in terms of tastes sucks. It can get busy at times is the only downside!

    (5)

  • Nik B.

    Offering a variety of flavored lattes, Voltage is a refreshing change of pace. In an age where the latte art is becoming too common, Voltage supplements it with flavor. I ordered the Kitsch and the Cactus. It was a very inspired latte featuring lime peel and agave. A word to the newcomer - if you want to taste the flavor throughout your drink, destroy the latte art and stir! Needless, to say, most of my drink tasted like a normal latte. When I got to the bottom, it was a mix of stark espresso and sweetened lime. Regardless of the mixing job, the taste was incredible. I'd never have thought to mix lime with espresso, but Voltage pulled it off. The other plus: real visual art in addition to your late art. The walls are plastered with pieces from different artists, allowing Voltage to serve as an artists gallery in addition to coffee shop. The only complaint I have about Voltage: not open late enough! What is it with all the cafes in Boston shutting down so early? Where do all these academics go to get their study on late at night? The library? Lame.

    (4)

  • Glenn M.

    Its decent enough, a good place in the area to get tea. Not being a coffee drinker, they have an awesome mellow "Greek Mint". They also do blooming tea if you're in to that sort of thing.

    (4)

  • Sarah G.

    Do you love fancy lattes??? Do you love sitting in a cafe where you can't actually hear the other people next to you typing on their laptops or talking about their lives while you are trying to focus on your own work or your coversation with your friend? And Do you love cool art to stare at as you ponder your life while sipping an awesomely delcious latte?? Well if you said yes to those things, then Voltage Cafe is for you. This place is pretty cool and I wish there were more places like this in the area. They have one of the best latte lists I have ever seen where they use sea salt and caramel and other fun things infused into their latte creations, almost as if those lattes themselves are an additional piece of art to add to this cafe. Because all around you are pieces of real artwork that often change and provide great conversation pieces as well as decor for the cafe too. And they even have free wifi here too! Seems pretty perfect right? Well they do have limited hours and because they actually spread out the tables so you aren't breathing right on top of each other, you may make the trek out here to this cafe and not find a table right away. BUT if you are lucky enough to get a table, trust me when I say taking in those extra calories for one of their lattes is totally worth it.

    (4)

  • Jean B.

    I feel pretty lucky to have this place right near where I live. Exceptional low-key service, truly beautiful coffees. Hipster zen.

    (5)

  • Ethan R.

    Hipsters / Artisan Espresso / Art. If you've ever been to Barefoot Coffee in Santa Clara, this is the East Coast equivalent. And I love Barefoot. I highly recommend their Agave syrup drink here.

    (5)

  • Ben F.

    The coffee is good. However, "sullen hipsters" captures it to a tee. There's five hipsters behind the bar, three people ahead of me, and I just waited 13 minutes for a basic latte. It takes a pretty good coffee to be worth a 13 min wait. It had better be extraordinary, which this coffee is not.

    (2)

  • Clare F.

    VERY good quality coffee. In a sea of Au Bon Pain and Starbucks, Voltage really delivers. An added bonus are the $1 scoop snacks - chocolate covered almonds, animal crackers, banana chips. I just wish that the scoop amounts would be equal. It was VERY obvious that management instructed the barista to make the chocolate almond 'scoop' a mere half scoop, and to load up on the animal crackers.

    (4)

  • Samuel F.

    I really like the lattes at this place, and for those who like a bit of the syrupy-sweet, they have cutely-named flavor combos to enhance your latte or hot chocolate. Good selection of pastries, too. It's a cute cafe in general, and a pleasant place to hang out.

    (4)

  • Patrick S.

    The coffee is really good but there is definitely that boutique coffee shop--over-pierced-if-you're-not-like-me-you-suck air about many of the employees. It's too bad because it's nice to see a local business with better quality than some place like Starbucks, but the employees need to be a little more tolerant of diersity - when someone simply wants an iced coffee one shouldn't roll their eyes and send them to Dunkin Donuts.

    (3)

  • Mike B.

    solid cup o java...whether you like fancy or "tweaked flavors" or not ...they still make high quality, artisan style coffee. I'm a fan of anyone who treats their job as a craft and they clearly do! Guess what, America DOES NOT run on dunkin'! i wouldn't even get out of bed if it were my only option for coffee. (sorry dunkin' lovers, just being honest) check out these 2 exotic lattes: DEVIL MAY CARE - molasses and lemon zest BEYOND THE SEA - my fav, caramel and sea salt. perfect!

    (5)

  • Sushmita M.

    Voltage now has beer, wine, AND opens on Sundays. Congratulations, you win every star.

    (5)

  • Stephanie F.

    This place is a treat for me. First, for $4/latte for an 8oz cup, that IS a luxury! But the artistry of the drinks is what you pay for. Like, a cardamom-rose water and honey latte, or , an early grey white chocolate latte, or vanilla and burnt sugar one (these are the ones that I've had that I totally recommend.) Want to know how much I love this place? For a week, hubster and me were being really good about french pressing our coffees at home and saving on our caffeine bill. On that Friday when we realized we were nearing the end of our bag and that we were getting a late start to our day, I proposed the idea of treating ourselves to a luxurious cup of Voltage latte. We both drive to East Cambridge, get kind of unlucky trying to find a spot, and agree to park in the metered spots in front of the café. I'd stay in the car, while he ordered our lattes. As I play on my phone I realize on my FourSquare check-in you can get 50% off (PS: tip alert!), got excited and ran into the café to show him and maybe save some money for us. Well, for the two minutes I was in the café a stupid Cambridge police guy starts writing me a parking ticket even when I ran out and told him I'd move the car right away (which I did). Our Voltage trip ended up costing $33. Though I reeeeeeally hate paying for parking tickets (who does anyway?), I must say... the coffee was totally worth it. I just wish I had gotten the 12 oz instead because my frustration at the Popo tired me out.

    (5)

  • Wilma E.

    I fly like paper, get high like planes -- if you catch me at the border I got voltage to my name. Yes, the paper plane is where it is at! Truthfully, there's not a bad tasting beverage in the house. Try them all. This is place is great. The art is a little scary and I swear I saw this white man who looked just like one of those paintings.

    (5)

  • Louis G.

    Chill atmosphere, no attitude, fresh morning brew.

    (3)

  • Deb E.

    Great lattes. A little pricey, but it is a cool atmosphere. Colorful artwork and colorfully painted walls contrast really nicely with the wooden tables. If you can get a seat (hard to do during peak times), there is plenty of space to spread out with a laptop or papers.

    (4)

  • Benjamin O.

    Okay coffee, wildly overpriced. $4 for a small cup of pourover coffee?? Maybe this is the norm for Boston; compare this to Philz pour-over on the west coast and you have the choice of a couple dozen better tasting blends, and the same cup is $3, or $4 for a cup twice the size of Voltage. No smile from the hipster taking the orders and my life savings. If Philz makes it out here, this place is toast.

    (2)

  • Misty S.

    It's nice to have a local coffee option in Kendall. A colleague and I tried Voltage today and I will be happy to go back. They have 3 cute menus- one with "standard" coffee, one with their extensive and creative latte and hot chocolate menu, and a tea menu as well. I got a large americano (large is 12 oz, small is 8oz) with house made "burnt sugar" syrup. It's very, very smooth and comforting. My colleague got a coconut ginger latte. She said it was tasty and not overbearingly sweet. We also got a package of animal crackers which my friend described as "fricken' incredible". Slightly pricey. 8oz lattes, which are very small, are $3.50 and 12 oz lattes are $4. The atmosphere is nice- clean and bright with some artwork and a sitting area.

    (4)

  • Chris D.

    Fantastic fantastic fantastic. Coffee/espresso nerds should add Voltage to their 'must visit' list. My new place to work/drink and manage time in between meetings in Cambridge whenever I venture out from the warm embrace of the home office in roslindale. Today I spent every dollar in my wallet trying 12oz versions of their bespoke latte creations. I'd stick around to try the pour-over single cup brewed coffee as well but I need to function and speak coherently at an important meeting this afternoon. Will be back.

    (5)

  • Eunice R.

    Why I Love Voltage 1) Specialty Lattes at ~$3. So reasonable! The "Paper Plane" is especially good. 2) Latte Art that actually looks good. 3) High ceilings. Thank you Lord. I can breathe clean air. Voltage doesn't have that "cozy" coffee shop atmosphere that I'm not too fond of. 4) New art every few days. 5) Awesome service. 6) Right next to a super delicious Mediterranean wrap place. 7) Even though WiFi isn't free, they give you the code. $4 = 120 min. Besides, you shouldn't be mooching off free internet. *Note: Get coffee at a coffee house. Probably not the best idea to get paninis, italian soda, etc. here.

    (5)

  • Gale S.

    I have to preface this review with the fact that I know little about coffee besides that I like to drink it and I like it strong & hot. I also don't like it sweet, which made the following a true "challenge." My coworker decided we should challenge ourselves to drink all of the Voltage specialty lattes and hot chocolates in the month of December. These are gourmet drinks sweetened with fresh herbs, infused syrups, and even citrus rinds, among other things. I'll keep it as brief as possible and rank each drink (1 high, 11 low), with a brief comment for those notably good or less good. 1) "Beyond the Sea" - Homemade caramel & salt - There is nothing fancy or complicated about this drink. It is just delicious. Rich caramel flavor. Salt is an afterthought that I enjoyed. 2) "Madame X" - Earl Grey infused white chocolate - Not as sweet as anticipated in a good way. Strong tea flavor complemented by creamy white chocolate. Complex, layered flavor. 3) "Plaid Jacket" - Fresh peppermint hot chocolate - Subtly minty, no toothpaste! 4) "The Eclipse" - Coconut w Ginger - Strong ginger taste. Instant re-belief in the challenge after prickly cactus (see below). Coconut adds sweetness but lacks flavor. 5) "Atticus Finch" - Vanilla with burnt sugar 6) "Besos Fuertes" - Ginger root hot chocolate 7) "Paper Plane" - Cardamon rose water with honey - Simple rose/honey flavor. Smooth to drink but does not stand out. 8) "The Theiving Magpie" - Traditional almond rapture - Very traditional 9) "Midnight Sun" - Cinnamon & capsicum hot chocolate 10) "Kitch & the Cactus" - Lime peel and agave - Oddly sweet and sour. Consensus is that citrus does not belong in coffee. Even hipster coffee. 11) "Devil May Care" - Molasses with lemon - Smells like tomato sauce. First taste reminiscent of a lemony mixed drink. Needless to say, not a fan. The real test will be what I order when I go back. I think it'll be a plain latte, and I think it'll be delicious.

    (4)

  • Raf S.

    This may be my favorite Cafe in Boston, hands down. The typical, cozy cafe atmosphere has been traded for the space and sunny natural light of an art gallery. Usually there are oodles of seating available due to the fact that it's still a relatively under-the-radar place. Oh, and the coffee and lattes are high end, no other way to put it; the baristas truly really care about how well crafted each drink is. However, this being said, don't skimp on the tip!

    (5)

  • Tracie B.

    I had an excellent fig and cheese sandwich there the other day while in Cambridge for work. The coffee was also very good and even though I ordered it about a half hour after my sandwich, the staff remembered my name. My only disappointment is the WiFi set up; you need to purchase time through a 3rd party vendor. In this day and age when free WiFi is everywhere, it was a bit of a surprise and hassle.

    (4)

  • Emma T.

    I love this place! The atmosphere is awesome and so is the staff. I stop in just about every morning for my coffee and scone fix. There lunch and breakfast sandwiches are so tasty, and at a great price.Great place to go and do homework or just hang out. If you are running late or in a hurry I would have to say, come back another time. They take their time making the coffee drinks, which I think is a good thing, but hard when you are in a hurry. .

    (5)

  • Colin F.

    I've been told, repeatedly, that I need to learn to walk past a coffee shop. I rarely-- ever?-- walk past Voltage. Of the cambridge/greater boston greats, this is my favorite stop. I've had sips of friends' lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos, but I don't come here for the espresso(it's good, though-- and at voltage, every barista is a good barista). I come here for the brewed coffee. I have had pour-over and cold brew at Dwelltime, High Rise(Mass Ave), Barismo, Thinking Cup and many others in the area. And the ones I just listed? I only have nice things to say. I love 'em all. But I love Voltage the best. The difference is in the selection and the legitimate enthusiasm. Every member of the staff has an unpretentious love of the coffee. And it was at Voltage that I was introduced to Coava, a specialty roaster I've now gotten orders from(Girasoles-- and they roast and ship to order!). My understanding is they don't serve it elsewhere in the area. And believe me, I go to a lot of coffee shops in the area. As far as the brews go, they seem to prefer the floral/fruity/delicate end of the spectrum(of what I've been able to sample, all Latin). Gentle acidities and a general lack of bassy oomph(not the roasty kind, I mean the partially washed nonfermented bassiness of a strong east asian coffee). The lighter, sweeter(sometimes tart) end of the coffee spectrum. That works for me. Very much in line with my preference. I can't wait until we get some great African coffees at Voltage-- Barismo just brought Ethiopian coffee back into the fold. One last note: Great customer service is hard to find in the specialty coffee arena. It just is. And I'm exactly the kind of super friendly dude that gets eyerolls from pretentious baristas. Voltage does not have this problem. They are awesome, to the last person-- I'm sure that's all thanks to Lucy, the owner, who has one of the best customer service smiles you've ever seen(I've seen her flash it at folks who're downright rude, and seen them reciprocate). That's probably the most valuable talent of all, right there. I know it's a long review. But they really are that good.

    (5)

  • Andy M.

    The coffee is decent. The space is nice. But I have to say the service is sub-par. The baristas aren't overly pleasant. Worse than that, the wait is ALWAYS long. They usually just have one barista making espresso drinks.

    (3)

  • Benjamin N.

    Best coffee and cappuccinos I've found yet. Amazing breakfast sandwiches as well, and the friendliest service around. What else can I say?

    (5)

  • Ike S.

    Cool art, great coffee. For some reason the interior isn't too comfy to sit in for that long, but its still a lot of fun to walk around and check out art while sipping a delicious espresso. Well crafted coffees!

    (5)

  • wing n.

    coffee is great, the space is awesome! love the art and the environment : )

    (4)

  • Amy L.

    They had pretty interesting lattes. I got the earl grey one and it was pretty good though a bit pricey. Their earl grey tea was okay and came in loose leaf though the pot was pretty stained. I got the fig, onion, and cheese panini which was palatable but not that good. Overall I wasn't very wowed. My opinion of it teetered around a 3.5 but service wasn't that great. The shop itself is very pretty, though. It's surrounded by glass and seems to be a good place to study or people-watch.

    (3)

  • Lisa L.

    Voltage isn't a place to go when you're in a hurry. The line is long and, worse, they are understaffed. I've waited 20 minutes for a latte before. That said, that latte was damn good. Were it not, I wouldn't be giving this place 5 stars. I dare say this is the best coffee in the entirety of Cambridge - I can find nowhere which begins to compare. Their beans and brewing method are uniquely perfect. I'm usually a purist, but Voltage makes the most delicious flavored lattes ever. I recommend the "beyond the sea" latte, but their espresso is also unparalleled.

    (5)

  • Cwot W.

    I like it. They pour drip coffee for each individual cup and the menu is simple. Plus everyone working here dresses in the same fashion. Like a Robert Palmer video. Great stuff!

    (5)

  • Christopher C.

    One of the best cafes in the Boston area. A really nice space, wi-fi that works, and great coffee. Great coffee!

    (5)

  • Patty P.

    This coffee shop is my new favorite and the best is East Cambridge! The speciality drinks are delicious and have great names. The toast breakfast dish is large and really scrumptious and the service is friendly and helpful. The art also makes it a destination. My father and I go to peruse the great talent and drink amazing coffee what else can you ask for?

    (5)

  • Brittany M.

    I feel the need to comment because of the few negative responses I've read! I can't believe anyone would down talk this place on their coffee. Perhaps the service, if someone was having an off day (just like anywhere else) but every drink I've had here was on point. I've had a Guatemala pour-over, the Beyond the Sea latte and the Devil May Care latte. The flavours are all quite subtle but the combinations are really unique and interesting. We dicked around talking to the the few people behind the counter and all of them seemed nice enough. The barista today actually ended up being the owner and told us all about her history with coffee and what inspired her to open the place and stuff. All in all the put up with us, they have a great atmosphere and delicious coffee. I will be back!

    (4)

  • Apolinaras S.

    Great espresso, nice staff, but they really need to re-think seating. 3 times I have been there, twice there was nowhere to sit.

    (4)

  • David P.

    This is a gem of a coffeehouse. Pour over coffees, delicious flavored lattes... my favorite is the vanilla with burnt sugar. The toast with jam is delicious and will fill you up. Prices are very reasonable. I love that there is always art to look at, and the music they play is good / appropriate. Oh- and there's free Wifi. Check this place out before it becomes better known and near impossible to get a seat on a weekend afternoon. This is easily my new favorite weekend work place.

    (5)

  • Shanfan H.

    I think the bar tenders here feel too good about themselves. This place is overrated just because they got a tasteful interior design and some pieces of painting hanging - but com'n. This cashier seemed very annoyed to explain to me about one of their menu items. And when he needed to write down my name he wouldn't even bother to ask for the full spelling, instead he said "uh I'll just write sh-- well, shan." Does a person working in a well-decorated cafe really need to behave this arrogantly? Plus their coffee wasn't anything special.

    (1)

  • Alma C.

    the espresso I had was from the small batch local roaster Barismo, and was described on the daily chalkboard as "lemon custard", "lavender", and "chocolate finish".... yes, it had kind of a smooth acidity, floral note, and rich satin finish, so, uh, i guess that's about right?? in any case, the drinks i had--the aforementioned espresso and a mocha (which was made with their own chocolate syrup concoction with the chalky and alkaline qualities of good chocolate)--were no doubt the best espresso drinks i've experienced in the boston area so far. the only thing that set off an alarm in me was the milk containers (empty? not empty?) which were left unrefrigerated on a shelf near the unopened packages of soy milk, not sure what that's about. bottom line, i'm picky about my coffee, i liked my drinks just fine, and i'll be back for sure.

    (4)

  • Craig Z.

    Staff was very nice and helpful. Comfortable, though with all the space they really should squeeze in more seating. Only been in once, but my cappuccino did not rock my world, frankly. Didn't find the espresso, the milk, or the preparation up there with the best of them.

    (4)

  • Mitali T.

    Service can be slow but the coffee is amazing. It is slightly pricey but sure beats the coffee at Tatte or Area Four, the other spots nearby (though I'm still a Dunkin Donuts lover!).

    (4)

  • Espresso T.

    I come to Voltage often because I like the decor of the place. The coffee here is fine (not great) but the decor makes up for it despite the general lack of seats. But, my visit today has been awful because I am presented with a a plate of toast that really tastes bad, and I am stuck with 4 large pieces of bread without wanting to waste them. The last time I was here I tried this same toast with agave and salt item and it was so good that I was actually craving to come back here. Today, it seems like a new person made the dish and I got presented with barely toasted bread with barely any agave and salt. Better food quality control please!!!

    (2)

  • John S.

    Voltage is excellent for both lattes and pour-over brewed coffee. I don't drink flavored lattes or coffees so cant comment on those. To-go or drink in-store with a nice ceramic mug. Not a lot of pastries or frills, but great open space. Wish the wi-fi didn't require a code and more comfortable chairs would be nice. If you want to enjoy a really good latte in a comfortable space, Voltage is hard to beat.

    (5)

  • Penny S.

    The coffee here is amazing. Delicious, smooth - and so many fun twists to try - my favorites are the salted caramel and the Atticus Finch (vanilla). My first visit, they were blasting punk music... so I would've given it 3 stars after that visit. But every trip since it's been mellow music, played soft enough to think... the way a coffee shop should be.

    (5)

  • Helen W.

    Lattes with unique flavor combinations that are the creation of its owner. Friendly staff and artwork top off the offerings.

    (4)

  • Eric F.

    Great cafe in the Kendall Square area. You're basically in an art gallery as soon as you step in with cement floors, spacious seating and quality artwork all around. The baristas are friendly and efficient, not to mention that they make a good latte. The pour overs are also quite good and very well-priced at only ~$2.60 for a 12 oz cup. The free WiFi's pretty fast too which makes for a good place to study or get some work done.

    (4)

  • Mike M.

    In terms of decor, Voltage has a real clean, pristine look to it. Very wide and spacious, but it has a vacant feeling. The art is somewhat interesting, but in general doesn't seem to fit with the rest of the cafe. Not a big fan of the interior. The coffee, on the other hand is fab! For coffee brewing methods, they only do pour overs, espressos and drip coffee. The coffee usually comes from Barrington, and is sourced from the usual spots (Kenya, Guatemala, Colombia). The coffee is pretty solid, definitely better than many of the alternatives in Boston. They also have a pretty wide selection of lattes, hot chocolates, and teas, but I personally can't vouch for any of those.

    (3)

  • Eric J.

    Best coffee (pourover) I've had in Cambridge, possibly the best in Boston in general. Service is pretty good and the rotating art is nice as well.

    (5)

  • Scott T.

    Voltage is reminiscent of the better coffee shops I frequented while living in San Francisco. Local roasters, single-drip coffees and outstanding espresso. They geek out about the coffee and obviously care about their craft. An absolute welcomed addition to Kendall Sq. and I happen to be fortunate to live right around the corner. Oh, and there is art! If you like Dunkin Donuts, don't bother. However, if you'd like to see what coffee is really supposed to taste like, stop by. Everyone is super-friendly and they'll make you something delicious.

    (5)

  • Erica T.

    I really wanted to like this place. Is this the used first sentence of a bad review? Located in an upcoming area (and close to my apartment), I was excited for a coffee shop. However, I don't think I will frequent this place any more. The lattes came in cups that had chips on them (HUGE pet peeve of mine, it should be your pet peeve too). How are you supposed to drink your latte when the handle is on the right and right where you are going to drink it, there's a chip on the cup? Never mind that it's a bacteria trap, you can cut your lip. First I thought it was a fluke, but it happened two more times. I think that a coffee shop whose main focus are their drinks, the least they can do is serve it properly. Why ruin a beautiful foam heart with a cheapy chipped cup. Sad. Also, I think that the sugary syrup masks the burnt taste of their espresso grinds, but that's not a good thing right? Baked goods did not look good and also did not taste good. My muffin from BJ's tasted similar to the one I had here, hmm. Oh well, I really like Area 4 mochas!

    (2)

  • Cathy S.

    This is my trendy and welcoming neighborhood cafe (talking about the art work and nice baristas), my savior on those god-damn-it-i-cannot-belive-i-have-to-get-up-this-­early days (talking about espressos) and my accompany whenever i need to hop on that long long ride to NYC (Cappie, Chai latte, etc...and hello America! How about some super-fast railroad like those in Japan and China? 4 hours from Bean Town to the Big Apple in the 21st century? Seriously?) Oh and they use biodegradable vegware. Kudos to that.

    (5)

  • Sumin S.

    This is based on my one visit to Voltage. I was super excited to check out this place after my friend raved about it. I also am obsessed with caramel & sea salt so was really looking forward to trying the Beyond the Sea latte (homemade caramel and salt ). Unfortunately I think I just went in at the wrong time. The barista seemed overwhelmed and flustered even though there wasn't a huge crowd. The drinks took a while to be made, and even after a long wait, they weren't that good - couldn't really taste the caramel or the sea salt. They definitely didn't look as pretty as some of the photos on Yelp do. We ordered small drink sizes but they gave us large, and when we asked for a credit, they said "we don't have time for that right now." Mediocre latte and rude service. My friend assures me that this was an unusual experience. I hope she's right and would love to go back here.

    (2)

  • Marianne C.

    A latte made with coconut and ginger? Yes, yes, yes.... One of the baristas appears to be conducting a science experiment with these ceramic funnels, but otherwise this is your standard coffeehouse with art hanging on the walls sort of place. It has a clean, aesthetic feel, so it is certainly not cozy, but it fits with the other places around here. Overall, it seems to be a nice, quiet place to have some coffee, or drink an exotic latte, such as the Eclipse, and get s bit of work done.

    (3)

  • Kathleen M.

    I'm new to the Kendall Square area and was so excited to find this place! Besides the perk of being a minute away from my office, the staff is friendly, and the lattes are incredible. They definitely put time & effort into making them perfect even topped off with some design work in the foam.

    (4)

  • Duaa M.

    Voltage Coffee and Art is that warm embrace away from the chilly atmosphere of so many cooperate coffee shops. With its uniquely flavored beverages and its delightful baristas, As soon as you walk through the tall glass doorways, there is a sense of encompassing bliss as the aroma of fantastic Barismo coffee fill the area. The serenity is only broken by the clap of the grinders and the delightful squeal of the milk steaming to a watchful and mindful consistency and temperature. Order the Atticus Finch and its rapture will surround your every sense. You can bring a date here, catch up with friends or have a work meeting. Also, just a tip, I use Level-up here...it helps keep the coffee tab down :)

    (5)

  • Leonid S.

    Their espresso is unexpectedly AWESOME. Be sure to check out the paintings on the walls, the "& Art" is rightfully earned.

    (5)

  • Hilary B.

    Love all the coffee options. Regular lattes are great. I usually get the Madame X - very yummy. I've had the caramelized onion and fig panini, it's pretty good.

    (5)

  • Laura M.

    Easily the best coffee in Kendall. They serve both Barrington and Barismo beans. The Beyond the Sea Latte is perfection: real caramel mixed into a latte topped with flakes of sea salt. It sounds very sweet, but it's not. The thing is otherworldly, but don't get it iced. Just doesn't translate. I had the breakfast sandwich for the first time today, and it was good. Avocado and grilled onions are always welcome, but could use a little more cheese on my egg&cheese. They seem to have fewer chairs than tables. Maybe they keep breaking or perhaps a ploy to keep people from lingering too long? Either way jockeying for a spot to sit is the biggest drawback.

    (5)

  • Cha Cha W.

    Jolt to my heart! Madame X where've you been all my life? I love the latte's here and I don't even like coffee. Best of all is the nice airy space to spread out and work in. There's wifi if you purchase something and I can't help but to purchase something. I forgive you for not baking in house cause the Iggy's is pretty good. Parking is a bit of a pain especially if you have a city of Cambridge parking pass already; not a major deterrent from me coming here, I'd happily circle around looking for a spot. Plenty of paid 2 hour parking otherwise. The only downside is they're not open late or on Sundays. *wimper* Say, who thinks it'd be pretty funny to paint a door onto the floor to ceiling wall of windows and watch people slowly come to their senses. It'll be like the Windex commercial with the pigeons. Awesome!

    (5)

  • Alei S.

    The variety of drinks is great. They have stuff you won't see anywhere else. I love the art they display in the seating area. The staff is always really nice

    (4)

  • Phil R.

    Voltage was a much needed addition to the coffee community in Boston/Cambridge! The staff there really seems to enjoy what they do, which always leads to a better experience for the customer. Lucy is such a pleasure to visit with anytime I come in the shop:) Their menu is interesting and it is always great to see a shop make anything they add to their lattes in-house. Their creativity knows no bounds! I still think about the pour over i had that was a blend of a couple African coffees they threw together at the shop... incredible sweetness, crazy fruit and floral notes with a finish that still hasn't stopped! A must visit for anybody traveling through the Boston area!

    (4)

  • Jamay L.

    Voltage may very well be my new favorite coffee shop in Boston/Cambridge. Echoing Scott T, it rivals my favorite cafes in NYC... There have been a lot of reviews about the coffee. The exotic latte menu is indeed impressive, and each latte I have had there has been artfully presented and delicious. But what makes this place MUCH welcome in Kendall Sq is the SPACE and the WIFI. If you're a student or a freelancer or an entrepreneur, this cafe has the tables, corners, outlets, art, and light to help you be both productive and inspired. I almost don't want to write this Yelp review as I'm sure it won't be long before it'll be hard to find a table @voltage, but I also want Voltage to do well, and to share its awesome-ness with others. The only feedback I have for Voltage? Offer larger drink sizes, non-fat milk, and more snack/pastry/food options! You're losing revenue opportunities right now. Otherwise, thank you for the much-needed addition to Kendall!!

    (5)

  • Lynn P.

    This place has lots of seating areas. Nice place to have a private talk with friends. I think their lattes are good..better than Starbucks'. They have great latte flavors and the foams are just right~ However, only thing that I complain about their drinks is that they are not hot enough for me..like lukewarm I would say. Their customer service is OK...not over the top or anything. Over all, I like this place.

    (4)

  • Brian D.

    Sung in the key of: 'I just had way too much coffee and there is nothing you can do to stop me from screaming this song in my faux-death metal voice' COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE TOAST COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE BUY MY ART AT VOLTAGE I HAVE SHOW OPENING THERE COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE COFFEE COFFEE COOOOOOOOOOFFFFFFFFFEEEEEEEEEE AND EAT SOME TOAST Seriously. Craft coffee. Quirky, read that as awesome, space. Eclectic music. Awesome staff. And, well, they host art events that are the exact opposite of pretentious.

    (4)

  • Karen L.

    I find the service here super-bored and disaffected, and the coffee kind of unpleasantly bitter (they use the fancypants individual drip method here, which is supposed to be superfantastic--other people may love this). However, the space is really, really gorgeous, with chic fittings and genuinely interesting art, and the owner herself could not be lovelier. I cannot wait for this place to start staying open late, and to be open on Sundays (please?). Also, they should relocate to next door to me.

    (3)

  • Natalia V.

    Great coffee, and great atmosphere for doing work or hanging out with people. It's so hard to find strong coffee in Boston, but this place definitely lives up to its reputation!

    (5)

  • Nicole B.

    While the decor was a bit unusual for me -- I like my cafes on the cozier side and Voltage favors airy seating, blank space and spartan furniture -- any qualms were put to rest by the not one but TWO amazing lattes I had this morning. Don't get me wrong, I'm not easily impressed when it comes to shot pullin'. I'm not a snob by any means but I was a barista for three years and I know my stuff. I was unfamiliar with the espresso they had up that day (Barrington Dark Roast) but it was smooth and delicious with nice chocolate notes. Now onto the best part -- their menu of brilliant and unusual flavor combinations for lattes (because let's face it, a skinny vanilla gets boring pretty fast). Not only were they unique, everything is made in-house! I was blown away -- and you can actually taste the difference. I was torn between the Beneath the Sea (caramel and sea salt) and the the Atticus Finch (vanilla and burnt sugar/literary references FTW) -- I went with Atticus and opted for Beneath the Sea when I went back for seconds. The staff is knowledgable, pleasant, and I believe I had a lovely chat with the owner, Lucy, about how Kendall Square is about to explode. And I feel like it's largely Voltage's fault. Delicious. Go if you can.

    (5)

  • Ginnette P.

    Went there for the first time tonight and how refreshing..I overhead someone talking about this place coming to Kendall Square a few months back. I had the Mt.Olympus tea - the menu is great and I can't wait to go back and try more...

    (5)

  • Meenee W.

    Innovative, Expansive, But Way Too Loud The cafe menu is innovative, offering many unfamiliar tastes and combination. The place is expansive, bright and beautifully decorated. In contrast, the ambiance is upset by piercingly loud music. Most people don't go to cafes to listen to music, so it must remain in the background. Instrumental jazz or new age would complement the pleasant menu and art.

    (2)

  • Christopher B.

    Voltage has a nice, trendy modern interior, with art on the walls and lots of techy and artsy hipster sitting around with their laptops and phones and books. When they first opened, I went there and was impressed by their hot chocolate. I don't drink coffee, so that's definitely my beverage of choice. But I've been back twice in the past week, and both of the flavors of hot chocolate I tried (the ginger and the mint) were just watered down. I had the intention of getting breakfast, but none of the baked goods looked all that appetizing, so I just punted. Oh, Voltage, what happened? Why are people still coming here? I guess the coffee must be pretty good.

    (2)

  • Melissa T.

    This not-so-little coffee shop seems to be little-known as yet, and while I'd kind of like to keep it that way for rather selfish reasons (it's an amazingly calm and quiet place to work, with a great aesthetic!), I'd rather let other people know about it! Lucy, the owner, was extremely friendly, the latte I ordered was made with care, and there was that feeling that I (the customer) was getting more than just my coffee - I was sharing in someone's vision of a quiet, peaceful, and energizing place coffee shop (which just as a bonus has an open, airy art-gallery feeling). Wonderful coffee, great vibe, cool small business. Oh, and for me, AMAZING location.

    (4)

  • Joshua D.

    Voltage is trying to walk the fine line between giving customers what they want and producing exceptionally fine sometimes time consuming product. I can say without hesitation that their attention to detail and technique rates them near the top. I love this cappuccino. Offerings include house and guest espressos. Baristas recognize the time and idiosyncratic nature of learning the best method for each offering. Seen here: Barrington Coffee Roasters, Barismo, Ritual Coffee Roasters Milk from High Lawn Farm!

    (4)

  • Liz M.

    YOWZA Love it. Just a really clean and chill place. I suddenly feel detoxed upon entry. The bathroom is clean, plenty of outlets and.... CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZELS FOR THE WIN! The many different lattes are cool, slightly costly. Maybe you can bring your own cup and feel like a regular... I got the agave nectar soy one... yummayyyyy I love the hipster art on the walls too....mad chill ... maddd chill...

    (4)

  • Mark O.

    Amazing coffee, creative tea-tails (you have to get there to know what I mean!), and intelligent, passionate baristas. Plus, there's a bunch of funky coffee contraptions behind the counter that make amazing coffee. I'd love to see them offer an "at-home-barista" meet up or something of the sort, where baristas explain those crazy machines and why they use them over your Keurig.

    (5)

  • Jody L.

    Fantastic coffee--both the cold brew and the infused lattes were on point really cool atmosphere--loved the art that was displayed. great baristas, and really nice clientele. make sure to give this place a try!

    (5)

  • Dolly H.

    I would give more stars except that the service is SLOW. There were 3 people ahead of me for take-out coffee today and it took 17 minutes to get my small latté. This is a common problem at Voltage, so don't go if you're in a hurry. I'm a frequent visitor and the line, short or long, always takes 10+ minutes. There's no system. With that said, the coffee is beautifully done and tastes excellent. The food is extremely tasty and worth every cent. So, go if you have time to sit and enjoy the art. Skip if you are on your way to work or need some caffeine during lunch.

    (3)

  • Steve R.

    After getting tired of Dunkin Donuts coffee (just moved here), I found this place in Cambridge and am very pleased to find a local coffee shop like this. I was impressed with the creative lattes and hot chocolate that the owner came up with. All the syrups are homemade and each drink is made with care by baristas. I recommend the panini sandwich with caramelized onions, too.

    (5)

  • Had H.

    Yay! They now have whole milk, 2%, skim and soy milk! THANK YOU! And.. when you go, try the toast and jam. YUM!

    (4)

  • Jenny H.

    I've only stopped by here once so far, but I'm a fan! I love the space, bright and airy - somewhat like an art gallery like another reviewer noted. They have an interesting array of "gourmet latte" drinks with combinations like earl grey infused or cardamom rose water. I tried a relatively tame latte with vanilla and burnt sugar. It was good and I'm definitely interested in trying some of their other creations. I've also heard that their drip coffee is good.

    (4)

  • Tara B.

    If you're serious about your coffee, then this is as artisan as it gets. I love the concept that you just walk in and saddle up to the espresso bar and a barista comes over to take your order. It's relaxing, personal. Not for you if you're in a hurry. Everything takes time. Drip isn't poured from a carafe that's been sitting for hours. Honestly, I don't know what they do with it, some sort of magic coffee chant or cellular osmosis but it takes a few minutes. And it's delicious. I'm more of a latte girl myself. And there's all these housemade, handcrafted syrups. My personal favorite is the Eclipse, coconut & ginger. Awesome. The space is really cool. Lots of little nooks to escape in a book or get to know someone on a date. In fact, this is the perfect first date coffee shop.

    (5)

  • Jessie C.

    I didn't even know this place existed until a friend of mine recommended that we meet here for coffee - yay! I'm hooked. The price is high for a latte but the flavors they offer and the look and feel of the place is worth the price - not an every day treat but maybe once every two weeks kind of place.

    (5)

  • Lindsay L.

    Boy do I ever wish Voltage Coffee was there when I lived in Third Street all those years ago! A sucker for cardamom, I went off the beaten path for testing out a new place and ordered a double small soy "paper plane" latte, which the lovechild of their homemade cardamon, rose, honey syrup combined with the espresso. OK, so maybe I couldn't really taste the rose, perhaps because of the soy, but the overall result was a delicious latte that I want every day. Fortunately for my pocketbook, I don't live nearby. :( I also ordered a chocolate ginger snap, which was more ginger snap than chocolate, but that's OK; it was phenomenal -- good and spicy. I wolfed it down shamelessly. What I loved about this place, aside from the simultaneously minimalist and kitschy interior, is that, even though I ordered what would usually be very sweet foods, I did not walk out of there with a sugar rush. I could actually taste what I ordered! Including the amazing coffee. What a high quality addition to the neighborhood.

    (5)

  • James A.

    This place is fantastic. It's not quite the best espresso I've had in the Boston area (that award goes to Simon's) but it's pretty close. And what it lacks there (not much), it more than makes up with a fantastic ambience - it's bright, open, huge ceilings, nicely designed and cool artwork up everywhere. There's just a certain something about it that makes it feel like the inside of a well-funded startup.

    (5)

  • Aaron P.

    Nice location. Creative menu. Long lines at "rush hour," weekdays 1pm - 4pm. Related, brisk and unfriendly staff behind the counter: no receipt, no attention for a wifi code after waiting at the line again with a drink in tow. Latte (sea salt variety) is quite good. Art on the walls is a great touch.

    (4)

  • Erin C.

    The Lattes here are delicious, both caffeinated and decaf. The space is nice and airy and good for working. And so far I have loved every art installation, especially the current Baptista one; this is a first for any coffeeshop/gallery (I am very picky). BUT, there are some cons. The food selection is very minimal, although I do love the animal crackers. The paninis are pretty good (usually a choice of two a day); there was obviously a lot of thought put into each creative concoction but they are not all hits (subjective judgment, obviously). Also, the music is generally not upbeat and sometimes makes me want to bang my head against a wall. Why not play Feist or Cat Power or Sia...something more palatable? I have far from mainstream music tastes and I also like the Decemberists BUT listening to them moaning about a dark and twisted world for hours on end is pretty awful. Whoever chooses the music should be cognizant that the music is not ONLY for their personal enjoyment but should also be inviting to patrons!!!

    (4)

  • Jenny Z.

    I love this place! For more reasons than one, I keep coming back here. I jumped started my espresso love in Italy, and have since been trying to refine my taste for espresso and coffee. This place is near school for me so it's convenient to come here. But I could also have my pick of on-campus cafes (none of which compare to this place), so why come here? The service here is good and I love the latte art--as well as the art on the museum-like walls. The menu has a great selection of lattes with homemade syrups (with great names!) as well as other great hot drinks like a good drip and great hot chocolate. And this may sound strange, but I really like their glassware--I think what a drink is served in is very important for good enjoyment of the drink. I've also tried several of their sandwiches and soups--all were delightful and showcased a veggie or a fruit and tasted very fresh and thankfully not too salty! The bread is also great whether you get a sandwich or toast. Overall, I just love the menu. I also love the environment. I tend to come here midday on weekdays, so I can generally find seating. It's a good place to do some work (and there are plenty of outlets!) or hangout with a few friends. The interesting wall layout makes for a good museum-like feel that allows you to choose more sunlight or less (I personally love the huge glass windows/walls), big table or small, etc. The music is a bit of a hit or miss for me, but it generally is a bit off the beaten road. Voltage is a good mix of minimalistic modern. Just wanted to say I love this place one more time before ending my review.

    (5)

  • Olivia v.

    4 stars because the intense cold brew coffee (used to spike part of the sugary "Dude" coffee-mocktail) is a rich, thick, bourbony, almost molasses'd marvel. Ask to try it on its own if you're ready for a nearly syrupy intensity of caffeine. Blew my mind. It really ought to be sold on its own! I would give you 5 stars but I can't afford to come here very often given your prices :'( I suppose the price tags do make sense, though, given your upcoming biotechy location. The friendly and engaging owner (schooled in coffee on the West Coast, zero surprise) tells me she'd make a non-sweet version of the lattes except she wants to stick to natural ingredients, and it's hard to find something traditional to dissolve flavoring into. I will continue to cross my fingers for anti-sweet-tooth alternatives to appear on their menu. That said, the sweet flavored lattes are still interesting and my cup is always empty after about 15 seconds.

    (4)

  • Diane I.

    An awesome coffee shop close to my house. YAY! Very cute, nice vibe. Perfect for doing work - and free wifi. Lots of outlets. The artwork here (at the moment) is pretty good - I'd consider buying some. I love ceramic drip coffee - unfortunately the coffee here isn't as delicious as Blue Bottle in SF or Intelligentsia in Chicago, but glad someone is doing it somewhere. Still pretty good though! This place is definitely worth checking out - a different kind of cafe than almost all of the others in Boston and Cambridge.

    (4)

  • LeeAnn T.

    I pass by Voltage twice a day on my way to and from work. It is impossible not to stop in on a regular basis because the drinks are delicious. I highly recommend the Madame X, it is great hot or cold. The baristas are always nice and the atmosphere is relaxed. You must stop in.

    (4)

  • caley t.

    Come here instead of starbucks or ABP, definitely. You'll be glad. It's drip coffee, so it takes a little longer, but it's worth it. Their specialty drinks have names that come from the classics-- I recommend the magpie or the atticus finch. They also have delicious exotic hot chocolates. Everyone that works here is really cool as well, and the atmosphere is super nice- it's an art gallery as well as a coffee shop, and the art is constantly changing. They also serve pastries, toasts, and paninis. The paninis are written on a board and change constantly-- never tried one, but they always sound delicious. The pecan buns I have tried though, and they are a definite win. Downside: never open on a sunday.

    (5)

  • Erika G.

    Working in Cambridge just got that much better! The Madame X latte was amazing and I always love the added touch of "foam art." The flavors were complex without being too sweet or masking the espresso (the most important part) The front counter reminded me of a cupcake shop but the rest was reminiscent of your friend's cool trendy loft with lots of original art. I hate to complain about the food because really there is nothing that goes well with coffee that isn't a dessert. Buuuuut, while I appreciate the effort of trying to offer sandwiches, they don't hold a candle to the inspiration behind the lattes. Although I do LOVE ants on a log....

    (5)

  • Kalie E.

    Super cute coffee/art studio just outside of Kendall Sq. I was prepared to pay $$ for a coffee, my husband got a hot latte (with a heart swirl in the froth btw) and I went with an Iced Latte and we were pleasantly surprised at how relatively inexpensive it was. I loved the artwork that adorned the walls. The shop itself is very spacious and open, much like a gallery. I took a star off for the (slightly) snobby baristas and also for the confusing menu placement (you need to grab a menu at the counter) I was expecting coffee options/flavors to be written on large white board behind counter, and menus were hidden by another customer's handbag, when it was our turn to order, I didn't realize they had salted caramel lattes! Next time I guess!

    (4)

  • Alek C.

    Enjoying a rose-flavored latte, using free wifi in an open, light-filled room. This place has instantly sealed its place as my favorite coffeeshop in Boston. It is replacing Simon's due to the atmosphere and creativity seeping through this place. the only thing possibly wrong with the place is the location - it is in that awful warehouse / luxury condo district of east cambridge, but perhaps it is for the best. if this place were any more convenient, i'd never be able to find a seat!

    (5)

  • Em C.

    Voltage has the strongest espresso drinks I've ever had (based off of my previous Starbucks habit). This place has become exponentially more popular in the past few months as word spreads about their delicious coffee. I would compare it with Simon's Coffee Shop in Cambridge- except the atmosphere at Voltage is more subdued. It fits very well with the up-and-coming trendiness of Kendall Square. Think Za, Evoo, Meadhall... Voltage. The baristas are extremely nice and always do the nice 'design' foam on the top of your latte. ps- try the "donut muffin" which is pretty much a fried cardamom-reminiscent muffin-shaped donut... complete with a sugary malasada-like shell.

    (5)

  • Jeanette D.

    The coffee here is absolute perfection. I'm usually a black coffee or americano kinda gal, but on a whim I tried the Atticus Finch--one of Voltage's exotic lattes. DELICIOUS! Unique, subtle, special. I love that they put 2 shots of espresso in every drink too. Seriously this place is great, by far the best coffee/espresso I've had on the east coast. Voltage now offers paninis at lunch and pastries and toast at breakfast--it's all tops. Most highly recommended. The only caveat is that it does take a little while to get your order. Even the coffees are drip while you wait, so leave a little time if you're trying to grab a morning coffee. The staff is great too--5 stars all around!

    (5)

  • B L.

    Great coffee, great service, great atmosphere! This place is great! P.S. Dear Voltage, I'm sorry I broke your glass and spilled coffee everywhere today. :(.

    (5)

  • Sara S.

    Most unique latte menu I've ever seen in my entire life. Delicious coffee. Convenient location. Free wifi. Nicest staff ever. YUMMY food. Oh yeah, and independent! What else could you want?

    (5)

  • jen h.

    They fixed the music! Now you can savor your specialty latte to some awesome shifting soundscapes. Something I forgot to mention in my previous review: I love that they offer little snacklets -- animal crackers and chocolate-covered pretzels -- by the scoop. Maybe they should shelve the baked goods altogether (they semi-hide them behind the counter, anyway) and expand their array of cookie jars? I'd gladly pay a buck or two to have a couple oreos or speculoos with my coffee.

    (5)

  • Tom E.

    This place rocks. Try the cinnamon toast - you will be glad that you did.

    (5)

  • Erik S.

    So I went to Voltage yesterday and was really stuck by the nice space they have. They have a bunch of pretty cool art up on the walls. They also have plenty of seating. I ordered the 8oz latte. The equipment they have isn't necessarily the top of the line, but the owner does a good job with what she has. The espresso in my latte was Barrington Gold, which I like, but I feel that it lacks subtlety in the flavors. The texture of the drink was pretty good, but there were a fairly significant amount of bubbles in the microfoam. Anyway, it's a real nice place and since the Corporate HQ of the company I work for is right across the street, I'm sure I will be back at some point.

    (4)

  • Noah K.

    Been trying out Latte places all around the USA and I can definitely say this is one I am going back to a second day in a row. Very yummy.

    (5)

  • Shang S.

    Came in here for a quick catch up with a friend. Love the art on the wall, it's definitely a very industrial feel. As far as coffee shops go, it's pretty run of the mill

    (3)

  • David H.

    Brilliant, industrial chic... Great coffee, but try the fig panini. My favorite new (to me) coffeehouse & only two blocks from my office.

    (4)

  • Gwen S.

    A straightforward cup of drip is hand-brewed by pouring very hot water into freshly ground beans into personal cups. You couldn't get fresher unless you waited while the beans had been roasted. Lattes come in insanely mouth watering flavors, for instance the Madame X, featuring Earl Grey infused white chocolate ganache, or even the hands-down winner, Atticus Finch, that contains vanilla with burnt sugar. Make no mistake: These are no cloying, gimmicky drinks, but rather artful blends subtly kissed with flavor. You won't get a speedy cup here and be on your way. Like perfection takes time.

    (5)

  • Allyssa M.

    Tastefully functional. Artsy without the kitsch. And the Paper Plane latte is worth the journey from anywhere in the Greater Boston Area.

    (5)

  • R H.

    The lattes here are amazing, the ambiance is nice, the service is good, and there's wifi for 2 hours if you buy something. The price is reasonable for a latte as well. The only reason why I can't give it 5 stars is that they don't serve regular coffee. On days when I realize I don't have any ground coffee in my apartment and don't have time to buy some, go back to my apartment, and make it, it would be nice if they had a cheaper alternative to lattes so I can get my caffeine fix. The ambiance is unique: it feels like a combination between an art gallery and a coffee shop. I like it a lot.

    (4)

  • Michele B.

    The beating heart of Kendall Square.

    (5)

  • Kay S.

    Oh Voltage, you are a bright spot in the meh-ness of Kendall. The first time I came here, I was very put off by the ridiculous crowd and lack of tables. (I still think they can still have lots of open space with a few more places to sit.) However, subsequent visits have mitigated that experience substantially. First off, the coffee is really good; I have never been disappointed (although statistically I guess it is bound to happen). Even the flavored coffee, which I am usually wary of for being too sweet and/or artificial tasting, and the iced espresso drinks, which can easily get too watery, are fantastic. I love the large windows, and although the art isn't always good, the vibe is great for chatting over coffee. I couldn't work here on a weekday, but on the weekends, it's a prime environment for laptop-camping. The service staff range from 'eh' to awesome, but I've never had a bad service experience. And I actually like that they scale your internet to how much you buy; especially because they aren't uptight about giving you a bit more time if the place isn't packed. I think if the layout improves a bit, this may become my favorite coffee shop in the area.

    (3)

  • Courtney M.

    Probably my new favorite coffee place! Went there because of Groupon, and so happy with this purchase. Love the fun specialty lattes. We ordered the Madame X and the Beyond the Sea--both a great and unexpected twist on traditional latte flavors. The environment is open, bright, and bright. It's a relaxing place to enjoy your coffee and definitely worth a visit!

    (5)

  • Lisa I.

    The decor is great and it's a relaxing place to do work, if you get a seat that is. Voltage can be really busy so if you have a big group, this is definitely not the place to go. More ideal for a low key afternoon where you have time to get an expensive latte and stay for a while.

    (4)

  • Elle J.

    This is by far the best coffee in the Boston area. I love their cappuccino!! They make it perfect every time. The staff is very friendly. The ambiance is modern and relaxing. They could improve on their selection of pastries but if you love coffee, this is the place to go to!

    (4)

  • Jeff K.

    Everything about this place is great - coffee, atmosphere, location. Has a silicon valley feel to it.

    (5)

  • Steve S.

    Who needs Starbucks when you have Voltage? It's cheaper and it's BETTER. Their selection, although not as vast as Starbucks, has some great quality cups of joes and lattes. Their iced mocha is to die for. On top of that, they really know how to make you an iced coffee - the coffee touches ice several times during the process to ensure your coffee stays cold. Besides the neat artwork and cool modernesque setting, this place is a great spot to study, meet a friend, or just grab a good coffee. Two thumbs WAY up.

    (4)

  • Logan J.

    i went when this place was just opening, and i was very disappointed. the coffee was really bad and the flavors of the coffee all tasted the same--salty. yuck! the space is cool and could potentially turn into a fun place to be around...but when i was there, it was far from its potential.

    (1)

  • Emily G.

    great coffee. great curry sweet potato panini. They need to step it up on the baked goods and variety of lunch options to get more stars. Glad to have a good coffee option close to the office though - finally.

    (3)

  • debra b.

    Had a wonderful experience at Voltage recently. Myself and another cafe owner met here to check out Voltage. We were greeted by a very impressive "barista" (Greg). He spent a good amount of time explaining the menu to us, patient and friendly! Our espresso drinks, sandwiches were excellent.

    (5)

  • Nadia A.

    The interior of the place is a little odd for my liking but others seem to think it's chic...Pipes across the ceiling and an industrial feel are not the coziest in my opinion, BUT, I have to say their iced lattes are awesome. The staff is friendly, too. Yeah, I'll be back...

    (4)

  • Karen F.

    Modern. Friendly. Artsy. Bright. Close to the T. Review is more for ambience/going-to-a-coffee-shop-to-do-work and not for their actual coffee. Iced coffee isn't amazing (I'm obsessed with cold brews and theirs aren't) but they do individually drip it. Bathroom has multiple stalls and are clean. Yep. Next time I'm in town I'm doing work here!

    (5)

  • Thomas B.

    This place is awesome. The latte flavors are unique. The staff is really friendly. The atmosphere is chill. I came here because of a groupon, but I will be back many times more on my own. Try it out!

    (5)

  • Patrick M.

    I've been waiting for Voltage Coffee to open since first hearing about it, and it has been worth the wait. Lucy's pulled together a great shop, with a focus on high quality drinks. With a number of power outlets and free wifi (not sure from where - but who cares? It works!), it's sure to be a hit with local MIT students and the Kendall Square tech folks.

    (5)

  • Helen H.

    Initially, I was very excited to go to a cafe that's not Starbucks, especially after viewing their latte selection. So I got a 5-drink punch pass from Groupon, which was a good deal - 5 four-dollar drinks for $10. The first time I got "Paper Plane" latte, which tasted nice and very different from what I have tried before. The only disappointing thing was that they did not have skim milk, only 2% - i assumed they just ran out that day. As it turned out, they also ran out of ingredients for the "Madame X" latte that I really wanted to order. The second time, I was inside for quite a while - around 2 pm on Friday it was very busy. The owner of the cafe took my order by using a stamp assigned to the latte ("Beyond the Sea") on a piece of paper and wrote my name on it, which I thought was very cute. But again, they did not have skim milk - apparently, they just don't carry it. I stayed in the shop for a few hours, working on my laptop (you need a receipt with a password to access wi-fi). What i did not realize is that wif-fi access lasts only 2 hours and when I asked for another password, I was told that I should buy another drink, which was slightly frustrating. So I got "The Thieving Magpie", which was slightly better than "Beyond the Sea" which left me a bit disappointed. Of course, after I purchased the second drink to get 2 more hours of wi-fi, I was told that the store is closing in an hour for exhibition installation, of which i was reminded 20, 15, and 7 min before closing by the cafe workers. They were polite about it, but I don't work very well when someone distracts me every five minutes. Overall, it's a nice place with good drinks.

    (3)

  • Greg S.

    Working at MIT and living in Cambridgeport, I've had a hard time finding a coffee shop with both good atmosphere and quality coffee (particularly espresso-based drinks). Finding Voltage was like mana from heaven. I got a phenomenal latte with perfect consistency of milk. Beats the pants off anything in the Central/Kendall Square area. The hand poured coffee brews and wide array of flavored lattes are tantalizing. The care with which the baristas make their drinks is evident every step of the way. The atmosphere is phenomenal. The space is energizing, bright and gorgeously designed. Rotating art exhibitions are a special bonus. The place can get quite busy during the day, but I've never waited long to find a seat. Voltage will be a staple in my routine for the foreseeable future.

    (5)

  • Dan S.

    For a self-described SF coffee snob the Blue Bottle drinks here were the best in Boston. I'd come back for the Paper Plane alone. Mmm, cardamom...

    (5)

  • Esther Z.

    It's good coffee in a cool space - but I haven't had anything that wowed me. I'm kind of bummed about that actually. Nevertheless, I will still visit because it's close to work and a decent place to chat with a friend.

    (4)

  • Rebecca S.

    I'll be interested to see how long Voltage can continue as it's set up. Divided into a few different open rooms, with plenty of wall-space for gallery-style displays of local artists' work that are available for purchase, Voltage feels less cramped than 1369. It's a bit pricier than 1369, and its latté isn't quite as good as 1369's. On the other hand, if you're looking for free wifi, Voltage delivers -- with a caveat: They've restricted the amount of time customers can avail themselves of the wifi, based on how much food/coffee is purchased. This seems like a perfectly reasonable way to address the demand for seats, but only time will tell if that will be sufficient to keep profits at an acceptable margin, or if they'll have to resort to adding more tables and chairs. I hope they stick around for a while -- Cambridge needs more good coffee shops!

    (4)

  • Leon B.

    Ok, so my friend and I just had a horrible experience waiting 30-40 minutes for her salad across the street at Tatte. There was nowhere to sit there, so we came over to the outdoor seating area of Voltage, which was mostly empty, and sat down, intending to have our lunch and then get a drink from Voltage. As soon as we sat down, a waitress came by and told us that "outside food and beverages are not allowed", shooed us away, and told us that there were some picnic tables nearby (which there weren't). She didn't ask us if we wanted to order, or if we were going to get a drink, or anything like that. Just pushed us away, no questions asked. In the end, I got a coffee at Starbucks (ugh) after lunch. If Voltage doesn't want me sitting in their seating area, they won't be getting my business.

    (1)

  • Milz G.

    This is a must-try coffee shop. It has all the makings of a true winner ...excellent coffee, tea, chai, lemonade, nifty noshings and of course, the wonderful staff!! This place rocks!

    (5)

  • Andrea P.

    They put a lot of love and care into each drink. They are passionate about new and different ingredients and every cup of coffee is fresh. The space is incredible. The art is amazing. I think they have new artists every 3 months (or weeks) or so. And it's great to check out the work of local artists. The ordering process is great too. You just kind of walk up and wait for someone like a bar. Then they stamp your cup with the logo for that drink write your name on it and a few minutes later you get your drink. It's lovely.

    (5)

  • Andres M.

    I am giving 4 star because I am really happy to see more good places opening in Kendall Sq. The second time I went there they had live music, which I liked. I don't drink coffee so I can only say that their chocolate and croissants are good. I wish they had more power outlets and that it was open more days and for longer periods of time.

    (5)

  • Cashmir D.

    Voltage Coffee & arts is fantastic! The passion for coffee and quality products is fascinating and this results in probably the best coffee in Cambridge! Offers that peace and quiet that you should expect from a quality coffee shop. Definitely worth a visit!

    (5)

  • Asb E.

    In general, this is a great place. I've come here a dozen times or so, and its pros outweigh the cons. The cons are all about food, though, and that makes this place just a wee bit annoying around lunch... Pros: - Good coffee, good atmosphere and art. - Great basically-free wireless. - When they're good, the big thick slices of buttered toast are great. - Some people have complained about the baristas, but in general I think they're fine. Cons: - Two-sandwich menu doesn't really rotate, they've had this same not-so-good coconut sandwich on the board for weeks (at least on Fridays), and they often run out of sandwiches by 12:30 - Those thick slices of bread are great when they're fresh and buttery. If they're stale and dry, the thickness makes them pretty bad - Breakfast sandwiches end at 10:00. Not the end of the world, but when they're other options aren't so appealing... Most other local fancy coffee places have breakfast sandwiches for longer So, basically, they're very good, but it would be even better if they sorted their food issues.

    (3)

  • P'raka ..

    It's not bad and I really should give it a shot - but I just wanted to warn people that this is NOT the place to go for a FAST cup of coffee. If you have the time to wait around for some guy to artistically swirl hot water over your filter to dampen it and then continue to slowly swirl hot water over your coffee grinds and watch it slowly drip into an awaiting mug, then by all means get some coffee here. It's quite good. Just not fast!

    (3)

  • Iris M.

    I'm not sure how I feel about this place yet. I've been here on a few different occasions with different groups of people. On one hand it's conveniently located in the Kendall Square area, adding much needed life to the incessant dullness. I've had lattes, tea, hot chocolate and the toast with Jam. I enjoyed it all. I like the space with all its weird art. It's mostly a young crowd and a lot of professionals. I also like that it's not too crowded and you can bring in your computer. There's always a seat. The staff seems to be a mix of friendly and stale. Still, it's in the area.

    (3)

  • Kristen L.

    I stumbled into Voltage on Presidents Day after an unsuccessful attempt at accessing wifi at Beantown Coffee House in Kendall. What a great find! There was plenty of seating available, and the layout afforded quiet privacy to those wanting to work. The coffee shop/art gallery hybrid is unique, and the space is very modern minimalist. The only downside is the menu is fairly minimal as well - very few options in terms of food. But the coffee was good and brought to my table by a friendly staff member. Will definitely return here again the next time I'm looking for a change of work scenery!

    (4)

  • Erwin C.

    Owner Lucy Valena has temporarily grounded her coffee cart and put down roots in Kendall Square. Voltage Coffee opened softly today but is already serving well-prepared coffee and tea. This is a welcome addition to the area for specialty coffee drinkers. The coffee program at the moment features beans from with guest coffees to come. Barrington Gold Espresso Blend is being pulled for espresso drinks and dual-Ethiopian blend called Vanitas brewed via the pourover method. A good number of "exotic" flavored lattes are also on the menu with names to match ("Devil May Care", "The Thieving Magpie", and "Atticus Finch" are a few). I'm also looking forward to tasting one of their hot chocolates like "Besos Fuertes" (ginger root). Food will be coming soon. The space is light and airy due to plenty of wall-to-wall glass and high ceilings. There are a number of small tables available for seating in a gallery area to take in all the hung artwork. As a resident of Mid-Cambridge, I'm glad to finally see a good coffee option in East Cambridge.

    (4)

  • Ben L.

    Good coffee, modern, minimalist feel.

    (4)

  • Lucia L.

    Love the atmosphere of this cafe--lots of natural sunlight and very spacious, almost like an art gallery! We got two iced Americano's...they were okay. I really liked the little flower arrangements they had on the counter. I'm a sucker for little glass jars! Can't wait to come back to try their special lattes.

    (4)

  • Sara G.

    Great coffee, really nice space. I wish the wireless was free, although I understand that it keeps the place free to sit and enjoy your coffee. Will definitely be back to try one of their flavored lattes--and the regular iced latte was delicious enough!

    (4)

  • jade g.

    I love the drip coffee - very flavorful and fresh, although it does cool down too fast in the white ceramic mugs...maybe next time I'll ask them to heat the mug for me. The nooks and crannies cut down on the noise level so it's quiet enough to study. Definitely nice to have a coffee place in the area, though I wish they were open later.

    (5)

  • Carissa D.

    Mmmmm Voltage - FINALLY a coffee shop comes to Kendall (no, Starbucks, Au Bon Pain and DD do not count). My work week just improved 10-fold. Coffee's great, flavored lattes are like little caffeinated desserts and the staff is friendly and happy. Only trouble will be restraining myself from coming in multiple times a day... thank you Voltage for bringing real coffee to Kendall! Now, one small request - can you please please open on Sundays?

    (5)

  • Sandy W.

    There's brown sugar in a cup now~

    (4)

  • Nick C.

    I am at Voltage Coffee right now, and I LOVE it! First, the space is beautiful, just the right mix of open space and little nooks to settle yourself into. The high ceilings and expansive wall space give a calming atmosphere and really set off the great art collection. It's an unassuming and beautifully open space that is lovely to spend time in. They have free wifi which means I could probably spend all day here. Next, the coffee! It being my first time here, I have only tried one drink, but it is delicious! I'm currently enjoying a paper plane, that being a latte which is infused with cardamom and rose syrup. The owner Lucy assures me that the name wasn't intended as an M.I.A. reference but to me it always will be, which earns this fantastic drink a special place in my heart. This is absolutely my new favorite hangout. I'm going to be here all the time! Love.

    (5)

  • Andrew M.

    Voltage provides great coffee in an underserved location. Lucy, the owner, is really enthusiastic about providing an artisan experience and this place delivers. My only criticism is the atmosphere: a little bright and somewhat barren.

    (5)

  • DJ M.

    I am a big fan of coffee shops and Kendall square needed something desparately. The idea of coffee and art is great, however most of the time when I was there, there was no art , just plain white boring walls. It came to a point that the place was just simply boring and not very inviting to sit, relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. Food is mediocre at best with a very limited menu. Needless to say, I crossed the street (literally) to a new bakery/coffee place...more expensive for sure, but much more pleasant and relaxing.

    (2)

  • Danny K.

    I think the concept of the place is great, the decor gorgeous but the proprietors really need to put that same kind of passion into making world-class cappuccino, and at this point it is not. The problem is that they need to master making the proper consistency of milk foam. At voltage the foam is too stiff, bubbles are too big. Not silky smooth at all; it has more the consistency of overbeaten egg whites- as such it tastes of air and the sweetness of the milk is lost. This explains why they cannot make fine patterns in the foam. They need to aim for a transcendental coffee-milk-air mixture that has sweetness of the milk and depth of the coffee.

    (3)

  • Kathryn R.

    At last! Good coffee in Kendall Sq! Space is airy, baristas are friendly and knowledgeable about their craft and what they are serving. You can't go wrong with any of their flavored lattes; of course they have the standard coffee menu. For me the best part is that their Soy Milk is organic and unsweetened. Beat that, Starbucks!

    (4)

  • Shane T.

    Lots of seating in an open modern look with a friendly staff. Live music when I was here on Saturday afternoon. Excellent late and chai latte

    (5)

  • Tessa C.

    This is the best coffee shop... EVER. I feel bad saying that because I work at a Starbucks, but this place is so original with amazing coffee. This place has everything: the staff is so nice, awesome vibe, originality, and delicious drinks. I love that everything is homemade. I can really tell that they care about what they are doing!

    (5)

  • michael l.

    The space was open and well lit. Contemporary art decorated the walls and indie rock music played in the background. I stayed for a couple hours and relaxed. I generally try to avoid flavored coffees, but I had to try since it seemed to be their specialty. I ordered the vanilla burnt sugar latte. It was pleasingly not as sweet as I expected and the flavor was not overpowering, but still too much of a change for my taste. The hand poured coffee of my neighbor smelled really good and next time I'll definitely go back to try that to please the conservative coffee drinker in me.

    (4)

  • Sara G.

    oh no, where am i supposed to stand, there's no cattle-herding lane markers... turns out, it's quite nice, to walk in and figure out that you just stand at the bar and a nice barista comes over to help you. coffee is not poured from a pony-keg of coffee that has been sitting there for god only knows how long. coffee is fresh brewed, in a single filter lined device, for your soon to be caffeinated body to enjoy. my 8 oz coffee was $2, which, might seem expensive to some, but it was tasty, so i didn't mind. how much is burnt starbucks coffee anyway? let's keep it in perspective, people. the store space is clean, bright, and had a few art pieces hanging on the wall. i think they just opened this week, or recently, but i can see real potential with the space, if they choose to hang more art pieces. above all, the staff was friendly and nice, and those two attributes rank extremely high with me. thanks for the 2pm pick-me-up, Voltage, I'll be back!

    (4)

  • Anushka A.

    I'm at Voltage as we speak--- I live close by and have passed by it a few times and peeking in it looked like a funky little coffee shop with art- nice combo. Decided to skip the starbucks and venture here instead. they had a women's event going on (every thurs am- nice touch) and lots of open space and lovely light pouring through. The barista was great (awesome energy) and even let me smell the teas before making my selection! Take that- starbucks!! Now on to enjoy my scoop of Animal Cracker snacks- yum. Wish they took American Express but overall I'll be coming back here again soon. :)

    (4)

  • C C.

    I feel like I never had a real cappuccino until today! Starbucks, D&D go weep!! The foam on top was so dense and rich and the complexity of the flavors in the espresso astounded me! I wish they sold some sort of delectable pastries to accompany..

    (5)

  • Kathryn H.

    Voltage is wonderful. The staff is super friendly and the drinks are always perfect. I love the tea selection. Only a few things I'd say need improvement... I wish they had more hours and were open on Sundays as well as having more seating.

    (5)

  • Jerry H.

    Best cappuccino in Kendall Square (and probably Cambridge). along with thinking cup in Boston my 2 favorites.

    (5)

  • Jake D.

    One of the best in Cambridge - high quality beans and milk and competent barista's create great shots and macchiatos.

    (5)

  • K. O.

    I love the idea of a coffee shop in the area and the drinks are fantastic. Unfortunately for me, though, a good coffee shop requires some comfy couches and the seats here are far from comfy. But as one of the only independent coffee shops in the area, I try to support it when possible.

    (3)

  • Amy L.

    The baristas are extremely friendly. The latte flavors are unique. I love the paper airplane. I have been here 5 time already never had any bad coffee or hot chocolate. Sometime it does get crowded but it is worth it. The curry yam panini is yummy!

    (5)

  • Greg N.

    We were staying at the Kendall Hotel looking for a good coffee on a rainy Easter weekend. Found this on Yelp and had a great experience. Super nice staff that let us sample some flavors before we selected our latte. Friendly chat while we waited.

    (4)

  • Chris B.

    Best soy lattes in Cambridge -- they use soy milk that isn't too sweet, and are expert at doing latte art with it too. Kudos!

    (5)

  • Michelle A.

    I tend to prefer cozier coffee shops but was pleasantly surprised by Voltage. The service was excellent, as was my tea. Everything also seemed very reasonably priced, and I enjoyed the lighting.

    (4)

  • Lara W.

    I am obsessed with this place. Like, move-to-Cambridge-now because of Voltage kind of situation. Starting with the space itself, they have nooks and crannies and shared tables a plenty so you can have any type of solitary or social coffee shop experience. I sat next to a woman in her 80s and had an amazing chat. I also overheard some political activists having a meeting about the Patriot Act as I had my head buried in some work. And then there are daters, and laptop-users, and book clubs... The ambiance seems to draw a creativity out of people. There is even a mailbox for Deliver Me: an unreliable mail system where you write a letter and hope someone picks it up and delivers it by hand to the address you've written. There are only 6 other places in the country with this set up so far, so way to go Voltage for being ahead of the curve. But none of this would be possible without the QUALITY of their menu offerings. The coffee is artful and tasty. Really good cup of latte. THE BREAKFAST ENGLISH MUFFIN is so yummy I can't stand it. Caramelized onions really bring it home. And the crepes are yummy too. I'm just so happy eating here that I have to encourage you to do the same. Props to the barista who started singing along to Regina Spektor beautifully during one of my visits. That's exactly what I'm talking about.

    (5)

  • Kenneth R.

    On our first visit, we got an espresso and a cappuccino. The espresso was bitter and not especially glorious in any way. The cappuccino had a bunch of milk on top, but there was no latte art as in the numerous photos of this place. My expectations were very high because of the five-star reviews by my friends, but I walked out shaking my head in disappoint. Watt was going on at Voltage? We decided to give this highly-regarded establishment a second chance: I ordered a pour-over ($4). The pour-over was made from a Central American coffee and was excellent! OK, that was a real data point. It's true as well that the Voltage rooms are set up so that it's easy to work, study and chat. I could imagine becoming a regular if I needed a "home away from home" for writing yelp reviews and attending to other business. Conclusion: four stars. But back to the coffee: I'm worried about possible inconsistency and would need to come back several times before agreeing that Voltage is The One.

    (4)

  • Ray T.

    Google Maps- Y U no say Voltage on summer hours? U say open 9-3pm but place close and no wireless. Ok, but seriously we walked by and the place looks pretty cool from the outside! Never got inside this Sunday morning in July, but when they resume regular hours, it will probably be super comfy. 5 stars for esthetics alone! Probably call (who does that anymore) or check the website for hours.

    (5)

  • Heather F.

    Exotic latte selection - I tried the paper plane that had cardamom rose water in it. I also loved the vibe and the art on the walls. Great coffee shop in bean-town!

    (4)

  • Brigit C.

    I get a volt of electricity coming here. Voltage has a nice variety of hot and cold beverages, from straight espresso and pour over coffee to flavored lattes and hot chocolates. For each drink, the baristas grind up the beans right in front of you on the spot, and they make it look so easy and effortless. My friend and I stopped in and found it to be full of happy patrons. The smell of the coffee beans was heavenly and filled our noses as we tried to decide what to get. We got a Beyond the Sea latte (caramel and salt), a Paper Plane latte (cardamom, rosewater, and honey), and a Midnight Sun hot chocolate (cinnamon and capsicum). We had several people in front of us with multiple drinks, but the baristas were pouring them efficiently and in a decent amount of time considering each drink was ground up and crafted from scratch. We stood there, close to the counter, in awe watching as they made each cup. For our caramel latte, the head barista sprinkled the top with salt around the milky heart he had just made. Our other drinks featured similar beautiful latte art, with a special rose on top of mine!! The coffee is excellent, and the flavorings are so unique and enjoyable. The caramel/salt latte was nicely flavored, with the caramel not overwhelming the espresso. The cardamom/rosewater/honey latte was good, but it was really my taste flavor-wise, though I love honey; the rosewater seemed to dominate a little more, but if you like these flavorings, it was very well done. The stand out for me on this one visit was the hot chocolate. It was very flavorful, but not overwhelming with spices in any way. It was (yes, it's long gone now--within fifteen minutes of getting it) absolutely delicious and one of the best hot chocolates I've ever had. We got the small (8 ounces, or exactly one cup) for all of our drinks, and it was the perfect size to satisfy my coffee and chocolate cravings. Not only are the drinks outstanding, so too is the service. The baristas were extremely kind and welcoming. They made our visit very fun and like we had been there many times before, though it was only our first. The head barista, in particular, was absolutely supreme, both in crafting each drink and in being personable with customers. The atmosphere is very comfortable and open, too. It has an artsy vibe, with sculptures as well as paintings along the walls and books against one back wall, so it lives up to the second piece of its name. It has an ample of amount of seating, inside and out, and Wi-Fi. I'm planning future visits during which to try each of the flavored lattes and hot chocolates. Like the message on the wall: "This is where you'll find me."

    (5)

  • Sophie P.

    Voltage has been on my to-do's for awhile, as I have been on the quest to find the best coffee shop in Boston. Unfortunately, Voltage does not make this list for me. After brunch across the street, my boyfriend and I wanted to split a latte at Voltage. The wrong's: - The place reeked of synthetic cooked sausage, in the worst way. The interior reeked of a rich oily stench, which I can only imagine came from cooking really bad sausage. I couldn't sit inside because I thought I was going to puke. Good thing there's outside seating. - The staff was not friendly at all. We were deciding what drink to order and the cashier asked, "Is that it?" staring at us to make a decision when there was no one waiting to order behind us. - For a coffee shop boasting an art gallery and great latte art, I was appalled by how my latte came out. I ordered a soy latte, for here, and I couldn't believe they would give a customer a latte that looked like that. PLEASE SEE PICTURE BELOW. I won't be returning to Voltage - I'd rather get Stumptown from Tatte across the street.

    (2)

  • Jen S.

    If I was a local, I'd definitely come here regularly to get some work done and hang out with friends. Their coffee and lattes are super unique because they're named after authors and they taste delicious. If you appreciate the arts and shops with cool designs, you'll love walking in and just roaming around the various rooms. When the hubs and I got our drinks two things bummed me out: 1) I asked for it in a to-go cup but they put it in a regular cup. 2) The latte design looked more like a scribble.. so I felt kind of jipped from the "experience" Yet, the cashier was kind and it tasted scrumptious.

    (4)

  • Kara N.

    I would have given it 5 stars purely for the aesthetic, but the baristas could have been a bit friendlier and I found their lattes to be a bit bitter. A plus for creativity in specialty drinks, just came a bit short for me taste-wise. Overall, it is in a super convenient location, is a great place to get some work done and grab a snack or two. I would recommend to a friend.

    (4)

  • Katherine H.

    Their coffee specials are great and it's also a good spot to stop in for a plain coffee as well! Really high quality and a nice atmosphere if you want to sit and read or work for a while. The breakfast food is pretty good too - they have crepes and sandwiches and everything came out reasonably quickly!

    (5)

  • Jane L.

    This cafe has diverse selections for the coffee so visiting here multiple times will provide you the "real" vibe of this place. I enjoy picking the random books from the bookshelf and reading it while drinking the coffee. The artistic coffee is always plesant to look at and to drink.

    (5)

  • Danielle G.

    The lack of friendliness and disappointing baked goods will unfortunately keep me from becoming a repeat customer. Don't get me wrong, the coffee was VERY good. Definitely 5-star good. But the coffee-shop experience I love just wasn't there. Baristas seemed a little smug and I've had much better pastries elsewhere. I wanted to love it, but it just wasn't happening.

    (3)

  • Tanya S.

    This place is very enjoyable. Quality pours, delicious lattes (my friends who only drink black coffee love lattes here). I've really enjoyed their flowering tea and jasmine tea. Delicious, subtle flavors. That being said, it is pretty expensive, and I just got used to Starbucks prices. Guess you also pay for the experience. Service has been friendly whenever we stop by after lunch. Customers seem chatty and friendly too.

    (4)

  • Naomi B.

    If you're longing for an escape from Dunkin Donuts, and dream of craft espressos, then make sure to stop by Voltage. I stumbled upon this shop while apartment hunting a few years back, and really enjoyed one of their specialty lattes. You won't find a standard Starbucks list of drinks here which is really refreshing, especially for an enthusiast like moi! The baristas treat each order like a work of art, which make the prices completely justifiable. I recommend going out of your way to visit Voltage.

    (4)

  • Allison H.

    A year later, and I still love Voltage! If anything, I think they've stepped up their game. A few thoughts: COFFEE+ART: The coffee is amazing. I'm sipping a Kitch and the Cactus Iced Latte and feeling very happy indeed. The art right now is also gorgeous, definitely worth coming to sit and enjoy the ambience. FOOD OFFERINGS: In the last year or so, Voltage has tried their hand at making some savories to complement their bakery sweets. I've been disappointed in almost all of their food-fare EXCEPT for the breakfast sandwich on Iggy's 7-grain bread. I would have attached a pic, but it was so delicious I ate it before I got around to it...womp, womp. If you're looking for a food to go with the coffee, I'd recommend that, but the crepes have a kind of slimey texture that I don't enjoy. HOURS: My only complaint is with the (no longer new) weekend business hours -- closing at 3pm is a huge bummer for me, because I love to work and drink their coffee on the weekends, and it sucks to get kicked out when you're being productive. If Voltage could take their food offerings to the next level and stay open late, I'd probably never leave this place. So maybe they're holding out to ensure I maintain my social life. The super friendly and talented staff are always thinking of the customer :)

    (5)

  • Nique F.

    Coffeeshop jackpot! Voltage really has it all with their modern sunny space, creative latte menu, scrumptious and afforable breakfast items, art-filled walls, and free wifi. I had the Plaid Jacket latte, infused with cardamom and ginger. Kind of like a dirty chai, but more subtle. Even more delicious was the egg-avo-cheese breakfast sandwich on seedy whole grain bread. I was seriously in awe of this bread! There's lots of seating inside & out, and the vibe is chill and welcoming. I stayed for a couple hours to get some work done -- would easily make this my local coffeeshop if I lived in Boston.

    (5)

  • Adam R.

    The specialty lattés are fantastic. Atticus Finch was a bit sweet, but lovely, and I tried another nice one with a unique blend of rosewater, cardamom and honey. (I get the sense that all of the specialty drinks are going to be a bit sweet.) The atmosphere is nice enough and it's a good space to work in. Unfortunately, the employees all seem to fall somewhere between surly and outright rude. I got a smile from one woman who took my order after a fair amount of happy small talk, but the rest all walk around with attitude and a chip on their shoulder. I may pick up a drink to go because it's close to where I'm staying, but I don't plan to spend any more time there. Hardly the most expensive cafe around, but not worth that kind of experience.

    (2)

  • Helena C.

    Was really surprised by all the flavors of beans they offered for their lattes. It got me really excited when I ordered one that had essences of ginger and molasses. The flavors weren't too evident though when you drink it. And maybe this is my bad - but I wasn't expecting it to be as sweet as it was. It wasn't overly sweet either. What I mean is that I was expecting to taste more of the bean and essences rather than the fact that it just tasted lightly sweet. The latte still tasted good though.

    (4)

  • Sharon Z.

    Safe haven from the rainy biting cold of Boston winters. A slice of sanctuary away from one of the busiest squares in Boston. Stumbled upon t his coffee before a customer site visit this morning after a long drive and a freezing cold walk in the gloomy rain, desperately seeking some mandatory morning coffee/breakfast and a place for to do some pre-work work. Name sounded familiar from mentions in the past, a coffee shop and an art gallery, what could go wrong? Modern, clean, minimalist design with displays of art along the walls, a large book shelf in the back of the cafe with books encompassing everything and anything. A cup of mocha with some art on top, delicious and not overly sweet. A cup of granola with dried apricot and pistachio, slightly roasted and tasted like perfection with lingering smell in the nostril and its rustic aftertaste on the taste buds. Love.

    (5)

  • Mary T.

    Art gallery+coffee shop? That's double the awesome! I was excited to try this place and I had high expectations, but I was kind of let down because it seemed like a regular small-size coffee shop with some featured artwork. I like their concept, but I wish it was executed better. They should display more artwork. I guess I am comparing this place to another art gallery/cafe in LA that I used to frequent when I lived in LA and I imagined this place to be like that. I got a latte and the price is pretty standard here. I thought my latte had a strong bitter-y finish and it was too fruity and acidic for my liking. Maybe they over-extracted the coffee. Overall, it was not bad. This place is nice to go for a coffee date or catch up on some work/study.

    (3)

  • Susanna L.

    Wow this cafe is such a great find! Tons of seating, free wifi, lots of natural light, in a beautifully decorated space that feels at once artistic and homey at the same time. Came on a wed afternoon and there were a lot of people but it still felt quiet enough to study. Also have specialty flavor lattes, sandwiches, pastries, and crepes. Perfection!

    (5)

  • Court S.

    I love places like this. Being in the area I needed to check off another bookmark so I decided to stop in and grab an iced mocha and check this place out. I think the concept is genius. Two of my favorite things, coffee and art under one roof. Being an artist myself I greatly appreciate the modern & colorful art pieces that are on display throughout the cafe. There is also a large section of books on the back wall that are guaranteed to keep you engaged for hours. There seems to be plentiful seating, but on the day that I came (Monday 3pm-ish) every table and chair were occupied. My guess was that these people have been planted there for hours. Shoot, I would be too. Other notes: -Metered street parking. -Outside seating. -The coffee bar station is an old fashion card catalog. It's really cool and nostalgic. -My iced mocha was rich with a deep, smooth dark chocolatey flavor. -The employees had indifferent personalities. Not too friendly, but not too unfriendly. I'm guessing they're artists. I've been around enough artists to know when their experiencing a creative block...similar to what I'm going through at the moment. -Overall cool space to hang out, get some work done, people watch, get inspiration, etc.

    (4)

  • Mel C.

    I'm updating my review because unfortunately the Voltage of 2014 isn't the Voltage of 2012. There has been some noticeable turnover in the baristas at Voltage. Service has worsened in quality and efficiency (I know it's Monday morning but you can pretend to be nice for 5 seconds while you take my order). I agree with the general sentiment here that a coffee shouldn't take 15 minutes, especially even if there are only 2 people in front of you. The owner is still great. The staff, eh. The coffee is still (generally, except this 1 barista who is pretty bad) excellent though. The lattes aren't a Starbucks sugar bomb and the iced coffee is nice. Same with the art. I appreciate the artists and supporting the local scene. Yes, Tatte is across the street. Yes, I will sometimes pop over to Tatte when I know that if I wait at Voltage I will be late for work. Still, there's something about the Madame X that will keep me coming back despite the dip in customer service. Oh, +1 for LevelUp.

    (3)

  • Billie W.

    Came here for a meeting and had the Thieving Magpie. Great presentation, awesome decor, good coffee. My only complaints: the lines do get long, and seats are hard to find, my latte design came out meh.

    (4)

  • Fifi B.

    I know I always do 5 or 4 stars, but that's because I only write reviews on things I like. Anyway, I come here a lot and I love everyone and everything. My favorite drink is paper airplane and my favorite person is Lucy. Come here if you're into drinks with designs that are full of flavor.

    (5)

  • N A.

    Used to be nice. Horrendously slow service, with pretentious baristas. Too busy to move service along and too quick to complain because the line is forming...

    (1)

  • Grace C.

    Interesting takes on lattes, I don't usually like to drink or eat flowery things but if you're feeling adventurous, try the one that has rose in it. I like their sandwiches as well - I think they're almost all vegetarian options? Love their art that's showcased and the last time I was their a whole wall was dedicated to stacks of books!

    (5)

  • Matthew B.

    I continue to love working down the street from here. The coffee is phenomenal: especially an iced one on a warm summer day. Some additions: - I still dig the Atticus Finch for it's flavor + caffeine - love their breakfast sandwiches - enjoy a lavender scone now and then Between a great menu, adorable hipster vibe and plenty of seating, I can't help but love every time I'm in here.

    (5)

  • Maria D.

    You generally don't expect a Starbucks aficionado to try local coffee shops, in part because we are so satisfied with our mass-produced, predictably-priced, heavy-milk, low-coffee drinks. Well, I stopped here with a friend, and he trusted my instincts as I ordered. I ordered us both a pour-over (the Costa Rican blend), and the coffee was some of the best I've had in Massachusetts. It still wasn't as strong as I'm used to drinking my coffee, but it was very, very good. If you have $4.00+ and would otherwise go to Starbucks, go to Voltage for your coffee. You won't regret it.

    (4)

  • Jake E.

    I seriously don't understand the hype around this place. I've patronized Voltage two times now and have come away with a decidedly below-average cup of coffee on both occasions. Maybe their fancy artisanal blends are better, but I can assure you that their regular coffee is nothing special. Both times I ordered, I paid double what I would at Starbucks for a cup of coffee that was a mere fraction of the quality. That alone wouldn't warrant a two-star rating, but I have three other grievances with the shop: 1) They have the most bizarre way of making iced coffee. Rather than using small ice cubes or shaved ice, they literally just plop a big block of iced into your drink. And I'm not exaggerating here: the ice is about the size of a small Rubik's Cube, ~2.5 inches on each side, I'd say. The flip side of this is that it takes forever for your drink to cool down (surface area to volume relationships, anyone?), leaving you with a cup of lukewarm coffee that tastes like it's been left out on the counter for several hours. Adding insult to injury, this makes the coffee hard to drink....unless you were to first bore a canal through the ice. 2) The soymilk they have on hand always seems a bit (ahem) stale. Both times I've ordered, I've seen my drink swirl like a snowglobe with white sediment once the soymilk was added. The drink tasted fine, but I think most would agree that's kind of off-putting and suggestive that the expiration date is fast approaching. 3) The employees' attitudes leave much to be desired. I understand they're going for the whole "apathetic hipster ennui" vibe, but it's just too much for me. They just come across as inattentive and rude, in my opinion. I can guarantee that you could walk into any Starbucks (or even most Dunkin Donuts, for that matter), and you will receive better customer service. I almost think it's laughable that they prompt you for a tip if you pay by credit card, but maybe that's just another part of the irony. All totaled, I will definitely not be returning. I gave Voltage another go thinking I went on an off-day the first time and my second experience was even worse than my first. It's just too expensive, and too mediocre to warrant any more of my business.

    (2)

  • Yahor D.

    While being a little pricey, voltage shows a great deal of understanding of coffee culture. A pleasant spot to get your favorite coffee drink and a delicious snack.

    (5)

  • Lauretta L.

    This morning at 8:15 am, I made another check off my Boston bucket list. Woo! In line with my recent goal of breaking out of my comfort zone, I went with the Paper Plane latte, instead of the usual "sea salt and caramel" or "burnt vanilla sugar." How the barista balanced the mild flavors of rose water, cardamom and honey are beyond my mental capacity at 9 am, but I am impressed. Light, soothing and refreshing; you could almost forget that it packs a caffeine jolt. With Scoutmob and Levelup, my morning caffeine was $1.41. The Union Square Donuts were tempting as well (Fridays only) but I resisted this time... Update: tried the breakfast Sammie (7 grain, avocado, egg, cheese and tomato jam) that is served hot off the press. Delish and kept me full for 6 hours!

    (5)

  • Emerson W.

    Oo, so hip. So wanna-be Silicon Valley swag. So Kendall Square. Coffee: A Crapes: A+ Vibes: Yup. Sterile white walls and polished concrete floors meet prime pantones peppered with organic matter art installations and other interesting pieces of dangling artsy decorum (*swoon*). Getting a seat took about 10 minutes, but the wait was worth it. For the size of the space, they could definitely fit a fair amount more tables, but I also like the aesthetic of its spaciousness, not to mention the ample elbow room once my inner conquistador acquired a plot. They have almond milk, which in Boston is apparently a tall order, plus a good list of interesting latte flavors under their "exotics" section, although most are fairly mild and spiced with indistinguishable flavors from far away lands / the market down the street. Having said that, all were very well made, frothy, smooth, and scrumptious. 9/10 would Voltage again.

    (4)

  • Christa S.

    I like this place. The woman with the short blonde hair (she seems like a manager or owner) was super sweet and chatted for a bit with my friend about how they make all their syrups/flavors in-house, for which I extend two thumbs way up.I didn't really check out the art, but the iced mocha that my boyfriend had was really good and so was my pour over. I'd come back the next time I'm in this area (probably to go to the Garment District.)

    (4)

  • Lanya O.

    I love this place. It was not too busy when I got here around 11am on a Wednesday. I got the DELICIOUS salted caramel latte, and the avocado, cheese, and egg sandwich. Both were perfect. I love the atmosphere of this place. There is free 3-hour wifi, lots of outlets, good seating, and is close to the T. I will definitely be back to work here when I'm in Kendall.

    (5)

  • Rachel B.

    Voltage served me probably the best dirty chai of my life. The pastry/food selection seemed limited, but I thought this was okay since that wasn't what I was looking for. The atmosphere is hip but not pretentious, so with all this in mind, I would say Voltage is basically everything you could ask for in a great coffee shop.

    (5)

  • John I.

    A very watery mocha. A major disappointment. Ambiance was OK with clean bathrooms and free wi-fi. Chairs were of adequate comfort and art/book area was nothing worth noting. Sorry. Best of luck in Boston.

    (1)

  • Ditch Q.

    Best Coffee in the area!!! I avoided this place like the plague when they first opened up. I assumed it was some overhyped hipster joint and I would walk by while on my way to another restaurant. How I wish I had stopped! The coffee is amazing! I now come here often to purchase coffee. (To be fair I have never purchased Tea or any food item.) I love the cardamom coffee and the mocha's! They take real care to ensure it is prepared well. I have seen them prepare tea and it is definitely an art! Great coffee house!

    (5)

  • Sha P.

    Cool place and nice decor. I had the crepe and my husband got the breakfast sandwich. It was descent but I wish the portions were a bit larger.

    (3)

  • Andy L.

    Great atmosphere in a gallery-like space. Sleek and inviting at the same time (those two often don't coexist). Breakfast sandwich (on an amazing local english muffin) is hella good! They take the coffee pretty seriously, and feature some local roasters. I got a pourover on each of 2 visits and they were solid though not mind-blowing. (Didn't try the specialty lattes). On my second visit I got the breakfast sandwich again, and the guy who took my order remembered I asked for salt the first time, and provided it without me asking - great service. Locals gather here - this is far from your hectic corporate coffee spot. I'll definitely be back.

    (4)

  • David G.

    Dam good coffee period!

    (4)

  • Natalie J.

    I stopped by Voltage for a post-run coffee date with one of my girlfriends. The ambience was perfect! The walls are lined with unique art and there is even a full wall bookshelf. My friend and I grabbed a window seat to enjoy people watching. She ordered a lavender tea latte, and I ordered a pour over Costa Rican coffee. We both agreed that the ambience was incredible but the drinks were just okay. The place was so cute that I'd probably give it a second chance, but I've had much better coffee at other independent coffee shops around Boston. Also, I have noticed that using an iPad to process payment has become a popular option at many businesses, but it felt like the barista was hovering over me to see if I'd leave a tip (which I did.) It just feels a little awkward.

    (4)

  • Jiyea C.

    I love! Voltage is probably the only reason (so far) I make it to Kendall. (For some reason, Kendall Square remains unconquered territory as my friends and I just end up going into Boston when we head south of Harvard Square on the T.) I've tried a variety of their specialty lattes, and none of them have disappointed! Staff here is friendly and prompt. You get an hour of free WiFi with purchase. I've also noticed that now you can get beer here! Keep your eyes open for a deal on Scoutmob; once in a while Voltage pops up and you can basically get a latte for around $2!

    (4)

  • Jessie W.

    This coffee shop was recommended by a coffee-blogger Lyft driver we had on a work trip in Boston. A month or two later, we happened to walk past it and were not disappointed! I had a delicious latte and a wonderful granola + yogurt breakfast. Would have given five stars if it had some gluten free options :)

    (4)

  • Layla S.

    Best coffee in all of Cambridge. The Crepes are also good! Don't sit outside on a sunny day though -- the glare on the metal tables are blinding. Doesn't stop me from loving this place!

    (5)

  • Stephen S.

    Voltage Coffee & Art offers delicious, creative lattes, in a cozy little cafe in Cambridge. I was impressed that despite being flavorful their lattes come off as neither too sweet nor too overwhelming. I had the eclipse (coconut and ginger). The barista making my latte was super nice and made it up with a smile. It did take a little bit of time, but that's the price for a well-crafted latte. I totally understood, the dude in front of me though was getting all impatient. Chill out man and have one of the best cups of coffee around.

    (4)

  • L. F.

    The regular coffee is too acidic--I have to order espresso drinks to avoid this. I would also second other reviewer's assessments that the baristas are not friendly, there could be more art on the walls, and that the pastries are middling (although, it's nice that they're miniature). The savory and dessert crepes are quite good, if overpriced. Free wifi only lasts two hours.

    (3)

  • Yaz D.

    I'VE NEVER BEEN TREATED WORSE AT A COFFEE SHOP IN MY ENTIRE LIFE: me: iced cofee, no ice please:) cashier: So...you're basically asking for extra coffee. I'm going to have to charge you extra. me: Noooo...I just don't want ice. I've come here almost every day forever, and I've never had to pay extra. Also, no other coffee shop I've ever been to charges..and that's a lot of coffee shops. cashier: Well, I'm not the manager at those other coffee shops. We have really thin margins. I've seen them. me: You have the most expensive coffee in all Cambridge, maybe Boston! cashier: Sorry, you'll have to pay extra. me: Thanks, I'm never coming back here again. Voltage - a word of advice, if you have really thin margins, arguing with loyal customers isn't going to boost them! Teach your managers to respect customers.

    (1)

  • Carla N.

    I really wanted to love this place. The cashier could not have looked more miserable and unwelcoming. I ordered one of their specialty iced coffees with soy milk and a scone. The lavender scone was tasty so one star for that. It turns out they used regular milk in my coffee (I had a hard time telling the difference because of all the additional sweet flavors) and I got VERY sick as I am lactose intolerant. Thanks guys. I get that mistakes happen but that coupled with a bad attitude - I think I'll go elsewhere.

    (2)

  • David B.

    I like the vibe here. Voltage is backed by venture capital, and this place definitely has a startupy kind of feel. While waiting for your pourover drink just close your eyes and listen to the pitches being made to potential investors. However, I'm suspecting they might have used some of their startup funding to develop replicants rather than hire actual humans. My cashier expressed zero emotion during the whole time she took my order. Not even the faintest trace of a smile, or a thank you. I've only had the pourover coffee. It's pretty good--they use porcelain filter cones which improve the flavor, but it was still a bit weak for my taste. And at $4.00 a cup, I'm not sure if it's worth twice the cost of a pourover at Starbucks.

    (3)

  • Yoshi K.

    This place is great! Great ambiance with beautiful and fun drinks. They have a big wall in the back that's full of books ($3 for regular books, $5 for art/coffee table books) and art scattered all over. Really cool stuff. This would be a GREAT place for a first date, or just to hang out and work for a few hours.

    (5)

  • Rude Awakenings From Planet Z.

    short and sweet review. outside of Seattle, this is the ONLY perfect latte you will ever drink AND their crepes are life-affirming. they gladly take credit cards AND have those handy dandy mini-tablet registers which make everything so quick and easy. KUDOS to you! my only advice is, your cafe has "art" in the title, I want those walls packed full of art more so than they are. overall, awesome. go there now! Tell them Rude Awakenings from Planet Z sent you.

    (5)

  • Kevin R.

    Cool coffee shop with plenty of seating. Tried the egg and cheese with onion on English muffin and raspberry jam crepe. Both very tasty. Pour over Ethiopian coffee and loose leaf tea to accompany. Nothing bad to say, would come back for more coffee or goodies.

    (4)

  • Carrie J.

    This is a super clever concept, serve people great coffee and tea and expose them to stimulating art while they work (or meet up with friends) using your free wifi. It really feels like you are sipping your tea in an intimate art gallery, a great change of pace from the hustle and bustle of an average coffee shop. Overall, good food/drinks and a great atmosphere!

    (4)

  • Spencer T.

    Folks, this is the real deal. If you're a coffee snob, art snob, serious about fresh made (in-house blended) teas, cool hip people, and staff who give a damn about your happiness in a cup (and overall well being) this is the place. This is just down the street from me and I'm here often. Great for business meetings, hanging out with friends, investing in some ME time, or simply finding a place to disappear for a bit and read a book/email/game. Voltage offers indoor or outdoor seating, bar, table and large group seating and great vibes all around. Check out the Chai (made in house and amazing if you like strong cardamon like I do) and the Vegan chocolate cookie is a must.

    (5)

  • Mace O.

    There's quite an interesting vibe here. I brought my dowsing rod with me, suffice to say, the artwork on both the walls and baristas were imparting a bewitching kind of energy on the participants. I speak as both a customer, and a somewhat rusty observer of human energy fields from my younger days of shamanic training for individuals and the collective. Giving them 3-stars because I don't like coffee.

    (3)

  • Raisa S.

    I found this place by accident and realized it was perfect walking distance to stroll over during my lunch break at work. I would also consider it dangerous. They use barismo coffee beans which is my absolute weakness, and the two times I have gone so far my latte was made perfectly. I wish I noticed the specialty lattes on the wall because they sound AMAZING but that will be for next time. I got an iced chai with a shot of espresso and it was delish! Although all that caffeine at 4 pm wasn't my brightest decision. The art on the walls is a nice addition, this place definitely screams hipster.

    (4)

  • sasha h.

    I've been going here for years and I still love it but i love it so much more now that they have delicious crepes! try one, any and all, they are wonderful.

    (5)

  • Duncan L.

    This is a great cafe to get work done. I have never not been able to get a table with a plug nearby and a view of either out a window or next to some of the art. The coffee is delicious (Barisimo, I believe), and the food quite tasty. Come by on Friday and get some Union Square Donuts - but show up early, as they are known to sell out very quickly (I once missed them by mere minutes!).

    (4)

  • Marianna K.

    A really cool place - I loved the ambience and the decor of the place - it's very welcoming and artsy. I ordered an Americano, a Cap and a corn muffin. The corn muffin was just perfect - crispy top and edges and light and soft inside. The cappuccino was beautiful, and, I was told, tasted good. Americano was a little weak for my taste and a little sour. I love artisan coffee overall, but I guess I like slightly bolder taste.

    (4)

  • Sophie G.

    I ordered a plain old cold brew (celebrating the first genuinely beautiful day in boston since I don't know when!) with a little room for milk. Absolutely delicious! Seriously, noticeably better than other coffees I've had in years. That being said, the guy ringing me up was very uninterested in taking my order. Now I'm not saying taking my order for iced coffee should be the highlight of his day, but this was borderline rude. He hands me my cup, and it has two MASSIVE ice cubes in it. At first it was really neat looking, but then I tried to put the straw in. Does anyone else struggle with this, or am I alone in the universe? The ice took up so much space that the straw doesn't go in!! Fashion over function, I guess. If the coffee wasn't so damn good, I would give two or three stars, but wow. I'll deal with rude people and behemoth ice for this!

    (4)

  • Cleo H.

    I always stop by here if I am in the area. I love their speciality lattes! The flavor combinations are amazing. A few of my favorite are: Paper Plane: cardamom, rose water & honey Beyond The Sea: homemade caramel & salt The Eclipse: coconut with ginger simple syrup Atticus Finch: vanilla with burnt sugar For just a regular cup of coffee each cup is brewed individually and using a scale. The water is weighed out to ensure a fantastic cup of coffee. There are also hot chocolates and Teas for the non coffee drinkers. There are also baked good and crepes. I have not tried them but they look delicious!

    (5)

  • GG C.

    I was waiting for a friend to finish up a meeting and I was desperate for a hot chocolate and a warm place to sit and read for an hour. Everyone had recommended Voltage - a typical Cambridge place, plus ART! plus BOOKS! plus insane number of bearded hipsters (but ones who actually have jobs; unlike the types you find in Inman Sq). The space is open, light-filled and has high ceilings and even with a full house, doesn't feel crowded or claustrophobic. I think there are deliberately fewer tables and chairs than there could be, but I don't mind. I couldn't get a seat, but a nice guy offered me half his table. I worked, he worked. The vibe was bustling but pretty relaxed, the counter staff all smiles, the barista a bit harried (but fair enough) but cheerful enough. Ok: the important stuff: The ginger hot chocolate wasn't very ginger-y, but delicious nonetheless. My mini cinnamon scroll/pastry situation was tasty and the perfect size. I will definitely go back for weekend crepes and a mimosa. Voltage, you will never replace Crema in my heart, but I think this might be the beginning of something special. [NB I didn't look at the Art, I like the concept, but it was a bit meh. The books on the other hand, they filled me with joy.]

    (4)

  • Candy W.

    This is one of those places where I'm sad that I like it so much. It regularly forces me to question whether I should fork out $4 on a latte that day. Thankfully, my boss takes me here often enough and ends up treating me most of the time (uh if you're reading this, thanks for feeding my addiction!) Madame X and Beyond the Sea lattes are my clear favorites, though the other flavors lag just slightly behind. - Madame X is described as a "earl grey infused with white chocolate ganache." The subtle hint of earl grey is a really nice touch. - Beyond the Sea has a great caramel flavor with sprinkled salt on top. I only get it when I dine-in though, because it tastes much better when it's hot. Note: Make sure you don't get all of the salt in one sip... because that'll be one salty sip =S Do take the time to read the menu. Every drink has an fancy name along with a succinct flavor profile. I normally do not enjoy flavored lattes at other venues because the drink becomes much sweeter (ah hem, hazelnut/vanilla latte at starbucks). At Voltage, the flavors are simply that and does not imply additional sweetness unless the ingredients are sweetners themselves i.e. Agave, White chocolate, Caramel. There are some slight cons: - The lattes always come lukewarm, I wish they were hotter. - It does take a longer than expected amount of time for them to make your drink. Be prepared for the whole process from ordering to receiving to take ~12min. - The hot chocolate was a bit lackluster. It didn't taste all that special, probably something I could have made at home. Great place to have in Kendall Sq!

    (4)

  • Foodie Z.

    I'm a huge fan of Voltage, and this place makes it (slightly) easier for me to get out of bed 15 mins earlier than necessary (because it takes 15 mins to get a coffee). It's all worth it. Especially if you get the Beyond the Sea or the Eclipse. Or just the cappuccino.. The breakfast sandwich is top notch. Get the classic (multigrain bread, cheese and egg, avocado and roasted tomato, onions optional). I might be exaggerating when I said 15 minutes, but the sandwich will actually take that long. So get up early, and go enjoy Voltage!!!

    (5)

  • Viv C.

    The first time I came here I did not like what I ordered, I'll be honest. Then again I don't drink coffee very often. Yet again, maybe that flavor really was just nasty. However I rarely rate things having gone once. After having been back a number of times I would have to say the coffee flavors are either very delicious or unique and good. Sometimes it just nice to have a coffee that doesn't taste so generic (like your typical breakfast blends) and has layered rich flavors you can't recall tasting anywhere else instead of chemical sugary crap flavors. I really like this place and the coffee is good enough to make me walk in when I had intended to walk by and I walk this area a lot. There is not enough art to call it a gallery in my opinion (yes, some successful galleries do have limited pieces), but there's enough to enjoy it as you sip your coffee.

    (4)

  • Rina L.

    Could be the nostalgia talking, but I'm actually really fond of this place and not sure why I gave it three stars, carrots notwithstanding (see previous review for details). I'd love to go more often, but every time I think about it, it's the weekend, which means it closes at 3... sigh.

    (4)

  • Jason M.

    It's a pun, right? I'm talking about the name. I mean, yeah, there's art everywhere. Beautiful paintings and prints and drawings adorn the walls. The name is accurate, but they're probably not really talking about that aspect of Voltage Coffee & Art. While the art is on the walls, the art is in the mug. Voltage offers some of the tastiest pour-overs in the city. Bristling with flavor, it's a crime against humanity to add sweetener to the coffee. And beyond the pour-overs? Lattes. Brilliant, odd lattes with ellegantly steamed milk and latte art. Flavor profiles that include burnt sugar, sea salt and earl grey tea. Voltage is full art, some of it is just a little closer to your mouth.

    (4)

  • kem p.

    Ordered a small coffee latte. I had high expectations due to other reviews but what i got was basically a bitter burnt taste coffee with milk. Tasting cup probably better since they use stumptown beans

    (1)

  • Katie T.

    I don't understand any of the great reviews of this place. Why would you go here when Tatte is right across the street? All of the baristas seemed absolutely miserable and were unhelpful, I felt completely unwelcome and unwanted. Their small is 8oz and the price is crazy. I am absolutely not impressed.

    (1)

  • Marco O.

    This is the great coffee, especially compared to other chain coffee shops. Absolutely no comparison. Near the kayak rental so perfect to sip after kayaking!

    (5)

  • Didi S.

    SO RUDE. The barista calls me: my $5 latte is ready. As she sets it down, part of it spills over the side of the cup and onto her fingers. She wipes her hand off and pushes it towards me, letting it disrupt whatever heart-shaped design she made and getting the cup even stickier. No wiping of the cup. No apology. No shame. Luckily the lattes are really tasty and it's a really cute environment, lots of natural light. But really, the service is god-awful, just like their mini croissants.

    (3)

  • Cathy B.

    Two words: Iced lattes! The specialty ones are amazing. The place is very spacious and I love looking at the art. I do wish they sold food here too besides croissants, but you can definitely walk across the street to Tatte (another great place). One con- They are closed on Sundays :(

    (5)

  • Cassy H.

    Located near the Kendall/MIT T stop, this cafe combines two of my favorite things -- art and coffee. Yes, it's a coffee shop, but the overall ambiance of the place reminds of an art exhibit with classic, clean white walls. Indeed, Voltage Coffee & Art features the work of different local artists every couple of months. What a brilliant idea. In addition to beautiful art displays, this place serves pour over for less than $3 for 12 oz cup. Drink your pour over without cream or milk; simply add sugar. You'll taste subtle sweetness from the sugar and nuanced fruitiness from the coffee beans. I think adding milk or cream would take away from the uniqueness of a pour over. Anyway, I also got two slices of toast with raspberry jam (see photo). It really does taste as good as it looks. :) I definitely recommend this place for someone who wants to enjoy a fine cup of coffee, admire pieces of artwork, read a book, do some work on his/her laptop (yes, free wifi; I think you have to purchase something and ask for a code).

    (4)

  • Joe I.

    The super friendly guy at the register when I visited haunts my memory as I write this review. Dear Super Friendly Register Guy: This is not about you. You rock. Know that you are super, and friendly, and I want you to be happy. You are the only reason is is a two star review and not a one star review. Dear The Rest of My Experience: You suck, and I hate your stupid face. Bitch who made my coffee? You are a bitch, and I hope you get bunions. And you suck at making mochas. Seems to be a drink you should probably have nailed, but you obviously either were not listening when you were taught, or you were having some sort of mild seizure when you were making mine, because it was shitty. And you were mean besides. All tables occupied by snarky looking hipsters except for what appeared to be a kid's table that had a giant naked lady painted on it. First, if this was a kids table, that is a seriously awful choice. And if it was a table for shorter adults, that's odd. BOO.

    (2)

  • Holly M.

    There is no reason one should have to wait a good 15-20 minutes for a cup of coffee, I'm sorry. I'd rather go to Tatte across the street for coffee. I also dislike paying $4 for a tiny cup of coffee.

    (2)

  • Tyler L.

    A great work and hangout coffee shop. Lots of space in the back decorated with cool art. Drip coffee was awesome, very tasty and not burnt or bitter. You have to ask for milk which is a bit odd, but whatever. The spinach and goat cheese crepe was excellent and tangy though fairly small for the large price. Staff was a bit odd and coffee snobbish, but made a good cup of Joe. Very fun people watching with the tech companies nearby.

    (4)

  • Jamie B.

    The space is fantastic - well lit by natural light with some cozier areas in the back. It's very clean and spacious. Definitely a great place to hang out and catch up with a friend or do some work. I got the Paper Plane latte - not too bad, the milk was perfectly frothed and creamy. It seemed a bit bitter. I actually wasn't a huge fan of it, not because it was poorly made, but because I discovered rosewater and cardamom just isn't a great combination for my taste buds. I could definitely taste those flavors,so they're not bullshitting about putting those ingredients in (or covering them up with copious amounts of milk). I thought it was very reasonably priced considering most coffee shops charge +$4 for specialty drinks. I'll come back to try some of their other drinks. The current art show is unobtrusive and pleasant to look at. I'm a big fan of impasto oil painting. Check it out!

    (4)

  • Emily M.

    $4 for a small black coffee that didn't taste good and slow internet. What am I paying for?

    (2)

  • Lil M.

    My fave coffee place. Try Paper plane (cardammon & rose water added) and Kitsch And The Cactus (lime peel & agave) if you want to try unusual yummy flavors. I also love that on every cup, they do go out of their way to make a nice artsy design with the steamed milk (leaf, heart etc..). Overall, I give them a 4.5. It would be a five if they remodeled a bit the front receiving area. The location is quite corporate and the shop is starting to look a bit tired on the front where the register is and coffee is made. The back of the store with the tables and the nice artwork exhibits looks great so it would be nice if the front also captured this.

    (4)

  • Stella N.

    love the vibe here, came here while trying to pick a nice place to study at. didn't know what to order but i absolutely love the atticus finch and would definitely come back for it again.

    (4)

  • MB C.

    The coffee isn't as strong as I like it at home, but the tea was very nice and their food offerings are quite tasty.

    (4)

  • Bree G.

    This space is quaint. Very quiet and clean. Excellent place to get work done and admire artwork. Treat yourself to one of their lattes!

    (4)

  • L T.

    There are so many good things about this place, the atmosphere, art, location macaroons. love it, and they make some of the best cappuccinos in Cambrdge!

    (5)

  • Caitlin F.

    Coffee is really nice, as are the crepes, and the place has a lovely atmosphere with friendly staff. Sadly, it's a little pricey, and there aren't any power outlets that I've been able to find to charge my laptop. Wifi is also kind of dodgy and only sometimes decides to work, which is frustrating if you're trying to get work done.

    (4)

  • Alexander N.

    Best coffee in the area, and a great place to spend some time studying. Staff are also generally pretty nice. Highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Kelly O.

    Such cool, unique latte flavors here. I tried an iced latte flavored with Earl Grey white chocolate ganache, and it was really interesting and complex. If I were in the neighborhood, I'd definitely return to check out some of the other flavors. Tip: they're on LevelUp ($1 credit) and Scoutmob (50% off your order), so you can walk away pretty cheaply. Also, bonus: they have beer.

    (3)

  • Xenia A.

    The coffee is delicious, with all kinds of exotic flavours, and same goes for the various pastries, and as a space, this place is fantastic!! It's perfect for both working and for scheduling meetings for your burgeoning start up. The huge book wall at the back is great, as are the changing art shows on the wall.

    (5)

  • Robot N.

    Voltage had much higher quality a couple of years ago. The pour over was mediocre at best. The atmosphere is nice. There are books to read while hanging around.

    (2)

  • Bradley N.

    If you like a really good latte, and if you enjoy looking at modern art in an appropriately high ceilinged setting, then you definitely will like Voltage. It's really as simple as that. But, if you are looking for something more complicated, then read on ... The natural tendency when coming from a cult coffee area (SF, Portland, Seattle) is to compare Voltage with places you know, like Blue Bottle or Verve or Stumptown or Ritual. But those are roasters; this is a coffee shop with a flair for the artistic within blocks of MIT. It's very Boston/Cambridge, not West Coast at all. The latte menu is exceptional; the loose teas - judging by the exquisitely fragranced jasmine my companion ordered on our recent visit - are very well chosen. And the great light, abstract art, and general intellectual/artsy feel of this place make it unique. Awards and recognition are sure to follow, and it's obviously got a cult following on Yelp. So what's not to love about this place? Quite simply: nothing at all. When it comes to coffee and art, you know what you like instinctively. I got a powerful jolt of happy/hip vibes when I entered, and that was enough to make me stay, and - eventually - to return when the time is right for that all-important second visit.

    (5)

  • Megan C.

    Raw Minimalist Coffee House Clay drip Drip coffee without the BPA :) Fine things should be savored. Clean sleek layout + fast wifi. Ran into another yelper here as there were limited seats - offered to share my table... such a small world. Love love love the spacious open feeling, and enjoy the coziness of the accent walls. Date Rating: 2 Pick up Scale: 2 Strong Suggestion: Don't mind the line it's worth the wait.

    (5)

  • Rick B.

    I used to love Voltage, but I had to leave it. Typical Voltage experience: Pay for a cup of coffee, then the cashier goes into the back room. A few mins later she comes back out and stares out the window for a while. You ask about your coffee, she says "oh, okay" and starts making the cup of coffee. Five mins later it's done filtering but the cashier is talking to a friend and you have to ask her to put the coffee into your cup. The coffee itself is great, the woman who runs the place is really nice, and the space is pleasant, but the service is too frustrating to waste time with. Go to Tatte across the street instead.

    (2)

  • Rachel R.

    Voltage can hold twice as many tables as they have, which is irritating/vaguely funny when you're playing the the table-lurker vulture role, breathing down a stranger's neck, poised to throw your coat over a chair and mark your territory before that beyotch in the knit hat has a chance to "innocently" try and steal everything you've spent the last miniature eternity waiting for. But, once settled at the wide, bare table, work sitting in front you, adequate room to stretch behind you, Voltage becomes the best coffee shop in Boston for actually accomplishing things. I usually kick-start my study session on a positive, caffeinated note with a "Beyond the Sea" latte, made with homemade caramel and sea salt. Other exotic lattes, like the Madame X (earl grey and white chocolate ganache) and Atticus Finch (burnt vanilla sugar) sound sexy, but are both so mild I wouldn't be able to identify the flavors without knowing them beforehand. Running out of steam? A $6 panini keeps the creative juices flowing and the stomach from rumbling. Running out of motivation? A $1 scoop of chocolate covered almonds or pretzels makes an excellent reward system for productivity (and they're not actually good enough to want more than a dollar's worth of, anyway). Voltage is open into the evening, so aggressively grab yourself a table, settle in, get sh*t done, and slowly dwindle away your funds on tasty morsels.

    (4)

  • Michelle A.

    Coffee and Art. Cool concept. Very knowledgeable about coffee. I'm not a connoisseur so some of it was lost in translation. Good cup a joe though. Not sure I could afford this to be my morning ritual. More of a treat. This is the new Kendall Square...

    (3)

  • Ryan D.

    Voltage specializes in flavored lattes (sea salt, rose water, "Earl Grey infused white chocolate ganache"), with kinda-bombastic names (Thieving Magpie, Devil May Care, Madame X), each with a different stamp that goes with it. You order your fancy latte, and you get a fancy stamp on your cup. Pro-tip: The stamp is way more gratifying than you think it will be. If Voltage was a person, they'd be an insufferable TV-hating calligraphying sweater-wearer with a penchant for the word "penchant" - yet they would play such beautiful theremin solos that you couldn't help but admire them. Basically, I really like the fancy lattes. I just feel a little self-conscious ordering my Atticus Finch (vanilla and burnt sugar). Ps. Sorry for saying sweater-wearer. I wear sweaters sometimes, too.

    (4)

  • Wasim Q.

    Really good selection of lattes and coffees-- the baristas here take their craft seriously and do it with pride. E.g., there's always a nice little illustration of a heart or something in your coffee foam, which you promptly destroy with your first sip. On the downside, the bakery selection is weak. Only a couple of pastries and muffins to choose from. Ambiance is beautiful. Very artsy and chill. This would be a great place to hang out and do work, except they effectively charge for internet (you get like 2 hours free every time you spend at least $5).

    (3)

  • Jon F.

    Pricey but delicious coffee

    (4)

  • Traveler K.

    Coffee tasted bland today.

    (3)

  • Alisa K.

    I live close to this cafe but hadn't gotten around to trying it till yesterday. Went there for breakfast with a friend before work. I got the roobios tea, which was delicious - full bodied, flavorful, enchanting (can you call a tea enchanting?). She got the coffee, which she said was phenomenal (and she knows her caffeine). We also got the bread and toast, which was hearty and not only buttered but ALSO jammed - yes I know that's not a word, at least not in that context. The jammed bread was very plentiful so we shared it, and it inadvertantly tided both of us over until dinner time (we both accidentally missed lunch because we were busy, not because we have an anorexia pact). In other news, this place has free wifi and a lot of open seating and good lighting. It seems like a great place to study, grab a quick bite with a friend, or just pick up coffee or tea on the go. I will definitely be going back.

    (4)

  • Nora X.

    I'm totally obsessed with this place. Pros: great space, killer pourover, generally good flavored lattes (especially atticus finch, but there are some weird ones in the bunch. like the lemon one). wifi, really tasty food as well Cons: usually a longer wait for your drink.. don't be in a hurry. sometimes super crowded. pricey semi-con is that the staff sometimes is too cool to be there, obviously. why else would they roll their eyes at you? i kid, anyway, the owner is fantastic and super sweet. you should wear your fake tat sleeve though.

    (5)

  • Lynn D.

    Really good. Voltage takes their coffee seriously. They have a cool, modern interior, with some nice-looking local art work hanging on the walls. Thinking Cup still has them beat as far as their lattes are concerned, however. The wifi situation is somewhat lame. You only get something like an hour or ninety minutes per purchase. Finally, something needs to be done with the space in the back. The front of the cafe is great, but the back looks like someone got tired of putting effort into the interior design. With several empty, white walls, and tables that are discretely spread out over concrete, it feels cold and stale. Finally, someone needs to sweep the floors in this place. The floor around my table in the front of the cafe was disgusting.

    (4)

  • Matthew S.

    It's $3.25 for mediocre iced coffee. I'm not sure how this place gathers enough customers to stay in business.

    (1)

  • Christine D.

    Came here one week and got an almond flavored lattee- DELICIOUS. Came back the next week and got a sea salt lattee- DISGUSTING. I'm honestly still sad months later that I spent $6 on a lattee only to dump out. It was like legit drinking pure salt and water, I still remember the horrid taste, I don't even know why they sell such a disgusting drink. Ugh

    (2)

  • Matteo C.

    Just love it. very spacious...never overcrowded..stylish with always some art exhibit going on. Perfect for having a chat or just reading or studying.

    (5)

  • Heather G.

    Please tell me why every entrepreneur, VC, and MIT-tech-obsessed student wants to meet here for coffee. Not understanding it. With Tatte across the street offering good coffee, FOOD, and a nicer atmosphere, why does everyone still want to go to Voltage? The real issue I have is that whomever owns this place obviously did not consider the queue setup when laying out the shop. When you walk in, the coffee bar is right in front of you, giving space for a line about 5 people deep to line up before they hit the door and become a fire hazard. 5 people deep, you say. That's actually quite a few people, you say. Wrong. The service here is also very slow, so 5-people-deep is actually a miracle of God, when it happens. Generally, when I have been, the line awkwardly winds around, folds on itself, and people end up clustering near the merch display quasi-in-line. Then, when new people come in the door, they have no idea if the cluster is waiting for their coffee to be served up, or are waiting to order. Thus begins an epic battle of stare-downs when those who are clustered, waiting to order, stare down those who just walked in the door and stand at the end of the line at the place before it starts curving around. Long story short, bad news. And not at all relaxing. Don't even get me started about what happens when you come in WITH people. you're trying to have a conversation, be nonchalant, stand in line to place your order...all the while watching the door like a hawk to see if anyone is mistakenly coming in at the wrong place in line, or watching your little cluster to see if anyone is forming a real line as you move toward being helped. You're not even listening to what your friend is saying anymore. you're pretending to listen, but mostly trying to mentally will the line to form in a straight, logical manner. That aside, there are a few other things about Voltage that I personally don't love. The cafe space looks really bare and industrial, like it's a pop-up coffee shop opened up in an abandoned storefront space rather than a permanent fixture. Beyond that, I like my coffee shops to have a few savory food options, and with Tatte across the street hocking delicious salads and sandwiches, Voltage just can't compare. 10 times out of 10, i would go to Tatte across the street for better atmosphere and more choices for the same price and slow-ness. At least their queue makes sense and there's space to line up.

    (2)

  • Sara C.

    This is a super cute cafe, feels very trendy without being snobby. I had a Madame x latte (earl grey and white chocolate), which was unique and tasty. At least in the summer months, when MIT is not in session, it wasn't too crowded. They have free wifi, making it a good place to work for a bit, though you wouldn't want to be here all day as the chairs are not the most comfy.

    (4)

  • Liliana C.

    Great space, great coffee. Farm fresh milk in the lattes. They also make a noteworthy hot chocolate. We come here regularly, and will continue to do so. There's no coffee place better in the area, or even really in the city for that matter... Also, super friendly staff!!

    (5)

  • Kevin S.

    Possibly the slowest most bored baristas and coffee shop people I've ever witnessed. Must be part of the slow coffee movement. Still in line after 15 mins with only 6 people ahead of me. Got to front of line only to learn that my drip was a pour over. Better be good.

    (1)

  • Melanie W.

    Very unique latte creations and a great place to hang out or study. My personal latte favorites are the Thieving Magpie and Beyond the Sea. Their toast and breakfast sandwiches are also pretty good. Be sure to ask for a wifi code when you pay. Another plus - they accept LevelUp for payment!

    (5)

  • Moe S.

    I really want to like voltage - buts it's honestly not special. Don't get me wrong, their coffee is better than Starbucks, but I really except a lot more from an independent coffee shop, with an owner that lives right in town. Honestly, they're sort of slow, and expensive and I'm not quite sure what I'm paying for. If you want a better ambiance and better customer service for around the same price, try Thinking Cup.

    (3)

  • Linda B.

    This is a really cool coffee shop/gallery/tech meeting space. Being really close to MIT in Kendal Square and really close to the offices of Tech Stars this place attracts the type of people you'd expect. You can just feel the brain power looking through the glass entrance and walls facing the street. I just loved the Beyond the Sea which blew me away. My only two gripes are that this place is usually crowded so it takes a while for the barristas to make your coffee and that the wifi is limited by the purchases you make. I believe if you buy something for less than $4 you get 1 hour of wifi and if it's over $4 then you get two hours. I don't mind that terribly and I realize they do it because otherwise no one would leave this cool techy atmosphere.

    (5)

  • Rebecca Y.

    Fantastic! I love the unique lattes here, and they make their own syrups! The burnt caramel one was my favorite. It's a great place to sit down and read a book and drink coffee, but not the best place to do work (you have to pay for internet by the hour, pretty annoying).

    (4)

  • Hijo d.

    This is really about a 2.5 as far as the coffee drinks. Too much milk in the iced latte. They had just run out of toddy when I got there. Would have liked to try it as was not familiar with the roaster. Iced latte was a little spendy at 4 clams based on the quality. Staff was really friendly. Liked the space for the most part. Lots of open areas. I will say that there was not a lot of seating -- and it was pretty busy. The patio outside had a few tables that were taken. There was some major territorial(ism) going on...people with a seat next to them on the bar had their life spread out and made no offer to consolidate. The shop is in the lobby of what looks like a new condo building, which seems to be what is going on all along Kendall Square. Place has potential if they could get their coffee dialed.

    (2)

  • Katie R.

    Nestled in the steel-and-glass streetscape of Kendall Square, Voltage was far enough off my beaten path that, although I'd heard of it in passing, I hadn't made the trek until invited specifically by a friend of mine who had been bewitched by the menu's offerings (tempting her across cyberspace). We set a coffee date (more accurately, a coffee and baby date, as we each had 7-week-old infants in tow) for a blustery Friday afternoon, and the gears were set in motion. I arrived a few minutes early for our rendezvous, and took the time to soak in the surroundings. The cafe very elegantly recognizes that it should be warm and inviting, while cool and collected, with its white gallery walls housing quaint and quirky canvasses (while we were there). The menu was like a guide to the circus, promising lattes with exotic flavors and scents such as cardamom, rose water, and fleur de sel, alongside the comfortable stand-bys of vanilla, caramel, and chocolate, but combined in interesting and tempting ways (and with playful names). At $3, can you help but try? If Starbucks with its array of sticky syrups and sprinkles represents one end of the specialty latte spectrum, Voltage takes the other, highbrow end. The flavors are subtle, never overpowering the espresso at center stage. The baristas, too, are not mere button-pushers; no, these men and women can pull a sweet shot and pour an impressive latte, and are courteous and a bit chatty, too. I handed over a well-worn travel mug, and received a steamy cup of deliciousness, and was tickled to see that the barista had drawn a rosette with the espresso and steamed milk (not an insubstantial feat in this particular mug - no other cafe in the area, not even my beloved Simon's, has done as nicely, before or since). I sipped my latte and enjoyed the company of my friend amidst the art (she had a nice view out the wall of windows and could people-watch a bit, as well as one can do on a Kendall side-street), thinking that if only the shop weren't in Kendall, I might become a regular. But then, the sleek, almost stark interior would seem jarringly cold and out-of-place in most other neighborhoods; in Kendall, it seems almost cozy by comparison to the outside. Besides, like the circus, it's better appreciated in moderation, on special occasions (as if one could tire of the long list of treats they temptingly offer).

    (5)

  • Alex T.

    This place is as advertised. When I visited, they were featuring art inspired by basketball. I thought I was in heaven. Strong coffee & NBA art?! I loved it! Voltage takes coffee very seriously as well. They don't sell much else and they use slow drip method for a rich and deeply brewed taste. If you love coffee and art like I do, you know you have to check this place out.

    (4)

  • Mrs. G.

    I like Voltage, it has a nice vibe with all of the art work around. The coffee is pretty good and they do art on the coffee or latte itself which is a nice presentation. Most of the coffee I have tried was a bit bold for my taste. I also found the staff weren't that knowledgeable about the flavors-they seem very spacey. The greek yogurt they source is really good-probably the best I have had. I would recommend that they put the granola on top instead of on the bottom of the cup because the greek yogurt is very thick and hard to mix. All and all I would probably choose Tatte across the street, but Voltage has a nice vibe too.

    (3)

  • Kanchan S.

    Amazing Coffee Latte!!

    (5)

  • Emily L.

    Delicious! The husband and I (well back then, boyfriend) discovered this place the week after it had opened, and we couldn't believe our grad student luck -- another great coffee place within walking distance of campus! Lucky MIT. And now after Voltage has been around for a bit longer, I have to say it still holds its charm. There's great local coffee. The hot chocolates are decadent. Their teas are loose leaf and there's a good selection of them (try the rooibos). I just wish their flavored lattes were a bit less subtle (a big plus for not being overly sweet, but a minus for sometimes having nearly-imperceptible flavor). And I appreciate their limited-but-tasty food: try the dried apricot granola sometime, or their grilled corn muffin with jam -- they'll satisfy a mid-afternoon stomach rumble. Although sometimes Voltage can get pretty crowded with "campers" (people like me who huddle down with their laptops for hours on end, although wifi is free for 1 hour), you can usually still find a spot in one of their many nooks. The space is bright and airy. The walls are covered in a rotating display of funky art. Art and coffee... what's not to love? P.S. They also have a nice selection of roasted beans for sale, for those of you who grind and brew your own at home.

    (4)

  • Armin F.

    Great and chill coffee lounge for the occasional break during work. Favorite drink is the iced latte with burn sugar and vanilla flavor or Atticus Finch...

    (4)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :7:00 am - 6:00pm

Specialities

  • Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Parking : Street
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : No
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : Free
    By Appointment Only : No
    Good for Working : Yes

Voltage Coffee & Art

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