Best Family Style Restaurants in West Cambridge

Sat at the bar for brunch, served by an excellent bartender--a real craftsman--patient explaining the ingredients of the cocktails. Drinks and food was terrific. My only minor criticisms are that the seats at the bar essentially have no backs and are horribly uncomfortable. There is no reason chairs with backs can't be used. Secondly, they offered no black tea, only herbal. I'm not a coffee drinker, but needed that morning caffeine and no tea option was available. Again, no reason not to offer that, especially at brunch.

First time there, went with my wife and two adult sons. We arrived earlier than our reservation time, but the staff were very gracious about accommodating us. The food was fantastic. The fried chicken and biscuits are not to be missed. The sliders are likewise remarkable. The cocktails are expertly mixed; flavorful, complex, and quite strong. Overall, really great restaurant. Highly recommend.

Great meal. 3 of us ordered 5 dishes,which might have been 1 too many for our group (1 larger eater; two smaller eaters) Typically it can be noisy but they say us at a banquette in corner across from the bar, so the noise level (6pm res) was quite tolerable

From the moment we stepped into Contessa, we were greeted with the warmth and charm that only an exceptional Italian restaurant can offer. Located in the heart of Boston, this dining gem delivers an unforgettable experience, from its stunning ambiance to its mouthwatering cuisine. The setting itself is nothing short of spectacular. The stylish interior, complete with elegant lighting and cozy seating, creates the perfect atmosphere for an intimate meal or a celebratory dinner. The breathtaking views of the city from the rooftop, especially with the adjacent park lit and sparkling for Christmas, made every bite of our meal feel even more special. The menu at Contessa is a true tribute to the flavors of Italy. We began our meal with the freshest antipasti of Tonnato Crudo. Each bite of this dish consisting of thinly sliced raw tuna, artichoke hearts, and anchovy was a burst of flavor and authenticity. For the primi course, we shared the Spicy Lobster Capellini. Wow! Pasta was cooked perfect al dente; the lobster sauce was amazing. Nice small chunks of lobster throughout. For the main course, we split the Grilled Mediterranean Branzino. Believe me, it was cooked to perfection, flaky and full of delicate flavors. Dessert was the grand finale. The tiramisu was light, airy, and just the right amount of sweet. It was a divine ending to what was already a remarkable meal. What truly sets Contessa apart, though, is the service. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to ensure our experience was nothing short of flawless. They offered wonderful wine pairings and gave great recommendations, making us feel like VIPs throughout the evening. If you’re looking for an elevated Italian dining experience in Boston, look no further than Contessa. Every detail, from the food to the ambiance to the exceptional service, makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers and anyone looking to enjoy an unforgettable meal.

A pleasant atmosphere, decent and thoughtful service, a few good brews on tap, a satisfactory wine list. The food? Meh. Nothing that you'll remember or recommend. Portions are adequate if a bit bland and unimaginative.