Inman Square

In this series, we'll be visiting the other parts of Cambridge, the "City of Squares." Join us as we explore the ins-and-outs of things to do in Inman, Central, Davis, Kendall, and Porter Squares.

You've been walking past the same life-sized puppet perched outside the COOP for weeks—it's time to get out of Harvard Square and see something new. Although Harvard Square wins in the androgynous marionettes department, Inman Square boasts its own colorful mix of shops, cafés, and quirk that Harvard students often overlook. Located at the convergence of Cambridge, Prospect, and Hampshire Streets, below is just a taste of the many flavors that Inman Square has to offer.

Cafés: Don’t expect to find any green mermaids here. In lieu of Starbucks, Inman Square is home to an array of locally-owned watering holes.

At 1369 Coffee House, enjoy more than two-dozen varieties of tea, specialty drinks with names like "London Fog," and even artwork drawn in your latte's foam.

Café Kiraz offers sandwiches and froyo flavors ranging from Pineapple to Marshmallow to Cracklin' Oat Bran.

Bom Café adds a Brazilian flair to the Square with its sandwiches, omelets, and pastries.

Cheap eats at Punjabi Dhaba Indian Café will satisfy any cravings you may have for basmati rice and Bollywood music.

Shops: The local, independent businesses are an integral part of Inman Square and provide many fun options for window-shopping.

Feel free to indulge your inner child at Stellabella Toys.

At Boutique Fabulous, browse through funky socks, vintage clothing, and a treasure trove of unnecessary knick-knacks.

Stop by Lorem Ipsum Books and check out the vending machine at the back of the shop that contains vintage paperbacks.

If you're looking for a sweet treat, stop by Christina’s Ice Cream, home of more than 40 flavors of ice cream ranging from classic French Vanilla to Apple Pie, Honey Lavender, and Burnt Sugar. 

Restaurants: If you're looking to escape another dining hall meal, Inman Square offers several good alternatives.

Big flavor and fresh seafood can be found at East Coast Grill, which also hosts special events such as "Hell Night" for those who can handle dishes like "Wings of Ass Destruction."

Casa Portugal, the oldest Portuguese restaurant in Boston, serves traditional and authentic cuisine like grilled squid and arroz doce.

While the four-generation, family-owned S&S Restaurant serves traditional deli fare, you can find Brazilian barbeque at the Midwest Grill and a wide variety of sandwiches and sides at the All-Star Sandwich Bar.

Bars: Like the rest of the Square, Inman bars have quirk and character.

Bukowski Tavern (named after author and prolific drinker Charles Bukowski) offers more than 160 different beers and a "Wheel of Indecision" for those who may be overwhelmed by the plentiful options.

When you need a break from studying, head over to The Thirsty Scholar (site of the opening scene from The Social Network) and feel free to browse their archive of National Geographic magazines while enjoying your drink of choice.

The Druid is a popular pub that serves standard Irish dishes and hosts live music on Tuesday and Friday nights.

Don’t Miss: Friday, October 28 is Inmanween! From 4 to 8 p.m. in Vellucci Plaza, enjoy a free pumpkin give-away (with a $10 receipt from a participating Inman Square business), pumpkin carving and decorating contests, and trick-or-treating at Inman Square businesses. Details can be found here.