When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
1369 Coffee House
Why 1369 Coffee House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
1369 Coffee House, established in 1993 in Cambridge's Inman Square, stands out as a cherished community hub and coffee spot with a strong local heritage. Housed in the former 1369 Jazz Club, it preserves a vibrant cultural legacy, blending music history with modern coffee culture. Their welcoming atmosphere, distinguished by warm auburn and orange tones, local artwork, and soft lighting, creates an inviting “third space” where patrons relax between work and home. With a focus on delivering the very best coffees, teas, and espresso drinks alongside enjoyable pastries and lunch options, 1369 Coffee House caters to diverse tastes. It has grown into more than a café — it’s a social nexus fostering friendships, inspiring creative work including books and theses, and even being the backdrop for significant life events like marriages. The owners prioritize neighborhood connection and a comfortable setting, emphasizing quality service and sustenance. Their long-standing presence, including a second Central Square location opened in 1994, reinforces their commitment to excellence and community, striving to endure amid larger chains and remain a local favorite.
Here's what people think of 1369 Coffee House
As of recent, 1369 Coffee House holds a 4.4-star rating based on 817 reviews.
Customer reviews of 1369 Coffee House reflect a generally positive experience honoring its community spirit and quality products. Many reviewers praise the rich, flavorful coffee and well-prepared espresso drinks along with a diverse selection of teas and baked goods. The cozy and nostalgic ambiance, stemming from the historical roots and tasteful decor, is frequently noted as a highlight that enhances the social experience. Patrons also appreciate the friendly and attentive staff who contribute to the welcoming environment. Regular customers mention the café as a dependable neighborhood gathering place where a sense of belonging flourishes. On the negative side, some reviews comment on occasional slow service during busy times and the limited seating that can make the popular café crowded. A few guests have noted that prices lean toward the higher side compared to chain equivalents, and some desired more variety in food offerings. Despite minor criticisms, the consensus acknowledges 1369 Coffee House as a genuine local treasure. The enduring positive feedback and repeat customers signal its success in maintaining a comfortable, quality space that stands out in the Cambridge coffee scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jomar Bueyes
Excellent coffee, but subpar pastries. I had a great espresso: bull-bodied and rich. I also tasted my wife's drip coffee. It was as good as my expresso. The pastries, however, were not as good. I had a raspberry square (or perhaps another berry, cannot recall exactly). It was very sweet. I tasted my wife's scone and found it too salty for my taste (I confess: I'm used to eat with very little salt and detect salt in food which my family does not find salty). My daughter's ham and cheese croissant was OK -not great: not bad. A plus, at least for us, is that outdoor seating allows pets, so our dog was with us.
Liz Bruschi
Loved it. The line was a little long but they were moving. I had an egg n cheese on sourdough and an iced blueberry latte. Great coffee and great food.
Samantha James
1369 has really come down hill - I ordered four items, and only 2 were made correctly. My latte was made as a small, but I had ordered a large. The barista corrected it for me, but when they poured it into the larger cup, they lost all the syrup (which I paid extra for), and didn't mix in the extra espresso. Tasted fine, but not the flavored latte I paid $8 for. Then when I got home, I realized that the Rocket sandwich was missing the arugula (aka the ingredient that makes it the 'rocket'). For $34, not the most impressive experience. I've been coming to 1369 for 10 years as a 'treat' on weekends. It might have just been a bad day, but I'm not going to rush back any time soon.
Serena Yu
A few in our group got the strawberry vanilla matcha which was a miss for us, there wasn’t much flavor at all on all fronts. One of the drinks had noticeably no pink and no strawberry flavor compared to the others. Love the aesthetic of the menu though.
F S
The beast quality and prices. I used to go to the most pricy coffee in the country only for the high quality of its products. Until I tried 1369 and I amazed with the coffee test. My original country famous with coffee, the highest quality in the world. It takes me a sip of black coffee to till the level of the coffee quality and I know immediately that 1369 coffee is really pure coffee. I also get my large healthy iced match with almond milk no sugar from 1369 every morning. Try the rock sandwich in bird if you don’t like bagels like me ask to add smoked salmon if you like it too. The prices are low comparing with the quality, the amount and the service. For some reason all the employees are cute smiling lovely I guess the store hired all of them from the same Beehive💚 love everything about 1369 central square🌹
How to reach 1369 Coffee House
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Why 1369 Coffee House may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at 1369 Coffee House with your friends? Because it offers an inviting, warm environment where camaraderie naturally flourishes over expertly brewed coffee and delicious food. Located in the heart of Cambridge, 1369 Coffee House boasts a reputation as one of the top coffee spots in the area, awarded multiple times for its exceptional quality and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking to catch up on life, share creative ideas, or simply unwind, this coffee house provides the perfect backdrop to strengthen bonds. Its intimate seating arrangements encourage lively conversation without distraction, and the aroma of fresh coffee sets a cozy and relaxing mood. The café’s consistent high ratings, based on hundreds of reviews, show it’s a reliable choice that people keep returning to. It’s not merely a place to grab coffee, but a community hub where friends and family can create memorable moments together. The easy accessibility and extended weekend hours also make it convenient for group gatherings at various times.
What activities can you enjoy at 1369 Coffee House that make it ideal for a group meetup? The café is not just about coffee; it offers a balanced menu of breakfast and lunch options, making it a versatile spot for any time of day. Groups can start their day with freshly baked pastries, eggs, and artisan sandwiches that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. The free Wi-Fi and ample seating provide a great setting for casual work sessions or relaxed socializing, allowing groups to linger without feeling rushed. Additionally, the café’s signature coffee and tea selections are perfect conversation starters, inviting everyone to sample and compare favorites. The ambiance promotes a casual yet engaging environment, ideal for both small and moderately sized groups. Whether your meetup involves catching up on work, holding creative brainstorming sessions, or just leisurely chatting, the space supports all these activities comfortably.
Why is 1369 Coffee House perfect for hosting group meetups compared to other local coffee shops? Its unique combination of quality, ambiance, and community focus makes it stand out. The coffee house’s well-earned reputation, including accolades like “Best Coffeehouse in Cambridge” spanning several years, assures visitors of a consistently positive experience. Unlike large, impersonal chains, 1369 Coffee House offers an intimate setting suited for meaningful interaction. The availability of two convenient locations in Cambridge further enhances accessibility for local groups. Moreover, its flexible hours during weekdays and weekends mean you can gather for morning coffee, lunch, or an afternoon break. Payment options are wide-ranging, accommodating groups with American Express, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover, plus digital payments, reducing any hassle during checkout. The tea and coffee variety caters to diverse preferences, supporting a lively and inclusive vibe. It’s a business deeply committed to fostering community connections, making it more than just a coffee stop, but a gathering place where friendships and family ties can flourish.
How does the food and drink menu at 1369 Coffee House complement its coffee offerings for groups? The café’s menu is thoughtfully curated to pair exceptionally well with its coffee selections, enhancing the overall group experience. Breakfast offerings include fresh, wholesome options such as eggs, toast, and pastries that provide comfort and energy for morning meetups. For lunch, sandwiches and lighter fare are available, encouraging longer visits when groups want to unwind or work together over a meal. The quality and freshness of ingredients make the food just as compelling as the coffee, satisfying different tastes and preferences. This balance invites groups with varied appetites to find something appealing, which is crucial when hosting diverse gatherings. Having excellent coffee paired with delicious food elevates any meetup, giving people both the fuel and the pleasure to chat, brainstorm, or celebrate together.
What amenities and features at 1369 Coffee House enhance the meetup experience? A standout feature is the free Wi-Fi, which supports digital connectivity for groups planning to work or share multimedia content on the spot. The intimate yet spacious seating ensures the group can sit together comfortably without feeling crowded or interrupted. 1369 Coffee House also accepts various payment methods and offers takeout, making it easy for groups to order flexibly or grab something quickly if running late. The café’s commitment to creating a community vibe means the staff is attentive and friendly, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Also, its central location near Inman Square and central Cambridge places it within reach of other local attractions and amenities, making it convenient to combine the coffee house meetup with walks or visits to nearby spots. The ambiance and service quality make it feel like a “third place” — a cozy social space outside home and work.
How accessible is 1369 Coffee House for planning group events? With two locations in Cambridge—one on Cambridge Street in Inman Square and another on Massachusetts Avenue—the coffee house offers flexible options depending on where your group is coming from. Both locations are open early in the morning until mid-afternoon, with weekend hours extended until 4:00 PM, accommodating early risers and leisurely weekend gatherings alike. Accessibility by public transit or walking is easy, which is especially convenient for larger groups who may be coming from different parts of the city. Since the café also offers online ordering and gift cards, groups can plan ahead or send coffee gifts to members who can’t attend, keeping everyone connected in fun ways. Staff are accustomed to welcoming community gatherings, so planning larger meetups or recurring events here tends to be smooth. Though the spaces are cozy, the layout encourages social interaction without excessive noise, striking a balance for friendly group engagement.
What do customer reviews say about hosting meetups at 1369 Coffee House? Most reviews highlight the warm, inviting atmosphere and the consistency of high-quality coffee and food, which makes every visit enjoyable for friends and family alike. Reviewers appreciate the intimate seating that supports conversation and the café's reputation as a much-loved local spot. Some notes mention the excellent free Wi-Fi and friendly staff, which together provide a convenient and relaxed experience for both social and casual work gatherings. While a few reviews mention that the bathroom facilities and some elements of the décor are modest, the majority see it as a minor issue compared to the overall charm and quality. The many returning customers and steady number of positive reviews suggest that 1369 Coffee House reliably meets the social needs of groups. Its multiple awards and recognitions also bolster confidence that your gathering will be held at a respected and enjoyable venue.
Why is 1369 Coffee House considered a community hub in Cambridge? Since 1993, it has been dedicated to more than just serving coffee—it nurtures community connections and creative exchanges among locals. The café is frequently cited by customers as a “third place” where they can feel a sense of belonging beyond their homes and workplaces. Events, casual meetups, and regular visits by the same patrons create an atmosphere of familiarity and warmth. This approach makes it more than just a café, but a true gathering spot where friendships are formed and strengthened. Its commitment to community building has been recognized by local awards and media, highlighting its role as a cherished institution in Cambridge’s social and cultural life. The emphasis on inclusivity and quality service reflects the values that make it a preferred choice for group events and friendly get-togethers.
In conclusion, 1369 Coffee House offers an exemplary venue for group meetups due to its welcoming environment, quality food and coffee, excellent amenities, community focus, and convenient location. Its consistent positive reviews, multiple awards, and dedication to fostering connection make it a top choice in Cambridge for friends and families to rally, recharge, and relate. Whether it’s for casual brunches, productive gatherings, or just a cozy chat, this coffee house is more than equipped to host your next meetup in style and comfort.