When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
Regattabar
Why Regattabar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Regattabar is a distinguished jazz club located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, renowned for offering an intimate and authentic jazz experience that makes it an excellent venue for meeting up with friends. Established in 1985, it has become a cornerstone of the Greater Boston jazz scene, famously situated on the third floor of The Charles Hotel in Harvard Square. The venue seats 220 guests, providing a cozy, immersive environment where every seat has an excellent view of the stage, enhancing the collective experience of live jazz. With a commitment to quality performances by world-class jazz artists, Regattabar attracts serious jazz lovers who appreciate attentive audiences and a true musical atmosphere. Beyond the music, Regattabar offers a selection of small plates and an extensive bar menu, perfect for sharing and enjoying alongside the performances. Its location within The Charles Hotel also allows patrons to enjoy a range of nearby dining options before or after shows, making it a convenient and vibrant destination. Its reputation is cemented by multiple “Best of Boston” awards from Boston Magazine, underscoring its cultural significance and appeal. This combination of excellent music, thoughtful ambiance, good food and drink, and a central location makes Regattabar a premier choice for friends seeking a memorable night out in a welcoming jazz setting.
Here's what people think of Regattabar
As of recent, Regattabar holds a 4.1-star rating based on 139 reviews.
Reviews from patrons of Regattabar consistently highlight its status as a top-tier jazz venue with a 4.1-star rating based on approximately 139 reviews. Positive feedback frequently mentions the club’s intimate atmosphere, which allows every attendee a clear view of the performers and excellent sound quality. Reviewers praise the attentive, respectful audience that heightens the overall experience by maintaining an environment focused on the music without distractions. Many also note the authenticity of the jazz acts and the club’s ability to consistently attract excellent ensembles, making it a cultural staple in the Boston-New England region. The extensive bar and small plates menu also receive commendations for complementing the musical experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out that the snack menu is somewhat limited, and the venue’s modest seating capacity can make it difficult to secure tickets for popular shows. A few users mention that food options are not the primary focus, which might disappoint those expecting a full dining experience. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus affirms Regattabar’s excellence as a jazz club. In conclusion, user reviews collectively affirm that Regattabar delivers an exceptional, intimate jazz setting with top-quality performances, making it a favored destination for jazz aficionados and casual visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
George Chalhoub
Had a great experience at Regetta Bar! The hummus bites were fantastic, the menu had great variety, and the drinks were excellent. The service was lovely, and we really enjoyed the jazz bar show. Highly recommend for a fun night out!
tahir h
Witnessed history as blues legend Sue Foley was given an award declaring June 27, 2025 as Sue Foley Day in the state of Massachusetts. Amazing atmosphere, service, sound, food and drink was good. One of the best days!!
TBird100636
Let me be the first to say, I'm not a hard core Jazz aficionado. It started with a friend sharing Postmodern Jukebox almost 4 years ago. While I didn't like every cover they put out, I kept watching. In September of 2016 they debuted a new cover of Rick Astley's "Never Gonna Give You Up". The featured singer was a Swedish national treasure, jazz multi-instrumentalist Gunhild Carling. I was blown away by her energy, and being able to play so any different musical Instruments, and sing to boot. Weeks later, she was featured again, covering Madonna's "Material Girl", singing, playing trombone, and tap dancing. I was hooked, and started following her and her equally talented family shortly thereafter. While most of her touring was elsewhere in the world, she did occasionally have dates in the United States. I can't travel far for a variety of reasons, so even going to New York where she performed most frequently was out. Only something close to the South Shore area was feasible. With her increased fame from her PMJ covers, as well as her weekly stream from her former residence in Stockomollan, Sweden, she began to perform more frequently in the US. In the summer of 2018 she announced a variety of tour dates for the middle of November. One of those dates was the 14th, at Regattabar in Cambridge, located in the Charles Hotel. I ordered a ticket a couple months in advance, the pricing wasn't bad. Other than evening commuter traffic going into and out of Boston, it wasn't hard to get to. It took about an hour to get there from the South Shore. If you plan on coming here, use Google Maps to get directions and input the time you plan on leaving, that way you will get an accurate gauge of how long it will take to get here. Parking was very easy, it was in the hotel's own parking garage, Regattabar will validate your ticket for a buck or two off. For parking, drive all the way around the garage until you find the elevators, there seemed to be ample spaces right around there. I arrived early, doors actually opened 1/4 of 7 for the 7:30 showtime. Seating is randomly assigned, I guess according to when you bought your ticket, so I had a good seat in the front row to the left of the stage. It's a big room, seating take up about a 1/3 of it around the stage area, behind it is an open floor for dancing. The waiter greeted me almost right away, and I ordered a drink. I will say the drink seemed to have like a lead or graphite taste to it, but was passable. The show started right on time, Ms. Carling was backed up by New York based musicians Dave Post on bass, Matt Baker on piano, and Daniel Glass on drums. Let me tell you, if you have never seen Gunhild perform in person, go do it already. She is an amazing, friendly performer. I knew she would be better to see in person, but I was totally blown away. She did an hour and a half set that night. Overall, this was my first time at a jazz club, and it was a positive experience. The size of the room is great, with windows to look outside over-viewing Bennett St. The acoustics of the room were fantastic, the volume of the mics wasn't too loud, it wasn't too hot or too cold either. The lighting in the room set the mood well. Other than the drink issue, the chairs at the tables were a tad uncomfortable. Not much cushioning, and too upright for me. Other than that, a very enjoyable experience. 7/4/2019 EDIT: I went to Regattabar on 6/20 to see Gunhild Carling perform again, simply amazing. Other than that, I did order a drink again, this time it didn't taste funny. The chairs are the same uncomfortable ones from last time. Even still, I had a front row seat, the earlier you buy a ticket, the better the seat you get. 11/23/2022 EDIT: I'm not sure what's going on, but Regattabar closed 3/2020 as a result of the pandemic, but where the majority of venues have already reopened, this venue strangely has not. The website simply displays "Regattabar is temporarily closed due to Covid-19 until further notice.". I would hope they eventually reopen, but over 2 years later it does not appear so.
Brian Feltch
Fantastic place for a jazz show. GET THERE EARLY unless you love sitting at the edge of the stage and getting no service. But I'd be back in a heartbeat, we had a great time and didn't even get a drink :)
sia xie
Like many others mentioned, even though you pay the same rate, they assign you to the corner with the pillar blocking the view. I checked in at least 20 minutes early and there were plenty of empty tables out front, but they still gave me the worst one. The music is great, but don't expect great service.
How to reach Regattabar
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Website: None
Why rally at Regattabar with your friends? If you're looking for an intimate, vibrant venue that perfectly blends world-class live music with an inviting social atmosphere, Regattabar in Harvard Square, Cambridge, is a top choice for gathering your friends or family. This jazz club, known as one of Boston's premier live music destinations, has been operating since 1985 and offers an experience that goes beyond just listening to music—it creates a shared memory. The space is designed to be a listening room where the focus is on the performance, yet still comfortable and warm enough to encourage relaxation and conversation during breaks. The music programming ranges from jazz and blues to funk, soul, and world music, appealing to diverse tastes within any group. Although some reviews note that food offerings are limited, the drinks are highly praised, making it a fantastic spot for cocktails or wine alongside stellar performances. The intimate setting—with seating arranged to give many views close to the performers—makes it easy for friends to rally around a common interest: enjoying quality live music in an atmosphere that feels like an exclusive event for your gathering.
What kinds of activities can you do at Regattabar for a group meetup? Primarily, Regattabar is a live music venue, and attending one of their nightly concerts is the core activity. From Tuesday through Sunday evenings, they host performances by notable jazz musicians, alongside acts in soul, funk, and world music traditions. This variety provides ample opportunity to choose a show that fits your group’s vibe, whether you're fans of classic jazz or looking to discover vibrant international sounds. The setting supports attentive listening but also allows tasteful socializing, especially during intermissions. Regattabar also offers a cocktail bar and a selection of wines and beers, giving groups the chance to enjoy premium drinks in moderation between sets. While the food menu is described as mostly offering small snack platters and not a full dinner menu, this encourages guests to focus on the music while enjoying thoughtfully crafted beverages. This balance makes it an ideal venue if your group wants an evening centered on culture and music rather than a full dining experience.
Why is Regattabar perfect for groups who want a musical meetup experience? One of Regattabar’s greatest strengths is its intimate yet professional atmosphere that appeals to music lovers who want quality sound and close proximity to the performers. The venue’s layout—with tables and high tops arranged around the modest stage—ensures good visibility and acoustic presence for the entire audience. Group seating can be comfortable when reserved in advance, making it easy to share the experience and keep conversations lively without overpowering the music. The ambiance is refined but laid-back, suitable for both casual friends’ nights out or celebratory family gatherings. The venue’s reputation for consistently booking top-tier jazz and world music acts means your group will experience performances that are memorable and worthy of being the highlight of a night out. Its location in the lively Harvard Square area adds to the appeal, as it provides easy access to restaurants and other attractions for before or after your music session. For groups seeking a venue with cultural cachet and an emphasis on artistry, Regattabar delivers an exceptional live music environment.
How does the food and drink service contribute to a group outing at Regattabar? Although Regattabar’s focus is music rather than full-scale dining, their drink offerings are robust and well-regarded, making them a key part of the group experience. The cocktail menu frequently features carefully crafted drinks that complement the sophistication of the performances, along with a respectable wine and beer list. This allows your group to toast the evening with quality beverages that enhance the overall enjoyment. However, some guests have noted inconsistent service in the past, specifically pointing out that slower or inattentive waitstaff could distract from the show. Nevertheless, recent observations praise quick and friendly service, suggesting ongoing improvements. The food menu is limited to mostly snack platters, designed not to detract attention from the music. This setup encourages groups to indulge in just enough light fare to stay comfortable without the complications of a full dinner service. Thus, the drink and snack focus allows Regattabar to maintain its primary mission as a listening room while still providing refreshments for an enjoyable group outing.
What logistical benefits does Regattabar offer for event planning and group meetups? Located inside the Charles Hotel in Harvard Square, Regattabar benefits from exceptional accessibility—it’s close to public transportation, plenty of parking options, and within walking distance of many restaurants and cafes. This central location makes it easy for friends or family members traveling from different parts of the city or beyond to convene without hassle. The venue’s capacity of around 220 guests is intimate enough to feel exclusive but spacious enough to accommodate sizable groups. Group reservations and ticket purchases can often be made in advance, helping organize the meetup with minimal stress. They are open Tuesday through Sunday nights, with Monday closures, allowing flexibility in planning around your group's schedule. The venue also has a long-standing reputation dating back to 1985, ensuring a trusted and well-established environment for your social occasions. For any meetup based on shared music appreciation, Regattabar represents a smooth blend of culture, convenience, and comfort.
How does the ambiance enhance the experience of gathering at Regattabar? The ambiance at Regattabar is marked by a deep respect for the music paired with a relaxed social vibe. The club has been praised repeatedly as one of the best listening rooms in Boston, where the lighting, acoustics, and seating design all work together to support the live music. The low-key, almost whisper-quiet service during performances helps guests enjoy the music fully without distractions. The room’s design encourages focus yet remains warm enough for groups to share reactions and conversations during breaks comfortably. This balance creates a refined but inviting mood that is hard to replicate elsewhere—perfect for friends or family wanting an evening that feels special but accessible. Whether you are jazz aficionados or newcomers to live performances, Regattabar’s atmosphere invites you to soak in the artistry while enjoying friendly company.
What makes the music selection at Regattabar ideal for a variety of tastes? Regattabar's programming is diverse and dynamic, offering more than just traditional jazz. While jazz remains the cornerstone, the venue regularly features blues, funk, soul, and world music artists, including Brazilian MPB (Música Popular Brasileira). This spectrum appeals to groups with mixed musical preferences, providing something fresh for everyone. Well-known and local artists alike perform, guaranteeing high-quality music in every show. For groups interested in exploring new genres or enjoying familiar tunes from excellent musicians, Regattabar’s schedule is a treasure trove. It also tends to bring in acts with soulful and infectious energy, creating performances that are both sophisticated and fun, keeping the group's energy lively throughout the evening.
How does Regattabar compare to other meetup venues in Harvard Square? Unlike many restaurants or casual bars in the area, Regattabar focuses on creating a dedicated listening experience rather than just a social drinking or dining spot. This specialization means if your group values live music as a central component of your gathering, Regattabar stands out with its superior sound quality and carefully curated acts. Other nearby venues might offer food or drinks but often lack the intimacy or high caliber of performances that Regattabar consistently delivers. Moreover, its historic presence since 1985 gives it a strong identity as a cultural hotspot, making it a point of pride for locals and visitors alike. Although some guests may prefer larger spaces or full dining options, groups seeking a meaningful, music-centered meetup find Regattabar unmatched in the Harvard Square scene.
What should groups expect when planning their visit to Regattabar? When you plan to bring friends or family to Regattabar, it is wise to check the performance schedule and book tickets early, especially for popular shows. Seating can be arranged in a variety of formats, from high-tops to tables close to the stage, offering options depending on your group's preferences and need for mobility. Since food offerings are light, plan to enjoy a few drinks and appetizers rather than a full meal inside. Arriving a bit early is recommended to secure the best seats and settle in before the music starts. Keep in mind the club is closed on Mondays and often busy on weekends, so timing your meetup on a Tuesday through Thursday may offer a slightly quieter experience. Overall, groups who come with anticipation for an evening of great music, drinks, and conversation will find Regattabar an outstanding choice to share meaningful moments together.
What are some tips for making the most out of your group meetup at Regattabar? To enhance your group’s night out, consider coordinating arrival times so everyone can settle in together and enjoy the pre-show atmosphere. Since service can vary, ordering drinks and snacks promptly is advisable to avoid missing parts of the show. Engage with the music fully—Regattabar’s intimate setting creates a connection between audience and performers that adds a special dimension to the experience. Using public transportation or shared rides can simplify logistics in Harvard Square’s busy area. Finally, encourage your group to respect the quiet listening etiquette during performances so everyone, including other patrons, can savor the music in its intended setting. With a bit of planning, your meetup at Regattabar can be memorable, culturally enriching, and deeply enjoyable for all participants.