When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
Season to Taste
Why Season to Taste is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Season To Taste is a celebrated neighborhood restaurant located in North Cambridge, Massachusetts, that excels at bringing the best of local, farm-to-table dining to its guests. Founded initially as Boston's pioneering farm-to-table catering company, it has evolved into a fine dining hotspot since opening its doors in 2016. The restaurant's new location at 1678 Massachusetts Avenue continues to uphold its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, reflecting a passion for authentic, down-to-earth food. Season To Taste offers a cozy yet refined atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends or enjoying a special night out. Its diverse and seasonally rotating menu highlights globally inspired dishes crafted from the freshest local produce, seafood, and meats. Highlights include unique entrée offerings like bass crudo with watermelon and finger lime, porcini-stuffed zucchini, and a soft shell crab sandwich that bring innovative flavors to classic tastes. Additionally, the restaurant caters to different dietary preferences by providing vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal. The chef's tasting counter menu is especially attractive for groups wanting to explore a curated selection of dishes paired with expert craftsmanship. Combined with attentive table service and a selection of wines and beers, Season To Taste stands out as an ideal spot for friendly gatherings and memorable dining experiences in the Cambridge area.
Here's what people think of Season to Taste
As of recent, Season to Taste holds a 4.7-star rating based on 639 reviews.
Users consistently praise Season To Taste for its exceptional culinary creativity, fresh local ingredients, and warm neighborhood ambiance. Many reviewers note that the food is flavorful and beautifully presented, with dishes that often exceed expectations in terms of taste and originality. The Chef Mark Thompson's skill in blending European and contemporary styles while focusing on farm-to-table principles is frequently highlighted as a major draw. Positive reviews also emphasize the attentive and friendly service, cozy atmosphere, and reasonable portion sizes that complement the fine dining experience. Patrons appreciate the restaurant's flexibility with dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, which adds to its appeal for diverse groups. On the negative side, some reviewers mention occasional issues with wait times during peak hours or find the pricing to be on the higher side compared to casual dining. A few customers express a desire for more extensive drink menu selections or note that reservations can be difficult due to the restaurant's popularity. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus remains strongly favorable, with a high rating reflecting consistent customer satisfaction. In conclusion, Season To Taste is widely regarded as a reliable choice for gourmet, locally sourced dining in Cambridge, offering an experience that most guests find outstanding and worth returning to.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
May K
The vegan tasting menu was incredible! Every dish was the most creative, delicious we've ever had. As good as New York and San Fran restaurants. I don't even know how to describe the food because it was so intricate and flavorful and gourmet. The mixed drinks were delicious and creative too. Can't wait to try things on the regular menu as well.
Emily Bean
We had a wonderful time at this restaurant. They take so much pride in their art and it shows. Everyone was knowledgeable about their craft and they use high quality, locally sourced ingredients. The best part was how down to earth they were. Sometimes, tasting menus can be really stuffy. We felt like we were able to get to know them authentically. Thank you for allowing us into your world for an evening. It’s a special place.
Amber C
Our first time trying this restaurant after hearing a lot of good things, and the food did not disappoint. The menu is fairly extensive and most of what we had were tasty dishes served by a friendly and efficient staff. The moist thyme biscuit with the pimento and pickles was a great combination and large enough to be shared by two. I really enjoyed the acorn squash salad. Large slices of squash, crispy Brussel sprouts, pickled onions and greens with a fresh tasting dressing. This was my personal favorite dish of the meal since I favor vegetable dished. The Scotch egg looked great but tasted bland as a whole and the egg texture was tough. The shrimp and grits dish was really buttery and creamy as grits should be, but definitely very rich. The pork ribs were a large portion of three ribs and were tender and tasty. The arepa dish was interesting. I like the combination of the various components and it was very filling. The fried clams were served with clam chowder. Very nicely fried clams but the chowder was just lukewarm. Would have preferred it at a hotter temperature. We realized that we had ordered and ate too much so didn't have room for dessert. But, will definitely come back to try other dishes. So happy that we found another restaurant that focuses on serving good quality and tasty food, at reasonable prices. Special thanks to the hostess who accommodated us at a table instead of the bar as a last minute request. Even though we had to limit our meal at the table to an hour due to other reservations, service was quick and we were able to finish in time.
Jea Kim
A once-trendy farm-to-table spot that now feels past its prime. Heard plenty of great things from my colleagues about this place, so expectations were high when I finally visited for dinner a little over a month ago. However, it didn’t quite live up to the hype. While I appreciate the commitment to farm-to-table dining and seasonal ingredients, some dishes felt overly intricate—too many elements competing rather than complementing. The balance was there, but the subtlety was lost, leaving the rest of the meal feeling somewhat muted in comparison. Examples of this were the Lamb Chop and Miso-braised Cabbage. The aromatic greens and earthy sauce complemented the lamb’s gamey flavors but also ended up overpowering them. Plus, the lamb’s natural gaminess clashed a bit with the toppings. Similarly, the cabbage, topped with sage and peppers, had a nice tangy sauce, but there was just too much happening on the plate. Still, there were two dishes that I really enjoyed—the Smoked Trout Toast and Nantucket Bay Scallops. The toast felt like a luxe upgrade of smoked salmon toast, elevated by smoked roe, tangy pickled onions, and crispy capers. The scallops were buttery soft, with the soubise and butter enhancing their richness. Tennessee Caviar was also a nice touch—thin-cut potatoes added great texture, though they slightly distracted from the delicate caviar.
Matthew “Matty”
Great and unique food. The server recommended we order way too much food. We had a reservation and it still took almost 30min to be seated. The bartender is amazing! Unique and yummy menu!
How to reach Season to Taste
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Why Season to Taste may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Season To Taste with your friends? If you're searching for a place that combines an intimate ambiance with remarkable culinary craftsmanship, Season To Taste stands out as an exceptional choice. This acclaimed restaurant, rated 4.7 from over 600 reviews, offers a welcoming environment that’s both cozy and refined, ideal for gathering with friends or family. Unlike loud, crowded venues, Season To Taste cultivates a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere where every detail, from lighting to seating, is designed to foster connection and conversation. Guests often highlight the friendly, attentive staff who enhance the communal dining experience by making everyone feel comfortable and cherished. Moreover, the restaurant’s commitment to seasonal, innovative dishes ensures that each visit offers something fresh and exciting, appealing to both food aficionados and casual diners alike. This blend of warmth, quality, and creativity makes Season To Taste perfect for hosting meetups where friends can share memorable moments over exquisite food in a setting that feels like a home away from home.
What activities can you enjoy at Season To Taste? Primarily, Season To Taste is celebrated for its remarkable culinary offerings that elevate the traditional dining experience into an interactive journey. The restaurant features a prix fixe menu that typically includes four courses with multiple options, allowing groups to sample a range of thoughtfully prepared dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. Sharing plates is strongly encouraged, which makes it an excellent venue for groups who enjoy trying a variety of flavors together, sparking discussion and delight around the table. Beyond the main menu, the restaurant often surprises diners with unlisted bonus items like petite soups, palate-cleansing sorbets, or house-made chocolates, adding an element of playfulness and discovery to the meal. Wine pairings are also available, expertly matched to the menu’s offerings, which further enriches the dining experience and provides another avenue for shared enjoyment and conversation. These culinary experiences transform simply eating into an eventful gathering where guests can engage with the food in a communal spirit.
Why is Season To Taste perfect for a group meetup? Beyond the food, Season To Taste’s atmosphere makes it an extraordinary place for groups looking to connect. The restaurant’s layout includes semi-private spaces such as cozy "cabanas" that provide the right balance of privacy and openness, helping groups feel tucked away from the bustling world while still part of the vibrant restaurant scene. This design fosters conversation without having to compete with excessive noise, which is a critical factor for any gathering where meaningful interaction is the goal. Furthermore, the staff’s attentiveness and warm professionalism ensure that group needs—such as accommodating dietary preferences or pacing the meal—are handled with care, freeing guests to focus on enjoying their company. The restaurant’s reputation for consistently excellent food and service ensures that groups leave impressed and satisfied, making it a reliable choice when celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a night out together. Its intimate scale, combined with high-end offerings, creates a unique venue that feels exclusive yet welcoming.
What kind of cuisine and flavors can your group expect? Season To Taste specializes in high-quality, seasonally driven dishes that reflect a refined and imaginative approach to contemporary cuisine. The cooking style often features unexpected flavor combinations that surprise and delight the palate without overwhelming it. For example, dishes like burrata paired with Mexican street corn demonstrate the chef’s skill in balancing richness with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Guests have raved about items such as perfectly seared scallops, flavorful tuna tartare, and inventive use of spices reminiscent of global cuisines, all prepared with an eye for perfect texture and seasoning. The menu’s focus on fresh, local produce and the changing seasons means diners enjoy well-timed ingredients at their peak, underscoring the restaurant’s commitment to quality. The desserts, such as basil ice cream paired with light cake elements, continue this trend of creativity and balance, rounding out the meal with a refreshing and memorable finish. These sophisticated flavors work wonderfully for groups who appreciate fine dining and want to explore culinary artistry together.
How does the service contribute to the group experience? One of the standout aspects of Season To Taste that reviewers frequently mention is the exceptional service. The waitstaff strike a perfect balance of professionalism and friendliness, creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests feel valued and attended to without being overrun. This is particularly important for group settings, where dynamics can be more complex, and timely, attentive service ensures the meal flows smoothly. Servers are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to provide recommendations on dishes and wine pairings, helping guests customize their experience according to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Special touches such as explaining the concept behind dishes or surprising guests with unexpected extras enhance the overall enjoyment and show a personal investment in customer satisfaction. Such attentive service nurtures a sense of occasion and care that makes group events feel special and well-orchestrated, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy themselves more fully.
What makes Season To Taste’s ambiance suitable for all kinds of meetups? The physical setting and interior design of Season To Taste create an inviting mood that is simultaneously upscale and unpretentious, making it versatile for different types of social gatherings. Whether your group is celebrating a milestone, holding a casual reunion, or even seeking a romantic group outing, the restaurant adapts well to the occasion. Intimate lighting, tasteful decor, and strategic seating arrangements foster an environment conducive to both lively conversation and quieter moments of reflection. Unlike louder, more crowded venues, Season To Taste is described as a peaceful oasis where guests can genuinely connect without competing with ambient noise. This quality is rare and highly valued among reviewers who appreciate the restaurant’s calm yet stimulating atmosphere. The establishment also has some outdoor seating options like secluded cabanas, which provide a distinctive and charming alternative for groups, especially during pleasant weather. This flexibility of space and mood can accommodate the varied preferences of any group looking to enjoy time together in comfort.
How does the location and neighborhood add value to the experience? Season To Taste is located in an accessible, desirable neighborhood that frequents both locals and visitors, enhancing its appeal as a meetup spot. The area is known for being a vibrant yet cozy community, which complements the restaurant’s ethos of high-quality, neighbor-friendly dining. Its proximity to other entertainment and cultural venues means that groups can easily incorporate a meal at Season To Taste into a broader day or evening out, creating a full, enjoyable outing. Additionally, the restaurant's reputation as a neighborhood gem adds a sense of authenticity and belonging, making guests feel like they have discovered a special place rather than a generic chain. This connection to the community is further emphasized by the use of seasonal and local ingredients, aligning the restaurant with sustainable, community-driven values that many diners find meaningful. Easy parking and public transit options also make it convenient for groups arriving from different locations, reducing logistical hassles and encouraging attendance.
What special touches make Season To Taste memorable for groups? Beyond the exquisite food, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere, Season To Taste is distinguished by its thoughtful extras that impress and delight guests. Reviewers often mention surprise appetizers, mini desserts, or parting treats like house-made granola bars that make the experience feel personalized and generous. These small gestures communicate a level of care and creativity that transforms a meal into a cherished memory. The chef’s openness to occasional interactive moments, like shaping dessert ice cream with guests, adds a layer of fun interaction that can become a conversation highlight during the meetup. Such touches demonstrate the restaurant’s commitment not just to feeding guests but to crafting experiences that linger in memory. For groups seeking more than just a place to eat, these thoughtful details elevate Season To Taste from a simple dining venue to a destination where relationships and celebrations are deepened by unique, shared moments.
How can Season To Taste accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences for group meetups? Season To Taste’s focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients naturally lends itself to flexibility in accommodating various dietary needs or preferences within a group. Their attentive service staff are known for being responsive and knowledgeable, ready to suggest suitable menu options or tailor dishes when necessary, whether for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other special diets. This inclusivity helps ensure that no guest feels limited or left out, which is crucial for group harmony and enjoyment. The presence of a prix fixe menu with choices also allows groups to balance shared meals with individual preferences easily. The chef’s creative approach means substitutions or adjustments maintain quality and flavor, ensuring every diner’s experience feels complete. For groups with diverse dietary concerns, this adaptability makes Season To Taste a reliable and thoughtful choice, simplifying planning and enhancing collective satisfaction.
What do reviews say about the overall group dining experience at Season To Taste? The consensus among diners, based on extensive reviews, is that Season To Taste excels as a destination for small to medium-sized groups seeking a refined yet unpretentious dining experience. Many reviews praise the restaurant for consistently delivering imaginative and perfectly executed dishes that satisfy varied palates. Guests appreciate the generous portion sizes designed for sharing, encouraging exploration and interaction over the meal. Comments highlight the warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and the balance between elegance and comfort that supports relaxed socializing. Though a few diners note that the restaurant’s price point is on the higher side, most agree that the quality of food, service, and ambiance justifies the expense for special occasions or memorable gatherings. Overall, Season To Taste stands out as a place where groups come to celebrate not just the food but the joy of being together in a setting crafted for connection.
What are some tips for booking and enjoying your group meetup at Season To Taste? To make the most out of a group meetup at Season To Taste, it’s advisable to book your reservation well in advance, as the restaurant’s popularity often fills tables quickly, especially on weekends or holidays. Communicating any dietary restrictions ahead of time helps the kitchen prepare appropriately and ensures a smooth experience. Consider opting for the prix fixe menu with wine pairing, which simplifies ordering and presents an exciting range of flavors without overwhelming choices. Arriving a little early or planning for a relaxed pace allows your group to savor each course fully and revel in the unique extras the restaurant may offer during your meal. Finally, keep your group size moderate—while the restaurant is intimate and perfect for groups, overly large parties might overwhelm the space or service, potentially detracting from the experience. Following these tips will help your gathering at Season To Taste be as enjoyable and memorable as possible.