When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
The Hourly Oyster House
Why The Hourly Oyster House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Hourly Oyster House stands out as a vibrant and inviting neighborhood restaurant located in the heart of Harvard Square, Cambridge. Known for its thoughtfully sourced and playfully prepared seafood, the restaurant specializes in oysters from New England and beyond. The atmosphere at The Hourly combines a dynamic and airy space with historic charm, reflecting the rich heritage of Dunster Street and the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining experiences including brunch, lunch, and dinner, with menus that emphasize classic New England seafood dishes and innovative interpretations. The carefully curated selection of signature cocktails, beers, and wines enhances the dining experience, making it a superb place to meet up with friends for a relaxed and enjoyable outing. Its convenient location near parking garages and easy access in a bustling part of Cambridge add to its appeal. The restaurant’s historical ties, including its location on a street once called Water Street and its connection to early transportation routes, give it a unique ambiance that blends the past with contemporary tastes and style. Whether you are looking for a casual lunch or a sophisticated dinner environment, The Hourly Oyster House offers a welcoming setting that encourages socializing and indulging in quality seafood.
Here's what people think of The Hourly Oyster House
As of recent, The Hourly Oyster House holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1356 reviews.
User reviews for The Hourly Oyster House generally reflect a highly positive dining experience, with an overall 4.5-star rating from over 1,350 reviews. Many reviewers praise the restaurant for its fresh, well-prepared oysters and broad seafood offerings that showcase regional flavors. The ambiance is frequently described as inviting, lively, and fitting for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Positive feedback often highlights the friendly and attentive service, the quality of the cocktails, and the balance of classic and creative dishes on the menu. Customers also appreciate the historical significance of the location and how the restaurant’s décor subtly honors that legacy while maintaining a modern feel. On the other hand, some negative reviews comment on occasional wait times during peak hours and price points that some patrons find a bit steep, though many justify the cost by the quality and experience provided. A few reviews mention limited seating or noise levels when the restaurant is busy. Overall, the consensus portrays The Hourly Oyster House as a well-loved spot in Harvard Square, delivering consistent quality and a vibrant atmosphere that makes it a favorite seafood destination. Despite minor criticisms, the positive experiences overwhelmingly dominate, making this venue an excellent choice for seafood lovers and social diners alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Melody Cao
Great upscale seafood restaurant! Able to seat 10+ people with advanced booking. Food was delicious, you are paying a premium though, and came out pretty quick! The appetizers are quite nice but the portion of the main dishes sometimes are a bit smaller.
Derrick Bautista
Hourly Oyster House – A Solid Seafood Spot in Harvard Square We stopped by Hourly Oyster Bar while wandering around Cambridge and decided to try a few of their seafood dishes. Overall, it was a great experience—good food, chill vibes, and the location right in Harvard Square makes it a fun spot to relax and people-watch. We ordered the lobster roll, Fisherman’s stew, and the lobster mac & cheese. • The lobster roll was delicious—fresh, flavorful, and the bun was nicely toasted. What really impressed me was the price. It was reasonable, especially for such a prime location. You don’t feel like you’re getting ripped off like at some touristy places that charge $40 for a dry, flavorless roll. • The Fisherman’s stew was pretty good too. It came with a lot of seafood, which was great, but the broth was a bit thinner than I expected. I was hoping for something heartier and more savory. Still enjoyable, just not my favorite of the bunch. • The lobster mac & cheese was easily the star of the meal. Super creamy, packed with lobster, and had this smoky Gouda flavor that made it feel rich without being overly salty. I could’ve eaten the whole thing myself. If you’re in the area and craving seafood, Hourly is definitely worth checking out—especially for that lobster mac. Would go back just for that dish alone.
Cherisse Vandenhoek
Great location and a fantastic restaurant for lunch for celebrations and get togethers. We were having a business introduction and ordered wine, the selection of oysters (highly recommend), the octopus, green salad, calamari and the mussels (again, highly recommend. Service was a little slow but that it most likely due to how busy they are. The oysters are also freshly shucked, great vibes.
William Goldman
Had a really great experience at this restaurant!! I arrived around 5:45 on a weekday and despite the restaurant being quite crowded, we were seated right away in their outside heated patio. The wait staff were very attentive and super friendly! They also made excellent recommendations from the menu. Would highly recommend the mussels and the oysters!
Maggie Guo
We had a bit of time at Harvard Square before our flight and couldn’t leave Boston without one last round of oysters and lobster. The Hourly Oyster House was the perfect choice! We tried 8 different types of oysters, beautifully presented and thoughtfully arranged from sweet to briny, along with a card detailing their origin, flavor profile, and texture, what a nice touch for oyster lovers. The lobster mac & cheese was an elevated comfort dish loaded with perfectly cooked chunks of lobster, all drenched in a silky blend of smoked gouda, cheddar, and Monterey Jack. So delicious and satisfying! We also had the grilled octopus with potatoes and chorizo, it was bold and flavourful. The ambiance is great, with cozy booth seating that makes it easy to relax and have a great conversation. Highly recommended for anyone looking for quality seafood in a modern and charming setting.
Melody Cao
Great upscale seafood restaurant! Able to seat 10+ people with advanced booking. Food was delicious, you are paying a premium though, and came out pretty quick! The appetizers are quite nice but the portion of the main dishes sometimes are a bit smaller.
Derrick Bautista
Hourly Oyster House – A Solid Seafood Spot in Harvard Square We stopped by Hourly Oyster Bar while wandering around Cambridge and decided to try a few of their seafood dishes. Overall, it was a great experience—good food, chill vibes, and the location right in Harvard Square makes it a fun spot to relax and people-watch. We ordered the lobster roll, Fisherman’s stew, and the lobster mac & cheese. • The lobster roll was delicious—fresh, flavorful, and the bun was nicely toasted. What really impressed me was the price. It was reasonable, especially for such a prime location. You don’t feel like you’re getting ripped off like at some touristy places that charge $40 for a dry, flavorless roll. • The Fisherman’s stew was pretty good too. It came with a lot of seafood, which was great, but the broth was a bit thinner than I expected. I was hoping for something heartier and more savory. Still enjoyable, just not my favorite of the bunch. • The lobster mac & cheese was easily the star of the meal. Super creamy, packed with lobster, and had this smoky Gouda flavor that made it feel rich without being overly salty. I could’ve eaten the whole thing myself. If you’re in the area and craving seafood, Hourly is definitely worth checking out—especially for that lobster mac. Would go back just for that dish alone.
Cherisse Vandenhoek
Great location and a fantastic restaurant for lunch for celebrations and get togethers. We were having a business introduction and ordered wine, the selection of oysters (highly recommend), the octopus, green salad, calamari and the mussels (again, highly recommend. Service was a little slow but that it most likely due to how busy they are. The oysters are also freshly shucked, great vibes.
William Goldman
Had a really great experience at this restaurant!! I arrived around 5:45 on a weekday and despite the restaurant being quite crowded, we were seated right away in their outside heated patio. The wait staff were very attentive and super friendly! They also made excellent recommendations from the menu. Would highly recommend the mussels and the oysters!
Maggie Guo
We had a bit of time at Harvard Square before our flight and couldn’t leave Boston without one last round of oysters and lobster. The Hourly Oyster House was the perfect choice! We tried 8 different types of oysters, beautifully presented and thoughtfully arranged from sweet to briny, along with a card detailing their origin, flavor profile, and texture, what a nice touch for oyster lovers. The lobster mac & cheese was an elevated comfort dish loaded with perfectly cooked chunks of lobster, all drenched in a silky blend of smoked gouda, cheddar, and Monterey Jack. So delicious and satisfying! We also had the grilled octopus with potatoes and chorizo, it was bold and flavourful. The ambiance is great, with cozy booth seating that makes it easy to relax and have a great conversation. Highly recommended for anyone looking for quality seafood in a modern and charming setting.
How to reach The Hourly Oyster House
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Why rally at The Hourly Oyster House with your friends? This vibrant and welcoming gem in the heart of Harvard Square offers more than just a meal—it provides an immersive experience that brings people together seamlessly. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 1,350 reviews, it is clear that The Hourly Oyster House has won over many diners who appreciate its thoughtfully sourced seafood, especially its oysters, and lively yet cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just catching up, its ambiance strikes a perfect balance of historic charm and contemporary comfort. The restaurant’s location on Dunster Street, a historically rich area once dubbed Water Street, adds unique character and a story that guests can connect to while dining. Additionally, The Hourly Oyster House’s diverse menu coupled with curated cocktails and wines guarantees that every palate is satisfied. The place invites groups to meet, mingle, and make memories in a setting that feels at once upscale and approachable, ideal for anything from casual brunch catch-ups to intimate dinner parties.
What activities and amenities can groups enjoy at The Hourly Oyster House? The restaurant offers a range of options to make any group meetup special and engaging. First, there are their thoughtfully designed dining experiences—brunch on weekends from 10am to 5pm, lunch on weekdays, and dinner nightly—that cater to different moods and schedules. Sharing plates such as oysters, mussels, and fried seafood create a social dining vibe perfect for groups who love to sample and share. The bar, open daily from 11am until midnight, is an excellent spot for after-dinner drinks or casual get-togethers over craft cocktails or carefully selected wines and beers. The restaurant’s seating arrangements accommodate everything from intimate corners to larger tables, offering flexibility for groups of all sizes. Beyond food and drink, the lively atmosphere—infused with the history of Cambridge’s bygone era—provides an interesting conversation backdrop. The space itself is perfect for socializing without feeling overcrowded, allowing groups to relax while enjoying attentive service and a bustling neighborhood vibe.
Why is The Hourly Oyster House perfect for a group meetup? This establishment combines the best elements that groups look for in a gathering spot. It balances a lively, social environment with enough privacy and comfort, so groups can enjoy conversations and celebrations without disruption. The menu, centered on fresh New England seafood but with playful and creative twists, appeals broadly, so no one in your group will feel left out. From oyster platters to crusted halibut and grilled salmon, the variety is impressive, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. The quality of the food, as corroborated by many positive reviews, promises a satisfying culinary experience. The location itself is convenient and iconic—right in Harvard Square, surrounded by historic charm and local culture, making it easy for friends and family coming from different parts of the city to find and enjoy. Lastly, the attentive and friendly staff enhances the welcoming vibe, ensuring that every guest feels valued and has an outstanding experience.
How does The Hourly Oyster House accommodate different group sizes and occasions? Whether it’s a small gathering or a larger festive reunion, The Hourly Oyster House adapts to your needs with grace and efficiency. For intimate groups, cozy booths and tables provide a comfortable setting where friends can chat without interruption. Larger groups can take advantage of their flexible seating to share a celebratory dinner or weekend brunch. The restaurant also offers private party options, which make it an excellent venue for milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate meetups requiring a more exclusive setting. With set menus available—such as two-course lunches or three-course dinners with optional wine pairings—planning a group event becomes easier, offering both convenience and a guaranteed quality experience. This structure is ideal for organizers wanting to impress their guests with a refined yet relaxed dining experience that doesn’t sacrifice quality or service. Moreover, the staff is experienced in managing group needs professionally, from personalized recommendations to accommodating special requests.
What makes dining at The Hourly Oyster House an experience beyond just food? The restaurant’s design and ambiance tap deeply into the history of Harvard Square and Cambridge at large. Located at 15 Dunster Street, a site steeped in historical significance—rumored to be where the first Freeman’s Oath was printed in 1639 and once home to the original Second Cambridge Savings Bank—the place offers more than just a meal. It connects guests to a rich narrative, enhancing the dining experience. The blend of old-world charm and modern design features adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it more than a standard restaurant visit. Live energy, whether from the buzz of the bar at night or the relaxed weekend brunch crowd, makes each visit dynamic and memorable. The restaurant’s commitment to local and sustainable sourcing reflects a respect for both culinary tradition and forward-thinking practices. This approach resonates particularly well with groups who appreciate food provenance and authenticity, adding a thoughtful layer to their social gathering.
Why should you consider The Hourly Oyster House for a brunch meetup with friends? Their brunch service, offered on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 5pm, is an ideal way to catch up in a leisurely, vibrant setting. The extended weekend brunch hours give groups plenty of time to arrive and settle in without feeling rushed. The menu includes fresh seafood specialties alongside brunch classics, which appeals to a broad range of tastes. The atmosphere during brunch is bright and energetic, perfect for daytime socializing. Additionally, the bar is open during brunch hours, so you can enjoy creative cocktails, coffee, or sparkling wine with your meal. Brunch at The Hourly Oyster House is especially great for groups wanting a festive yet relaxed gathering—a chance to enjoy good conversation over quality food in a lively neighborhood hotspot.
How do The Hourly Oyster House’s service and drinks enhance group meetups? Exceptional service is a cornerstone of The Hourly Oyster House experience, making every group feel welcomed and well cared for. The staff is known for their attentiveness and friendliness, which helps foster a warm, inviting environment. This is crucial for groups, where personalized service can elevate the entire experience, from menu guidance to timing shared courses for easy communal dining. The bar offers a well-curated selection of signature cocktails, New England beers, and quality wines that complement the seafood-centric menu perfectly. For groups who enjoy pairing drinks with meals, the knowledgeable bartenders and servers assist in making excellent recommendations. Having an expertly managed bar alongside a standout kitchen means that from appetizers through dessert and drinks, your group’s social flow remains smooth and enjoyable.
What are some notable dishes and beverages you should try as a group at The Hourly Oyster House? The restaurant excels in seafood, with a special emphasis on oysters, which are carefully sourced from New England and beyond to provide a fresh and flavorful experience. Sampling a variety of oysters is a classic group activity here, perfect for sharing and sparking lively conversations. Beyond oysters, dishes like crusted halibut and grilled salmon come highly recommended and offer substantial options for those wanting heartier entrees. Smaller plates such as fried oysters and mussels add variety and allow for a tapas-style dining experience. On the drink side, their signature cocktails complement the briny, fresh flavors of the seafood, while their wine list features selections that pair beautifully with their menu offerings. A group that wants to try different flavors will find The Hourly Oyster House a delicious playground for taste and texture.
How accessible is The Hourly Oyster House for friends or family coming from different areas of Cambridge and Boston? Positioned in the vibrant Harvard Square neighborhood, The Hourly Oyster House is easy to reach via various transportation methods. Its address at 15 Dunster Street places it near major bus routes and the nearby Harvard Square transit station, which connects well with the rest of Cambridge and Boston. This accessibility makes it an excellent choice for groups with members traveling from different parts of the metro area. The historic and popular location also means it’s well-known, which helps with coordinating meetups as everyone can find it without confusion. For those driving, parking is available nearby though limited, so public transit is often preferred. Overall, the prime location ensures that the logistical side of any gathering is simplified, allowing friends and family to focus on enjoying their time together.
What special considerations make The Hourly Oyster House an excellent choice for diverse groups? The Hourly Oyster House’s welcoming vibe and diverse menu appeal broadly to a range of ages, tastes, and dietary needs. The menu offers options for seafood lovers, but also includes dishes and sides suitable for those who prefer other proteins or vegetarian-friendly choices. This inclusiveness helps groups that have varying preferences dine happily in one place. Moreover, the attentive staff is accustomed to accommodating dietary restrictions and special requests, making it reliable for any group with those needs. The restaurant’s environment balances sophistication with warmth, which resonates well for families celebrating events or friends planning casual hangouts. The mix of historic ambiance, delicious food, and approachable service makes it a versatile choice, well-suited to different group dynamics and occasions.
How can you maximize your group’s experience at The Hourly Oyster House? Planning ahead enhances the enjoyment of your meetup at this restaurant. Making a reservation is recommended to ensure your preferred seating, especially for larger groups or weekend brunches when the place tends to fill up. Consider exploring the set menus offered during lunch and dinner times, which provide excellent value without compromising the dining experience, ideal for group dining. Arriving early or timing your visit to less busy hours can make the atmosphere even more intimate. Engaging with the staff for drink and dish pairing suggestions adds an interactive element to your meal. Lastly, take advantage of the rich historical surroundings by incorporating a brief stroll or photo opportunity nearby before or after your meal, rounding out a sociable day or evening in Harvard Square.
In summary, The Hourly Oyster House in Cambridge is a standout choice to rally your friends or family for an enjoyable, memorable social outing. Its blend of high-quality seafood, excellent service, inviting ambiance, and rich local history makes it the perfect venue for group meetups. Whether it’s brunch, lunch, dinner, or just cocktails, every visit promises a thoughtfully curated experience that satisfies all senses. For those seeking a place to connect over delicious food, lively drinks, and vibrant conversation, The Hourly Oyster House is an exceptional pick that keeps guests returning time and again.