The Plough & Stars is a cozy little comfort spot tucked in between Central and Harvard Squares, right on Mass. Ave. And though it’s been in it’s location for around 50 years, it still has the feel of a secret. Not only are the wait staff and bartenders so friendly and polite, but after a bit of time with them they will feel more like friends than restaurant employees.
There are 3 meal times at the Plough: Lunch, Dinner, and Brunch. And every single one is a lot better than most of the other food in the area. The lunch (as with all of the times) have an astounding amount of specials, that change daily, using the freshest ingredients, and basically mean, like, this is why people want to go to this place. The tomato bisque (pictured above) was one of the best soups we’ve ever had. It was perfectly rich and creamy at the same time, not being too over the top, just a great balanced soup for a rainy afternoon. Other specials might be saffron capellini with (gigantic!) gulf shrimp and roasted garlic, or a grilled balsamic chicken with mixed greens, crispy bacon, croutons and parmesan. Yeah, we know you want it too.
The dinners are the same way. Of course they have the same basic menu as lunch (including items like sirloin burgers, rabbit stew, and the incredible Cuban sandwich), but here the special dishes just shine. The best thing we’ve ever tasted has from the special menu was the potato, scallion, garlic and Dublin cheddar pizza. Dinner is served until 9:30, and from 10pm on there is live music or on Mondays DJ nights. On Sundays, there is a chicken and fish fry, with some of the best fried chicken and fish you’ll ever get a chance to eat. So come in early, grab a bite to eat and a cold beer and stick around for some fun!
The brunch is also fantastic, served only on Saturday and Sunday, and if you aren’t checking it out or becoming a regular, you are missing out on an amazing traditional Irish breakfast, an incredible omelette of the day, and banana walnut french toast! We can’t say enough positive things about the pork hash, though, a whole plate full of hash, topped with two poached eggs and hollandaise sauce, served with an English muffin!
So seriously, if you aren’t getting to the Plough, you need to. Your taste buds will be thanking you!
The Plough & Stars is located at 912 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139 (617) 576-0032
