Algiers Coffeehouse : Bohemian Harvard Square

Attracting both brilliant thinkers eager to expound their views, quiet intellectual types, and a goodly number of aging hipsters, the Algiers Coffeehouse is a bona-fide Harvard Square instituiton . It is an almost sultry setting-complete with a soaring  wood ceiling,  clusters of  tiny brass-inlaid octagon tables ,  and Morroccan lantern chandeliers dangling overhead.   The first floor is the place for people watching and typically buzzes with conversation. Head upstairs to the second floor to find several cozy nooks- perfect for spending the day reading or writing.

The specialty here is tasty Middle East plates.  The falafel plate comes with salad and french fires ($12.95). A very popular  combination plate ($14.95)  comes with an exceptionally smooth  hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouli and a lentil rice pilaf. The kebab plates are done well too. Algiers breakfast all day is a draw for both late-risers and  night owls.

Algiers Coffeehouse has always been a great place to hang out. A pot of Algiers special (and very strong)  mint tea ($4.25) has helped generations of undergrads get through final exams and term papers. Algiers offers a full selection of specialty coffees too including deliciously gritty Arabic coffee . Service is slow-but intentionally so- the better to linger…and linger…and linger.

Algiers Coffeehouse (40 Brattle St.,Cambridge 617-492-1557, daily 8 AM-midnight)

Image Credit: Personal Collection