Russell House Tavern

Name: Russell House Tavern
Address: 14 JFK Street, Cambridge, MA, United States, 02138
Telephone: (617) 500-3055
Price range: $30 and under
Rating: 4.6

4.6

2795 Reviews

$30 and under

American

Make a reservation

2 people

Nov 24, 2024

8:00 p.m.

Booked 49 times today

Neighbourhood gem
Charming
Good for groups

A New American Tavern, Russell House Tavern is a comfortable gathering spot for every occasion-from casual lunch breaks on the patio to after-work cocktails in the upstairs tavern to functions in the private dining room and everything in between. Russell House Tavern delivers a seasonally-inspired menu of modern interpretations of American classics, including signatures like the R. House Burger, a selection of Tavern Pizzas and Steak Frites among other dishes. To complement the menu, Russell House Tavern serves an interesting collection of all-American wines, including two regional wines on tap, and a locally-driven craft beer selection. The cocktail menu strikes a balance between familiar classics and modern hand-crafted recipes using only fresh juices, homemade syrups and infusions.

Order delivery or takeout

Dining areas

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
American, Gastro Pub, Pizza Bar
Hours of Operation
Brunch Mon–Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm Sat, Sun 10:00 am–3:00 pm Bar Mon 11:00 am–11:00 pm Tue–Thu 11:00 am–12:00 am Fri 11:00 am–1:00 am Sat 10:00 am–1:00 am Sun 10:00 am–11:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00 am–4:00 pm Sat, Sun 10:00 am–4:00 pm Dinner Mon, Sun 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Tue–Thu 4:00 pm–11:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–12:00 am
Phone number
(617) 500-3055
Website
http://www.russellhousecambridge.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive Chef
Brian Pawlak
Private party facilities
From intimate dinner parties to festive cocktail receptions, the events team at Russell House Tavern awaits your next private function. Our contemporary yet casual atmosphere in the heart of Harvard Square is the perfect backdrop for any special occasion. Please email us at events@russellhousecambridge.com or visit us at russellhousecambridge.com.

Location
14 JFK Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Neighbourhood
Cambridge
Cross Street
Brattle Street
Parking details
We offer a $2 validation for the Harvard Square Parking Garage located at 20 Eliot Street.
Public transit
We are located just steps from the Harvard Square T Station on the Redline.
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Dog Friendly, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Popular dishes

Extra Dirty CaesarUS$14.00
Romaine, Black Kale, Anchovy Croutons
Chopped SaladUS$15.00
Iceberg, Romaine, Roasted Red Pepper, Tomato, Avocado, Bacon, Hardboiled Egg, Bleu Cheese, Harissa Ranch
Fall SaladUS$15.00
Little Leaf Greens, Roasted Red Pepper, Cucumber, Pickled Carrot, Fuji Apple, Candied Pecans, Feta, Balsamic Vinaigrette
Butternut Squash SoupUS$8.00
Roasted Apples
Smoked Salmon Avocado ToastUS$14.00
Avocado, Citrus, Frisee
Crab CakesUS$16.00
Pickled Carrots, Scallions, Remoulade
Clams CasinoUS$14.00
Bacon, Parmesan, Garlic, Shallot, Bread Crumbs
Curry MusselsUS$15.00
White Wine, Curry Cream, Garlic Crostini
Crispy Brussels SproutsUS$10.00
Maple-Sriracha Glaze
Street CornUS$10.00
Cilantro-Lime Aioli, Tajin, Parsley
Confit Chicken WingsUS$15.00
Sambal & Honey Glaze
Crispy Rhode Island CalamariUS$16.00
Pickled Tomato & Peppers, Arugula, Avocado Aioli
Harvard Square FriesUS$12.00
Pecorino, Blistered Shishito Peppers, Short Rib Jus
Charcuterie BoardUS$16.00
Herbed Ice Box Crackers, Giardiniera
Local New England Cheese BoardUS$16.00
Herbed Ice Box Crackers, Traditional Accompaniments
Cheese & Charcuterie BoardUS$25.00
Herbed Ice Box Crackers, Giardiniera, Traditional Accompaniments

Tavern Pizza

MargheritaUS$14.00
Crushed Tomato, Mozzarella, Basil, Pecorino
PepperoniUS$15.00
Marinara, Mozzarella
Mushroom & LeekUS$15.00
Goat Cheese, Mozzarella, Truffle Oil
Brussels HouseUS$15.00
Barbeque Pulled Pork, Mozzarella, Shaved Brussels Sprouts, Pickled Red Onion, Scallions, Corn
Sausage & RicottaUS$15.00
Roasted Poblanos, Herbed Olive Oil

Raw Bar

Tuna TartareUS$16.00
Avocado, Cucumber, Ponzu, Wonton
Local Oysters*
Cocktail Sauce, Mignonette
- eachUS$3.00
- DozenUS$33.00
Cape Cod Littlenecks
Cocktail Sauce
- eachUS$1.50
Shrimp CocktailUS$14.00
Cocktail Sauce
Chilled Lobster TailUS$16.00
Saffron-Lemon Aioli
Crimson PlatterUS$48.00
8 Local Oysters, 6 Shrimp, 6 Cape Cod Clams, Cocktail Sauce, Mignonette
Ivy League PlatterUS$98.00
12 Local Oysters, 8 Shrimp, 8 Cape Cod Clams, 2 Split Lobster Tails, Cocktail Sauce, Mignonette, Lemon-Saffron Aioli

Entrees

Duck Breast Lo MeinUS$30.00
Ginger Vegetable Sauté, Mushroom Miso Soy Broth
Roasted Half ChickenUS$25.00
Mushroom & Asparagus Risotto, Natural Jus
Beef ShortribUS$33.00
Sweet Potato Puree, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Natural Jus
NY Strip Steak FritesUS$36.00
Pecorino Frites, House-Made Steak Sauce, Watercress
Roasted SalmonUS$27.00
Root Vegetables, Fuji Apple, Potato Gnocchi, Parsnip Puree
BologneseUS$24.00
Pork, Beef & Veal, Garlic Crostini, Grana Tuile
House-Made CavatelliUS$21.00
Kale, Cauliflower, Grape Tomato, Mushroom, Pesto, Parmesan
Farro & KaleUS$20.00
Peppers, Olives, Roasted Eggplant, Parmesan, Feta, Citrus Tahini Vinaigrette
Fish & ChipsUS$21.00
Hand-Cut Fries, Coleslaw, Tartar Sauce
R. House Burger*US$16.00
Sharp Cheddar, Bacon, Caramelized Onions, English Muffin
Southern Fried Chicken SandwichUS$16.00
Slaw, Maple Chipotle Aioli, Brioche

What 2,795 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6

4.6 based on recent ratings

4.5Food
4.6Service
4.4Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

At Russell House Tavern, step back in time with its "classic charm" and warm ambiance in Harvard Square. Enjoy "great food" and "excellent service," perfect for any occasion. While the atmosphere can be lively, the "intriguing" setting makes it a standout destination for brunch, dinner, or a casual meet-up.

2,795 Reviews

P
Paula
Tallahassee
10 reviews
vip
5.0
10 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had the grilled cheese and a burger. Both were excellent! Service was also great!
Is this helpful?
J
Jessica
Greater Boston
17 reviews
vip
4.0
17 reviews
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
Great food and drinks in a comfortable basement spot with friendly vibes and plenty of space.
Is this helpful?
C
Colleen
New York City
34 reviews
vip
4.0
34 reviews
Dined on November 17, 2024
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great location in Harvard Square. Quintessential old tavern. Host and hostess pleasant, efficient and welcoming. Our server, Manuel was attentive and personable. Food was very good. Biscuits are a must!
Is this helpful?
n
nancy
Boise
19 reviews
5.0
19 reviews
Dined on November 16, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Excellent food. Need to force a slowdown on the arrival of food. Super speedy service. I’d go back in a heartbeat!!!
Is this helpful?
A
Anne
New Orleans
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on November 16, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
Good food at a great location right in Harvard Square.
Is this helpful?
D
Dan
Greater Boston
18 reviews
5.0
18 reviews
Dined on November 16, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The food and service was excellent. The noise level made it a little tough to hear others across the table. They didn’t pressure us to leave after our meal as we talked for a while after eating. I think we were there about three hours. We appreciated that. We will definitely come back.
Is this helpful?
R
Randy
Des Moines
22 reviews
vip
4.0
22 reviews
Dined on November 7, 2024
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
Enjoyable dinner. Restaurant was very busy & somewhat noisy, but service was friendly & responsive. All our food choices were delicious. Had Brussel Sprouts and polenta fries as appetizers. Mains included salmon, monkfish, pasta, and salad with salmon. Also had bottle of syrah red blend from Santa Barbara. Also delicious.
Is this helpful?
L
Lori
Greater Boston
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 6, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We are going through tough times because we need a kidney but testing here left all our worries behind. Thank you for great food and service.
Is this helpful?
L
Lisa
Greater Boston
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on November 2, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great place! Food and atmosphere were awesome; but it was our server, Manuel, who made our experience really special. He was very personable and knowledgeable about the menu, and made excellent recommendations. We will definitely visit again!
Is this helpful?
M
Marion
Greater Boston
32 reviews
5.0
32 reviews
Dined on November 1, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
First time but not the last time for sure. Great server & service all around.
Is this helpful?

FAQs

Russell House Tavern offers delivery in partnership with Chow Now. Russell House Tavern also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (617) 500-3055.

Russell House Tavern is rated 4.6 stars by 2795 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

Nov 24, 2024

8:00 p.m.

Booked 49 times today

Order delivery or takeout

14 JFK Street, Cambridge, MA 02138

Dining areas

Additional information

Cross Street
Brattle Street
Neighbourhood
Cambridge
Hours of Operation
Brunch Mon–Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm Sat, Sun 10:00 am–3:00 pm Bar Mon 11:00 am–11:00 pm Tue–Thu 11:00 am–12:00 am Fri 11:00 am–1:00 am Sat 10:00 am–1:00 am Sun 10:00 am–11:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00 am–4:00 pm Sat, Sun 10:00 am–4:00 pm Dinner Mon, Sun 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Tue–Thu 4:00 pm–11:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–12:00 am
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
American, Gastro Pub, Pizza Bar
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
We offer a $2 validation for the Harvard Square Parking Garage located at 20 Eliot Street.
Public transit
We are located just steps from the Harvard Square T Station on the Redline.
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive Chef
Brian Pawlak
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Dog Friendly, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.russellhousecambridge.com/
Phone number
(617) 500-3055
Private party facilities
From intimate dinner parties to festive cocktail receptions, the events team at Russell House Tavern awaits your next private function. Our contemporary yet casual atmosphere in the heart of Harvard Square is the perfect backdrop for any special occasion. Please email us at events@russellhousecambridge.com or visit us at russellhousecambridge.com.

Russell House Tavern

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Dining areas

Additional information

Margherita

Pepperoni

Steak & Eggs

Salads & Appetizers

Extra Dirty CaesarUS$14.00

Chopped SaladUS$15.00

Fall SaladUS$15.00

Butternut Squash SoupUS$8.00

Smoked Salmon Avocado ToastUS$14.00

Crab CakesUS$16.00

Clams CasinoUS$14.00

Curry MusselsUS$15.00

Crispy Brussels SproutsUS$10.00

Street CornUS$10.00

Confit Chicken WingsUS$15.00

Crispy Rhode Island CalamariUS$16.00

Harvard Square FriesUS$12.00

Charcuterie BoardUS$16.00

Local New England Cheese BoardUS$16.00

Cheese & Charcuterie BoardUS$25.00

Tavern Pizza

MargheritaUS$14.00

PepperoniUS$15.00

Mushroom & LeekUS$15.00

Brussels HouseUS$15.00

Sausage & RicottaUS$15.00

Raw Bar

Tuna TartareUS$16.00

Local Oysters*

Cape Cod Littlenecks

Shrimp CocktailUS$14.00

Chilled Lobster TailUS$16.00

Crimson PlatterUS$48.00

Ivy League PlatterUS$98.00

Entrees

Duck Breast Lo MeinUS$30.00

Roasted Half ChickenUS$25.00

Beef ShortribUS$33.00

NY Strip Steak FritesUS$36.00

Roasted SalmonUS$27.00

BologneseUS$24.00

House-Made CavatelliUS$21.00

Farro & KaleUS$20.00

Fish & ChipsUS$21.00

R. House Burger*US$16.00

Southern Fried Chicken SandwichUS$16.00

Overall ratings and reviews

Review summary

FAQs

Does Russell House Tavern offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is Russell House Tavern restaurant rated?

Is Russell House Tavern currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Dining areas

Additional information