Beat Hotel
Photo courtesy of BosGuy
Last week I was lucky enough to be invited to join others at the new, hippie and ultra beatnik cool Beat Hôtel along with my good friend, BosGuy. Opened by the guys from the Beehive the Beat Hôtel is located on Brattle Street in Harvard Square in the old Tannery Space. This new urban restaurant is definitely bringing an additional funky vibe to the Harvard Square restaurant scene.
A subterranean huge open space with two long bars that run the length of the cavernous restaurant and bar – not a hotel at all. The décor of hand crafted and painted woodwork, murals and funky tables brings a kitschy feel to the space. Jazz and blues music from live performers is featured every night of the week. We were lucky enough to enjoy the gorgeous voice of Grammy nominated, Kate McGarry.
Kate McGarry & Band
The wine list offers half glass pours, which I love as you can enjoy some different tastes. Bertil Jean-Chronberg – co-owner and award-winning sommelier recommended I try Star Lane Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, while he regaled us with fun stories about the name of his new restaurant. Check out their site to find out more.
Mini Roast Porcetta Sandwiches, Roast Pork, Rapini Pesto – $10.50. Enjoyed prior to seating
Seated close to the stage towards the back of the restaurant, we checked out their interesting and eclectic looking menu. There were so many things I wanted but firstly a drink was in order. Everyone was drinking super fun looking cocktails so I thought I should join them with a citrusy, fresh and fantastic Soursop Fresca.
Soursop Fresca – Bluecoat Gin, Soursop Nectar, Agave, Lime, Soda – $11.50
Our table of six foodies and bloggers decided to enjoy a few of the appetizers starting beautiful hamachi sashimi so delicate and light it just melted in your mouth.
Hamachi Sashimi – Avocado, Sambal, Black Olives – $14
Sticky, sweet bbq ribs that are as good as candy. I think this dish was one of my favorites of the evening.
Fresh, crispy calamari with tempura style crunchy vegetables.
Crispy Calamari & Veggies – $12
Finally, crispy tuna spring roll. My least favorite of the apps but still quite good. I wanted more of the bbq ribs.
Crispy Tuna Spring roll – $11
For my main course I needed to pick something a little lighter so opted for the swordfish tacos. Light and meaty, flaky fish wrapped in a soft taco and topped with salsa is simply delicious. I loved my dish, which I shared with BosGuy.
Swordfish Tacos – Black beans, Spanish Rice – $24
My friend Sergio enjoyed the enormous plate of chicken piccata. I did have a bite of this juicy chicken dish… it is tasty. He had a lot left over to take home.
Organic Chicken Piccata – Gnocchi & Broccolini – $23
Tandoori Spiced Halibut – Red Lentils, Cucumber Raita – $34
BosGuy picked the earth bowl, which again is a large plate of food. He said it is full of flavor but you need the sauces as it is a little dry without. There is a lot of good things going on with this plate. He alsos very much enjoyed my swordfish tacos.
Earth Bowl – Super natural selection of vegetables, 5-grain pilaf, pumpkin, tahin sauce with wild salmon – $26
Our evening ended slowly with another fun cocktail and enjoyment of the fantastic music. I just had to have the Soursop Fresca again.
Purple Door & Mango Martini – $11
What a fabulously fun new restaurant for the Cambridge scene. I will definitely be heading back there with friends for another evening of good food and great music.
Photo courtesy of BosGuy
