On any given night, crowds are likely to be huddled outside the door of Cambridge’s Border Cafe. College students, Cambridge locals, and tourists alike flock to this lively Harvard Square establishment for healthy and inexpensive portions of a New England rarity: Tex-Mex.
The Border Cafe opened in 1987, serving up a mix of Creole, Cajun, and Mexican dishes. Today their menu has a heavy Tex-Mex influence, including items like Louisiana Gumbo, Catfish Bites, and French Quarter Chicken. More traditional Mexican entrees, like empanadas, burritos, and enchiladas, are also part of the selection. But for those seeking traditional Mexican items and the freshest ingredients, this restaurant might be a disappointment. The Border Cafe’s items have an American flair – the portions are large, the sauces are mild, and many of the entrees are drenched in cheese.
Many people find the Border Cafe’s inexpensive food to be the restaurant’s main attraction. Every meal starts with free chips and salsa, a bottomless snack that can be stretched into an appetizer substitute. For those seeking a more substantial starter, traditional appetizers are priced at around $8, just a shade below the $10 price of a typical entree. Most menu items are a safe bet, though the fried fish tacos and the too-rich crawfish ettouffee rank lower on the list of options. My favorite item at the Border Cafe is the simple but flavorful chicken enchiladas. If it’s alcohol you’re after, the drink menu features a variety of jumbo-sized margaritas.
The atmosphere at Border Cafe is also a large part of what makes this restaurant a draw. Rustic wood floors and tables make the dining area cozy, while eclectic chandeliers and a colorful decor make the setting festive. Classic Johnny Cash tunes mixed in with modern country music help to create a party-like atmosphere. The noise level here can get high, but it’s usually not so loud that you can’t converse with fellow diners.
If you’re in Cambridge, on a budget, and hungry, a visit to the Border Cafe will be well worth your time. The Border Cafe is located in the heart of Harvard Square at 32 Church Street in Cambridge, MA. There is a public parking lot across the street from the restaurant, but spots are scarce. The best way to get to this spot is by the Boston T. From the red line’s Harvard Square T stop, take the Church Street exit. The restaurant is located about 100 meters west down Church Street at the intersection with Palmer St.
