Cantab Lounge
Cambridge, MA 02139-3308
Phone: (617) 354-2685
- Cross Street:
- Pleasant Street
- Hours:
- Mon-Wed 8am-1am, Thu-Sat 8am-2am, Sun 12pm-1am
Editorial Review for Cantab Lounge – by Citysearch Staff
The Scene
Reflecting Central Square's colorful palette of residents and students, Cantab's regulars come in all shapes and sizes. By day, the down-on-their-luck (or those who pretend to be) suck down beers and watch TV through the dingy room's thick clouds of smoke. At night, the action heats up via live entertainment (a Cantab staple since 1975). Grizzled, congenial bartenders look and act like they've seen it all.
The Draw
The lounge's fulcrum is none other than "Little" Joe Cook, who's entertained area crowds for decades with an upbeat R&B act that includes his 1950s hit "Peanuts" and the folksy "Down at the Cantab." Wednesdays are reserved for Cook's blues jam, weekends for his concerts with the Thrillers. Other nights bring open-mic events, poetry slams, improv comedy and the area's top bluegrass action. After paying a cover, which varies depending on the night, expect an inexpensive night of drinking.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoMake sure you visit the ATM on the corner before entering; the lounge doesn't take plastic.
Save MoneyEven if you're not tempted by the nightly entertainment, stop by for a cheap dinner. A small, satisfying menu of affordable favorites (pizza, nachos, burgers) is served Monday-Saturday from 5pm to 11pm.
ParkingIf there are no spaces out front, check out the municipal lot in back.
User Reviews for Cantab Lounge
12/08/2006 Posted by daf323
Used to go there when Little Joe Cook played, he was the best. A legend. He has since retired but this place could be a breeding ground for living legends.
Pros: Great music, good drinks
Cons: none
11/29/2003 Posted by roache22
The Scene: Your classic dive bar. A Group of locals sitting at the bar listening to music or watching the game. Live music just about every night of the week. The stage area is so small it feels like you stting in your living room. The music is consistently good. I've never seen a bad show at the Cantab. Blue Grass Music on Tuesday is definitely a highlight. The Food: The food is good and inexpensive. If you go the Cantab you have to get the ribs - Trust me, there the best ribs I've ever had anywhere. Get a Half-Rack with Rice and you'll see what I mean. They also have sandwhiches and the usual bar fare. Overall one of my top 5 favorite bars in Boston.
Pros: Music, Ribs, Atmosphere
Cons: Bathroom!
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