THEY DON'T ALLOW LAPTOPS. I didn't actually get any coffee here... but putting this review out so you don't make the same mistake I did! I was thoroughly disappointed when I learned this, because it's the cutest shop with the best vibes. I'll try sometime when I don't have to lock in, I guess. read more

Faro - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Faro Cafe is a small cafe operating as both a coffee shop and a neighborhood gathering space tucked away in Harvard Square. We walked into a cozy, bohemian atmosphere filled with eclectic décor, photos, artwork, books, puzzles, chess boards, and an overall sense that people are encouraged to slow down and stay present. Despite the relatively small footprint, the space manages to feel welcoming rather than cramped, with indoor seating that supports conversation and outdoor seating that becomes especially popular during warmer months. Coffee is clearly the centerpiece here. We ordered espresso based drinks, including a flat white and a seasonal Juniper Latte, both of which were prepared with care and a clear emphasis on quality. The café leans into a more thoughtful coffee program, and that attention shows in the cup. Beyond the drinks, the pastry selection is good, particularly the croissants and scones, which paired naturally with the coffee menu. The experience is helped by friendly, engaged staff who contribute to the café's welcoming personality. Conversations with the baristas and small community touches helped create an environment that felt more personal than transactional. The laptop free policy can catch first time visitors by surprise, but for many regulars it is part of what gives Faro its distinctive identity and helps preserve the social atmosphere that sets it apart from more work focused cafés. For a coffee stop in Harvard Square that prioritizes human connection over productivity, Faro Cafe delivers a warm, intentional space worth slowing down for. read more

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Stopped by on a Sunday afternoon, and it was full of (presumably) students sitting and chatting. With the no laptop policy, it was loud, but full of energy. The coffee came out quickly, and I enjoyed the cold brew (though I wished they had cold drink cups instead of just the hot cups). Not a place to study, or even sit and read, probably, given how loud it was. But probably a nice place to meet with someone? read more

Faro - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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No laptops allowed! But that allowed the chance to read my book at one of the community tables as others were doing the same, which was a nice moment. Ordered an iced mocha latte, strong, but added some simple syrup and it was great. The inside seating gets full fast but there's also seating outside available. read more

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Seriously one of the best cafes around Boston. Their warm lattes are smooth, heartwarming and delicious! You really can't go wrong with their classics, but their Seasonal Maple Sea Salt Latte was life changing. Plus, no additional cost for oat milk which is amazing. If you can get one before they sell out, would highly recommend trying their pastries. The chocolate chip cookie was incredible. Would definitely say their staff was lovely as well! Pleasant convos and service all around. If you're looking for an aesthetic chic cafe that checks all the boxes, look no further. read more

Faro - Interior - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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RAT PROBLEM. I only discovered this after Faro closed, and I was outside with friends. Very disappointed. read more

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Love the vibe of this cafe. Ordered a latte with a house made sea salt caramel (might be misremembering the exact flavor) syrup. Got it to go, and also love that the lids aren't plastic. They didn't have that many pastries left when I arrived on Thursday at 1pm, so didn't try any. Overall, would come again! read more

Faro - Latte - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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i really liked faro. it's a super cool space that feels very comfortable and they have a nice outside sitting area. my coffee was pretty good and i love that the oat milk is free. would totally love to go back read more

Faro - inside - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Yes! 1. High quality coffee (review from a coffee snob friend). 2. Delicious fresh(!) pastries, reasonably priced. I got the pistachio-chocolate croissant, agree other flavors were already gone. It was delicious. 3. Nice attitude of the owner. And orphand/ unclaimed coffee was given for free to not throw it away.. 4. They have outdoor seating (which could use some love, but still). read more

Faro - Pastries plate is almost gone by 1230pm on a sunny Sunday! - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

This place has the WORST espresso tonic I've ever had. The coffee in Los Angeles, Portland, Denver, Salt Lake City, Nashville, and Atlanta were better than here. The tonic they use, Fevertree, which can be bought at the grocery store, is not what I want out of drink that costs seven dollars. The espresso was bland. The interior seemed outdated. Still, I saw lots of cosmopolitans. If that is your thing then go for it. Lots of people had matcha, which I didn't try, but could be worth it, considering its popularity. read more

I had the golden milk (?) which was a turmeric honey drink. It was pretty good but I was given it in a disposable cup despite telling them I was planning to stay so that was a bit of a bummer. This could have been because they ran out of cups because the place was full capacity. We went on a weekend afternoon and it was PACKED. I'm talking we sat at the large table crowded around about 1 ft of the corner space. Also they say no laptops but people were working on their iPads so that seems safe. The no laptops may be more of a space consideration, which I completely get. The whole time I was there, people were having to just get to go because the seats were so full, or they'd wait about 20 minutes for one to open up. Be prepared to bring headphones or for your convo to be overheard because you're packed in. Overall, I liked the vibe a lot and would love to return on a weekday when it would be less insane. read more

Faro - Golden milk (turmeric drink) - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Faro is such a quaint little space. Super cozy and felt like a chic but inviting 20-something's living room. It's tucked away just off the main road. They have a no wifi and no laptop policy which was unexpected but after catching up with friend here for a couple hours, I understood. It looks like they host some community events in the evenings too. The cappuccino was definitely above average. The espresso's richness really came through the milk foam. They charge extra for dairy, but oat milk is free. read more

Faro - cappuccino - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Super quaint coffee shop just outside of Harvard square. Nice outdoor sitting area -- for when weather compromises. Interesting community of coffee drinkers makes for fun people watching. Oh and latte was delicious. read more

Tiny cappuccino given to me without a cover for over $6. I've tried almost every coffee place around and can promise you there's a better coffee for the same price that comes with a cap. Also, one of the employees was rude to me and told me to "close the door behind me" when she had been walking out at the same time as me and also could have shut it? so that definitely did not help my opinion... read more

Faro has such a unique and lovely interior, delightful friendly staff and a very impressive menu! I would be excited to come again for a longer visit but unfortunately mine was cut very short because I drove and the surrounding areas only have 30 minutes parking. While the service was quick, this spot is a space where you want to curl up with a book or your computer so come with time! I had the gluten free chocolate puff cookie which was oh so very light and airy and I enjoyed the meadow spring tea that was vegetal and bright. Looking forward to coming back! read more

I love this little cafe. They have a no laptop policy so it's the perfect place to bring a book. The staff are super friendly. read more

Faro - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

I walk into Faro again one afternoon. I do not go to Faro often but I go to Faro sometimes. Faro offers a cozy and small space. The plants meander on different planes and along a trajectory we do not yet understand, there are several small tables and benches and also a large table for a commune. The volume of the noise, during the day at least, is reasonable. As such, today I see someone is reading two books; someone is on a date with someone else; several people are processing envelopes--it is unclear whether they are sending letters of protest or writing invitations or disseminating a short story; several others are gathered to gossip. Laptops are strictly prohibited. You will not be arrested nor will you be burned at the stake if you use a laptop. But you will likely be asked to put the laptop away. And if you do not put the laptop away perhaps you will be asked to leave. However this is not my rule nor is its enforcement my duty. As such my words here are pure speculation. At the counter a variety of drinks are to be had. Several pastries are on display, including gargantuan pains au chocolat. It is a great relief to see enormous pains au chocolate. Today I drink a flat white with oat milk. I do not think it is good that an extra fee is levied for cow milk. But today I order oat milk as I drank from a cow earlier in the day. The flat white is good. It is not great today but it is good. The milk is foamed artistically but it is not for me to say whether the barista is an artist. Lacking often is water. Today is no exception. The vessel holding water for visitors is small. They say that it is good to stay hydrated. I do believe this. Some people say it is good to stay dehydrated. I believe this is a conspiracy theory to promote organ failure but who am I to say. It is trying to hydrate yourself at Faro. Some visitors may wish to bring their own water. Here the space is important. I do not and I shall not go to Faro to purchase a drink to go. The drink is good and the space is nice. So I go to Faro sometimes. After my visit to Faro one afternoon I leave. read more

Came here on a Saturday to get some studying done. I ordered a matcha to go that ended up being 8$ and came in a tiny cup. I sat outside and an older balding male employee told me I could not use my laptop even though I was sitting outside. Super lame concept for being so close to such a major university. read more

Still as great as always. This is my go to spot when I'm in Cambridge and want a great chai, coffee or matcha in a cozy chill space that is great for socializing or a date/studying. Thanks to the friendly staff as always as well read more

Faro - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Cozy cafe! The place is decorated very nicely and offers a variety of drinks and pastries. I ordered the seasonal iced latte which is an iced latte with their seasonal earl grey syrup! The latte was smooth and perfect amount of sweetness, I really enjoyed it. It's also nice that they do not charge extra for oat milk. Note there is a $0.25 cent additional charge for cows milk. The service here was great as well! I was also able to find some parking nearby. Would recommend checking this place out. read more

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I visited Faro and ordered a matcha latte. The shop itself was charming and cozy, creating an inviting atmosphere. The matcha latte, fell short of my expectations. I prefer my lattes to be creamy with a bit of foam, but this one lacked the craftsmanship I was hoping for. Overall, the experience wasn't memorable, and it's unlikely that I'll be returning. The ambiance was there, but unfortunately, the quality of the drink did not match up. *Cool spot to gather but not to work or study since they are laptop laptop-free cafe. read more

Faro - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

super cute cafe with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. I came here on a Sunday morning and the cafe was already packed! I ordered their hibiscus tea and croissant and both were delicious. their hibiscus tea has plenty of flavor without it being too overpowering. their croissant was flakey and sweet and just the perfect size. this location offers indoor and outdoor seating, but come early because their seats are always taken! I believe they don't charge extra for plant based milk which is always a pro! this is the perfect place to meet up with friends and catch up. read more

Faro - inside - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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I finally got to try this spot and I was not disappointed! I like that they do not charge oat milk by default and in fact charge for cow milk (as someone who is lactose intolerant I feel seen). They've definitely paid attention to customer feedback because the pastries are now in a covered area so that customers at the register are not breathing all over them. However, it would help if they had clearer signs to display what the house latte was -- I understand that the house latte changes all the time, but even a blackboard that is easy to erase/change would be helpful so that the person at the register doesn't have to repeat themselves 50 times a day. I tried their house latte with oatmilk ($6) which was lavender at the time. I also got one of the savory scones. The latte was delicious! The espresso and oatmilk were not burned and the lavender flavor was strong without the latte being too sweet. My understanding is that their pastries are not made in-house but rather sourced from a local bakery. I would still recommend them though, because the scone I had was moist, cheesy, and herby! The baristas/cashiers were very kind. The air circulation in the cafe was not great on a muggy June day but I could imagine that sitting in their outdoor area would be great when the seats are not wet. read more

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Faro is a super cafe with a good amount of seating and a cozy atmosphere. The staff are super friendly and the coffee is decent. They charge extra for cows milk and $0 for plant based milks which I love! My only complaint is that they don't have many flavor options. I also wish they were open later, but they are open until 5 which isn't too bad! read more

Faro - Seating area - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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This is probably the most unique and quirky coffee space I've ever been to! They charge 25¢ for cows milk with no charge for plant milk which is awesome. They also claim to be a "no laptop" cafe (although I did see some customers on their laptops) but the point is that they want to bring back a sense of community and togetherness which is certainly admirable. I would much rather give my money to a small, independently owned coffee shop with great values like this over the corporate chains on every corner, this place is a must try!! Coffee- AMAZING. I got an iced oat milk latte with earl grey syrup (how cool??) and I really loved it. The syrup was light, the espresso bold and flavorful. I like that they have rotating seasonal syrups and their coffee menu is really simple. Service- fast and friendly! ~vibes~ immaculate!!! This is what makes this place super unique. Dimly lit, creaky wooden floors and mismatched wooden furniture, plants everywhere, the echoing sounds of grinding coffee beans, friendly chatter, and music to match the vibe. Can't think of a better place to enjoy a morning brew read more

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Best espresso taste, ambiance, and price in the square in my opinion. Love the plants and their expertise with the oat milk. read more

Faro - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Wonderful staff, great vibe and drinks. The baristos/baristas are artists. Love to come here read more

Faro - Beautiful Cappuccino at Faro. Artist baristo. - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Love this place. Beautiful interior, immaculate vibes, and great coffee. The staff are also really nice and I love visiting whenever I'm in town read more

i love faro! i love their menu, a wide variety of tea and pasteries. i love faro's interior design, very cozy and rustic. im not much of a coffee/caffeine person but they also have a lot of coffee related drinks. service was amazing! i asked for a rec and everyone was very nice and polite! everytime i tried to come to faro it was full, this was my first time where it was sorta free. read more

Lovely little spot for coffee, tea, and baked goods. Crowded when we went so had to sit at the counter.

Very cute cafe a bit hard to get seats Only savory no sweet deserts but all so good Croissant is must try !!! read more

Faro - Cappuccino / 2 scones / croissant - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Cute new cafe in Harvard sq! Ambiance is very quaint and the coffee is good but portions are small and it's a bit overpriced. I'm glad they offer oat milk for free, but was a bit surprised that they charged extra for cow's milk. read more

Faro - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Great coffee! And quick for as many people as were in there. The place is laptop free so not a lot of people parked on their computers, they were actually talking. read more

I like this place! It's definetly not a place if you like the flavored syrups, they do not have any of these in store which I think is a cool concept. It's a super down to earth cafe, perfect to catch up with friends or get some work done on the weekends. read more

Beautiful! Love their no laptop policy, cafe was vibrant and full of conversation. Also one of the best lattes I've ever had. Definitely check out their events, as they seem to have a nice community of regulars read more

Faro - Inside - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

The interior is very natural, with several thriving plants lining the windows. Situated steps away from Harvard's campus, it definitely fits the trendy coffee shop vibe, as well as dietary trends, that most college students look for. I decided to order an iced black tea and was told I had to wait, which was not a problem. After about 5 minutes, I was served what looked like milky tea. It tasted very bitter and was overall not very good. The appearance was very off-putting and I didn't end up finishing it. Similarly, I ended up getting served twice due to some miscommunication between the staff. There were only two people working, but there was no one else in line, so I'm not sure what they were doing. This is the first place I've come across that charges for cow's milk. Though it isn't much ($0.25), it was definitely a surprise. Being very traditional when it comes to drinking coffee, I was a bit shocked about it. While I respect everyone's milk choices and reasons as to why they drink what they do, I definitely wouldn't come here repeatedly when I can get the same thing, with slightly less acidic and sour coffee, or a much better iced tea, for fewer elsewhere. read more

Just a short walk from Harvard Square, I came here to meet up a friend for coffee. It's a small shop with outdoor seating (at least in October). read more

Faro - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

This is a cozy place to unplug and take in the environment around you. Excellent coffee and pastries - we got the Gruyère scone. Parking can be crazy because this is right next to Harvard, but well worth it. read more

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I wanted to like this place so badly but it was really disappointing. My first issue is the selections. I just wanted an iced matcha with vanilla but they didn't have regular vanilla which is unheard of to me. They only had rubarb vanilla and it tasted so strange. I think they're trying to be too hipster. My second issue is that my small matcha was $8 which is insane. Not to mention, the matcha was awful. It was so watery and tasteless. You're better off just making a matcha at home or going to starbucks at that point. read more

Coffee is great, friendly staff, cute interior - cozy and nice study/work environment read more

Faro - Cafes Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts