"Local-Social-CB4"
I've lived in Cambridge for the past 5 years and watched the ebb and flow of cafes come and go. With the number of corporate coffeehouse chains forever increasing, it's always an uphill battle for independent establishments to compete. However, Stir is much more than a cafe-- it is a meeting point for the community it serves, inviting everyone from all walks of life to gather, socialize, and break some of the best sourdough bread you'll ever have.
Although located a little ways northeast outside the city center, it is well worth the wander, especially in summer if you take the scenic route along the river and then through the residential back streets enjoying home gardens in full bloom. Once you reach Stir, there is an abundance of seating space making it a great location for groups, from a rowing club's post-workout to buggy-toting mums meeting for play dates to grad students revising for their viva. It's even a welcoming sight for dog owners as free dog biscuits are provided right at the entrance.
Food-wise, their menu is breakfast/brunch-based and prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Also, all of their breads and desserts are freshly made at their bakery located right next door. If you sit at the breakfast bar, you can enjoy watching the staff restock huge trays of mouth-watering croissants. Having lived in Los Angeles for 6 years prior, in the most positive sense of the term, there's definitely a California hipster vibe. Their avocado-ladened toast is perfectly seasoned, and Stir is still one of the few places (if not only) in Cambridge where I can enjoy a matcha/turmeric latte with an acai bowl. If you're craving a breakfast sandwich, for a larger meal I would suggest the 'Brioche Stack' and for a lighter meal I would recommend the 'Poached eggs with Relish'-- the tomato and chili relish provides a nice tangy balance between sweet & sour with a refreshing small tingle of heat.
Even on busy weekends the staff remain prompt with cheerful smiles. Looking very forward to my next visit! read more