From Farm-to-Table Pizza to Healthy Mediterranean Favorites, These Are the New Must-Try Dining Spots Opening in Cambridge

Even just walking through the neighborhoods in Boston, you never know what new, exciting restaurant you’re going to stumble on. It’s the wide diversity of cuisines within a small space (and executed at a consistently high level) that sets apart our dining scene from other cities. 

The newly opened CanalSide Food + Drink at CambridgeSide captures that experience for Bostonians. Featuring a diverse selection of 13 eateries and the centrally located dynamic new C-Side Bar, the reimagined waterfront space is a must-visit destination if you’re looking to indulge in creative, local fare with global flair. Whether you’re craving bold spices and authentic flavors, lighter, healthier options, classics with a twist, or a perfectly crafted cocktail, CanalSide has it–alongside spectacular riverside views. 

We got an inside look at CanalSide, and from our experience, its collection of restaurants showcases what makes Boston’s dining scene so special. Here’s what to check out at this exciting dining destination.

Anoush’ella

If you’re craving bold and authentic Eastern Mediterranean flavors, Anoush’ella is the place to be. This eatery specializes in street food that bursts with vibrant spices and hearty ingredients, offering a true taste of the founders’ beloved Armenia. Using seasoned meats, crisp vegetables and authentic ingredients like halloumi and labne, every dish is thoughtfully and creatively prepared. Whether you’re trying a signature m’anoush flatbread or indulging in a flavorful mezze platter, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve just taken a culinary journey through the streets. The casual yet vibrant atmosphere makes it a great spot for grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a relaxed meal with friends.

Caffé Nero

More than just a coffeehouse, Caffé Nero brings the charm of a European café right to the heart of CanalSide. Founded in England in 1997, this family-run coffee house is renowned for its award-winning coffee blends and brews. Whether you’re a fan of rich espressos, velvety lattes, or frothy cappuccinos, the large menu and expertly crafted drinks here will satisfy your coffee cravings. But it doesn’t stop at coffee—Caffé Nero also offers an array of freshly baked European and contemporary pastries, including buttery croissants, decadent desserts, and hearty sandwiches on baguettes and ciabatta, made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or an indulgent treat after a day of shopping.

Chilacates

For those looking for a wide selection of authentic Mexican food, Chilacates is a Boston classic that delivers bold, flavorful dishes rooted in tradition. The menu is packed with fresh, local, and natural ingredients that come together to create tacos, burritos, and quesadillas that are full of character. What sets Chilacates apart is its commitment to authenticity, with recipes that bring a taste of Mexico’s bustling street markets to Cambridge. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing your meal to go, each bite will transport you south of the border. Chilacates is opening soon. 

DalMoros Fresh Pasta To Go

Known for being the first fast-casual fresh pasta concept in the world, DalMoros delivers handmade pasta paired with traditional Italian sauces, all presented for your choosing. The pasta is made fresh daily using time-honored recipes from 7th-generation Venetian chef Gabriele Dal Moro. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Bolognese or a pancetta-driven Amanciana, each dish is packed with authentic Italian flavors and served in convenient to-go packaging. It’s the perfect solution for anyone looking to enjoy a gourmet meal on the move, or for those who prefer to sit by the water and savor their pasta while taking in the views.

Far Out Ice Cream

Blending creativity with quality ingredients, Far Out Ice Cream offers a delightful twist on traditional ice cream by introducing New Zealand-style blends to Cambridge. This unique concept uses locally sourced premium ice cream and blends it with fresh, natural fruit for a dessert experience that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent. Whether you’re craving something classic like vanilla with strawberries or something more adventurous like their creative “blendies”, Far Out Ice Cream promises to take your taste buds on a sweet journey. 

Fresh

Describing itself as “more than just a sandwich shop,” the Nantucket-based Fresh is setting up shop at CambridgeSide to offer an array of healthy and flavor-packed options that cater to every meal of the day. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a nutritious lunch, or a quick snack, Fresh will have you covered with a menu that includes sandwiches, salads, breakfast bowls and açaí bowls. It’s not your ordinary deli or grab-’n-go spot–the team at Fresh promises a “vibe” and will prepare each dish to order, so you can count on Fresh for a meal that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying. Fresh is opening soon.

InChu

For a vibrant fusion of Asian flavors, InChu is a culinary destination that brings together the best of the continent’s cuisines. Patrons make a selection of greens or rice, then protein, before choosing their style of Asian fusion preparation. Whether you’re craving spicy, savory, or sweet, InChu has something for every palate, blending the tastes and traditions of Thailand, Japan and Korea, with bowls inspired by dishes like Japanese donburi and Korean bibimbap. The fusion of traditional Asian ingredients with modern culinary techniques makes InChu a must-try for anyone seeking something both familiar and adventurous.

Juicygreens

At Juicygreens, healthy eating is made easy and delicious. This family-owned, community-focused juice bar and café offers a variety of plant-based options that are perfect for health-conscious diners. Their menu features cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and nutritious meals made from the freshest ingredients. Whether you’re grabbing a green juice to kickstart your day or enjoying one of their wholesome wellness bowls, you’ll find that Juicygreens delivers on both flavor and health benefits. Their commitment to sustainability and community makes it a feel-good choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nourishing meal. 

Lala’s Neapolitan-ish Pizza

Pizza lovers will appreciate the creative twist that Lala’s Neapolitan-ish Pizza brings to the table. With naturally leavened dough made from New England’s finest produce, cheeses, and flour, each pizza offers a taste of Italy with a local flair. Lala’s takes the traditional Neapolitan pizza to the next level by infusing it with New England’s freshest ingredients, creating a deliciously unique pizza experience. The result is a crispy, flavorful crust topped with seasonal toppings that range from classic Margherita to inventive, gourmet combinations like the Lil’ Devil, with soppressata. Whether you’re a pizza purist or someone who loves to experiment with new flavors, Lala’s has something for everyone.

Nu Burger

When it comes to burgers, Nu Burger delivers a dining experience that’s anything but ordinary. Specializing in elevated takes on juicy, flavorful burgers and crispy fried chicken sandwiches, Nu Burger offers something for everyone. Their burgers are made from all-natural, hormone-free, antibiotic-free, and 100% Angus beef, and served on a brioche bun or on a bed of local farm greens. If you’re in the mood for something different, their fried chicken sandwich is equally delicious, offering crispy, golden perfection with every bite. Don’t forget to try their irresistible sides, which include crispy halloumi fries and indulgent bulgogi wings. 

Sapporo Ramen

A staple in Cambridge’s dining scene since 1990, Sapporo Ramen brings authentic Japanese cuisine to CanalSide. Specializing in rich, flavorful ramen, as well as sushi and rice dishes, Sapporo Ramen offers a comforting, satisfying dining experience. Whether you’re a fan of traditional tonkotsu ramen or prefer a lighter or spicy miso broth, their bowls are packed with umami-rich flavors and topped with tender meats, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles. If ramen isn’t your thing, their sushi rolls and rice dishes offer an equally satisfying taste of Japan. With a menu that appeals to both ramen lovers and sushi enthusiasts, Sapporo Ramen is a must-visit.

Teazzi Tea Shop

Whether you’re a fan of classic bubble tea or like to explore seasonal and experimental flavors, bubble tea enthusiasts will find their haven at Teazzi Tea Shop, a destination for creative and traditional tea-based drinks. From signature milk teas and fruit teas to complex tea lattes and smoothies, Teazzi offers a drink for every mood. Using high-quality tea leaves and ingredients, and creative inventions like “rose milk foam,” Teazzi’s drinks are expertly crafted to deliver both flavor and refreshment. 

C-Side Bar

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, C-Side Bar is the perfect place to unwind with a well-crafted cocktail, fine wine, or local beer. The bar, which serves up drinks to go with the different restaurant meals at CanalSide, is the creation of Boston’s top beverage experts, including Ran Duan (of Baldwin Bar & Blossom Bar) and partner Jon Rosse (of Birds of Paradise), alongside Master Sommelier Brahm Callahan (of Grill 23 & Bar). Their expertise has led to a menu that offers something to pair with any of the many, many dishes from CanalSide.

Where to Find Your New Favorite Meal

Even the best meal is made better with the right space, and CanalSide’s design brings a great experience when dining at any of their restaurants. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Charles River, CanalSide provides a dining experience that goes beyond just great food—each meal is enhanced by the stunning waterfront views and the inviting, modern environment that surrounds you. The warm, contemporary interiors, designed by RODE, match the natural beauty of the surrounding Canal Park. The ambient lighting and thoughtfully designed spaces create a cozy, welcoming environment as the days grow shorter.

You’ll also have the perfect after-dinner activities. Because CambridgeSide isn’t just about dining. It’s also a premier shopping destination with a curated mix of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle retailers. One of the most exciting new arrivals is Mango, a European fashion brand known for its Mediterranean-inspired designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Also check out out crowd-favorites lululemon and Zara (opening soon). It’s the combination of entertainment, ambience and, of course, dining that lets CambridgeSide offer a true neighborhood experience–and a perfect day out for Bostonians.