CAFÉ REVIEW: Like a cozy corner in Europe
A hidden café in Kendall Square
CORRECTION TO THIS ARTICLE: A previous version of this story listed the incorrect hours for Tatte Cambridge. It is open Monday–Friday 7 a.m.–8 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.–8 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Tatte Cookies and Cakes
318 3rd St., Cambridge
Open Monday–Friday 7 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
If Atomic Bean Café is equivalent to hipsterland, going to Tatte is an escape to relaxed yuppiedom. With its rickety little wooden chairs and the warm light of its collage of light fixtures, it feels distinctly European.
Tatte is a great brunch location to impress your significant other’s parents, hardcore foodies, or friends visiting from schools where collars are popped non-ironically. The menu, while slightly more expensive, has unique dishes like shakshouka — the delicious African take on eggs benedict, and a word that’s just ridiculously fun to say. With its meringues, chocolate roses, and delicious brioches, Tatte’s pastry selection rivals Flour’s. The price point reflects the fanciness of the food and décor, but it’s definitely still worth it if you’re looking for a treat.
Tatte also makes for a nice place to work in the afternoon. While the coffee is only acceptable, the espresso is delicious, particularly as an affogato (espresso poured over a scoop of gelato). Even on a rainy Wednesday afternoon, the atmosphere was laidback, warm and chatty — probably better suited for a coffee or pastry date than an afternoon of tooling. Still, there is free Wi-Fi and an outlet in the corner by the water pitchers. Camping out here takes luck and a bit of planning, but it’s well worth the trek!
Good for: classier catch-up meals, impressing preppy friends from out of town.
Highlights: shashouka, crunchy halloumi salad, affogato.