UpStairs on the Square was one of our early selections for our local dining vacation this year. Amid new places, we take the time to revisit the Boston area restaurants where we first learned the difference between ordinary and exceptional dining. (Update 2017: Upstairs on the Square is among the great restaurants we have lost in recent years.)
There was nothing ordinary about this shrimp taco. It was bursting with flavor and textures. It was seasonal and a perfect summer lunch. Week to week, they'll offer you options that will perk up your interest and your taste buds.
They also have a few dependable favorites, like their "Sirloin Cheeseburger on Buttered Potato Roll with Gruyere, Niman Ranch Bacon & Cucumber Pickles." This is one of the few places where Ed will have a burger and enjoy it.
When we first met UpStairs, it was "UpStairs at the Pudding" and was housed in the Hasty Pudding building a few streets over. We adored lunch or brunch on their garden deck. They do have patio seating at the new location, but we must admit we still miss that hidden garden surrounded by Cambridge homes and businesses.
Since the move, we've adopted their Monday Club Bar as our comfort zone. It's a fun, irreverent, colorful, and welcoming space.
The wine selection at UpStairs deserves more mention that it receives. We often find great values and unexpected gems on the list.
On our last visit, it was a very reasonably priced bottle of Soter Beacon Hill sparkling pinot noir. It was perfect with my shrimp. Thanks to a great selection of wines by the glass, Ed switched to a big to match his burger.
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Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino
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(Photos: ©2009 Penny Cherubino)
UpStairs on the Square is now gone but this post may bring back memories for others who loves this spot.
91 Winthrop Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138
