Crowd enjoying Beat Hotel — Photo courtesy of Brian Samuels Photography
Cambridge, MA, is known to be the home of some of the most well attended eclectic hot spots in the Boston area. But none are as intriguing as Brattle Street's newest dining dynamo and live music venue, Beat Hotel. At Beat Hotel, sleep will be the last thing on your mind: this restaurant, bar and musical venue will fill you up. They rock great tunes that will keep you seated long after your plates are cleared. You'll find yourself tied to your table or bellied up to the bar to enjoy one last glass of wine, expertly mixed cocktail or craft beer along with the music.
Opened in 2013, Beat Hotel is decked out in retro color, fabrics and lighting that bring a hippie chicness to the spot. Walls are painted with brightly colored murals; funky lighting dangles from above, allowing a soft glow to permeate the dark room; and period pieces of furniture add just the right touch throughout the restaurant.
Tables are simple, and banquettes are covered in lush fabrics lining the walls, while a small stage draws attention across the far end of Beat Hotel.
Many come to Beat Hotel simply for their musical line-up, but those in the know come to enjoy the well thought out menu items with their music 'on the side.' Artfully marrying a menu of hippie dishes with fresh ideas that appeal to hipsters and foodies alike, Beat Hotel successfully incorporates the vibe of the 1960s into their menu.
Along with more common fare like calamari, Beat Hotel serves up super grains paired with veggies and protein in two signature dishes. One bite of their Southwestern-flavored signature Inca Bowl or hearty signature Earth Bowl, and you'll feel the love. The combination of flavors and textures meld together in a way that enlivens the palate.
Beat Hotel owners draw menu inspirations from their past ventures, including two rave-worthy appetizers that you'll find on the Beat Hotel menu: the Crispy Tuna Spring Roll and the BBQ Spareribs.
Spareribs — Photo courtesy of Brian Samuels Photography
Drinks at Beat Hotel are a bit offbeat. The wine list is as funky as the setting and as welcoming as the waitstaff. With three pour options made possible by keeping wine on tap, you'll be able to sample a few sips, savor a larger pour or indulge with a full glass all at a reasonable cost.
Nightly musical guests offer cover-free listening for dinner guests and bar flies alike, but table seating is reserved for those who are dining at Beat Hotel. However, the size of the space still makes those at the bar feel a part of the action on stage.
Staff are friendly, knowledgeable and attentive without being pushy, a skill learned from those they work for. Because if the food, drinks and music don't do it, a chat with the owners will have you booking your next night at Beat Hotel before you leave.
