Desfina
202 Third Street, Cambridge, MA 02141
(617) 868-9098
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When we first started Boston's Hidden Restaurants, we soon came to realize that some restaurants are, well, MORE hidden than others. A few that come to mind include Apsara in Providence (I have been there four times and have gotten lost each time), D'Parma in Winthrop, and Taqueria Mexico in Waltham. Add one more to the list of Boston's "Very Hidden" Restaurants: Desfina Restaurant in East Cambridge.
Desfina, a quiet little Greek restaurant, is in a working-class neighborhood near Kendall Square, Inman Square, and the Lechmere area. It is a true neighborhood dining spot, populated mostly by Cambridge locals who know the owner and waitstaff. Tourists and businesspeople do not seem to know about Desfina, which makes it appealing to those looking for a good restaurant in East Cambridge that does not have lines out the door.
The atmosphere inside Desfina is simple and plain, with Greek artwork adorning the small room. There are a couple of booths and a few tables, and a second room houses a small lounge. The Spartan surroundings contrast sharply to the rich, hearty meals served here. Indeed, while the food at Desfina is not as upscale as what is found at more formal Greek and Mediterranean restaurants in the Boston area, it is hearty and delicious, and much less expensive than the food at the aforementioned places. In addition, the staff makes you truly feel like you are eating in their own home. Desfina is one of a handful of restaurants that I personally will return to in part because of the warmth of the people here. Though Desfina is a rather sedate, laid back place, they do have terrific entertainment on Friday nights after 8:00, when they have live Greek music.
Several longtime Cambridge residents have mentioned that they have never heard of Desfina Restaurant. This is not surprising; Third Street is perhaps the last place in which you would find a restaurant. But one is here, and it is a darn good one. The next time you are shopping at the Cambridgeside Galleria or visiting the Museum of Science, head in the direction of the courthouse (the only tall building in the area) and grab a table at this outstanding Greek restaurant. It may be more hidden than even the most obscure restaurants in the Boston area, but it is well worth seeking out.
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