This is my all time favorite middle eastern cafe on decor and ambiance alone, especially on a warm sunny day when you can sit outside and just contemplate life. Taking off two stars because 1. The food, rice in particular, is super oily. The oil does does add any flavor so it's hard to understand why it's added. 2. The service is suuuuuuppperrrrr slooowwwwww, especially if you happen to sit outside. Need to leave in an hour? Better ask for the check now coz that's how long it will take. Also, why so stingy with the paper napkins? I dropped some oily rice on my dress and had to wait for half an hour before I could get hold of a paper napkin to dab on it...
(3)
Mika S.
The atmosphere at Andala is one of the best i've ever experienced. The patio is enclosed by a small fence, and tucked underneath a leafy canopy, with twinkling patio lights lighting the area up at night. The seating area in the basement is equally as cosy, with a number of couches and beautiful decorations. The set-up on the patio and in the basement are very casual and intimate, making them great places to go on a date, or hanging out with friends. My friends and I had such a great time here that we spent almost 3 hours eating, and doing hookah while we caught up. The food is simple, and very delicious! I ordered the Meat Pie plate, which came with 2 small meat pies and a salad. The salad was small and lightly dressed in one of the tastiest vinaigrette dressings i've ever had - the exotic blend of spices gave it such a wonderful taste. I would love to know what the dressing is called, and whether it is homemade. The meat pies were even better and so so fresh! I would love to come back here for brunch and coffee.
(4)
Tiffany C.
I'm giving a three because this was my first time here, but I ordered, sat for 2 hours and never got my order. Ambiance: 5 super cute outside patio, enclosed by a small fence. There is seating next to a window facing the balcony (always taken!) & extra seating area in the basement with couches and beautiful decorations, really giving you that middle eastern flavor & culture. It's a great place for a group of friends to just hangout and have coffee, tea, light lunch. Service: I NEVER GOT MY ORDER. The lady came in took our orders. My friend and I chatted a storm long enough that in 2 hours we realized she never came with our orders. I'm giving this a three because I didn't even get to taste the food or coffee, so I'm hoping the next time I go, they can change my mind.
(3)
Isaac E.
I had the goat cheese and fruit platter- big and full of juicy fruit! However, everything else was too spicy!! To be fair tho, I did eat my meals and if I had that kind of palate this would be my place. Additionally, the atmosphere is laid back and it has the true air of a coffee house.
(3)
Tracey L.
Andala is great if you're looking for a quiet place to have a conversation, read a book, or otherwise not use the Internet. Or maybe their internet is just perpetually incompatible with my laptop. In any event, the food here is fresh and definitely feels homemade. I am not a fan at all of their lemon mint smoothie - it's more like a slushie that is impossible to drink, but the foole plate and banana smoothies are delicious.
(3)
John Z.
Was not impressed with the food. My first order of meat pie was not available. Omelet and egg sandwich was basically egg with scallions and salt, something easily prepared at home. Not worth the $9 price tag. The mint smoothie looked promising from previous reviews, but when I got it, the ice to juice ratio was way off. It was a mountain of ice. Did not have a very good impression from this establishment.
(2)
Wanwipa P.
Love the mushroom omelet and orange juice here.
(5)
Richard H.
Definitely hit-or-miss. I've had wonderful experiences - especially on the food side - but most often the service comes up short. The waitress disappears, fails to bring the check, or is very distracted during order-taking. I love the interior and homey feeling of the cafe and basement, which does well to make up for bad service. Water arrived quickly on this visit. However, Andala's filter coffee is much to be desired, cookies seem store bought, and service during my last visit left us in a huff. Among the cafe options in Central Square that can accommodate a long, comfortable conversation, Andala tops my list and bad service won't prevent me from returning to chat with a friend over espresso or tea. However, be prepared to confront hit or miss service, and bring along a good deal of patience. Just a side note, the menus are filthy - the two that we received looked like coffee had been spilled on it for the last two years, several cascading shades of brown. Most of the teas listed in the menu were unavailable. Not really sure what is going on behind the counter.
(2)
Esther J.
Food is amazing. I had rice over beef. A little hot/humid inside. It's like going into a house in a humid, foreign (Arabic) country. Free Wifi. Definitely a place to go with friends or to study on a cooler day.
(4)
Katie L.
Everything about this place is perfect. It is filled with light, it feels like your house with couches and little tables not too close together, but only if your house were a little Middle Eastern cafe. It is clean, not too rushed nor too quiet. The walls are a cheerful yellow, and the whole space has just the nicest details. There's also a blue colored downstairs, with more couches and tables. Tons of space. The tea comes in little teapots, and it is fresh tasting and piping hot, served with a clear glass like the tea I've had in Morocco (though to make their fresh mint tea a true Moroccan tea, you'll need to add several heaping spoons of sugar). I also had rice pudding and a croissant, both of which were solid, especially the rice pudding. Otherwise, I was left in peace to write on my laptop. It seemed like everyone at this cafe was either a student doing homework, or an expat from some middle eastern country out to meet other expats for a Sunday afternoon tea. There were plenty of outlets, the wifi was solid if not lightning fast, and the service was very nice. If I lived closer to Central Square, I'd be here all the time -- it's open till 11, after all! What a rarity for a little cafe! I'd dock a star for the prices ($3.75 for a tiny tea), but this place just makes me feel so nostalgic. Gotta give five.
(5)
Thunderwoman R.
This cafe is a hidden gem in Central Square. I feel like I am in another part of the world. The atmosphere is comfortable with that old world feel. Great wall art & photographs. Great service. I enjoy the coffee & pastries! Delicious! When my son comes to visit from NY we go to do Hookah there. You can bring your own wine! This is the best time of year to sit outdoors at the lovely patio. Looking forward to my next visit!
(5)
Alexandra M.
I don't know how many times we asked for water and never got it, but it was A LOT. They weren't busy (3 tables outside, 2 inside), so I'm not sure the problem. We also felt like we waited a long time for the food. I had the special hummus which was fantastic. Could have used more things to dip in it, but the hummus was so good I didn't feel bad using my fork at the end.
(3)
Shisham K.
I have been to this place couple of times & I genuinely like the place. The staff here are very friendly. The decor is very Arabic & ethnic...the food is good. Vegetarian have a lot of variety. I also enjoyed their masala chai...The outside seating in the summers with the hookah is the highlight for me. Only one recommendation, they should introduce more hookah flavours. Also, I should mention their baklava are really delicious!!!
(4)
Pavel R.
Very cozy and cute space with a great outdoor patio. Unfortunately every time I've been there have been somewhat disappointed with my meals. They always lack something, don't feel well balanced or thought through. My experience with service has been very disappointing as well. It is always extremely slow and not super friendly. This place has a lot of potential if people that are running it can get their act together.
(3)
Giselle E.
Came here on a Sunday afternoon in late September with my boyfriend. The upstairs was pretty packed but with warm weather we decided to sit outside which was aesthetically pleasing. Let me just say that everything LOOKS good - ambiance, environment, food and beverage. What made me disappointed in my experience was the wait time and food itself. After seating ourselves, we waited about 10 minutes before anyone came to our table, another 30 to get our food, and another 10 minutes into eating our food to get our drinks (we also never got any water in that 50 minute time frame). The food looked beautiful but everything was bland. The rice had no flavor and there wasn't any salt on the tables to sprinkle on my plate. The beef dish I had ordered tested like straight up ground beef that has been pan fried or baked with no seasoning. My boyfriend's chicken dish also had flavorless chicken and sadly his rice had no flavor either. Our iced chais weren't that cold and the flavor was....off. I had asked to replace my chai with a house coffee and even then the coffee was no bueno T_T I'm so sad to write this review because everything looked beautiful. Maybe this was just a bad day and their other dishes are much more stronger. Just a WARNING -- DINE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
(1)
Bilge Zeren A.
The place is really cozy and well decorated. They also have a nice patio. Great place to hang out at. However, I think the food isn't good. Also, they have very few options in the menu.
(3)
E. L.
Today I went with 3 friends to have lunch at Andala. I've had meals here a half dozen or so times before (but that was 2 years ago). Our waitress was very friendly and the food was good, but the wait was LONG. One member of our party didn't even receive his lunch. We asked where it was and they said it was on its way. That was about 35 minutes after waiting already (for an omelette...cooking eggs?). At about 45-50 minutes we got up and told the woman behind the counter that we needed to pay as we had a meeting shortly thereafter. We left two people behind to get the omelette once it came out and bring it back with us. It took another 20 minutes of them waiting and there was no apology. In fact the woman behind the counter seemed perturbed that we were bothering her with something so trivial.
(2)
Annie S.
The food is good, but just a tip-- don't come here during the summer, there is no AC and it gets sooo hot. They have a lot of fans around but they mostly just blow around hot air. Makes for quite an unpleasant experience. That being said, I do enjoy this place. Though the smoothies are overpriced, they are quite good. Banana anything is pretty much my favorite, and the banana smoothie NAILS it. Also the waitress gave me a free second smoothie.. still unclear if she was flirting with me or just bringing me extra. (Let's go with flirting ;)). Foodwise- I recommend the Chicken Khalili Sandwich- if you like spicy!- the jalapenos are strong.
(3)
Ange H.
Stopped in on a snowy night for a Turkish coffee and a quiet place to read. The ladies running the shop were really nice. The coffee was delicious. It's a bit out of my way, but if I ever find myself bored near Central again, I'll be back!
(4)
Ahmad M.
I love this place. I go there at least 3 times a week to study or meet a friend. this is not your typical full service restourant, it's a laid back place where it really feels like home. we stay for a long time and we never feel the pressure that we should leave (like full service restourants). you can tell the waiters what to order and if u dont see them u can just tell them at the counter. thats what i love about it. i also love there food, their tea pots, and THEY HAVE TURKISH COFFEE. i would recommend the musakhan chicken (a Palestinian dish) and their hummas.
(5)
Rob C.
This place sucks. I came in at 830am (30 minutes after they had opened) and sat down to order. I ordered the avocado press sandwich that everyone on yelp recommended and a coffee - the server told me the cook was not here yet and didn't know when he would be. The server ended up running into the kitchen to make the sandwich and asking the other employee to get my coffee. The woman responded "no" and sat there folding silverware. I waiting until my sandwich came out to get my coffee (20 minutes later) Save the time and money and go somewhere else.
(1)
Xue L.
This place is great. It's a cute cafe with lots of space. No tight tables squished next to each other. Perfect for sitting and working. It's very relaxed with a lot of natural light. Service was prompt and friendly. Not rude at all! The food is delicious. flavorful and authentic. Awesome selection of teas.
(5)
Alan J.
I love how the roof of their patio is covered with vines. I was a big fan of getting a hooka and some tea and reading a book for a while. Also, call me crazy but like the past three times I've been there at closing, I noticed that the place wasn't emptying but was in fact filling up. Except, the waiters were telling a subset of people (ie non-middle-easterners) they had to leave. I guess it's their prerogative to let whoever they want to stay past closing time, but it creates a weird dynamic when you're the only one they're asking to leave.
(4)
Hai N.
I would only ever come back for the seating/ambience of this cafe. Otherwise, service is super slow -- I had to remind the server twice that I want to have a cup of coffee, and both times she replied saying someone will make it and in the end no one ever did. They werent even busy or crowded. Also, their internet is inaccessible, as in something is wrong because I could connect to wifi but could do nothing, even a simple search.
This cafe has a lot of really great seating options inside and outside, and feels very cozy, with tables, couches, and benches available. The atmosphere is very laid back, they play a lot of old 90s songs and Sara bareilles. I liked studying here because it's relatively quiet, a low traffic area, and you don't feel rushed. But the major downside is that the SERVICE IS TERRIBLE. It takes forever for servers to clean the table, take your order, it once took 45 min for a simple latte to come out when my friends tea came out immediately. It's crazy how slow they are even when they aren't busy..
(2)
Brad M.
Been here a few times with a group. Food is decent if a bit expensive, but the service has always been poor. I've often had to ask for things several times before they show up, having the wrong things come out, slow service, etc. None of that compares to my experience today though. We had made a reservation for this group, which Andala had evidently accepted. Once the group arrived, the manager came over to us and made a big stink about how he doesn't think our group spends enough money at his place (we regularly have $120+ checks), and kicks us all out right then. Keep in mind we have never seen this place crowded, so it's not like we're taking up space other patrons could be using. Some of us had already purchased some coffee and food, so we moved our group meeting immediately outside the place, bringing our cups and dishes with us. The server actually has the gall to come out after us and harass us about the dishware we've taken all of about 20 feet. Well buddy, we wouldn't have had to take it outside if you hadn't kicked us out. I will not be going back here.
(1)
Emily G.
Andala is a decent place to get authentic Middle Eastern food in Central Square. Two-stars seems harsh, but I think there are better places to spend your money. I am no expert in cooking this type of food but I think even I could have thrown something together that would have been more tasty. I went for lunch on a weekday recently with a coworker. My mujaddara was disappointingly flavorless. Her foul plate was just okay. I have heard from many people that the service is exceptionally slow, although we had no issue with that. The space is pretty as well, if you can eat outside, the grapevines covering the whole outdoor area are absolutely beautiful. Two-stars seems harsh, but I think there are better places to spend your money.
(2)
Lily T.
This is a solid 4 star place. Cosy, homey, never a wait, decent-to-good food and coffee. Great off-Central location. Free wifi. Excellent brunch place with zero wait means this is my go to (vs some other places in central sq... My rule is that I never wait more than 10 min for brunch. No brunch is worth that....) 1 star docked because of the following 1. The menu is super vague, when you ask the servers they are often just as vague. But I've never had anything bad here. 2. The chai is weird, it's just black tea without milk Overall this place is a win
(4)
Audra Jamai W.
If you're fond of working in coffee shops for hours, this is a great place to get work done during the week days. This is not the place to go if you're in a rush. Other than the staff working on a more European or Middle Eastern time schedule the servers are very friendly and helpful. The tea selection is vast and the menu has something for whatever mood you're in.
(4)
Ahmed A.
I rushed herefrom downtown to get here at 10;30 pm. It turns out they stop serving food at 10 pm :( FAIL!
(1)
Kristen C.
My favorite things about Andala are the avocado press, the tuna melt press, and the outdoor patio covered in leafy greens. Probably in that order. The ambiance is nice for working or having convos, but I've never found it to feel very cozy. There are usually enough people around, but it never feels crowded or bustling. Staff are generally polite, neither overly friendly or unfriendly. Bottom line: Andala is nice in moderation.
(4)
Mark S.
I used to love this place. I really did. When I first moved to Boston, Andala was a haven. The nicest wait staff, great food, a good vibe, awesome coffee, free wifi. Now? Almost none of the above are true. The vibe is still great, but every single person working there seems to hate their lives--and, by extension, you. The turnover in the waitstaff is so rapid, it makes you wonder whether they're even getting paid. The wifi? Nonexistent. I mean, it's existent, technically. But you can never, ever, ever get on the internet with it, so don't expect to. At this point, I only go here if I know I won't need the internet. The food? Totally gone downhill. A "chocolate croissant" now is a stale croissant, sliced in half, and drizzled halfheartedly with Hershey's chocolate syrup. All those lovely teas you see? Yeah, they don't have them. Oh, and apparently the owner no longer believes in heat during the winter or AC during the summer. It's still true that they won't ever rush you, but going here has become a frustrating experience.
(2)
Anna K.
This is such a great spot for a coffee or delicious snacks. It's lovely and decorated with a unique and very cozy style. The baristas are very friendly, and take coffee orders from your table, so you don't have to run to the bar every time you need something. Great for meetings, study sessions, and coffee-dates. Wish I lived in Boston to frequent this place more often.
(5)
Ana S.
I keep going to Andala for the same reason I keep answering booty calls from my ex: I have poor judgment. The reviews about the service are spot-on. I've never seen a more confused operation. Last time I was there I ordered a salad WITHOUT two of the ingredients listed. When the bill came I noticed it was more expensive than I expected. I asked the server about it and she said there was an extra charge for the change. I told her I wasn't going to pay more for eating less and, if indeed that insane policy was in place, she should have told me before filling the order. All available servers then coalesced next to my table to consider the matter. I felt like I took crazy pills. Come here if you want nothing more than a single cup of straight coffee. Set your expectations to low.
(2)
Robert C.
Go for the Turkish (Arab?) coffee. The desserts are good with it - baklava, etc. Have not tried the restaurant food. The staff is very friendly, but a bit slow. It is a go-to place for a great coffee or Turkish tea break. Parking is not bad either.
(4)
Rafay A.
What good food. The Fooul I ha was the best I've tasted since I are it first in Jerusalem years ago. The owner, Sami, is passionate about his food and the care his customers get. Definitely recommended as solid middle eastern fare.
(5)
Dave M.
The worst service ever! Waited hours for a chicken kabob and a side if rice. Unacceptable!
(1)
Vivian C.
Context: Monday afternoon around 2 PM. Ambiance: There are flies flying everywhere. HUGE BLACK HOUSEFLIES. Yuck. But, they have board games like chess and checkers, which is a huge plus for me. They also have power outlets and a cute additional room that overlooks the street. I happily sat down and then an older gentleman started to talk to me about 9/11 and Harvard conspiracy theories. He's the problem...he talked to me for TWO HOURS. Apparently, this dude is a regular customer there, who often ropes people into these long conversations. He was a nice guy...I just didn't know how to tell him to stop without offending him. Considering that he was deep into these conspiracy theories, I didn't want to set him off or anger him. Service: The service was nice, I think I had at least three different servers though. All three servers KNEW that this man was talking to me and didn't say anything or try to save me from the pain. I was in desperate need of SAVING. Even a customer next to me apologized to me and felt bad that this was happening to me. DEAR GOD. SAVE ME. Lemonade: A bit too sour for my tastes...it was also extremely pricey. $5. My review haiku: Comfortable seats Sour lemonade, black flies and power outlets! Unfortunately, this is may not be a unique experience. There's a resident conspiracy theorist here and be prepared to run away QUICKLY if an older heavier gentleman starts chatting you up. RUN, RUN, RUN. This is not the fault of Andala, but they need to REGULATE or at least say something to him...I just want two hours of my life back.
(1)
Christopher C.
So, I like this place. The coffee/drinks are good, and the food isn't bad for a coffee shop. As with a lot of places in the area, it gets really crowded and there's not a lot of table seating. I've had issues with the wifi as well, which kind of stops it from being a go-to study spot at all times. Also, while the staff is nice, it takes quite a while to be served, and many times I've just gone to the front to place an order. Still, though, I recommend it, especially if you live in the area and are looking for a good meeting spot with friends.
(3)
Dawn E.
Turkish coffee! ::jumping and joy ensues:: I had recently eaten before popping in here to pass some time so I did not partake of any food, BUT, my Turkish coffee was everything it should be. Additionally, the atmosphere in here is fantastic and the service was perfection. I will be back for food.
(4)
Gustavo D.
Great food, coffee and tea. Horrible, horrible service. Takes forever to get anything in this place. I would not recommend this place if you're in a hurry.
(1)
Adam W.
Went for brunch and ate outside. Not many people and very relaxing environment. Tried the shakshokeh and it was amazing! After clearing our food, the waitress even told us to take our time and ask for the check whenever we were ready. They need new booklets to deliver the checks, though, as they are the standard "We Welcome American Express" black booklets, but they don't actually accept American Express!
(4)
Giselle R.
Loved, loved, loved it! Deconstructed hummus...yum. Eggsalad sandwich,tasty. Space is homey and feels like my own brownstone. Staff is friendly and hands off. We spent some time here before our train home and it was very relaxing.If we lived in the neighborhood we'd be the several times a week.
(5)
Samantha G.
Food overload! There is so much to this place that it is completely unfair to characterize it as as coffee shop. In addition to the lots of comfy seating and free wifi, they have a great number of non-coffee options (get the hot cider!) and lots of breakfast and lunch options. The omelettes are delicious and quite sizable. They also have other basic breakfast options like toasted bagels. The lunch items include some good options like an interesting take on an egg salad sandwich. And then there are the desserts... It's primarily a Turkish-influenced place - both in decor and food. The service is great. There's no rushing you out (we spent about 6 hours here!) and the servers are always happy to help with whatever you need. It can get crowded at peak times, but yet, it still seems to be able to accommodate everyone. Overall, this is a great spot to chill out and get some work done.
(4)
Josephine L.
Andala gets 19,000 stars for decor/atmosphere/ambiance, 5 stars for service, 4 stars for food and 2.5 stars for tea. I'll get the bad stuff out of the way first. I was super-excited to try the House Special tea with cardamon. Spiced tea is almost always a win. The pot came, the pretty, long, thin, glass cup and saucer with it. I poured. The fragrant smell of cardamon wafted up. I sipped....and.....bleh! The tea was so watered-down that it had absolutely no flavor! Now, I'm one of those people who will happily re-use tea bags/leaves over and over until they've lost all semblance of flavor. But tea should not be flavor-less on the first steep! Especially when I'm paying $2.50 for it! Tea fail. The food: I had the Andala omelette and it was delicious. It was also huge, especially with the accompanying salad. So much more filling than I was intending for a snack. My boyfriend had the Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich and it was toasted perfection. I detest egg salad, but this was more scrambled/fried egg than hard-boiled, so it was just awesome. The pear juice he got was so fresh and tasty. You know it's fresh when it turns slightly brown after 10 mins as the fruit oxidizes. The service is amazing. Friendliest staff ever. The atmosphere. This is the #1 spot in all of Boston/Cambridge that I would choose to set up shop for the day. I LOVE the mismatched furniture, LOVE the cozy rugs, LOVE the fireplace mantle covered in hookah paraphernalia, LOVE the framed pictures, LOVE everything that makes this cafe warm and inviting. Andala is the antithesis of the soulless corporate takeover that Central Sq (and much of Cambridge) has become. Do yourself a favor and make this your go-to spot for beverage, food and socializing needs.
(5)
Alyssa J.
If I could give this place a negative star rating I would. A black hole rating would be preferred. I was here for my first writer's group meeting. The location itself is nice, plenty of room for large groups. The menu seemed a little overpriced, but as an independent cafe that I believe serves free trade coffee, I can understand. There were about ten of us and about 50% of the group had ordered a drink, a muffin, a scone, whatever. A waiter came up to a group of four of us and said "If you don't order something you are going to have to leave right now" ....Wow. Keep in mind the cafe was 60% full and it was 8pm on a Wednesday night. Maybe they were expecting a rush? We all ordered something to appease our 'roided up server. I got a decaf coffee, because there was no way I was going to put any caffeine in my body this late in the evening. My decaf came out...No cream, no sugar. A companions tea came out in a shotglass. Yup. It was in shotglass with a handle. Oooookay. I sipped my decaf. Ahh yes. Freezing cold, just the way I like it. I went up to the waiter, as I was fairly confident that customer service was not his forte, and I didn't expect him to come check up on us; and said two things. #1 My coffee is cold and I wasn't given any cream or sugar; #2 It was a little rude for you to be so aggressive to us. He flipped. FLIPPED. "This isn't a public library! You and your little group can go somewhere else! RABBLE RABBLE RABBLE!" Instead of coming over to the table to give me a new coffee, he threw a check in my face and told me to leave! WHAT THE FUCK ANDALA???? I will never come back here again.
(1)
Hyunu K.
Great service and an awesome place to come study or just lounge around with friends it seems like because of the open area and the ambiance is great. Awesome lattes and seems like they have some awesome food on the menu as well. Service was great and would come back if i was in the area again. Free WiFi too!
(4)
Priyanka A.
The decor is gorgeous, by far the coziest coffee shop in the area (a lot of the other coffee shops in Cambridge feel too sterile/factory made for my taste). The decor is a cue for the mood of the place, though. This isn't an in-and-out caffeination stop; it's somewhere to spend the afternoon in conversation or reading when you don't have to rush anywhere else. They have a great selection of teas, so perhaps tea house would be a better name than coffee house. But is you love tea/coffee shops with good ambiance and unique character, Andala is great. I haven't tried their food, but have heard it's overpriced.
(4)
ChristiAnn B.
Cute little place. Really nice ambiance and not too crowded. I don't think they have air conditioner, so it was a little warm inside on a hot day. The service was slow and our waitress disappeared after she brought out our food. But the food was pretty good- something different. My friend had the mushroom omelet which was yummy despite the overload of salt. I had the beef kufta (see photo) which was even tastier than the omelet. The prices here are a great value. I am going to come back here whenever I have a few hours to spare. The upside of unattentive servers is that one does not feel pressured to leave. Andala's is a great place to come if you want to relax or have a long conversation with a friend.
(4)
Samuel F.
A remarkable spot in the heart of Central Square. The house tea is amazing, the food is great, the decor is nice, and there's plenty of space. Comfortable seating, especially the long benches on the inside porch. Free internet. Very relaxed. The next time you're passing the Central Square Starbucks, consider crossing the street and walking the extra block. You won't regret it.
(4)
Deanna D.
Wonderful coffee house with friendly staff, healthy food, and free wi-fi!! The space is nicely decorated: bright, bold colors, & inviting on the first floor and dark & cozy in the downstairs area. The staff was very friendly and the service was fast. The cappuccinos (read: European style) and croissants were lovely. The Combo Plate with tabouli, salad, and hummus was fresh, filling, delicious, and reasonably priced! The ample seating, inviting ambiance, and good food makes this place a great addition to my coffee shop rotation.
(4)
John S.
My first time here, but I was impressed. The staff was friendly and the atmosphere was cozy and comfortable. I went with the Jerusalem egg salad sandwich and Turkish coffee (which the waiter kindly described for me). Both were great. The sandwich came with a bit of potato salad and a nice slaw. A good meal for about $11. Recommended.
(4)
Maria H.
I've been going here for years. I love the atmosphere and the different seating options in various rooms. However, the prices have more than doubled since I started coming here and it cost me $15 for a tea and a sandwich the other day. It was very tasty nevertheless..I love their avocado sandwiches. I know people who have worked here and they get paid very very low, without making a lot of tips. It's nice when the wi-fi works and when they don't blast pop music.
(3)
Vlad V.
Ambiance 9:30-11pm: business-friendly, good for conversation. Large tables can accommodate groups. TIP: the basement area is quieter. Food: no idea.
(5)
Betsy A.
I really like this place. It sells solid coffee, not to mention I love their warm apple cider. Delicious! I like the feel of stepping into someone's middle eastern house. It has little spaces here and there that you can claim as your own and study to your hearts content. =) Ooo! Don't forget to buy the baklava! And take one to go. ;-) All in all a cute place with some warmth to it. Good to have unique coffee houses around that don't follow the cookie cutter model.
I like this little gem! I got the hummus plate, good tea selection, but servers need to give you napkins with your order.
(3)
Mark R.
Great vibe and great coffee selection (Turkish, Arabic, and everything else)...
(4)
Alex N.
andala coffee house -new account 2014
(5)
Erica C.
The service is the only reason I didn't give them a 5. Gluten free friendly I had an awesome chai latte from here. I also had the lunch special of tomatoes, onions, oregano, and. meat over a bed of rice. The food was great. Free WiFi
(4)
Rafael O.
Amazing food! The atmosphere is also great and the location is great. I'm definitely coming back.
(5)
Paris Q.
I have been to this coffee place many times to hang out with friends. I really like the cozy and comfortable atmosphere. You can enjoy a looong chat with friends while being served slooowly! That's true. Half an hour might easily pass without any waiter showing up at your table, and once you have ordered, you may have to wait for another half an hour for your order to be ready! even if it is only a dessert! The location gets (5/5), and the service (3/5) for their delay, but as long as the staff are friendly and I am there to "spend time" with friends, I do not mind the "wait"! I have mostly had desserts and drinks here, and rarely meals. I like their specialty tea and most of the desserts. My favorite desserts are Nammourah and rice pudding.
(4)
Madhura S.
love their hookahs, the ambiance, the hummus sandwich, and the apple juice! Service is kind of slow but it's a nice little find so far!
(4)
Megan C.
Coffee, Kabobs, Tea & Slothful French Service Hey where's my spoon?? Oh wait maybe I should order. Where is our waiter?? Five minutes later waiter enters. Water is now on table & waitress vanishes. Okay so living in NYC I'm spoiled we get the best of all possible worlds. We have excellent variety, great waitstaff (if they're not there are a bevy of actors/singers/artists to replace them) apparently Cambridge this isn't the case. It looks like you're either catering to the Students of the to Staff. This was a noisy, packed little cafe, where we sat ourselves, begged to order, enjoyed our conversation (no rush) chased down our waitress for the check and even though I'm only giving this spot three stars still had such a great time ( I guess my company distracted me). Date Rating: 5 Pick up Scale: 1 (definitely bring your own posse here if you're coming) Strong Suggestion: The lentil soup was good. Huge portions here choose a few and share.
(3)
Dorise G.
Really, really enjoyed this place. Went here for dinner on the recommendation of a cool coworker, and walking up the steps already knew I was going to like it here. It felt like walking into someone's apartment - cozy with a coffee bar area and a quaint side room, my dining companion and I opted for the side room - nice ambiance and the room all to ourselves at prime dining time on a friday night! i didn't discover the downstairs area until using the ladies room at the end of the meal, but there's ample seating down there as well. we each ordered the lamb and a pot of peppermint tea to split. the lamb was stewed perfectly with carrots and potatoes, and the price was very right at just over $10 a pop. i'm surprised this place isn't teeming with hipsters yet, but it's a prime place for mediterranean dining. so why only 4 stars, you ask? ~minus 3/4 of a star for slooooow service. our waitress didn't come to ask us how we were doing until we had nearly finished our meal, it wasn't clear we were supposed to seat ourselves, and tho i don't really mind laid back service, it may have been slightly overly laid back. ~minus 1/4 of a star because my tomatoes weren't fresh. everything else about the meal was so delicious, having gotten clearly-refrigerated tomato slices (which totally ruins the flavor and texture of a tomato) detracted from the dining experience, but only a teeeeeeeny tiny bit. yes, it's picky, but i freakin love tomatoes, and it makes me sad when they're not good. if it weren't for the slow service, i'd've still given 5 stars.
(4)
Shaina P.
with its abundance of tables, seating, and free wi-fi, andala is a prime locale for studying, reading, writing, or chatting. it's an ideal spot where they don't pressure you to leave, but i wish it held in heat better than it does... i usually hunker down with a mint tea, my computer, and later, the Kufta over pilaf ... but if i'm not drinking a freshly heated pot of tea, i'm colder than can be in under an hour.
(3)
Olivia v.
THE AVERAGE RATING REFLECTS THE "OLD" ANDALA, BEFORE THE ESTABLISHMENT WENT DOWNHILL. I HAVE BEEN DOZENS AND DOZENS OF TIMES OVER THE LAST 3 YEARS. I SHOULD KNOW. I used to love Andala. I live next door. They used to have lovely pastries (which they stopped buying from their supplier) and good coffee. No longer. The last 5 times I went, I was disgusted. I am now never, ever going back again. - I asked for a latte. I was given an espresso with water. When I meekly said that was not a latte, they looked at me like I was crazy. the manager came out. I had to explain that a latte has milk. They came back with the drink, having simply poured unbelievable amounts of cream in. - The avocado press sandwich is never twice the same, and it has miraculously gotten worse every time I, or a friend, has ordered it. This morning, it was a tasteless glop of salad with almost no avocado in a dried pita and disgusting fake-tasting "cheese". And it took them 50 minutes to bring it out. What are you DOING in the kitchen? - All of their pastries now taste like sugary cardboard. I miss the amazing supplier they once had! My ex-housemate and I nearly cry when we reminisce about their previous selection in the good old days. - I used to think the beef kufta was one of the only reliable menu items (yeah, I've learned not to order most other things), but this morning it came drenched in a cup of oil. I love oil way more than normal people do, but wow. Disgusting. - They charge $10 for a bowl of oatmeal. Are you kidding me? - The service is (notoriously) HORRIFIC, which is usually not something I care about at all... until it messes with the quality of my food. Easily a quarter of my orders have been completely wrong when brought to the table. - I had the worst coffee of my life here one morning before a hike. I really needed coffee. They gave me something that tasted worse than dishwater. We had to stop at another coffee shop before leaving town. Look, I used to love this place. This is my first bad review. They have really earned it. They do NOT deserve such a high Yelp rating. I really think the management has changed, or something. Ugh.
(1)
Sara T.
This was my first visit to Andala, and I was really happy with the atmosphere (think: earth tones, interesting spaces, and plants) and free Wifi connection. My jasmine tea was very good, but I was disappointed by the chocolate croissant -- which was a plain croissant with chocolate syrup drizzled over, rather than chocolate baked inside.
(4)
Espresso T.
I love the atmosphere in this place but the beverages here are just horrible! I've tried the chai latte, the regular coffee and the cappuccino. They are all subpar! It's a coffee house! Please do better on your drinks!! Their food, however, does small good though I yet to try it.
I appreciate their large tea selection, the ridiculous amount of seating they have available, and their "no rush, take your time" attitude. My friends and I camped out there for a solid four hours just writing Christmas cards, and it was a comfortable place to focus or to chat. Their music selection is very ... random, though :P
(4)
Chris T.
My first trip here was at the recommendation of a friend. We went just for the Turkish coffee (it's funny how the Greeks and Turks work out those names) and it was during that visit that I checked out the food menu and decided I would come back and try a few of their dishes. Well, LOW AND BEHOLD, the food was good! The dishes, because they are middle eastern in nature, tend to be a cuisine I don't partake in much. (primarily because I didn't desire much access to them) I totally recommend this place for first-time and frequent visitors to the area, but especially if you have used the mass transit system to get there because parking can be a bit of an annoyance. Atmosphere: Chill. Feels like a coffee house. Plenty of those who can be seen at this restaurant, are students, and will hang there countless hours using their laptops, or reading and studying. Food: I enjoy it a lot. It seems very home-cooked in nature. The menu isn't a blow-my-mind cacophony of complex dishes, it's more timid than that, but the flavor is crisp, clean, fresh, and leaves me happy. Service: Transactional. It's very much business when you in there. I wouldn't say they aren't friendly, but I would suggest that it's very, yes, as I said, transactional. "Hi, what would you like today? Ok, great. Thank you." and off they go. If that's the type of service you like, great. This place is for you. Overall: Love it. Would I change some things, perhaps, but I certainly appreciate it as-is and would continue going without changing a thing. So if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
(4)
Anita L.
It might be called a "coffee house" but Andala certainly offers a lot more than that! Andala offers a great alternative to the traditional American brunch. I had the Shakshuka which was made of a bed of tasty rice with fried tomatoes and 2 poached eggs on top. It was filling and delicious. The eggs made it feel breakfast-y and the tomatoes and rice made it feel lunchy. Perfect for brunch! Service was on the slow side and the waiter had a very deliberate way of doing things, but since the food and atmosphere were great, I was willing to be patient and flexible.
(4)
Jason H.
Super nice staff, amazing lunches (fresh fruit, hummus, meats, etc), and great coffees & teas. Also appreciate the comfy decor. Looking forward to coming here a bunch.
(5)
Jennifer N.
Things at Andala move at a slow pace -- to enjoyably eat (or drink) there, one has to pretend one is sitting outside at a cafe in, let's say, Barcelona. Then you'll understand that of course the waiter is in no hurry to give you the check -- because you're not supposed to be in a hurry. You're supposed to be slowly enjoying your food and drink. Of course, it's easier to entertain this Barcelona fantasy in summer when one is sitting outside under a beautiful cathedral of stars (ok, fine, we don't get that many stars here, but again, entertain the fantasy). The drinks at Andala are all great-- most spectacular are the fruit juices. Most recently, I had a delicious pear juice-- I'm pretty sure I had my serving of fruit for the next week in that glass, and it was absolutely delicious. All of the teas are terrific, especially the "special tea." I'm less familiar with the food, but the hummus is extraordinary. BTW, if anyone remembers the cafe that was here before the Andala, about three years ago, Andala has really followed in their footsteps- they've created a nice space where one can come and hang out for as long as one wants. That's what a cafe is all about. If you want speed, go to Dunkin' Donuts.
(5)
Te R.
when i was there i felt like i was at a friend's house. there are dining tables. the kind that you would imagine having at home. there are some comfy couches and coffee tables. so it looks like a dining room and a living room. i really like the ambiance here. plus, there's free wifi! i was here just for a coffee in the afternoon and worked on my laptop. there's power outlet and stuff. the servers were cute and polite. but as other reviews say things here move really slow, which i kinda appreciated. you order a coffee at the table like a restaurant. so i saw some confused people who walked in and ordered a coffee at the counter, and the server told him to have a seat and she gave him the menu. i ordered iced white chocolate mocha and an espresso. the mocha was little too sweet for me. and the espresso wasn't spectacular. if the drinks were better, i would give this place 4 stars.
(3)
Sandy M.
This is my all time favorite cafe in Cambridge. Absolutely fav in Central Square. It's one block from busy Central Sq. The interior is decorated beautifully, with lovely colors, middle eastern decor and touches, an interesting tin ceiling, a fabulous downstairs that comes in handy now that the cafe is being discovered (yesterday, it was full at lunchtime - almost couldn't find a table - both happy for them and a little sad for me!) The coffees and teas are excellent and the food is perfect for lunch or breakfast (haven't tried dinner yet). You can eat light and healthy, or have something more substantial. You can have a smoothie, or an omelet or a sandwich. But my favorites are the Jerusalem Egg Sandwich and the Hummus Plate - as they say, hummus like you've never had before, warm and delicious. Served with fresh veges and crisp pita. There are so many things I haven't tried yet... so many reasons to go back again and again... did I say that it has a great outdoor space? Can't wait for the warm weather.
(5)
Molly M.
I agree with Katrina L. This place is an Oasis in the middle of the Sahara. After just moving here, and searching for any place to work other than my apartment, because Harvard won't let me into it's libraries (because I'm just an auditor), I searched high and low for any coffee shop that was even tolerable. Harvard Square's establishments generally are overrated. Crema Cafe is always crowded, and Algiers Cafe is cold and it feels disorganized (although those are my favorites at Harvard Square). But Andala is warm. It's spacious. The wi-fi works very well. The servers are punctual and they even smile! There is always seating at Andala, though it is never empty. The coffee and pastries are great. Maybe it is because it is slightly off Central Square that it isn't insanely crowded. They have an upstairs and downstairs, it's spacious and has lots of natural light, and it has a good, organized vibe. Definitely five stars!
(5)
Nisrine E.
This is a great little jem of a cafe. Very cozy, well lit (for doing work) and comfortable atmosphere. I love the big tables for groups and the beautiful background Arabic music. The service was friendly. Oh, and free WiFi :D The raspberry cookies are delicious!!! But I was disappointed at the limited selection they had of baked goods and treats. I would go back often :)
(4)
Sox G.
I went here for lunch with a group of 12. I was pleasantly surprised by the place (considering I went here for an iced coffee this past summer and felt as though it was a huge rip off.). I had the Mjaddarah plate special, which left me so full, that by dinner time, I was still full! We also split the hummus plate which was amazing! Homemade hummus is the best. I would go here again-the portions are a good size, depending on what you get, and the prices are decent. Try the chai latte. It's pretty amazing.
(4)
Alex K.
Horrible. I just wanted a cup of tea to go and had to wait 5 minutes just to order. They don't have tea bags! Only brewed tea, so I had to wait another 5 minutes for the tea to brew. And the price was twice as much as any place I have ever been. Also while standing right next to the counter/blender the scummy looking employee started the blender and it wasn't locked in place. So I was subjected to a VERY loud jarring screech 12 inches away from my ear. Never going back.
(1)
Charlotte E.
Hmmm, a mixed bag here. The ambiance is incredible. 5 stars for sure. But if you're looking for a nice little date with your husband before work, you'd better move along. We thought we'd try Andala this morning. We arrived and looked around, we saw the scones and decided we'd have those and coffee but the girl behind the counter told us that if we wanted to stay we should sit down and they'd provide table service. We took a lovely seat on the grape arbor covered patio and waited, and waited, and waited. People came and left with take-out and I was finally about to go in when she remembered us and came out to take our order. Turns out those scones we saw were the only ones they had and my husband's had been purchased by one of those subsequent take-out orders. We adjusted and placed our order. And waited and waited and waited and waited. Finally I went inside to tell her we had to go, we couldn't wait anymore. Turns out our breakfast had been sitting there the whole time, she just hadn't brought it out yet. I brought it out myself. Our coffee was ambient temperature at this point but I didn't care, I just wanted to eat and get out of there. The mystery of the limited scones was solved - they don't make their own, I am sure these are being re-sold from 1369 down the block, so that's why they only possess 3. She was very prompt in bringing us the bill. I'll give her that! If you have a laptop and want to spend hours here, perfect. If you have anything to do somewhere else in the morning you're better off getting your scone at the source (1369), or the new Flour just down the street. You might also get those to go and eat them on the lovely patio here - you'll have at least half an hour before they'll even notice you're there!
(2)
Irene R.
This is a nice little coffee/tea house. There isn't too much space upstairs, but they have a small room downstairs as well. The food was decent as well. I had an avocado sandwich (which was more of a wrap) but still very good. You don't just get a cup of tea, you get your own little pot which beats paying $4 for just a cup at Starbucks.
(4)
Blair H.
Most comfortable/quiet coffee place I've been to in Boston/Cambridge. The place is huge and good for large groups. I'll be back.
(5)
Melissa C.
If I didn't spend so much money on their goat cheese and honey plate (apple, banana, mango, pear, grapes, goat cheese, honey and pita -- what's not to love?) so regularly, I would encourage the good people at Andala to charge me rent. Seriously. I used to come here frequently about two years ago, and recently rediscovered my love for this legit coffee house now that my exams are nearing. Between the free wifi, the gracious service (but not of the overly-attentive/hovering variety), awesome sunlight, and the fact that they let me sit at the same table for 8 hours at a time, this is my favorite study spot in all of Bos/Camb. (Docked one star because lately, the temperature has been a little strange in there -- I go from sweating to reaching for my jacket pretty frequently.)
(4)
J R.
I want to love Andala, I really do. So close to my house, funky decor and alluring menu, but... my GOD does the service here suck! No, that's not fair. I should say the service is erratic, as are a few other elements of Andala: - The coffee: sometimes it's weak, and I can't believe I dropped $2 for it, and other times it's intriguing ("ooh, did they accidentally spill cardamom in this?") - The food: the pastries often taste stale, but their little meat pies are addictive, and I've had some very interesting soups - all a bit overpriced, though. - The setting: *Beautiful*. Airy and light, and the world music isn't obtrusive (WTF, 1369 - Gwar?! Are you kidding me?!). Several nooks you can find if you want to study quietly, but it can be a fight to the death over the outlets (as in most coffeeshops). No A/C makes it a stifling deathtrap in the middle of August, however. But the service is what really blows this for me.... I've had consistently apathetic service from ALL* the waiters I've had in the past three years, and that's quite a few. The turnover in staff is remarkable - I'm not sure if that's because of bad management or whatever, but all waitstaff should be able to bring your change within 20 minutes in a little coffeeshop. Oh, how I wish I could just buy a to-go cup at the counter and then hide in a corner... *OK, I lied - the waitress in the headscarf who is currently serving me is totally on her game. Thank you for taking my order, bringing me coffee, and fixing the internet within ten minutes!
(3)
Nay M.
I tried to live here once, alas was refused. But really, Andala has (almost) everything you could ever ask for in a cafe. I think of it as a coffeehouse 2.0. Don't be fooled by the weathered menus -- the food is surprisingly good for a coffee joint. Fresh pear juice - delicious. Khalili sandwich - delicious (if you like spicy things). Goat cheese and honey - uh, yes please. Turkish coffee - strong. Regular coffee - good. Tabouli - could be better, but I'll let that one slide. Avocado melt - SO GOOD (and the side potato salad that comes with it is awesome, but they skimp on it a bit, which makes me sad =*( because it's so good) I love the atmosphere - particularly the side den with the open windows. Seriously, my most brilliant yelp reviews have been conjured there. It's a room that truly fosters genius. Alright, maybe not...but the space is great - there is a downstairs that is ideal for larger groups. It is a favorite among students, entrepreneurs, and revolutionaries alike because it's a place to get work done -- it's comfortable and you never feel rushed.
(5)
Alexandra G.
Incredible. By far the coziest, loveliest, friendliest cafe I've found in Boston so far (lived here since the summer). So glad to have found it! The sunroom is absolutely gorgeous -- large windows, charming cafe tables, long couches... a pot of loose-leaf tea followed by delicious lentil soup -- this is the perfect spot for a rainy winter day. Free wifi means I can sit and nosh with a friend, enjoying hot tea and getting work done. I really want to come back here at night; the beautiful lanterns and hanging lights, copper accents, wood, reddish walls, and soft carpets would make this a cozy, romantic spot, I'm sure. :) Friendly service too. Highly recommended.
(5)
Allison C.
I think things at Andala move a little too slowly for me. Albeit, I came on a friday night around 9, primarily for the hookah, but my friends and I weren't seated until 10. As friendly as the waitstaff may be, an hour is a long time to wait for hookah, especially when it comes with a semi-broken hose and no tongs. The hookah is relatively inexpensive here- but I've experienced better service at the Nile Lounge. Hookah is only served outside at Andala (so I'm guessing this is only a seasonal thing). Had the waitstaff not forgotten about us, I probably wouldve enjoyed the hookah experience better. I'm sure Andala is great in terms of food and such, I'll have to come back another time. But for now, the Nile Lounge is the way to go, if you want a good hookah experience.
(3)
Logan J.
this place is awesome. i went here to meet with someone and had a great coffee and a great meeting thanks to the staff and atmosphere. the place feels like youre sitting in the dining room in a friends home, and i loved that about it. the coffee and food were unremarkable, but ill give this place a huge rating just for the atmosphere and service. a fun place to try at least once.
(5)
Danielle S.
Let me just say that I LOVE ANDALA. Yes, those caps were needed. This little cafe has been my savior in the past few months due to the massive amount of studying I've been doing in preparation for the LSAT. A quiet, sunny little cafe, Andala has a wonderful, laid back atmosphere. Initially I had thought that it was just another (boring) cafe, and would serve the usual- coffee and croissants, etc., but I was delightfully surprised to find that Andala not only has an extensive range of coffees and teas, but delicious food as well. For those of you who like really strong coffee with a bit of spice, try the Arabic coffee. It's rich, thick, and is spiced with cardamom. I usually tend to get some Moroccan mint tea (I'm on a no-caffeine kick), which is also good. As for the food, I have a horrible habit of only ordering two things from the menu. One is the Goat Cheese and Honey Plate, which, of course is a giant block of goat cheese, and fruits drizzled with honey. Really, I order it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The second thing I order is the Lentil Soup. Yes, boring I know, but the soup tastes just like a homemade soup. Nice, thick and delicious. I do have it on good authority that their other dishes are good too. Service is kind of lackadaisical, but all of the waitresses I've met are very sweet.. One day you might get an overly attentive waitress, the next, you'll have a hard time finding someone to take your order (even if you go up to the register!). However, because the cafe is so laid back, most of its patrons are as well. It's a great little place to go for an afternoon, or an evening, alone, or with friends.
(4)
Cleopatra P.
Andala is one of the best study spots ever. Evar. The establishment is what looks to have once been a large old house that's been reworked into a Middle Eastern restaurant and cafe. This setup works incredibly well as there are several distinct zones to Andala to choose from: the very front and middle "main" areas which are the most busy and restaurant-like, the sun porch area, which is cozy and wonderfully conducive to studying, and the basement, which, while comfy-looking, smells kind of like kitchen (I would avoid). The spaces themselves are sunny, colorful and beautifully decorated. The food is not mind-blowing, but it is very good, and reasonably priced for what you receive. I would especially recommend the meat pies, baklava, and any of the many teas on offer (these aren't listed separately on the menu, but your waiter will come around with a large box filled with a variety of loose teas for you to choose from at your request). The service is friendly, but not overattentive or smothering. Not that you should need any further inducement to drop by Andala at this point, but there's also free WiFi. Go, bring your laptop, study a little, loaf a little, eat baklava, drink hot cocoa, sip tea, go home feeling immensely satisfied about the amount of work you managed to get done, lather, rinse, repeat.
(4)
Shelley S.
Lovely little coffee shop/cafe in Central Square. Great place to hang and work/study. Always plenty of tables and FREE, reliable wifi connection. The atmosphere definitely has way more character than your typical Starbucks. What they say about the waiters bugging you is true... but you know what? I kind of like it. Because at other coffee shops, when I'm there alone with my laptop and all my other stuff, it always sucks to go up and order food and have to either pack up all my stuff or worry about things getting knicked. To have the service come to you is fantastic. The menu is pretty decent. Lots of great Mediterranean fare, hummus, tabouli, stuffed grape leaves, falafel, etc. I got a combo platter for $7.95 and thought it was okay. Everything was pretty fresh and delicious (green salad, hummus, olives, one stuffed grape leaf, and some tabouli) but I could have used bigger portions overall. Next time I come I want to try some of their sandwiches (the pressed avocado sandwich caught my eye) and their coffee but overall, a nice quiet place to hang out.
(4)
Amit G.
I love this place. It feels like home. Free wifi, friendly staff, great decor. The Sami Tea is quite tasty. They have this dessert called Nammourah which was amazing if you want to be especially indulgent. I'm working my way through the menu but in general have never been disappointed. I really must say, the atmosphere is something else. It's a shining light in central square. The place is unbelievably spacious - so it's great for small one on one chats and larger group chats. And the music, decorations, etc. etc. make you feel like you aren't visiting a business but instead walking into a portion of someone's house. Negatives? Hmmm. Having a hard time finding them. It might be slightly, just slightly, above market in terms of pricing. But that's not enough to take a star off.
(5)
S W.
This place concentrates a lot of things I love: free wifi, middle eastern food and interior design, interesting people and best Turkish coffee ever! I can stay there all day.
(5)
Erin M.
I am giving this a high three stars--- if I found out they had really good food, I might bump it up, but I've only had coffee here. Coffee was very good and atmosphere was relaxed. There was a boom box blaring top-40 hits behind my head the whole time, which seemed out of place in a funky little middle-eastern coffeehouse (although actually, I've had that kind of experience in many funky middle-eastern places). Met here for an informational interview, and it was a nice setting for that because we weren't rushed by the waitstaff and (besides the music) it was quiet and nice. There was nothing that made this coffee shop spectacular, but it was quiet enjoyable.
(3)
Dan C.
I love this place, this has become my official neighborhood cafe. It is spacious and beautifully decorated with big windows upstairs, the service is excellent and really friendly, and the food seems reasonably priced, although i've only eaten something of substance once (an avocado sandwich, which was very good). I've had their house tea several times now and it's always terrific and only a couple of bucks for a pot. They also have an amazing selection of things to sit on. Seriously. They have regular chairs upstairs and downstairs, as well as the funky couch inset in the wall next to the entrance, couches on the indoor porch, giant pillows in the basement, and then outdoor patio seating. I'm pretty sure your butt will never feel uncomfortable.
(5)
Rosie Z.
Nice ambiance, a great place to study or read. The downstairs area is good for conversations and group meetings. When it is not sub-30 degrees outside, you can usually find me smoking hookah in the outdoor garden. Food is very good and reasonably priced. Although they do have very slow service, but then you just need to ask for things, which I have gotten used to in Andala. Overall, it is a great place to have a laid back Sunday afternoon.
(4)
Sophi K.
One of the best coffee shops here in Cambridge. I like the atmosphere, coffee (white chocolate mocha is the best!), friendly waiters/waitresses, and food. Plus, free internet. Two thumbs up!
(5)
Mariya G.
Yes, the service here is slow, but that's one of the reasons I love the place! You can sit here all day, munching tasty platters (try the meat pies and then, when you've digested, order the fruit/goat cheese!) at your leisure and never feel rushed or pressured to leave. The only time they'll bother you at all is during waitress shift changes and even then you're free to close out your tab with your original waitress and continue to hang around. I can't think of an area coffee shop better suited for studying or long conversations.
(5)
Ploy K.
A cute, spacious coffee house with free wifi? Sign me up! I spent an incredibly pleasant afternoon doing schoolwork at Andala. I can't really comment on the food or drinks, however, because I really didn't like the Turkish coffee I ordered (I had never had one before, and had no idea what to expect - I don't like coffee that strong, so just because I didn't like it doesn't mean it wasn't of good quality). My friend got an iced peppermint tea and said it was really good. The waitress who helped us was very friendly and attentive, but the real kicker for me was the atmosphere. It's so open and colorfully decorated, it really is a perfect place to just sit and sip some coffee while working or reading a book. I'll definitely be back to try another coffee drink more to my taste!
(4)
Julie L.
I live right down the street from this pleasant coffee shop. I love the food and the variety of coffee and tea drinks. BUT the past few times I have been here, the service has been AWFUL! The last time I went there, just a few days ago, it was around 8:00pm when my friend and I arrived to work on homework and sip some tea. It was a bit slow in service on a Tuesday evening, however, it is still not acceptable for the waitresses to invite several of their friends and have a fun social hour while their on the job. Also, they were just plain rude we actually did ask for something. This isn't even half as bad a having the worst waitress EVER a few months ago. Among many things, like rolling her eyes at all of her customers and getting our order wrong multiple times and then arguing with us that we were the ones at fault - all I have to say is, I hope she got fired. She was horrible. Andala, I really love your charm, but please, let's work on the service.
(3)
Denise W.
I think my review has already been stated by some of the people below, but here goes: Food I'm inclined to think that some of the food is over-priced and some of it is just right. I've been to Andala twice and the first time had a plate that had a bowl of oatmeal and tons of fresh fruit; the oatmeal was kind of dull, but the fresh fruit was so .. fresh. So good. The second time I had some kind of spiced chicken and onions on Arabic bread, which was INCREDIBLE (but I was famished, so you know how that always sort of skews your taste buds). I was also fortunate to grab some pastries during a visit - they were excellent. Service: This is such a relaxed atmosphere that the waitresses watch to see if you come in then eventually come to greet you .. trust me, there is no rushing in this place. I've never found the servers to be mean or idiotic, but severely lacking in their presence or returning to your table, yes. On a completely different note, Andala has the most beautiful servers you have ever seen in your life. I noticed a "Help Wanted" ad in the window and despite several years of serving experience and the need for a PT job, I was intimidated as hell to apply cuz these women are bananas hot. Just sayin. Atmostphere I remember sitting at a table with my friend and noting that someone had created the funniest, most eclectic playlist to rock over the speakers. There is SO MUCH SPACE in Andala and gorgeous, just beautiful decor. People are scattered about drinking coffee, eating food/pastries, or just using their computers on the free wifi. I have to give Andala props for that, along with their long hours. I think this was incredibly disjointed .. idiocy. It was a great introduction to middle eastern fare.
(3)
Molly F.
Great way to wake up! Initially caught my attention with their pleasant string lights outside t night, and decided to go in for brunch this morning. Very laid back and welcoming ambiance. Decor is very homey. Nice oriental rugs with a variety of seating options from low couches to study tables to large bay window benches. Nice, genuine servers and an interesting menu. Between the two of us, we got one omelet and the Foole Plate, one small French press and turkish espresso. The presentation was nice and the food came out quickly. I did, however, notify the, of my celiac disease and they brought my omelet out with a big honkin wheat pita slapped across the top. I think a bit of a language barrier caused this between the native server and me. The food was really tasty though (I took a risk and ate the half of the omelet that the pita did not touch). Overall, great experience and I look forward to returning!
(4)
Lahnna E.
My friends and I were interested in finding an affordable hookah bar in the area. Someone suggested Andala so we figured we'd try it out for the afternoon. Some afternoon we picked! It was bright, sunny, and warm and Cambridge was buzzing with people. We managed to find parking pretty close on Mass Ave (although maybe we should've just taken the T *shrugs*). Anyway, we went inside, the decor was nice and easy-going. Not dark and stuffy like some coffee shops can be. The woman behind the counter was friendly and offered us to sit where we liked, but that if we wanted to smoke it would have to be outside. I remember a bit of waiting, which we were all right with for the most part. We mainly wanted to just drink coffee, smoke, and talk. As she was preparing our hookah and our coffees, I noted the variety on the menu and was impressed. Prep time took a bit longer than I'm used to, but our server was just so pleasant that I really have no complaints. And besides, I don't think people who come to a cafe to sit down should be in any rush. Go to the Starbucks across the street in that case. Peach shisha was delectable, and there were several kinds available. It was how I envision a lengthy cafe visit to be. Relaxed, little bother from the server, and good coffee.
(4)
Adam L.
This place is more cozy than the food is good, but it's an interesting change of pace and has a nice atmosphere. I'll probably be back here on a nice day to hang out under their ivy-covered outdoor-seating terrace and get some work done.
(3)
Barry B.
Sometimes you're a stranger in a strange town and you need a good cup of coffee to put things right. That's how I ended up at Andala two days ago. Someone told me that Andala served an excellent cup of coffee. Well, that's not true, by a long shot. But it was a decent cup of coffee, nicely brewed (two shots in an 8 ounce 2% latte). The espresso was one dimensional, with a nutty quality. The milk was properly foamed. Andala uses Lavazza coffee from Italy, a reputable brand of "standard" espresso. But the best places either roast their own beans in small batches or toss any roasted beans over one week old. Lavazza beans, of course, are neither roasted in small batches nor fresh. I think this accounts for the single flavor note. I'd go back to Andala for coffee, given what I've heard about some of Cambridge's other places. The atmosphere was quite wonderful - big windows, high ceilings, bright and cheery. The table service was a little slow, which puzzled me since the cafe was not busy. I didn't eat anything so can't comment on the food. ====== 2013 Update: I've been back to Andala a couple of times in the last 10 days, first for coffee and then for food. The coffee (in the form of a small latte) is pretty terrible - worse than Starbucks - although very nicely presented. And the server brings your coffee to your table. You pay when you're ready to leave. Nice touch. But not nice coffee. A few days later, I went for lunch and ordered the "egg salad sandwich," which it's not. Not salad, that is. Just a lightly scrambled egg in a wheat tortilla. Not actually very tasty, given the possibilities. So, although I really like the interior design of Andala, and appreciate the attentive service, the fare just doesn't deserve more than a couple of stars. I really wish it were otherwise.
(2)
Morgan F.
Egg sandwich on the indoor/outdoor dealio, surrounded by writers typing on their computers, like woah! Grab a seat upstairs, downstairs or enjoy the patio, friendly servers and even nicer cafe comp-anions! Come alone for hours, they won't try to make you go, Show up with your possie and and make the shisha blow! Why you waitin' -- just go!
(4)
Danny D.
Awesome Turkish coffee with cardamom !! Pretty good food, nice open space, lots of light, different decor, friendly/passionate service. A great place to chill, eat, drink, chat.
(5)
Shaina S.
I took my English conversation group here and treated them to a royally awesome hummus plate. (They had never even heard of hummus.) I also got the banana, milk, and honey smoothie. Have I mooned yet over how much I adore honey in my smoothies? Cause I do. This place has style. It's got a friendly and authentic theme and the porch is a delight, especially now that the weather is just a little brisk. The prices aren't as cheap as some Central Square fare, but I think it's worth it for the mood. Just don't try ordering at the counter. Easily my favorite cafe in Central and it barely had to try.
(5)
Alex H.
Love and love this place. Boston needs more places like it. The atmosphere is great, I love the decor. It is centrally located. Service is slow nevertheless, and I am giving it 5-star for overall experience and food. I LOVE the $2.95 Avocado Bagel Special! We certainly need more places like these.
(5)
Tarah H.
What would it take to entice two twenty-something young professionals, firmly entrenched in Boston proper out to Central? A breezy patio, fresh juice, wonderful teas, aromatic coffees, delicious middle eastern food, free wifi and shisha. The humus plate, as stated by many others is great - although the heat had me wanting nothing more than a slew of cucumber and bell peppers, not pita for dipping. The lemon juice was light and flavorful - not overly tart and no sugar needed. (for me, anyway) I would have tried a smoothie, but my aversion to bananas and their presence in both smoothies deterred me from doing so. I like the table service, it allows me to keep working while remaining hydrated and nourished without interrupting my work (I have friends and other distractions for that) Our waitress was lovely and sweet. She even popped her head out the window a few times to check on us. I was tempted to stand on my tippy toes and ask for a Screwball ( happytimeicecream.com/IM… ) We've been here for hours, slowly sipping on water, juice and tea, smoking our hooka with no pushiness from the waitress. She didn't bat an eye as our group grew and we eventually combined tables. Thanks Andala for the lovely time on a very hot June afternoon.
(5)
Shang S.
One tiny piece of baklava is all it takes to have me as a fan. In addition, i like the variety in the decor of the place - different nooks and crannies to meet with one person or multiple. Great late night place to hang out as well - as long as you don't expect fast service, because everything is so laid back
(4)
Courtney H.
I went here for the first time today -- I was expecting an average coffee shop. This place is anything but average! I had the lentil soup and salad combo. The lentil soup was outstanding, nice and light, and the salad was also delicious, full of crunchy veggies. My husband liked his chicken sandwich, and we both split the goat cheese and fruit platter. The decor is very pretty, and the free wi-fi is fantastic. There are places to sit outside, and a huge downstairs area, too. I thought the service was fine -- the waitress brought us more water when we needed it, and checked on us a couple of times. I can't wait to go again!
(5)
Ben I.
Definitely the best cafe in Central Square. I generally frequent coffee shops quite a bit and I enjoy the unique environment each has to offer. Andala has both excellent food, and a great atmosphere where you can have lunch, dinner, or simply a cup of coffee while studying or working on something via your (Free)wifi connected laptop. The downstairs is a more comfy, and generally quieter place to be. Their is also an area for groups to meet in a living room comfortable setting with couches and tables. Generally, the coffee and tea are excellent, including the Arabic coffee. Currently my favorite dish is the Coq au vin, which is a dinner special running right now. Also the Rice pudding is very very delicious.
(4)
Leighann F.
Though I am not in Andala as much as I'd like, today's visit was delightful. A large glass of Mint Iced Tea, followed by a warmed wheat bagel with tomatoes and avocaods. A simple and perfect way to start the day.
(4)
E K.
Walked into this cool little cafe off Central Square. Didn't know it was middle eastern from the outside, but it was a pleasant surprise. The waiter was cute and funny, and we had a good time. Thumbs up, will be back!
(4)
Kathy C.
It's my first time at Andala, and I love it here already. The ambience is great, the food is fantastic, and the servers are polite and the tea is great. I just wish the food was a shade less expensive, but other than that, no complaints. Great if you're a vegetarian, and great if you want to get some work done!
(4)
Bob S.
Indy coffee/cafe.Very cozy atmosphere, Persian rugs. Great mushroom omelet!
(5)
lisa v.
A beautiful coffee shop, replete with marble bar and shining brass or something shiny, from what I can recall. The decor is really sumptuous. The free WiFi is great, as is the ease of signing on, and it was a cinch to find a free table near an outlet. It's such a revelation for me to leave Jamaica Plain and JP Licks with its customers' voracious appetite for outlets and tables! If you're looking to come to a neighborhood where the ratio of itinerant worker/sWiFi gypsies to free WiFi squats/outlets is pretty low, then this is a darn good choice. The menu looked interesting on my visit, but my consumption was limited to bandwidth and coffee, so I can't write up any thoughts regarding food. The setting is so airy, light and pleasant, with such beautiful furnishings, I'm sure I'll be back to sample food in the near future. The only downside--and perhaps this is only a downside to cranky middle-aged squatters such as myself--was the waitress' eagerness to interrupt my work so as to ask me, quite repeatedly, how everything was and if I needed anything else. Of course, Andala deserve to squeeze as much payola out of squatters as possible. Just bear in mind that your space will be intruded upon far more frequently than if you were to WiFi squat in a counter-service shop like JP Licks or Peet's or the like.
(4)
Lauren D.
I am a huge fan of tea and this is a wonderful place to drink tea and coffee. It is a relaxed atmosphere where you can either sit back with a book, do work, or hang with a friend. There food is also delicious! I will definitely be back many times to come!
(4)
Barney B.
This seems an odd place for a first date, especially when the guy is talking about what he does for work, while the girl sucks on the tube of a hookah. maybe he found it seductive - but I just thought it strange. but I do like this place. the food was good, the vibe is nice and relaxed, and the waitress was super friendly and attentive (and I overheard someone mentioning it was her first day). and the 'open until 11 with free wifi' sitch made it an enjoyable 1st half of my evening out trying to hang and do some work. I shall return, but doubtful for dinner - this seems like a great place to just grab a coffee in a small part of a whole evening out wandering Central Sqaure and there ain't nothing wrong with that.
(3)
Nicole P.
I live around the corner from this place and am so sad I haven't ventured over before! The food is awesome- from deconstructed hummus to tasty sandwiches this is a great breakfast/lunch place. I hear that they have some dinner specials and live music on Saturdays which I plan to check out. They also have bagels, pasteries, many different kinds of coffees and teas. The atmosphere is warm and cozy with tables and also couches and little nooks. I can't wait to go there for coffee and scrabble sometime soon! You must check this place out - especially if you live near by!
(5)
Gabriel B.
I'm all for local businesses, but Andala has a few kinks, despite the cool motif. Wi-fi works sometimes, and the drinks are pricey. I wouldn't get anything but a basic coffee to go here.
(2)
Kristina D.
Real-time Yelping and 5-star reviews are quite highly correlated for me. In fact, they might have an r-squared value of 1. I should do some data analysis on my Yelp reviews to verify that. Anyway. I'm in Andala on free wifi and yelping the incredible soy latte that is sitting next to me--ooh, my pie plate (1 meat, 1 spinach) just arrived. :: post pie and salad-chomping :: Meat pie, spinach pie, and accompanying salad were yummalicious. The delectable soy latte, as my roommate described, had foam so thick that you could eat it with a spoon. The atmosphere is peaceful--I could sit here and work all day amid eclectic decorations and soothing music. There is a cute nook that seems perfect for groups as well as a porch with tiny tables that are perfect for laptopping. I am taking away an invisible star and providing a warning: If you come here with a laptop, make sure the battery is fully charged. I had to wander around like a madwoman to try to find seating near an outlet because I did not charge my battery before coming here. I am sticking around for a while to write lesson plans and portfolio, so I also ordered an Arabic coffee and baklava. Both are also awesome. I might just spend the entire day here ordering new stuff to Yelp! EDIT (5/7/08): Knocked off a star for terrible service tonight and unsolicited drum playing. The star may come back eventually... The tabouli, hummus, and salad plate is good.
(4)
Jacey B.
Iced Lattes are fantastic. The Turkish coffee is yummy. Cinnamon Brioche Twist was buttery and tasty. The Avocado press sandwich is absolutely delicious with generous amount of avocado, olive tapenade, & veggies. The meat pie plate is a good deal and is very tasty. Some of the prices might seem high but you are also paying for fabulous service, FREE WI-FI, and just a great atmosphere. Theres no pretense from the staff - they are great and pleasant. They don't rush you out (it probably helps that every time I have a meeting there we order a ton of food and over tip because the service is fantastic). Andala has become a new favorite for me - particularly in Spring & Summer!
(4)
Corry B.
Oh Waitress- you so pretty that I don't care that it took me several trips to the front counter to get your attention. Oh Central Square- your cafes are so crowded but now I don't care because this place is big and sunny and look! there is a table to fit me and three friends! and decorations too! Oh Cook- maybe you are so slow because of pretty waitress but that's okay because, damn! your food is good! Egg salad is not what I thought, it's so much more: salty hot friend eggs with veggies and cheese, and tuna sandwich is warm, and fool salad is lemony fava goodness- who needs a garnish, it's okay, it still tastes so good. And you can make oh-so-many clever jokes with the salad's name.. clever clever hahaha-
(4)
David M.
Rude service. Now I remember why I don't come here very often.
(1)
Dave L.
I just got back from here. We had the honey/goat-cheese plate, which was excellent. I also ordered a latte: decent but not spectacular. The cuisine is what brings this place up to four stars; plenty of options that you could never find in a "standard" cafe. I unfortunately couldn't try the hookah because it was raining, but I will be back in the future.
(4)
Najat K.
I have initially wrote a raving review about this place until I started going there on a regular basis. I had the most unpleasant experience with one of the waitresses and her friend the expresso bar tender (a guy who wears his hair in a pony tale). Though the place is cute and has a quiet unique set up, the minuses are: - Poor customer service: slow service, rude waitress and rude espresso bar tender, they will give you blank stars and talk and laugh among themselves instead of smiling and greeting you. - Coffee drinks and teas are served cold and watered down - Menu is not so clear as to what the food is about - Food is way overpriced and sometimes completely off in taste and texture I won't go back.
(1)
Michael B.
Great place to catch up with a friend. Despite the coffee house name, this place actually has a decent menu of Mediterranean food as well. I ate outside with a friend for lunch on a Saturday. The food was good. Above average Mediterranean cuisine for a cafe. Great selection of fruit juices. The goat cheese and fruit tray was delicious. The kafta was good, although not the best I've ever had. The outdoor ambiance is nice, slightly off the main part of Central Sq, where it isn't quite as noisy.
(4)
kimberly l.
the ambiance at this place is great, but the food isn't that spectacular. If you want a quiet place to do some work, with free internet and caffiene this place is great though!
(3)
Ryuji S.
This unique local coffee house is friendly environment I enjoy meeting friends or just read books... or just listen to others talk. They have better coffee than 1369 and friendlier people than C3 cafe. My favorite is their smoothie.
(5)
Aaron B.
I still haven't given in and tried the Turkish coffee yet, but I did go for the house tea. Infused with cardamom, it was all that was promised. Outstanding. Didn't get a chance to have much more than a bagel (I was there for a quick breakfast meeting) but I took a look over the menu and was pleased to find a good selection of traditional Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern fare. Definitely going back soon, as it also seems like a great place to get some work done (lots of space).
(4)
Toodles K.
On 2/7, I enjoyed an awesome espresso and my 22 year-old nephew had French press coffee and loved it. We split a German Chocolate cupcake that was small but very rich and filling. Absolutely delicious! The service was a little slow but they were VERY busy and our waitress was a sweetheart so I forgive.
Extremely poor service (forgot things, slow, and slower). Great food. Decent prices. Very chill atmosphere. I love the interior decor.
(4)
Arjun K.
I like this place but there menu is a little limited they always seem to give me really poor service which is a little frustrating. there food options are good though and I especially like the Turkish coffee
(2)
Jordan L.
well, i went with my favorite boston female to this cute little cafe in cambridge and was actually surprised by the selection of good food they had. not at all what i expected. i had the pressed avocado and it was delicious. my gorgeous accomplice has the fruit and oatmeal plate which also looked pretty tasty. it is really hard to find vegetarian places that offer more than the usual veg cuisine but this place mas a nice mix of cafe and mediterranean food for all tastes. that in combination with their selection of fresh fruit juices and smoothies which rounded out the menu nicely may make this little place a regular stop in when i am in cambridge...just to try everything they offer including a hookah. i really like the outside seating too, it is nice when the weather permits. if you haven't checked out andala yet, do it...'tis all.
(4)
M L.
Quiet, sunny, with delicious small plates of food -- Andala is the perfect place to catch up with friends or read a novel on Sunday. Their foole plate is warm and drenched in olive oil with lots of spices...try it with some fresh mint tea. The service is generally great but can be a little hit-or-miss, depending on who's behind the bar. The only possible minus is that they don't have AC in the summer or heat the little front room much in the winter. It's really a lovely place, though, and the owner seems to have put a lot of care into the details.
(4)
leon p.
Great place to work and coffee, lots of light, some music but not too loud, good simple food and a reasonable price.
(4)
Ligaya T.
Bwaaaaaah! How have I been remiss to have not written a review for one of my favorite laptop hangouts?! I could click the day away sipping their tasty juices or teas on their bright sun porch, outdoors smoking shisha, or munching on their Middle Eastern eats. If you're looking for a relaxed spot with free wifi, your search ends here.
(5)
Rob R.
I've been to boston three times this year and every time I've been frustrated with the choice of cafes in the area. On my third visit, after spending way too much time yelping for a decent cafe and nearly giving up because it seemed most cafes in Boston are stingy with their wifi, I found Andala. First, the atmosphere of the place is great. The seating options range from outside to a sun room where you can open all of the sliding glass doors for fresh air and an inside area. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of food too. I would definitely suggest getting the hummus. Oh, and free wifi!
(5)
Maria Z.
Wonderful! I went here for brunch a few weeks ago and wondered why on earth I hadn't found Andala sooner? My platter of goat cheese, pita and fresh fruit was delicious and copious. Service and ambience were both very nice.
(4)
Alyssa H.
The best spinach pie I've ever had, and I'm Greek so I should know ;) Andala is brand new and the owners have renovated the space into a beautiful, fresh and serene spot to have lunch. I usually do take out but had lunch there a few weeks ago with a friend. The staff is friendly, the food is great but limited. The pastries look amazing, but I have not tried them yet - mostly out of fear that I will try one and be hooked and not fit into any of my clothes anymore. Also the fresh juices are great - try the lemon, apple ginger..
(4)
Juju W.
cozy atmosphere. free wifi. plenty of seat. delicious food. It's a nice place if you want to hang out with friends, bring your laptop and have coffee, or eat there.
(5)
mickey l.
How many of us watched it as we walked by, it's "opening soon" sign up for a year or so? They're very attentive. You order. Dip into lemony hummus. Drink turkish coffee. Pay when you're done eating, not ordering--who does that? I can't believe they put their plush hand made (persian?) numbers under our feet. If I had these carpets I would ask you to take your shoes off. I'd lay down on them and nap. If they only had hash at the bar to go with those hookahs they proudly display.
(4)
Diane I.
i love this place. everything here is delicious - the people are super friendly and they don't get annoyed that you are staying forever. this was last weeks stop on our quest for the perfect cafe. they add some spice to the coffee that is delicious. too bad there were no free refills. i spent quite a lot because i just couldn't get enough.
(4)
John W.
I cant believe that i havent written a review of this place before. I've been coming here since they opened a few years ago and have nothing but great experiences here. The vibe is utterly laid back, the tea and coffee is excellent, and their menu of Middle Eastern food is yummy and affordable. A great place to meet up with a friend or to bring a laptop and get some work done.
(4)
Yuko I.
Good atmosphere and good tea/coffee. I never tried their food but the menu looks good. I would love to go back for more. It's a bit slow service so this is not for a busy grab and go cafe.
(4)
Muckenfuss V.
Far and away the best cafe I've visited in the Boston area. The pot of house tea with cardamom pods is original and exquisite, and though there could be a larger selection of baked goods they are all tasty nibbles. Stay for lunch, though: the avocado press sandwich is wonderful, and comes generously dabbed in a divine olive oil. And what other cafe brings you tall glasses of ice water? The only downside may be that this is not a drink-and-dash establishment. Though you can get items to go, you're encouraged to sit down and order from the waiter. That's not a problem, though -- the staff is friendly, attentive, and attractive, and there's ample and variegated places to sit, and even a downstairs where the kitchen is. The music is a subtle global selection, relatively unobtrusive (in contrast, say, to the hipster backbeat at 1369) when you need to get work done.
(5)
Trish F.
I've been here twice so far and I really dig the atmosphere. It's so close to my old place, I have no idea why I never came here when I was in Central! It must be a converted apartment building just by looking at where it's situated and the way the inside is laid out. I think that helps it give off a homier less pretentious vibe than other places of its kind.. methinks. heh I also really dig the couch on the balcony-esque addition. I'm assuming they open the windows in the spring.. it must be lovely! Passing by the counter, I got excited looking their tea collection. Right now I can only drink decaf and they had about 6+ choices. Sadly, they were out of my top two choices (loose teas).. but then I remembered this drink Ligaya and I got at the n00bs event.. carrot, ginger, and apple juice! YUM! Tea.. I'll get you next time. Glancing at the menu I couldn't choose between the meat pie and the spinach pie. Both dishes are the same price and they give you two portions, so I asked if I could get one 'slice' of each and the waitress was happy to oblige. The spinach pie is a little different that I'm used to. It had more onion and a bit of a vinegary taste to it. I still liked it though. The meat pie reminded me of chao pau (Chinese pork bun).. a LEETLE bit.. haha. Both came baked in this doughy bread that I really enjoyed. At the n00bs event we had a variety of food, but I'm not gonna lie I don't remember it all. Plus Amanda kind of fed me. haha Hummus? The service was a bit slow.. which in this case didn't rub me the wrong way. I think the waitress thought Allix and I were deep in talk so she didn't come over right away to take our order. I realized we stayed for awhile well after we were done eating (I think we were there for like 3 hours actually) and our waitress didn't rush us at all. In fact she made sure our glasses of water were full after our dinner plates had been taken away. When we were there for the n00bs event, I remember the waitresses being very attentive as well. Everyone there is super friendly. They also have free WiFi.. which is always a plus. I'll definitely be back soon! OH and last time I was in they were trying to get a liquor license.. so if you see a petition at the front counter.. sign it! :)
(4)
Kate L.
I went here to study over the weekend and thought it was the perfect place. Various rooms and settings to choose from and nice service. I got the goat cheese, fruit, and honey plate as a snack -- it was delicious! The only drawback is that their AC unit is not too strong so the restaurant was a bit too warm. Still, my friend and I stayed for 4.5 hours and enjoyed the atmosphere a lot. Sigh...I went back two days later to continue studying and it was SO HOT inside that I had to leave. It's an 80-degree day and they had the door open (but not the windows) and no AC on. I'm all about conserving energy but I would have been sweating profusely had I sat and stayed (there's no breeze running through the place and the few fans they've set up aren't adequate).
(2)
micah f.
wifi is nice, but the 17 yr old baristas at this dingy overrated coffee shop have confused "handmade" with "messy." drinks are sub-par, bad top 40 on the radio, and sweaty pastries under cellophane is what many people awarded 5 stars. really? i understand the need or solid alternatives to starbucks, but central square is hurting if this is considered good.
(2)
peggy c.
Free wifi, cute AND comfy decor, away from the traffic of Mass Ave, friendly servers, good tea selection and most importantly for me... I could veg out undisturbed during the day :)
(4)
Jamie S.
This place is extremely chill. Service reflects this atmosphere -- friendly, but hands-off without being inattentive. Great espresso (and inexpensive). Extremely accessible location that's just far enough off Mass Ave so that this place stays relatively quiet, even when it's relatively busy. I've been here for breakfast (good croissants) and Sunday afternoon snacking (try the Goat Cheese and Fruit plate for something light). Thumbs up.
(4)
molly f.
Friendly staff, tasty food, sem-reasonable prices...and honestly, I will basically eat anything if I get to sit outside. Looking forward to exploring more of their menu (the goat cheese & honey plate sounds divine!) but can vouch for the tea & scone I carried out...just what i wanted to hold me over until dinner. Love that this place is right around the corner, too!
(4)
Philippe K.
Good food, pretty good coffee (espresso, Turkish, Arabian), very slow service
(3)
Ruvi P.
terrible service. They didn't event bring me my drink and after an hour of waiting told them so and they didn't event apologize, then handed us a check. TERRIBLE
(1)
sara h.
I love the vibe of this coffee house that's literally in a house, partially hidden behind Central Square. I sought it out on a Saturday and found a comfy spot on the couch in the sunroom. I tried the strong Turkish coffee, just the jolt I needed to dig in to the work I brought along. The free wifi was a definite perk. I tried a few things from the menu over the course of my visit, including the vegetable chili. The couple next to me ordered meat pies, and they looked tasty. I wasn't thoroughly impressed with my food but it wasn't really the reason for my visit, and it was actually just nice to have the option of ordering food and coffee from my spot on the couch without having to find a stopping place in my project to run up to the counter. I loved the ambience of the space and the friendly staff who let you sit for hours.
(4)
Christina B.
I should mention now that the weather is nice that they have a small section of outdoor seating and there are umbrellas which is a nice touch to avoid getting crispy while you eat. I'd recommend it on a Sunday morning when the traffic is light since it's right on the corner of River Street which is a busy road.
(4)
Deepa C.
due to all the recent rave reviews, this place has been on my list for a while. so while the freelance work was piling up, i found myself in a clean house, with no laundry to do, nothing good on tv and no excuse not to get out of the house and venture to someplace new (with wifi of course) . it is indeed a very cute coffee place, great atmosphere, staff and decor. my waitress (a dead ringer for the first person to get kicked off ANTM this season) was perfect, anticipating my needs with water or another cup of coffee. as the place filled up, they became very accommodating with seating, expanding tables for a group of students or setting up a lone patron at an accent bench in the corner. ' i love that there is a lot of light coming in through the windows. none of the furnishings seem planned, and that hodgepodge design works well here. the only reason it has 4 stars and not 5 is the coffee. even though i am on my third cup (i am typing VERY FAST right now) it is a little strong/burnt for me. i like my turkish coffee a wee bit lighter (see cafe algiers). also, the "scone" was so dry you could sand paint off the walls. the food food looks great, but stay away from the baked goods.
(4)
Annie P.
EDIT: I usually don't give two shits about my old reviews but since a fellow yelper laughed about the newb who called me out on this one.. I'm going to respond. I don't do inside jobs for anybody. I'm from Queens. No just kidding but seriously.. I love getting fingers pointed at me for reviewing a place that ALREADY has 5 billion stars just because the Yelp headquarter people gave me a random ROTD. I must be crazy and must work there to like it. Hey what are you BLIND? It says the price right next to the words, don;t order the tuna wrap for $9 then. Believe it or not you have a choice before ordering the damn thing you don;t want to shell out for. Also if you note the date on my review.. it's been awhile. Sorry dude but I don;t keep tabs on how good looking the staff is on a daily basis.. so chill out. Summer is over and now the kids are back. Truth. com. Places are busier than a few months ago.. so things are bound to change when it comes down to the pace of things. Yeah and if you want self service where you read off the menu above the counter.. go to DD or Starbucks. ------------------------------------------------ Everyone who works here is beautiful. They float around in pretty dresses and plain t-shirts. They are all soft spoken too. Sit inside, outside or downstairs! Don't expect chippy loud baristas... Tuna sandwich was nice and fresh without the overpowering mayo everywhere else gives. I like walking over and getting the Strawberry Banana Orange smoothie in between loads at Pearl Laundry. $4 treat. It's by where that fork is to split Magazine, River and Western Ave. You are a douche if you get lost. The colors in here are amazing. Never get sick and tired of looking around.. cellophane wrapped bagels in a silver bowl in the middle of the room. If you like pastry looks only rating.. this is the place to go. To make me even more happier... they started playing Leonard Cohen and when Dance Me To The End of Love came on.. I was like OMG OMG swoon. Also saw the loose tea they sell. Now this is what a cafe is. This house is the best house on the block. That's because it;'s the only house I think. No but I would like to rent out the little room with the top to bottom window seating and live there but I wouldn;t wear a skirt and sit by the window because the people on the sidewalk can look up and HELLO. Thanks.
(5)
James L.
Besides the ambience, what can you get here that you can't get at Moody's Falafel Palace (or Falafel Corner in Harvard Square)?
(2)
Eli G.
A breath of fresh, Muhammara and espresso-laden air. Sit at a large oak table in the main dining room, eat your labne, pretend that you are the late, great Richard Holbrooke.
(5)
Ben C.
Andala is what a coffee house should be. Atmosphere is laid back and comfortable. Decor is stylish with a bit of middle-eastern flair. Big windows and sun-porch lend a sense of openness and provide a great view of all that is going on outside. Service is friendly and attentive. Quality of lattes has improved tremendously since I first started going. Espresso beverages are pretty solid now. Andala also offers a small menu of generally yummy and very reasonably priced food too. If you need a snack to get you through to dinner, I recommend the hummus plate. Outside seating (weather permitting), free wi-fi, clean restrooms ... what more do you want?! Hookah perhaps? Well they have that too!
(4)
Hyerun K.
The older man behind the register (the owner?) who took my order was the jolliest man I had met, so we were off to a good start! The cafe was cute with it's ethnic decor, and it seemed spacious and clean enough. I asked for a pot of green tea and the jolly man boldly claimed that he had "the best green tea in the world!" I chuckled and found a seat, and the tea was served to me a few minutes later. However, I use the word "served" very loosely here -- a younger man basically dropped it in front of me with a clatter, and abruptly walked off without a smile. Not a huge deal -- I can put up with subpar service so long as the food/drinks are good. I figured "best green tea in the world" was a slightly exaggerated claim, but I was still expecting something decent since green tea is pretty hard to mess up. My green tea was SALTY and BITTER. I took a couple sips and couldn't drink anymore. Aside from visiting the jolly old man, I won't be coming back here again.
(2)
sage f.
I want to like this place more. The food and coffee are delicious. Table service at a coffee shop. It's right in Central. There's free wi-fi. But the seating options are bad. The radio plays on speakers (I mean, you can hear the DJs and the commercials.) There aren't enough accessible outlets for my computer plug. And the people who work there are kind of scowl-ly. Maybe it's better for talking with a friend than working. And it could be nice to sit outside when it's warm.
(3)
Sara C.
I love this place! The perfect little cafe, warm, sunny and calm in the middle of crazy central square. I loved the food as well. The Foole plate was really nice with just the right amount of garlic...lots.
(5)
Huan z.
One of my favorite Tea/Coffee House. Well designed rooms with very relaxing atmosphere. also like the porch with Moroccan wall lamps. Hot collocate is awesome, not too sweet like other coffee shop has. Breakfast is just delicious. Lunch with chicken sanwich is excellent. Two thumbs up!
(5)
Melinda M.
I had given up on my quest to find a relaxing coffee place within city limits a few months back after ripping out a page in the phone book and hiking all over the place only to stare into claustrophobia-inducing crowds, random sandwich shops, and vacant buildings (ironically, using the yellow pages as a guidebook wasn't enough of a reminder for me to call ahead). Fortunately, the other day I decided to go for a walk across the river and I spotted a tiny window sign that said Andala Coffee House, and despite the warm weather, an empty patio. This is the first coffee house I've been to in Boston where I didn't have to stand around awkwardly waiting for others to leave, or start running once I caught a glimpse of an open table through a window. Although I spent my visit at a table outside (sipping a yummy banana, milk and honey smoothie and staring into space bc I was not prepared with my usual coffee shop materials) I will definitely be heading back soon to hang out inside the next time the weather isn't so great. The inside of the shop has my ideal coffee house feel, nice decor, random furnishings, a scattering of polite patrons typing away on laptops (free wi-fi) or with books open, and music at just the right volume. And they have food! Not just standard muffin fare but cafe-like middle eastern selections. For such a very hard to find five star setting such as this, I am willing to ignore the fact that the staff didn't have it together...at all. For some reason they weren't using the cash register, and the guys behind the counter had to track down my server who took a few minutes to write out a check, a few minutes to figure out the tax, a few minutes to go find the originial guys I asked for help to get some money, etc, etc, very weird, but it was all done with a smile so who cares. Besides, who goes to hang out in an awesome coffee house like this when they are in a hurry? That's what Dunkin Donuts is for...
(4)
Kevin G.
I really can't think of a better cafe for both location, sunlight, ease/cheapness of parking, layout, coffee, food - my one wish is that one could get a glass of wine there, but if the ownership is observant religious (turkish) that ain't gonna happen - don't know. They do have quite an assemblage of huccha's.
(5)
Heidi S.
A great find located off the bustle of MA Ave. It has some wonderful nooks to escape into and with the free wifi, it's possible to get lost all afternoon. With the weather warming up, the porch is a terrific place to spend the day as it gets direct sun in the afternoon. The food is homemade and fresh, so it's a good place to rest when time is not of the essence. It can get very crowded and busy, so if you are looking for a chill place to relax, have some tea and enjoy some wonderful food, come by on a weekday afternoon.
(4)
Anonymous P.
I like the free wifi and spacious seating. I've found the baked goods just acceptable and the espresso woody.
(2)
Emily C.
I keep meaning to write a review of this place, and since I'm currently sitting in Andala Coffee House, enjoying their excellent (free!) wi-fi and a cardamon iced tea, I figured this was as good a time as any! The omelettes are delicious and the hummus platter always fills me up! If you're looking for a place to hangoout with your friends for the afternoon and enjoy a coffee or tea, or for a light, healthier meal, this is a great place. I personally like it most because I can come here and study and the waitresses are attentive, refilling tea/water, without bothering me too much as I work on my laptop.
(5)
David L.
I'm only an occasional coffee drinker so I don't know my espresso's from my latte's, but I do like a good coffee house to hang out sometimes. Andala's has a nice atmosphere and location, but the service and food there are not that great. Food is just kinda overpriced for what you get and the service can be horribly slow. I've waited for over an hour for food on multiple occasions and have gone 30 minutes without seeing any servers around or anything. Way over rated if you ask me.
(2)
Andrew M.
I went here. It seemed ok.
(3)
Jennie W.
I love, love love this place! I'm always impressed by how friendly the staff are, for a coffee shop they definitely go above and beyond. The lentil soup rocks, and they have some of the best hummus in town!
(5)
Daniel F.
I found this place because I take the 70 bus by here everyday and saw they had shisha. We went in later that night around 930pm on a Friday and found the outside completely full, so we told the guy we would wait. He later told us they closed at 11pm and if we wanted a hookah we should stay around for a while. He was very friendly and moved one of the inside tables outside for us! The staff was very attentive and nice and the coffee was quite good/european style. The cafe has a nice feel to it and the inside decor is quite nice.
(4)
Sabrina P.
I LOVE this place! What Andala is: -A great place to work with your laptop: free wireless, not crowded, quiet but with enough noise to keep you focused (at least for me, since I need a bit of distraction to work!), open late (until 10:30 or 11pm, I think, maybe even later?) -A great place to not work with your laptop: chill atmosphere, nice decor, friendly servers, cool music (Beatles and others) -A great place to grab a snack/meal and/or some coffee: tasty wraps, I had a good soy latte with lots of foam (I like foam) What Andala isn't: -Somewhere to go when you're in a hurry: stay and relax for a while! It makes doing work almost enjoyable, and that's saying a lot.
(5)
Kelly L.
This place is fantastic. I love to go on the weekend mornings for a Bagel and Cappuccino. The man who I think is the owner, is always there and is always friendly. The seating is comfy and the ambiance is calm and relaxed, open and airy.
(5)
Cody W.
I'm not sure what more anyone could ask for in a coffee shop. This place has it all, plus the servers are exceedingly friendly and good at their job. I have no idea how they cover rent in that place, but I'm really glad they do. I count Andala as one of the biggest assets Central Square has.
(5)
Heather H.
This is a really cute and comfortable-looking coffee shop just off Central Square. I stopped in one cold night after dinner for some hot chocolate that was just delicious. Also of note is how friendly and laid back the staff was- I think they were actually disappointed that we were taking our hot chocolates to go! The pastries purchased for the next morning were excellent- I ate two instead of my allotted one pastry! I look forward to coming back to try their savory treats.
(4)
Alexis S.
Oh Andala, I had such high hopes. You had such promise. I read your lovely reviews. I saw your lovely exterior. I visited once, with a group, for food and conversation and was pleasantly surprised. I visited a second time and sat on your gorgeous patio on an equally gorgeous day. I had no internet (which was a draw for this grad student) but I figured it was down for the day (it was). I delighted in your iced tea. You had such promise. I had such hope. I was on the verge of making you my *place*. Sick after weeks of C3's subpar food and limited internet, I decided to make my switch. So tonight, study buddy is in tow, I headed over for what I thought would be my first night of many. Your electrical plugs were sparse but I am willing to sacrifice. I ordered a tea. Fantastic. But my study buddy ordered rice pudding. And there was none. He ordered cake. And there was none. Fear not! He ordered baklava- we were saved! But when it came it was a mere one inch by one inch piece, so small that I did not even feel right sneaking a corner. And for almost $3! I expected heaven for that price. But heaven I did not find and instead was left with a half soggy, half stale corner in my mouth. My tea came and was clearly the bottom of the bin- for the tea leaves were indeed tiny- not the usual for Harney and Sons product. I know because I have met the Harneys and attended their tea conferences and tastings. I was served the scraps. So now I am left with no plugs, little food, and subpar tea. If this was what I wanted, I would have gone to Starbucks. In true, I am perhaps being hard on this albeit charming cafe. But, as I said, I had such high hopes. I will return. But this is not my *place* yet.
(3)
Abigail D.
Great food at a reasonable price (and excellent portions). A nice tea selection, and the setup is great.
(4)
Alli J.
I just moved here and found this coffeehouse, it looks upscale on the inside, but its really quite homey. Like everyone says, the pies are great, very comfort-food like. They also sell discounted day-old pastries if you live beyond your means and need to scrimp a little, like moi. Please keep the convos quite so we can maintain this excellent study and relaxing atmosphere -- remember there is no white noise to cancel you out like at 1369, yr neighbors can hear all. ;)
(5)
Susie Q.
I went here last night for the first time and it was great. I got there about 6pm and there was a helpful sign telling me to a take a menu and sit wherever, and a server would come to the table. I was totally hot and sweaty after walking a long way, and was planning to order a glass of ice water first thing. Lo and behold, the waitress showed up with....a big glass of ice water! Thanks, Andala. I had the hummus sandwich, which is a hot pressed sandwich although the menu doesn't say that. It was incredibly delicious, and came with a yummy and unusual potato salad, which there wasn't very much of, unfortunately. My friend got an avocado sandwich which she said was also yummy. She also got fresh-squeezed juice, which I had shied away from myself because of the price ($4.50). She couldn't choose between apple and orange, so the waitress recommended she get a blend of both. It was essentially heaven in a glass, and so incredibly fresh. The service was leisurely--possibly annoyingly so if you're in a hurry, but just right for catching up with a friend, or for hanging out/studying. The vibe in the place was just perfect--warm, cozy, relaxed, and truly friendly. How often do you get service with a smile in a Cambridge coffeeshop?
(4)
Kristin M.
a warm, but well-lit (which i really appreciate, b/c i find it hard to read in dark coffeeshops) cafe. i went here on recommendation of yelpers to have an informal meeting with a few people. there's a lot of space, broken up into a couple rooms, which makes it feel cozy. i had the soup & salad (lentil soup and a simple salad)- it was fresh, simple, and healthy. a good little spot to gather- we all enjoyed it. p.s. free wifi!
(4)
Srikanth S.
Liked it. The spinach pie w/ salad was smartly presented. Flavors were clean. The coffee was tasty. I was caught off guard a bit by the fact that this is a 'sit-down' coffee shop, at which you order with a waitress. I'm not sure that that's the best model for a place like this. My only other complaint is that I found the window seating a bit cramped. Those tables sure like good, though.
(3)
Monika S.
This coffee house has an impressive interior design and feel, a decent tea selection, however, their desserts don't taste well. I ordered rice pudding and it tasted like it was a week old ...Overall, their tea selection is better than Au Bon Pain but still limited ( yes, there are few coffeehouses that can impress me with their tea selection.)
(3)
Emily S.
Delightful. Puts Algiers in Harvard Square to shame. This joint in Central Square is light and airy and bright with tons of space to move around and scattered furniture. The owner is Palestinian so it's authentic and I loooove the gorgeous carpets strewn over hardwood floors. Didn't have a pastry but they looked incredible, and had a hard time picking from the 30ish teas they have to chose from. Basically, it's the same thing as Algiers- down to the decor and brightly painted walls- only less crowded, with more space, less pretentious clients, nicer waitstaff who actually, like, smile and check on you and don't act like they're being abused when you ask them questions, and reasonable prices.
(4)
Ethan C.
helpful staff, free wifi, great food (don't stop at the pastries). coffee can be irregular. some of the best lattes i've had as well as some really mediocre ones.
(5)
Bird B.
we went for an iced coffee this weekend and it was warm and watered down. we couldn't order at the register and take our coffee to the tables outside. we had to wait for a waitress (we weren't ordering food) and when she brought out the coffee, we had to go back inside to add cream/sugar. its a wacky system but a nice atmosphere. we're sad the iced coffee was so 'meh.'
(3)
Lenny T.
Andala proximity is one of the best things about living next to Central. The traditional breakfast with zatar is wonderful. Their Jerusalem omelet is surprisingly delicious. The Andala tea has a perfect sprinkling of cardamom.
(5)
Bulba S.
I love Andala. I love being able to sit on the porch and smoke hookah and drink some of the best vanilla chai tea I've ever had. Like seriously, something is in that chai that makes it way better than chai I've had elsewhere. I am guessing liquid crack cocaine. I haven't tried a ton of the food, but what I've had was really good. Also, the servers are quite friendly and funny.
(5)
Bruno L.
A true culture mix, middleastern food, French music, people from all around the globe and social background. And on top of it the food is original and very good. Highly recommended if you are looking for something different and original.
(5)
S K.
andala is a place that i find myself really wanting to like. they ambiance is great, but the chairs are uncomfortable. their teas are good, but their coffee is not so good - and for being a coffee house, that's not good. i haven't tried their food, which is why i'm giving this 3 stars and not 2. staff is very friendly and attentive and the wifi is great. outdoor seating is nice too. i hear they have hooka, so that's cool, but i've never tried it here.
(3)
Melody V.
Andala Coffee House is such a chill place, whether if you're here to do some work on the laptop, getting together with a few friends over tea and coffee, and enjoying some hookah. The atmosphere is perfect for such a great cafe. They don't care how long you stay to hang out. The staff was incredibly friendly, especially the first time I went with a group when we had no idea how to order. They have a decent choice of teas to choose from and it's all pretty flavorful. Their lattes are good. They offer free wi-fi.
(5)
Sarah R.
It might seem odd to give 4 stars to a place where, upon my first time there, I found a hair in my tabbouli salad (true story). However, I've decided that Andala has redeemed itself in my eyes. Here's why: -Uh, patio? Yeah, this patio rocks. I ran into some friends randomly one day on the way to the hardware store (see Tarah H's review) and spent a lazy simmering hot afternoon sipping lemon water and smoking shisha in the shade of one of the giant umbrellas. Ahhhh, hedonism. -Free wi-fi. w00t. For the price of a cup of tea you can surf teh interwebs in relative peace and quiet. -Cute decor, and the porch is great for people-watching. -The hair in my tabbouli salad was kinda hank, but the hummus plate made up for it. Plus the waitress felt pretty badly about it, so guilt always adds points to a review (in my opinion). This is in my new hood (that's right, I moved to Cambridge) so I have a feeling that it's going to soon grace one of those "Cool Places In My Neighborhood" type lists. You know, if I ever get around to actually making one.
(4)
Amanda Z.
I kind of want to give this place 3.5 stars, but I'll be kind and round up. It's not that the hookah was bad, it was pretty good. It's not that the ambiance is bad, it's wonderful, the entire place is beautiful and the patio was great considering what a beautiful night it was. Probably what is making me give this 4 stars. However, after waiting almost 45 minutes for service, then getting rushed through our entire night, and forced to leave after only being able to smoke for about a half hour, and then getting charged full price. Hmmmm....not a great experience for me. They could have at least told us that we were going to be forced out. I don't blame the waitress at all, she was incredibly overworked. But I think next time, I'll just walk up the street to Nile instead of treking over to Cambridge.
(4)
Alena D.
If you have not made your way to Andala, I would highly recommend the visit. I have yet to have any drink, meal, or experience that I did not love and recommend to others. Example: Shisha: outdoor hookah on patio is very nice during the spring and summer, lots of variety in hookahs and shisha's (ex. nectarine apricot) Juice: fresh juice squeezed to order, they taste very natural and pulpy (favorite is lemon or pear) Teas: around 30 kinds to choose from, buy by cup or pot Food: Foole Plate is wonderful, for new people I always order the Zeit un Zaatar en Labneh (sic) a thick yogurt and seasoning dip for pitas and vegetables, the hummus and tabouli are also wonderful staples. Coffee: they serve a mean Arabic coffee, my friend has been badgering the chef for a couple of weeks now for the recipe (the chef always demurs) Waitstaff can be flighty and spaced out looking, but five stars! Really a place to visit frequently, read a book and chill out.
(5)
S R.
Their hummus is very watery and there are full chickpeas in it. Maybe it's the traditional way to serve it but I was caught off guard. Free wifi and a good study place. Arabic and Turkish coffee are pluses - I also like their chamomile tea.
(3)
Courtney R.
This is by far one of my favorite cafes in the world. It has great ambiance, excellent Middle Eastern food, great coffee, AND a diversity of seating arrangements. They have relaxed, comfy seating perfect for a date or intimate conversation, and they have plenty of seating great for studying. I highly recommend any of their teas, their smoothies, and of course, the falafel plate. The music is diverse and the staff is always friendly.
(5)
greta C.
Never been disappointed with anything I've ordered from here. The coffee isn't the greatest, but you can't have everything, now can you? The lentil soup, salads, pastries and other baked goods kick ass. Their house tea is pretty damned good. Their specialty seems to be their humus. It is the best that I've ever tasted. I mean the best. It is always fresh and creamy and not too garlicy. The waitresses are always slamming hotties. Just don't go their if you are in a hurry. My brother was right: less good looking women make the best waitresses. They really make up in service what they lack in looks. I find the converse to be true in this situation...
(4)
Kate M.
I guess the word of the day is "mediocre." There aren't a lot of outlets to be had here, and the food is a bit pricey. But they do have free wifi. And the service is generally pretty friendly. Also, the patio is neat during the warmer summer months. I'd take 1369 over Andala any day, but if 1369 isn't your style, I guess Andala might be a good substitute in the Central area.
(3)
Iris M.
Staff is really rude and obnoxious. They're not attentive at all, so even if the coffee was better than average, it's not worth going back.
(1)
Derek B.
Quiet location and off the beaten path, Andala boasts great service, strong coffee and really good baclava. It's a nice and relaxing cafe choice that stands out amongst the 1369/Clear Conscience Cafe crowd for its chill "come as you are" vibe.
(4)
Jasmine K.
This place is wonderful. So wonderful I couldn't stop my urge to right a positive comment on yelp! Reading the comments up here, I had high expectations to the atmosphere and food, mixed expectations about the services. I found out, this place is wonderful!!!!!!!!!! I went to have a nice dinner during work. The furniture and atmosphere was amazing. Maybe they don't have air-conditioning but it didn't bother me because as long as you sit near the window its nice and breezy. I had a combo plate and a house-blend tea The hummus was amazing like everybody else is writing; the parsley salad and mint-leaf-wrap-thing, toasted pita bread was all wonderful, and the tea was a mixture of spices that was really good (if you're hoping for ceylon tea, it may be different than what you expect, but I really liked it). They even had putin lemon for my regular ice water. It made me full and I still felt healthy. The next time I would like to try the desserts too. About the services, they were fast, very caring and polite. I met 3 staff and they were all nice. The man who is probably the owner was REALLY nice (he probably came around 3 times and asked if everything was OK). I think I noticed the waitress everybody is complaining about, but I think she was trying, and it didn't make me have any negative feelings. I really hope they can keep it up. I understand food business is tough, but I don't want to lose my favorite place in Cambridge.
(5)
Cahaya S.
Upstairs or downstairs -- I practically live in this place!! it's my hang out away from home and my second office space -- oh, for just sooo many reasons :) cafe's are the places i go to for inspiration to get down to writing and for some peace of mind. Deliciousness, ambiance, calmness..... Andala offers all of the above -- plus beautiful, detailed aesthetics -- that's warm, plush and inviting. I believe the owner is Palestinian and gets much of what adorns this lovely nook from her travels home or in the region. Ever so often, new additions are introduced to the space, be it a tiny piece of artwork, or woodwork or beautiful sandalwood looking furniture - that continues to add to the homey atmosphere of the place. their little sun room ~ covered sunny porch ~ is just gorgeous, with their deep red velvety seats and complimentary red brick walls. The basement level is a little quieter with larger tables for groups to come for conversation or meetings. And there are comfy sofa sections too, in the corner, where one can hide out and work or read quietly. andala serves fresh, delicately flavored food -- my absolute favorite is their Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich -- it's been consistently delicious everytime! I like the way the eggs are scrambled, wet and perfectly salted, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with the freshest of fresh herbs - parsley, i think, with a side of herb potato salad or steamed veggies. They have a heartwarming oatmeal and fruit plate as well -- that is always pure and clean and simple and fresh. Coffees of all kind that look delectable and I'm sure taste so (if I could only drink coffee :(, every variety of loose teas and a satisfactory hot chocolate as well. Baked goods are also always quite well done -- lemon scones, muffins and biscotti. Oh, and aside from the good food .....the cafe has free wi-fi as well - which completely seals the deal for me :). And service so far has been friendly and courteous .....
(5)
Willow G.
I love Andala and go there when (and only when) I have time for a slow, relaxing meal because the service is so so so SLOW. I went in today and had a late lunch. I was sitting at a table right in front of the manager (owner?) and there was only one server on; however, there were at most a handful of people in the restaurant. After I helped myself to a menu, the manager came over and took my order. After my dirty plate sat for a while, I went up to the bar and ordered coffee and dessert. Meanwhile, two other servers came on as they were changing shifts. My coffee came up and sat there, and continued to sit there, while the manager counted the drawer, one server ate, and the other two chatted. I finally stood up and tried to get it myself, at which point the manager said something and a server came over and told me to sit down and brought it over. After it was finished and plates were pushed aside, I waited again for some kind of service. Finally needing to leave, I got up and paid at the bar. ANDALA - PLEASE IMPROVE YOUR SERVICE SO THAT I CAN CONTINUE TO BE A PATRON AT YOUR RESTAURANT. I would really appreciate it. 4 stars for food, atmosphere. 2 stars for service.
(3)
arete j.
Lovely place. It's charming, quite, and spacious. The food is not expensive, and is tasty. The Arabic coffee is so yummy with hints of cardamom...yum. It's a great place to study and be alone. The staff seem friendly. I was just in there today, and will continue to go there more often. During the summer they have a nice patio seating area. I won't forget the day when i was with a friend who is Korean--Annie P.. We were sitting outside enjoying our tea and reading when this random dude started talking to us and assumed that Annie P and I were sisters and Chinese. ????? (As some of you may not know, I'm not Asian, but from Latin America) It was really funny, and then he started to relate "our country" with Kung fu movies. He was telling us about Bruce Lee films, and was doing the kung fu "kicks"--or rather imitating them in a poorly manner as he was a bit old and probably a drunk... All and all, during the winter and summer times, Andala is pleasant place. It's not so often that weirdos come by there. Although it was a bit comical when the Bruce Lee wannabe was talking to us but whatever. Its central sq. The food and beverages are great, and I think eventually they'll get a wine license... YEAH! ps free wi-fi !!! THat's hot!
(5)
J R.
$9 for a tuna wrap? You've got to be kidding me. Don't get me wrong, it tasted very good, but after waiting 25 min what wouldn't? The problem with this place is its ambiguity. Which is fine if your name is Pat. But, Andala is a cafe trying to be a restaurant. When I enter a cafe I expect good coffee, snacks and self service. I don't expect to be seated, handed a copy-shop menu (with only a handful of items on it), written a check and expected to tip. I'll give it another shot but its nothing to write home about.
(3)
Diana C.
I've been coming to this place with my friend a couple of times so far, and loved everything I've tried here! The first time I came - I was blown away by the antique decor and the at-home feel that it gives off. It's so cozy and warm inside, perfect for winter. I always get the chai, because it's the closest to what I fell in love with in San Diego. Ironically, the best chai I've had to date was served at a coffee cart located on UCSD's campus - Art of Espresso. When I first came to Boston, I searched frantically to satisfy my chai cravings, and was very pleased when I came here... :) Yesterday, I tried the Turkish Coffee - it was served in a cute little antique-ish pot. Just delish~and you can request extra strong (more coffee beans) or less beans - they cater to your taste buds! Dinner time came and we were so hungry. We looked around and saw all the delicious foods and aroma, couldnt resist and asked for a menu, haha. I got the Adama Chicken with Wine Sauce. It was so good! Light tasting, feels healthy, and stewy. I loved it so much that I had to order one to go. My friend got the Chicken Kebab with a salad, she loved it too. Definitely do the food some justice and get your chompers going already! NOTE: I'm not sure why so many are saying the staff is rude. I had experienced the complete opposite. Both the young women and the male barista were incredibly attentive. They asked if we needed anything else/took away our dishes and cups/smiled/helped think of ways to find me a seat with an outlet and were very courteous. Either I was darn lucky or yelp reviewers are incredibly picky.
(5)
Peter B.
This place is perfect if you need somewhere quiet to work, refuel (with caffeine), and chill. So much space, fantastic staff, and great coffee. Go a tad off the beaten path in Central Square and you'll find this gem.
(5)
Kelle S.
I have been going to Andala for a while now for several meetup groups that I run and attend. I have to say, that I like this place. The food is high quality and in large enough portions that I have yet to clear my plate. The coffees are a bit small in size (but then I tend to drink 1/3 pot cups of coffee at home, so I'm a little skewed on what I think is a reasonable size cup of coffee) but still high quality. (And I AM a coffee snob.) The servers are friendly, although my experience is that you get slower and less frequent service downstairs than you do upstairs, so take that into account when you choose where to sit. The owner/manager is always eager to please as well. He really wants you to be happy with your food and that shows in the overall experience. The atmosphere is really quite lovely as well. It is a soothing, Middle Eastern environment with comfortable seating. Try the fruit and cheese plate, the oatmeal with fruit, and the omelettes - you can't go wrong! All - I love it!
(5)
Gelsey B.
I love this place...! Its peaceful, cozy, artistically decorated and quite! If you are looking for a place to meet a friend, or have a small group meeting of just spending some time reading a book, this place would be a good choice. I always go downstairs, since its less crowded most often. There is mostly no music playing in the background, so it makes it comfortable if you want to chat or concentrate on you work. I love the style of having tea in the pot, with that little cup they bring with it, which is more middle eastern style.
(5)
Cha Cha W.
I love the Middle Eastern theme and fare not to mention the cozy seating and casual atmosphere. When the weather gets hot, I escape to the lower level; when spring comes, I take my blunch outside and people watch from the patio. When I have work to get done, I slide open the doors of the sun room and settle in to the free wifi. Oh and that spot by outlet on the banquette, that's mine. My bottom has a claim on it and if it finds you there beware of my evil eye rays! Summers were made for smoking the hookah on the patio. The staff are super friendly if not always so expedient but that's okay by me. This isn't your run of the mill rush in rush out kind of place. A stone's throw from Central Square, parking could be a bit of a hassle if you plan to stay longer than 2 hours. Don't miss out on the Shakshuka (eggs cooked in a tomato sauce over rice) and Green Plate!
(4)
H T.
Andala is _____________ - more relaxing than Starbucks (less foot traffic) - more spacious than Cafe Luna - more serene than Clear Conscience Cafe - less hippie than Toscanini's - less crowded/noisy than the overall shitty 1369 Coffee - less expensive than Mariposa So there- why not go to Andala? A great coffee house with good tea selection, sweet staff, free WiFi, and tasty almond croissants. Just choose a spot: the patio to soak in the sun, the hidden porch for some sweet talk, a small table for some nibbles, or head downstairs for even more space. There's no other coffee shop in the area where I'd want to linger around for hours, and you wouldn't be rushed out the door either.
(5)
Ethan A.
I didn't expect to have such bad service, because I really enjoyed this place previously. I went late last night to get some work done, and ordered an iced coffee. Ended up with some weird iced tea. Whatever, doesn't matter, drank it. That was still in line with my previous good review score. Today I went back with a friend. He ordered a sandwich and iced coffee. Waiter guy asked if he wanted milk in it, friend said sure. Waited then forced, "So you want an iced latte then." Friend said "sure?" We were later charged for the more expensive drink. I ordered an iced tea, and saw they had bagels on the menu, for $.95, cream cheese extra. Perfect, I just want something to snack on and no cream cheese. He tells me they are out of bagels and asks curtly, "What else instead?" I said no thanks, I was fine with just tea. I'm sitting in the basement area, next to the kitchen. I watch the waiter go to the fridge, pull out a bag of six bagels, and comes back and says, "we have bagels now, do you want one?" I said sure. Our drinks arrive, my iced tea has a single cube of ice. It was cold enough, I suppose, but not an iced tea. A few minutes later my bagel comes - with cream cheese, tomato, and avocado. The waiter says, "here its the house special bagel". Not cool throwing cheese on my food - I don't eat it. I didn't touch it. After waiting forever for our check, the waiter says absolutely nothing in response to my entire bagel sandwich going untouched. I was charged $3 for my weak iced tea, $3 for the bagel I ordered which should have been ninety five cents, waited over a half hour for the check, and our waiter clearly was just trying to milk us for all the money we could and didn't care at all that I left an entire dish untouched. I could have forced them to eat the cost and serve me a new bagel, but you know what, I'm a nice guy. I will never return.
(1)
Eric F.
For a place that has "coffee house" in its name, I had the worst latte in years here last night. The espresso was barely discernible and the drink was basically (over)heated skim milk. Oh and the waitress decided that it'd be okay to give me over a dozen nickels in change presumably b/c they ran outta quarters...really? If you wanna come for the food, have at it. But stay far, far away from anything that involves coffee beans.
(1)
Audrey C.
Their food is ok, but nothing I couldn't make easily (and better) at home- and tiny portions. It's really sad how everyone I ate with recently (4 other people) all walked away hungry- and they ordered different dishes. Their portions are more like appetizer portions, and they only provide a couple slices of pita bread that comes with the dishes, so we even had to ask for more pita. It looked extremely stingy really. The hummus appetizers we ordered was spread so thinly across a small plate, it was probably under $1 worth of hummus that you could buy at the grocery store. Also, everything here just looks dirty and worn down. The many rugs are all gray- they look as if they have not been cleaned in years- and are fraying or there was even 1 with an enormous hole torn out right by the front desk.
(1)
Jamaican B.
Awesome food (lamb!!!), so many tea selections, and great AMBIANCE!!! :)
(5)
Ash T.
Great place for coffee and to chill out Pros: Very cozy place and has a unique ambiance to it. The downstairs is the place to chill out. Free wifi is an added bonus. I had the honey and goat cheese plate which was ok. The Arabic coffee was amazing. The copper vessel with the titled handle accompanied the small cup and plate...the coffee was brewed with cardamom and had a sweet hint to it. Espresso has now a contender for packing the most calorie free caffeine punches. Somehow the atmosphere downstairs has a charm to make you forget time, dabble in some great conversations or even pull on your creative hat and take a shot at some poetry. It's places like Andala that offer what a true coffee shop should...(are you taking notes Starbucks?) Cons: There is some tension among the wait staff and you can hear it if you're sitting upstairs. I first ordered a Rooibos Tea and the lady behind the counter didn't bother asking me if I wanted it to go or to stay. So the tea made it to my table in the boring drab of a paper cup smitten with advertisements and a black plastic top (minus 1 star for that) But the downstairs ambiance and the arabic coffee made up for it. WIll be back for sure. Highly recommended
(4)
Alan Y.
I stopped by this cafe one Friday night to get some work done. I was rather pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness of the cafe and the decor; I definitely felt that I was in someone's house instead of a generic coffeehouse. The bathroom was also quite nice and tidy. The servers were also quite nice and efficient. Despite these positive attributes, I felt that the food (at least what I ordered) was somewhat lacking. I ordered the vegetarian chili, which left me completely disappointed. The soup was served luke-warm, had very little flavor, and lacked much to compensate for its hefty ($5+) cost. However, the soup did come with 3 flatbreads, which were not anything special. However, their cappuccino is decent, as is their banana-walnut muffin. I'll try to stop by some other day to sample items from their menu, which hopefully will be more appetizing than the food I had.
(3)
Ahmed J.
The location was the best thing about this restaurant. The restaurant was supposed to be serving arabic ( middle eastern), however, the menu had only couple of arabic dishes and few deserts. We ordered a humos platter which was average and kind of over garnished, chicken and rice platter, rice and veggies were decent and the grilled chicken was quit good. As for the service, its the main thing that made me rate this place low. I am talking about a whole hour waiting for our main dish and another 30 minutes to get the bill in a small restaurant. A place that I would not recommend to someone.
(2)
Kacie M.
I've been here at least a few times now, and I'm always pretty happy with everything. If I want a meal, I get the Jersulam Egg Salad Sandwich. It's hard boiled eggs and cheese in a wrap and it's very tasty. A word of warning, though: It comes with onions, which they do not mention on the menu. The first time I got it, I had to send it back and have them remake it without the onions. The girl working there looked kind of annoyed, but I didn't have any problems sending it back and my new sandwich came out quickly. My friends have always been happy with what they've gotten there, and one said the hummus was the best he'd ever had. I haven't tried many drinks, but the hot chocolate is good. Service is usually so-so, but never that bad. The decor is charming and, overall, it's a nice little cafe to spend your afternoon in if you happen to be in Central Square.
(4)
Nan A.
Andala has it all - the wifi, satisfying Mediterranean food, rich coffees, with many different rooms and seating arrangements for socializing, studying or getting some work done.
(5)
Juston P.
Trip #1: "... and an ice water." Trip #2: "... and an ice water." Trip #3: "... and can you please put ice in my water?" What do these 3 have in common? All three times my water arrived nice and warm, without ice. This isn't a big deal. I'm a big boy. I can drink warm water. However, it's representative of the service at Andala. To paraphrase the prophet Eminem, they just don't give a ffff. It's seriously awful. To wit: Trip #1: 15 minutes elapsed between sitting and being given a menu. Trip #2. 7 minutes elapsed, so I approached a waitress and ordered directly. Trip #3: 3 minutes elapsed before I got up. I learn. I'm a smart boy. "Dude, why do you keep going back if all you're gonna do is whine about the service?" Because, my bodacious friend, the food is awesome! Such tasty, spicy sandwiches! Such rich and fresh hummus! And the atmosphere is awesome, too! Look at that cute, outdoor patio! Check out that cool greenhouse room that overlooks the street! Listen to the intricate vocals of the middle eastern music! Partake in the free WiFi! My advice: carve out an hour to eat your food. That way, you won't flip out when 20 minutes passes between your being given the check and the waitress' picking up your money.
(3)
Matt S.
Six stars for the best lentil soup in the Boston area and for a fantastic white chocolate mocha (as well as the one particular cute girl behind the counter who makes the latter). Minus one for the fuckin' every time hassle to get someone to come over and take your order, let alone to get the check when you're in a rush.
(5)
Gabriela F.
When I lived in Central Square, Andala was one of my GO TO cafes. I would often grade papers there while munching on one of their DELICIOUS Jerusalem Egg sandwiches and a mocha. Though their other sandwiches are yummy too, I always order the egg sandwich. The wait staff was always really sweet and I could always find a spot to relax or work while I was there. Now that I'm back in NY, I really wish there was a spot near me as chill and as lovely as Andala. Definitely GO!
(5)
H. A.
Come here for the hookah and nice environment, but not for the food. I'm Middle Eastern and their food doesn't cut it.
(3)
Amanda G.
Came here Wednesday afternoon looking for place where I could have a decent lunch and a place with outlets and coffee to sit and study for a while. What a find! I've never been here, but I will definitely become a frequent customer. The ambiance and layout are amazing - cozy, open, lots of outlets, free-unlimited Wi-fi, pressure free (no rushed feeling...the staff doesn't make you feel like they want you to leave). It's reasonably priced and has *real* food. This is really about as good as it gets!! I typically frequency Espresso Royale, but have since been driven away because of so-so food quality, expensive coffee, lack of seating, and really strong coffee/burnt bread smell you acquire after sitting there for longer than 30 minutes. While I do like ERC, if you're a BU student, the 15 min bus ride is worth it to come to Andala.
(5)
Juliana N.
We got our coffees to go and it was SO WATERED DOWN! sad... i had high expectations too. What went wrong? A majority of the people here had a good experience... ::sad::
(2)
Bastian L.
And the search ends here. Ever since arriving in Boston last summer I have been looking for a coffee shop that truly is that "Third Place" that Starbucks marketing people describe their stores as. I am European, so by definition it is tough to satisfy my expectations of a coffee shop. Generally, paper cups and red EXIT signs suffice to never let me experience the cosiness of a Central European coffee house or cafe - the kind that really makes you want to linger. Andala nails it though. Every kind of seating arrangement you could want, carpets, high ceilings, lots of light and great lighting, fantastic wait staff, great cappuccino and chai. I havent tried the food, but that's not what I am going to a coffee shop for. Oh, free wifi, power outlets, so you can actually get work done here, too. Now if they could just open a branch in Beacon Hill...
(5)
Sushmita M.
How many times have you ordered a mocha from Starbucks or Peet's Coffee and felt a little piece of you die as you realize that you just paid an exorbitant price (again) for subpar chocolate-flavored syrup instead of the real thing? Andala Coffee House is authentic cocoa goodness! These are the best white chocolate mochas I've had in Boston by far -- it's a blessing for me that I don't live in Central Square, or I'd burn a hole through my wallet in mocha consumption. The cafe itself is ideal for a Sunday afternoon of studying or general lazying around. The staff are lovely, they have free wifi, and everything is generally chill.
(4)
Neeraj D.
2.5 stars The prices seem good, the downstairs is nice and large (and mostly unknown so there is place to sit). This would be good for a group to sit and meet also. The outdoor seating, wi-fi, available power strips make it a good place to camp out for a bit. The service is indeed slow as others commented. The tea was undrinkable because it was over seeped while waiting to be delivered to us (it took more than 10 minutes for the tea to make it downstairs). The Arabian coffee had a smooth and creamy mouth feel with the spice of cardamon a nice compliment to the coffee. I do wish there was a filter though because the end of the coffee is very sludgy with the contents. I will next time try some different drinks or just bring a filter for the Arabian coffee. (-2.0 stars) Street parking (~ spots) with the typical Cambridge meters (25 cents = 15 minutes). I think we will try it again and hope for better service because the locale has potential but it can definitely improve by getting rid of the credit card minimum and better music (-0.5 stars)
(2)
Stephanie F.
I agree their service is kind of slow, but their food is pretty good. I come here when I want free wifi and would like to work for a long time on my computer, while consuming very flavorful caffeinated drinks and "real" food (other than scones and muffins). At first I thought this place was really small, but the thing that I admire about this place is how homey it is! There is a surprisingly large amount of spaces to hang out and do work in. It's almost like you're at someone's big house which is very nicely decorated with Middle Eastern flair. Yay for it providing a different experience than the usual cafes in Cambridge.
(4)
Lauren E.
I have been looking for some new coffee shops to add to my circuit, and this one fortuitously came to my attention last week. Immediately upon walking in I could tell that it would be good. (Perhaps sadly,) everyone else and his brother seemed to already know about it, and it was super crowded! Fortunately, we were able to grab the only table in the place after walking downstairs and back up again. In terms of the food/drinks---The Turkish coffee was good, but I wish they had brought me real cream instead of the little tiny packaged thing. I also had chai, which was pretty good and tasted original. I guess the mocha was good, too, but I didn't drink any. I had a pretty mediocre cookie as well. Didn't try any of the food, though it sounded good. At least half of the crowd there was studying. It wasn't too loud, though there were several audible conversations at all times. I had a little trouble with the wireless network, but it worked for most of the time. Despite the numerous imperfections, I give them the 4 stars for the decor and environment. In addition to the tables, there were couches and other forms of cushioned seating. The walls were prettily decorated, and nice to look at while spacing out and needing a break from my reading. All in all, I'm looking forward to going back again, though perhaps next time with my ipod to help with the noise, and at lunch time so I can try the falafel and hummus.
(4)
Jenny V.
Andala is a cute coffeehouse with outdoor seating, free wifi, creative drinks, a Middle Eastern menu, and the cutest waitstaff. I stayed down the street during my visit and stopped by three times during my week long visit. Try the goat cheese and honey fruit plate for a light breakfast or dinner. Who knew that would make a good combination? Delicious. Definitely worth a visit if around the area.
(4)
John S.
I'm the 102nd review? And here I thought this place was out of the way. I've been living within a 15 minute walk of Andala for over three years and only recently learned its name (a friend told me to meet him there). So I went, happy from the get-go to be finally entering the place I passed all the time on the drive home from the Pike. The first thing I noticed was how much light was coming through the floor to ceiling windows. Because Andala faces the very wide Central Square/River Street intersection, it's very bright, even on a cloudy day. I then noticed the menu, which I picked up off a music stand. I perused the Israeli offerings and opted for a pear juice ($2 too expensive) and an omelette ($2 cheaper than expected). Both were delicious. Over the half hour or so I was there, I noticed people taking advantage of the free wi-fi on their laptops, reading books, and calmly sipping tea. Because it's within shouting distance of the Central Square Starbucks, it made me even happier to go to Andala and support local business.
(4)
May N.
The closest coffee house to my apt. It is super cute and the staff seem really nice! Stopped by for coffee on a Saturday morning before running errands. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a handful of staff ready to serve. They had yummy pastries and breakfast foods and their menu included Arabic meals and hookahs (I'm pretty sure they're still bad for you). Prices looked inexpensive. I'll have to return to try more stuff. Only con: they charged an extra 50 cents for iced coffee. On a day that kicked off the hot and muggy weather here.
Atmosphere, ambiance, stellar coffees & teas, and great specialty food all make Andala one of the best places around to grab a coffee, have a bite, and relax. With free (if intermittent) WiFi and many outlets, it's a great study locale as well. Don't expect to be alone, however. The only thing lacking is the staff. If it's busy, expect slow service. I'm not sure if it's understaffed or what but that's my only complaint. On a recent outing, I tried the hummus plate and could not have been happier. It boasted great flavor and the proper authentic consistency you would expect from this sort of cafe while somehow surpassing the expectation all around. I've had the Arabic coffee as well as a few teas (all very good) but decided to try the Turkish coffee this time. I was not disappointed. The flavor was very balanced and it was ground to perfection. Something great about the coffee selection is that they serve it in the proper cups and with the right serving implements. Far too few places do that. That is what makes Andala's coffee fit perfectly into the atmosphere of the cafe thereby completing the Andala experience.
(4)
Sofia B.
Great Turkish coffee at a very nice price. What's better? The lentil soup. Next time I'll try the hookah that's available on the patio in the Summer.
(5)
Marcelo C.
Terrible service and the wifi never works. If you have two hours to spare while you wait to get service, then this is the place for you. Food makes up for it.
(2)
Andrew C.
Your local coffee shop. With an Turkish/Arabic menu for lunch and dinner. Go downstairs to get the semi-authentic feel.
(3)
Joel M.
Ate here for lunch during a hot day... the place wasn't terribly well conditioned, the staff was indeed pretty slack, but the food was excellent and a good value. I'll be back, but getting in and out during a 1 hour lunch break isn't really an option. 5 stars for food/value, 4 stars for ambiance, 2 for service.
(4)
Haley T.
I love this place. It's quiet, beautifully furnished and sunny. The waitstaff is nice and just attentive enough. There are plenty of vegetarian options and their turkish coffee is delicious. A perfect place for a quiet coffee date or a lunch alone with a book.
(4)
Roni E.
If only Central was closer to me and parking isn't a b*tch... I would love to come back for more. Andala is located right on the corner, so it's perfect for people watching along the street. It's got a very cozy, warm feeling. They make a mean Vanilla Chai in a large mug. Perfecto! Came here for the Yelp N00bs Event, and they were great at fitting us all in a large section of their place. The tables are small, but we also had a bunch of Yelp schwag laying all over the place. The hummus was great! The meat pies were great! The chicken m-something I can't remember the name was most excellent. (It's the one on the right hand side of the menu, written on the very top!). Alright to conclude, their food was awesome! Definitely on my list of awesome coffeehouses and must returns.
(4)
Tanaya P.
My boyfriend and I decided to venture out to Central Square for lunch today. Before I delve into the review, let me set the scene: I had not eaten a thing all day and was a starving monster. Thus, as soon as we spotted a place that didn't gross me out from the outside, I ran across the street and plopped myself at a table. Within 3 minutes, we had ordered the egg salad sandwich, lentil soup, veggie chili, hummus plate and the house specialty tea (the name escapes me). The food was fantastic! Albeit, my eyes were larger than my stomach and I couldn't finish everything, but I was stuffed. What's better is that it wasn't gross stuffed where you feel sick... instead all the food is fresh and delicious. After we stuffed our faces in silence, we ended up ordering a Turkish and Arabic coffee, which was a great way to cap our meal. I highly recommend checking out Andala for a quick coffee, meal or new spot to study.
(5)
Krystal T.
This place is good, not awesome. The ambiance is nice, but the staff sucks with the exception of a few. The food is good, and yes, they are constantly changing the staff. I live across the street from this place and do recommend their breakfast omelets and their coffee bar, but if you like you drinks hot, make sure you ask for extra hot.
(3)
Lucy S.
I discovered this restaurant about a year ago, when I came for an internship interview. I didn't get the position, but I did get an AAAMMAAAZZING cup of coffee. This is one of the few independent cafes in Boston, I believe, and I come here at least once a month. Like I said, the coffee is great and the foods good too, free wifi, outdoor patio, but most of all, I LOOVVEEE the staff! They're all friendly and chill which helps the all-around laid back feel of the place. I feel like I could be BFFs with all of them, the service keeps me coming back for more. Sometimes, I take an hour long commute to central square just to go there. For the love of coffee, or something more?
(5)
Jazzie F.
This is a cute coffee shop. I have been here several times w/ a good friend of mine. When I first came here, I thought it was so amazing and fell in love with it instantly. Having said all of that, the service here down-right sucks. Especially if you sit downstairs. I feel like this place is a classic case of they'll hire anyone off the street as long as they're a pretty girl. I have almost always been served by young women, and they are all for lack of a better term: retards. (I apologize if this term offends people but this is how I talk). The women care more about getting off their shift and you settling your bill than actual service. They are sometimes rude, very very very very slow, forgetful, and truly, completely, utterly, incompetent. Did I mention rude? I love the coffee, and the food is pretty amazing but I absolutely despise the service.
(3)
Kar M.
Awesome awesome awesome The menu selection is great! The location is better...but the food is the best part. Bring a large group and this place will accommodate...(why its called a coffee house...im not sure) o_O This is a great find and is really close to the Central Square T stop... Delightful :)
(5)
Betty M.
I had shakshokeh for breakfast. It was amazing. The coffee is different but good. They do not refill cup but the waitress was very sweet and brought me another cup on the house.
(5)
Ebru A.
Nice place If you like to wait an hour for a coffee. They offered a free baklava to 4 people as an apology.
(2)
Nicholas S.
I really liked the vibe this place has. It's laid back and there are tons of couches and chairs around. Some parts are more private than others, such as the downstairs area, so if you need a place for a meeting or just to get some work done, Andala is great. I had a "Chocolate Snail" pastry, which was fantastic, and a nice big cup of Chai Tea. I will definitely be going back to taste some of the other delectable-sounding treats on their menu. The free wi-fi wasn't bad, either!
(4)
Mike M.
When you are in dire need of a chill coffeehouse experience, I think Andala is a great option. Whereas most of your Starbucks and DDs and even like 1369 Coffee House can seem kind of chaotic and hectic, Andala just has a really chill vibe. From the table service by a really nice waistaff to the great outdoor seating you can enjoy once the weather gets nice, this place is pretty legit. The overall vibe in the store is just very chill with plenty of seating and free wifi to sit with your laptop and casually enjoy your day. I also think they have some pretty good food - I had a vanilla scone today that tasted totally fresh and delicious. They also ask for a $5 miniumum on your credit card so if you are cash strapped and just needing a cup of coffee, maybe you should go to Starbucks. My only complaint about Andala is that their coffee station for takeout is pretty inadequate. They only have generic pink packet sugar substitute instead of Splenda or real sugar. Also, they have salt and pepper on the counter right next to the sugar and cocoa powder - that would be a nasty mistake to pick up the salt by accident!
(4)
Aboud Y.
Love, love this place. Great Arabic food / drink in a comfortable atmosphere. Great for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or just a snack. Also a good place to chill and talk with friends or even read / study. The place does have its quirks (service and food are a bit inconsistent) but its all easily forgiven.
(5)
Ina C.
A tenth of a mile from my church, I have now found a new place to get my mid-food-coma, pre-church caffeine! I can only comment on the atmosphere and iced tea, but I still think it's reviewing because this place really has the most seating I've ever seen in a place with the words "coffee house" in the name. Seriously, tons of seating, especially in warm weather with the outdoor patio. It's got a warm feel with maroon-colored walls, high ceilings (on the main floor) and it's spacious. A great place to grab a meal, a coffee, to study, whatever! I'll definitely be back. Oh, my iced tea was delicious, by the way. Unsweetened, very herb-y. :) Love it.
(4)
Hiroki M.
This is my new favorite cafe. One of a kind ambiance, the food and tea is terrific as well. Great place for either just sitting down for some tea/coffee or taking a group of friends for some food.
(5)
Doris T.
Such a cute little cafe! I would totally go there with someonhe special for a relaxing afternoon/brunch excursion. The decor is nothing special other than a collection of mismatched middle-eastern trinkets and paintings but somehow everything comes together to give a wonderfully homey and relaxing atmosphere. I did not try any of their food this time around because of time constraints but I did try a pot of tea from their quite large collection. I had the honeybush and it was just I had expected, perfect on a cold day like today. They have cozy little corners if you want to be on your own or a basement dedicated for a larger group. I also tried a sip of chai from my friend's cup and it was quite delicious. Last of all, the staff there are incredibly sweet. The service is quite efficient and the staff are extremely friendly. Try this cafe Boston dwellers, you will like it :) PS Their online menu has a lot of typos but their collection is quite impressive regardless.
(4)
Liz M.
With Cambridge creepin' w/ cafes, Andala comes up a cut above the rest. Why? ....because it has all the ingredients of a great cafe! But why 4 stars and not 5? Well....it has all the ingredients except student friendly prices. (1) cozy atmosphere and different types of seating. one day you may want a couch, another day a huge table, another, in the basement (though its kinda spooky to me) (2) AWESOME HUMMUS. OMG. AWESOME. GET IT, even if you dont like chick peas. (3) GREAT COFFEE. aint cheap, but great. maybe it'll be a treat for all that studying. (4) CLEAN BATHROOMS! with all the studying and drinking and eating, you need a good can! (5) GREAT SERVICE. people are nice, not snooty. that goes a long way. (6) things to get: the hummus plate, the ground beef special, the latte with an extra espresso shot and coffee. best bets and best eats!
(4)
Steven P.
This place is quite cozy. I friend told me about it and I had to visit. While the coffee is slightly expensive considering how much they give you, the atmosphere is really nice. When I went into the basement I felt like I was walking into a friend's house. It was very inviting. I will definitely have to come back some time, it seems like a good place to sit around for hours working/reading while being supplied with a constant stream of tasty pastries and caffeinated beverages.
(4)
Nadia A.
I love the ambiance and decor of Andala...I have to say I really like their tea selection and coffee as well. I really like the side room with all the windows and the large tables make this a great venue for meetings. I've had just a few dishes here...all very tasty. My only complaint is that the service is ridiculously slow...very courteous, but SLOW. I'm not actually sure it's the waitstaff's fault...i have been to this place and been served by so many different waiters and waitresses that I don't think it's them. I actually think they need more organization or coordination to their waitstaffing system. Maybe they need to hire more people for busier times? The free wi-fi is definitely a bonus. Andala is a great addition to the Cambridge coffee houses. Another plus is that they are open late if you need to get work done. Overall, Andala = awesome.
(4)
Daniel P.
I don't want to say too much because, really, this place speaks for itself. This is where I take anyone who appreciates quality coffee in a stylish cafe. If I lived in Central Square, I'd be here every day for their Turkish or Arabic coffee. During one of my visits, the barista nearly yelled at the waitress for mixing up the two. This speaks to the caliber. It's a perfect spot for Sunday brunch or an afternoon snack while you study. When it's warm, the patio is quite lovely, providing a view of the square we all wish we could live in.
(5)
Cat M.
Like going to a Middle Eastern-Mediterranean friend's house and it turns out they're having a family reunion. Cozy, spacious, excellent for studying -- free wifi, yes, but also the staff won't bother you if you're just hanging out with your book. Delicious chai latte, expansive tea selection, and the goat cheese and honey plate is a treat to share with someone lovely.
(5)
Adam C.
This is my go-to spot, whether I'm stopping by for a laidback conversation with a friend or spending the whole evening working on projects on my laptop. No other Central Square coffeeshop has everything that I'm looking for. More specifically... -Late hours (open until 11 p.m. on weekdays) -Free and generally consistent wifi -Decent, reasonably-priced food and baked goods (I'm a sucker for the baklava, in particular) and, perhaps most importantly, -CHARACTER. The owner is always sitting downstairs at the big, black table with a couple of friends, shooting the breeze. He's an extremely friendly guy, and on more than one occasion has seen me and a friend sipping our teas and given us a pastry on the house! I'm not a tea connoisseur such that I'd be able to speak on the quality of the product, but I've always been satisfied with the variety of herbal and fruit teas, and you can never go wrong with the Arabic Coffee or the house tea. Bottom line: skip all the chains and crunchy-granola spots in the area - not to mention the pair of personality-less 1369s - and check out Andala!
(5)
Allie L.
Went to the Andala with a close friend of mine and my mom because we were looking for a quieter tea house so we could talk and hear ourselves think. All three of us really liked the Andala. I highly recommend the downstairs because it's got a fantastic vib. There are huge benches that form a square and a lot of instruments that you can play including bongo drums, a guitar, and many wonderful Indian instruments. It looks like an ideal place for a music jam or poetry readings. The food as others have said was very simple but very good. Sometimes, I think simple is best. A great little inexpensive place to go with friends and loved ones with good food and a nice quiet atmosphere.
(4)
Sam S.
Just away from the hustle and bustle of Mass Ave in Central Square is a little gem of a coffee shop called the Andala Coffee House. I searched Yelp for a good free wifi cambridge area option to do some work for a few hours. The second I walked in I knew I'd love it here. Such a peaceful atmosphere and charming middle eastern music, great table service, and a nice selection of food. I tried a goat cheese honey plate that came with 5 different kinds of fruit, and huge chunck of delicious goat cheese...well worth the $7.95 cost. The chai tea was delicious. As someone who loves working at coffee shops to get out of the house, I also have a love/hate relationship with them. The busiest ones are great for people watching, and often interesting but also loud, over crowded (fighting for seats/space/outlets sucks!) and very distracting. I recently sat next to someone in JP who held a sales conference meeting over their phone for an hour. However, I should go to the library if I want extreme peace and quiet. So on those days I'm in cambridge where I DO need to focus really well, this little coffee house will be my first choice. Next time I want to try the avocado pressed sandwich...yum!
(5)
Sheila S.
Yes, five stars. This place is good. The mint tea is REALLY refreshing and culturally accurate. All the Lebanese dishes are tasty. The hostesses are nice and willing to refill over the hours that you are there. Most importantly, it has comfy seats and big windows for watching the rest of the world go by as you study.
(5)
Jamay L.
FINALLY! I've found a cafe in Boston that rivals the cafes I used to frequent in Manhattan. Andala Coffee House is a gem. Just a 5-minute walk away from the Central Square T stop, it is a warm, welcoming, spacious place where you can hang out for hours, scribbling in your journal, typing away at your laptop, or chatting over tea and pastries with friends. With two floors that offer a range of seating options, from small tables to cushioned corner booths to large dining tables, you can come by yourself or host a meeting for your new startup. The wifi is fast, the staff is friendly, and the food is good, with plenty of snack and meal options..... I can see myself becoming a regular here!!
(5)
Ana R.
I met a group at Andala last night around 6:30pm for dinner & knitting. I ordered the Avocado Press Sandwich, which was delicious and big enough to satisfy, but a little pricy at $7.95. I also had a Chai, which was also very good. For desert, I opted for the rice pudding, which was super-cold and bland, unfortunately. Like eating wet white rice straight out of the fridge. I was told by a friend who frequents here that the oatmeal and fruit plate is very good. The space was very nice. The atmosphere was great and the owner was very kind. We were outside at the beginning of the evening, but it got a little chilly and windy (actually, their outdoor umbrella nearly collapsed on us, probably because it was being kept up by a chair). We moved inside, into one of three rooms with seating. There was a long, low couch which accomodated us well, but it was difficult to pass by other guests. The decor reminded us all of Algiers. There are many tapestries, rugs, etc to make the space feel cozy. The grill outside exhuded lovely smells of chicken and lamb kabobs. The waitress was a bit flighty and overwhelmed by our group of 6. We were there 3 hours and didn't see her after for the last 1 and a half. She brought us a pitcher of water and only 3 glasses and didn't come back to bring more. Parking is impossible. Walk if you can or take the T. I would come back here alone for breakfast or lunch, to read the paper or knit. Great atmosphere, bad for big groups or those looking to eat cheap. Probably really good for a date, as it's cozy and a little luxurious and different.
(3)
Kristine A.
This place is simply adorable. They have a wide array of teas which hits the spot on cold winter nights. They have good vegetarian options on their menu which are simply tasty. I had no idea they even had a downstairs since I have only been here once before. There is really neat artwork around the place which gives it character.
(4)
Calli C.
A little tricky to find, Andala is an oasis in the middle of Central Square. Warm, cozy, free wi-fi, where can you go wrong? I was meeting someone there, and the wait staff definitely didn't put any pressure on me to order up while I was waiting. They didn't put any pressure on us at all - didn't ask if we wanted anything else, if we wanted the bill, or anything. In this situation that was great because we just wanted to talk and be left alone, but I could see how it could be a problem in the service industry. Great tea. Mmmmm.
(4)
Meghan F.
I have been coming to Andala every so often for several years, and it is consistently pretty great. The chai lattes are delicious, the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, and the wifi is free. The service isn't always great, and the food can be overpriced, but the food that I have tried (hummus plate, vegetarian chili, some pastries) is generally good. There is a lot of seating and comfortable chairs and couches. In short, I would definitely recommend Andala: service can be hit or miss, but the location is great and I can't get enough of their chai!
(4)
Maya M.
After 2 years of wondering if I would ever find the kind of cafe I wished for in Cambridge/Boston, I finally happened upon Andala. I'm not sure I can adequately express how much I like this place. Great espresso, delicious muffins, very clean, FREE Internet, cozy space, lots of seating, great music playing, and it's not crowded (yet)! I fear it will become too popular and over-crowded eventually (which I guess wouldn't be totally horrible - I really want it to succeed!), but for now it is the perfect spot to write, read, and hang out. I'm so glad I found it...
(5)
Scott L.
Gotta echo what everyone else here has said -- Andala is a gem and a perfect study spot! Usually less crowded than 1369 Coffeehouse down the street, and with an airier, fresher vibe.
(4)
Caleb M.
I absolutely love this place. Whenever I need a cafe to work at, or if I want to enjoy a nice lunch with a friend, or whatever, I always come here. The reason why? It's amazing!! The decor/atmosphere/decorations/etc are lovely. All the random pieces of Middle Eastern art add to the general feel of the place, but not as much as the Middle Eastern utensils and tables and serving platters. I especially love the little silver teapots. The service is attentive and friendly (though I waited a little too long for food-and coming from me, that's saying a lot-last time I came) and otherwise very helpful. Now to the food- SPECTACULAR. I can't come here without eating the Jerusalem salad. The zeit u zatar labneh thing is very nice and the hummus plate is absolutely essential, even if you don't like hummus. Then there's the chicken musakhan sandwich, which is very nicely done. Even if you don't like desserts, get the delicious baklava. And-I almost forgot-to drink you must order the house special tea with cardamom. I usually get 2 pots which I refill (for free) once each, which makes for 4 pots of this amazing tea. To sum up- COME HERE NOW
(5)
Christopher R.
I work in a coffee shop, and frequent many others, so when I try somewhere new, I have very high expectations. That said, Andala is quite possibly THE coziest coffee shop in the Boston/Cambridge area. If you're looking for a nice, quiet, chill-vibed place to grab a sandwich and a fresh cup of coffee (french press preferred), you'd do well by giving Andala a try. It's not the absolute best coffee in town, but it's a cut above most, and the ambience is perfect. You even have your choice of lighting/setting, as there are several different areas in which you can sit, and even be waited on. It's a good thing for them that I don't live too close by, otherwise I'd most definitely be perched there for hours on a nightly basis!
(5)
Yasmin E.
very cute place to lounge around with a group of friends after dinner. the desserts weren't superb (they were ok...waaaay too sweet for my taste) and (while i don't smoke it) the company i was with complained about the arguila since it was relatively expensive and had very little taste. all in all however, on a crisp summer's evening, it is nice to sit under the grapevine (with REAL grapes mind you) louvered awning while sipping mint tea and nibbling on dessert. sounds cute huh....it is :) bon apetite!!
(3)
George S.
Very nice atmosphere. Very good coffee. Solid food. Big windows with a nice view. The tables are a bit crammed, so if you go to coffeehouses with your laptop in tow, things might get messy. It's nice to hang out with friends though. (And they have free Wi-Fi!)
(4)
J K.
Variety of choices for any meal. Great place to sit and chill. Staff were nice/helpfull and the prices were good too.
(4)
Liz P.
This place gets so much natural light and fresh air - it's a great place to go as Spring begins her descent on New England. The goldenrod color of the walls welcomes you in and invites you to stay for as long as you like. I love the rugs and wide array of seating from single seats along the window, to cafe tables for two, to homey couches on which I would love to laze with a hookah. The waitress was attentive enough, while still leaving me to the book I had brought. Even when she brought me my check because she was clocking out, I was invited to stay longer and assured that she was not rushing me out. I had the Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich and it was great! The tomato and onions tasted crisp and not at all soggy from meeting the hot egg and melted cheese. The bread was divine and wholly unique. The potato salad alongside was as good as the sandwich: very well seasoned with fresh herbs and perhaps the most delicious olive oil I've ever tasted. It's probably my own fault that I ordered a Darjeeling tea and not something more adventurous. It was fine, but I'm not going to rave about it the way that people seem to be about the specialty teas. I'll keep this in mind and order a different tea when I return to Andala, which I hope will be very soon!
(4)
Brett W.
Maybe it was my lucky day. Maybe it was the right morning. Or maybe this place is just wonderful. I suppose at 11am on a Thursday I wouldn't run into the long waits that the other reviewers ran into - in fact, our server was quite speedy with our food and tea. Once again I had the honey-cheese, pita bread, and fruit plate. I just can't get over how good the honey drizzled cheese and fresh fruit is. My friend had the egg salad sandwich which was soft and warm and scrumptious. The pot of Chai that we ordered brought the meal full circle. Yay!
(5)
Lauren G.
The hummus at this place is amazing, though I found the portion sizes to be a little on the small side. if you are really hungry and need to eat a lot of food you should probably not eat here because you will end up spending a lot of $$ for a decent sized portion. Service was a little slow but very friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is nice and a little funky. I would definitely go back (when I'm not so hungry) especially to try the coffee.
(4)
Amanda L.
If I lived in Central, I would probably come here all the time. It really spacious, but cozy as the same time. The only problem, it's a bitch to find. If you don't know where it is, you'll never find it. Since I go to Central about once every few months, I ended up going in every direction but the right one. Oh well, I guess I can't knock on anyone except myself. The food that we had was pretty tasty. I really enjoyed the spinach and meat pies the most. They were very moist and doughy, and delicious. This place is also really good for groups, there's a big open area where you can shlep a bunch of tables together, and its away from the other seats so it doesn't get too annoying for everyone else.
(4)
Cambridge Y.
Anadala's one of my favorite restaurants in cambridgeport. Staff is friendly and laid back, and they have free wifi. They also have a huge downstairs that's good to hold big meetings, and an awesome patio.
(5)
Dragony F.
A potentially great spot to people watch the characters of Central Sq. VS. a pretty trellis overhanging the patio Who makes my lunch that less interesting? the trellis blocking my view of the people in the street and outdoor seating area Chicken wrap = B+ = Syrian bread generously stuffed with cuts of chicken marinated and spiced in a wonderful sauce (nutmeg, cinnamon, cumin, etc.), comes with a side of hummus Agree with other Yelpers - great atmosphere, cool staff, good food but WAY overpriced ($10 for my sandwich)
(3)
Erik S.
Where Andala gets off calling itself a coffee house I'm not quite sure. The staff was friendly and efficient, neither woman working there was a barista. They serve Lavazza espresso and it doesn't go up from there. There was no latte art, the milk was way too frothy and the taste is about what i expected (read not good) from Lavazza espresso. I'm not sure about any of the other stuff here, but I wouldn't come back here for the coffee.
(3)
Cecilia L.
OK yelpers, I came to Andala like you told me to, and I ordered Turkish coffee like you told me to. My friend and I were naive of Turkish coffee, so if you are too it's like an espresso with sludge in the bottom. Lotta kick and it tasted great until we got three quarters through and simultaneously choked. I had brown teeth when I went to the bathroom. Are you supposed to drink the bottom part?? I still don't know. But yeah, this place is adorable and the servers are super nice. We moved to regular coffee after that and man was it good. We also had some delicious lunch: a divine chicken dish cooked with spices and onions rolled up in pita whose name I memorized for yelp and then forgot; and the Jerusalem egg sandwich with yummy potato salad. Chicken came with fresh veggies and wonderful zesty hummus. The one demerit is for tables too small for Scrabble, but no else cares about that. Oh yeah, and for the oppressively bourgeois convo: on one side two oldish ladies strategizing to use their ancient Wellesley connections for fundraising; on the other an insufferable authority on how the U.S. exploits third world people. Not that I disagree, but he fancied himself one of the coffeehouse intelligentsia, so brilliant the rest of the place must want to hear what he's saying. Come on now folks, I'm trying to play Scrabble here.
(4)
Kelly K.
I'm a little surprised by all of the positive reviews. I have been frequenting Andala since they opened. I've never written a review, but I would like to mention a few things. 1. The revolving door of staff there is intriguing. Their service is meh for takeout (I've had to wait a while at the counter - the only one in the restaurant - to wait for two of the servers to finish their conversation & get off their phones to take my order). The two times that I have eaten in the restaurant it took a LOOOONG time for ordering/getting food/getting check. If you're looking for a laid back lunch and have absolutely no where to go that's fine, but otherwise I'd think twice. 2. My coworker ,who eats there far more often than I, has noticed on a few occasions that $1-$1.50 was added to her tip amount on her credit card bill. That's pretty shady because most people would likely not notice something like that, but it adds up. 3. And last but not least - my biggest pet peeve. The pastries USED to be awesome. Fresh-baked tasting, varied, delicious, the whole nine yards. They would wrap leftovers in saran wrap and sell them for half price the next day. Now almost all of the pastries are saran wrapped. So pastries are mushy instead of flaky and pretty unappetizing. I have to wonder if they're just now selling day (two day?) old pastries for full price. The croissant that I got today was abysmal, and I don't have very high standards. The muffins come in a cardboard box a la Sams Club before being put out on the platter. Don't piss on my leg and tell me it's raining and don't charge me $2.50 for an old, store-bought muffin that is "supposedly" freshly baked with organic ingredients.
(2)
J. A.
This place is pretty damn near perfect--beautiful atmosphere, nifty decor, natural light, fresh breezes, and cool local owner---except for the the coffee. It's decent, but could be better. The staff are super friendly, but I do wonder why the owner doesn't just cut out the service altogether. The cafe with service thing seems to confuse many a customer. Just let us buy coffee and food at the counter and go sit undisturbed with our laptop. Regardless, if you are lucky enough to live nearby, there's no excuse not be a regular. It's places like this that make Cambridge a livable city.
(5)
Cira B.
Lemon juice by the glass. Not lemonade - lemon juice. Oh man. So good. I'm going to butcher the name, but I've had the shakohsheh here as well - it's listed as one of the specials, and consists of rice with a lightly-spiced tomato sauce and an over-easy egg. Pretty simple dish, and overpriced at $10, but very good nonetheless. Coffee is also quite good - the espresso isn't particularly complex, but it has a rich bold flavor that is difficult to find in other coffeeshops. It's the type of coffee that you sip and enjoy slowly. Mmm. The real standout for me, however, is the atmosphere at Andala. Love the outdoor seating area, and I love the unique couches and tables. I've stayed here all day doing homework and talking to friends, and I've never felt rushed.
(5)
Kenny L.
Thanks to Jessika for treating me to lunch after not killing me driving to Coolidge Corner to pick up her cupcake stand from Party Favors. The lunch that we both got was the egg salad toasted falafel wrap. Good tasting, but for $8, I felt it was a bit expensive for something I can definitely prepare at home. The decor inside was nice and comfortable for me to return for their coffees.
(3)
Kabir H.
Do we really need another coffee shop in Central? Yes, if Andala is any indication. If you're looking for takeout, there are faster options, but Andala wins for its style. It doesn't hurt that they've got a patio either, perfect for lounging outside with a laptop while the wait staff tend to your needs. For what it's worth, the smoothies, while not amazing, are the best I've found in Central. The coffee is no slouch either, and the food options are more than passable. On a side note, if you're prudish, be careful when ordering the meat pie. They're sort of traditional middle eastern fare, baked like a pastry with the sides folded in so it looks like a square, with a diamond in the center. I'm not sure if it was intentional, but mine.. had more than a passing resemblance to another kind of "pie", if you catch my drift. I ate the whole thing. It was delicious. ;)
(4)
Anna F.
What an excellent place to start a sunny Tuesday! I and my lovelies,in the shade of their grape arbor patio sipping a strawberry smoothie with my new pup in tow. They were kind enough to bring her some water in a little takeaway container. The service was swift and pleasant and what limited food I ordered was inexpensive and tasty (the smoothie was pleasantly simple- just juice, strawberries and banana). Will have to return to sample more of the menu.
(4)
Ms. P S.
This is a great place to stumble upon. I've been there late at night for delightful tea and scone (close to 11pm I think) and in the morning for a yummy breakfast of oatmeal with milk and honey and fruits. Their menu is truly varied and the service is excellent--the servers are incredibly nice and accommodating. I think that's what gives the place such a homey feel, like you've just walked into a warm and cozy house. Especially when you come in from the cold this is really the place where you can relax and enjoy tea or a warm meal at your own pace. Highly Recommended! ps: Of course having free wifi is an added plus! Oh and I found this video about the grand opening of the place earlier this year (?) on Cambridge community tv-- cctvcambridge.org/node/1…
(4)
Stephanie H.
went here tonight on somewhat of a whim when matthew c. and i realized we could care less about the first band at the middle east downstairs and had a bunch of time to kill. matthew had been wanting to check it out and we'd both been in search of a satisfying hot beverage. as others have mentioned, the inside is very cozy and warm, and yet it doesn't seem cramped either. the staff was really nice and um, yes, nice to look at. there is however definitely some confusion on how to go about coming and going in this place. we weren't sure if we should order at the front counter, if we should seat ourselves or wait, etc. the guy behind the counter told us we could have a seat and he would send someone over. i picked up the menus myself. [note for later: you'l also have to find your own napkins.] we took a seat at one of the counters along the windows - which actually open, hooray. good for people watching, though either the chairs or the counter seemed at kind of an awkward height for eating. also, to anyone picky about second hand smoke [not me], beware the people on the patio below you. the menu is pretty sparse but everything sounded good, and it's not exactly a place you'd go for a five course meal anyway. the waiter came over and matthew and i both ordered the chai, and a bowl of vegetarian chili. everything came pretty quickly and was delicious. the chai was excellent. spicy, creamy, but not in the dunkin donuts liquified pumpkin pie kind of way. real chai. plus the cup and saucer were really neat and i'm a nerd who likes those kinds of things. the "chili" however...was another story. don't get me wrong, i finished the whole bowl and enjoyed every bite, but it wasn't chili. it was a spicy vegetable stock with carrots, onions, celery, and kidney beans. also be warned it comes with a big dollop of sour cream in it. i like sour cream, but since it wasn't actually a hearty thick chili, i thought it cooled down the soup way too fast and seemed a bit out of place. anyway long story short i'd like it better if it was called soup. paying our bill and leaving proved to be just as confusing as sitting down in the first place. the waiter came back after a bit to take our plates and bowls away, and asked if we needed anything else. we told him that was it, we were all set. normally, these are the things you say when you want the check to appear soon. only it didn't. since we weren't in any hurry it wasn't a huge deal, just kind of confusing. we sat there quietly wondering, do we wait? do we pay at the front and not at the table? turns out they do bring a check to your table, but i ended up paying at the front anyway because i didn't feel like sitting around anymore. i really liked this place, and i'd also like to drink that chai every day this fall. it's just their system for getting from point a to point b that needs a little help, and maybe their chili recipe too. i have one if you want it.
(3)
Gracie B.
Is it okay to review a place before you actually leave? The thing is, I'm still here. I have a table, a laptop, a cup of tea, and not a whole lot more to do. So it seems okay. Maybe more experienced yelpers can let me know if I'm supposed to wait till I get home. Anyway! I like it here. My very very first impression was......"very cute, bright, and clean looking" Then, though, I had a kind of strange interaction with my waitress. I thought - maybe - she wasn't very friendly. (I won't go into details) It turns out she was just pretty eccentric. I thought she might be kinda rude - but she was just quirky. I appreciate that. In the end, I felt that I got good service. I did notice all the other servers seemed a little less odd and a little more friendly and customer service oriented. But my waitress made me laugh. Actually, I had another waitress after mine left. (cashed out with me. Asked me to use a credit card for a nine dollar purchase because last time she had to change a twenty dollar bill, it "...took like an hour") My second waitress was super sweet. (I think she noticed I was on Yelp when she brought me my tea. I noticed a little knowing grin) I got a regular salad and a latte. I was impressed with the salad. I had to debate spending six or seven bucks on a salad, only because I was afraid I would get one of those super small four dollar side salad type things. But not at all. The salad was plentiful. Not complicated. Just full of lots of crunchy green lettuce, some tender red pepper, just the right amount of small wedges of feta, and some delicious and fresh carrot sticks. The dressing was perfect. Not overwhelming, but spiced just right to compliment all the veggies. The latte was good. No complaints. They definitely got the foam right, but the strength of the brew - in my opinion - could have been a little stronger. Later, after finishing up my salad, I had a tea. They have a very nice assortment and the way they display your choices is lovely. Makes you feel like you are making a very informed tea selection. I chose chocolate mint. Yummm. They offered me a little pitcher of milk of my choice (skim or whole. Don't know if they have soy. Soy milk is not my cup of tea. Pardon the pun) I did feel kind of cold in the middle of the main dining area. I ended up putting on my scarf and vest to warm up. I don't know if I imagined it or not, but it seemed to me that after I did that I felt more heat streaming in. I wonder if they noticed me looking cold and actually turned up the heat. If so.....very nice touch. I look forward to trying the baked goods. I think I'll buy a muffin to go to take home for later. I like the feel in here. Not pretentious. There is a calm but busy vibe. It is bright and cheery. I will definitely be back. Oh yeah, and the free wifi is a great bonus. It's actually what brought me here after reading that on yelp.
(4)
Colin N.
Andala is right around the corner from my work. I usually just go there to grab coffee a couple of times a week. The coffee is usually better than *$ , but can be a little inconsistent. In the words of Jacobim Mugatu "Todd, are you not aware that I get farty and bloated with a foamy latte? " That's usually how the Soy Lattes are. To eat I've only had their almond croissant which is not bad. 1/2 the time the almond croissant is better at carberrys. The best thing about Andala is that it is usually quite easy to find a table.
(3)
Mikell T.
I'm so torn about this. On one hand, I love the food here. I could die happy eating nothing but the Jerusalem Egg Salad sandwich -- it's less egg salad and more hard boiled egg with cheese, olive oil, and tomato -- and I love the "house special" cardamom tea. The other sandwiches and hummous plates I've tried have also been excellent. But the service is, in a word, abysmal. I know it's a coffee shop, and I know it's a laid-back coffee shop, but there are some simple things I think can be expected even of a laid-back place like this. For example, once while out for lunch with coworkers, two of my group ordered one of the specials. Apparently, for whatever reason, those dishes took forever to make, and as a result, those two got their food a full 20 minutes after the rest of us did. It would have been appropriate to have warned us early on that this dish took much longer to make, thus allowing them to order something else and avoid making us all late for our after-lunch meetings. Today, after waiting a good ten minutes without ever seeing a waitress so I could get more bread for my hummous -- the large bowl was served with three small triangular slices of the Syrian bread -- I realized I needed to get back to work for a meeting. So I had to go upstairs, find the waitress, inform her I needed my check *specifically because I was in a hurry*, and on her way down to give it to me, she veered off to chat with one of the cooks for a couple of minutes. So while I'm not expecting 5-star-restaurant service, it seems simple respect for your customers when they are in a hurry would be appropriate.
(3)
Dana L.
So I will start by saying that I'm a coffee snob. The coffee is quite good here, although I have had better in Boston. However, this is the best coffee shop that I've been to in Central Square. It's big enough that you aren't bumping elbows with the people next to you, but not too large as to feel impersonal. They have a pretty good selection of coffees and teas, and will make custom juices from a variety of ingredients. We also got a bit of the food, including the pita and hummus and some wraps. Thumbs up, although this isn't exactly fine dining. I hear that it is great during the summer, because you can sit outside on the patio.
(4)
T I.
The best Coffee shop in Cambridge. It's really cozy to study. It might be a little dark to read at night. The food is good but what makes here amazing is the teas and the decoration. Most costumers are students. I'd prefer upstairs but downstairs is also fine. I can't remember if I used internet there or not. It's a little hard to find. I think I found it through yelp.
Went here yesterday, and what a treat it was. The kind waitstaff were patient with patrons there to chat. My friend and I sit and chatted and enjoyed our tea and coffee! I also had the avocado press sandwich, which was flavorful, but not overwhelming. The Chai tea was humongous! + es for the WIFI and for the late hours! Kudos to Andala! Yeah I said it. Kudos.
(5)
Josephine P.
I was really drawn to this place when I first rode by it. It looks so inviting from the outside and the word Cafe screamed out at me- amiably of course. I finally planned a day to go with my boyfriend and it was pretty disappointing. When we walked in the first thing we did was obviously walk up to the counter where all the waitresses and Batista's were and they all gave us awkward blank stares, then we saw the sign that said to seat ourselves. That wasn't a big deal but we would have appreciated a gesture or something indicating this fact. The service was OK once we sat down. When we sat down and looked over the menu, I noticed that there wasn't very much variety. I was going to settle for a Tuna sandwich, but I wanted to try a signature dish seeing as though this place was so unique. I eventually ordered a caramel latte and the Jerusalem Hummus Plate (Msabaha). (When I ordered it and asked for a caramel latte, the waitress said she didn't think they had caramel, and I thought it was strange that a cafe of all places didn't have caramel...) The latte is was ok and though the hummus special was really like 'no hummus I have ever had' (according to the menu), but it was more like an appetizer than a meal. I had about 5 slices of thin pita bread and a whole cup of hummus to eat. It's not really what I expected and the description is vague. My boyfriend ordered a chai latte and the Chicken Khalili Sandwich. I must say that sandwich was quite tasty! That chai however tasted like watered down cinnamon seasoning. I don't think I have ever had a worse chai tea in my life. This place is really pricey as well. At the end of the meal the total came to about $30 for the two of us. This place is not the worse place I have ever been to, but I don't think I'll be going back.
(2)
Annette N.
Coffee with cardamom. Scrumptious vegetarian chili. Marcel Khalife, Amr Diab, Umm Kulthoum on the stereo system. Free wireless. Narghile under the pergola. Totally relaxed atmosphere. A very cute waiter with curls like the black grapes of Paradise. What more do you want?
(5)
Jocelyn C.
Came here for lunch the other day, and was pleasantly surprised. I honestly don't know why I never came in here before, but I'm glad that the situation has now been rectified. The spinach pie I had was amazing and could easily become a new addiction for me (as if I need more of those). My friend's tuna sandwich was also really good (I took a bite, I couldn't resist). Very chill atmosphere and far enough away from the crazies of Central that you'll forget you're even still in Cambridge. I just hope business starts picking up a little more so I won't have to worry about it closing anytime soon. I will definitely come back, and often.
(4)
kwala t.
Since coffee shops are basically the equivalent of my office cubicle, I can be pretty picky. But I've been finding more and more little gems around Boston and Cambridge, and I really like Andala. However, if it weren't in my general neck o' the woods, I'm not sure I'd insist on going there - so to be fair, I'm giving it three stars (I was tempted to give four, but realized the fourth would be for proximity to my house, which is not a valid factor). On to the nitty gritty of the review. I've only been during the day, thus missing out on some of the hookah action mentioned in other reviews. But it's a cute and comfortable space - good light, ample seating, and an enclosed terrace with big windows. The downstairs is a little claustrophobic. If you're staying in, it's full-service - as in there are incredibly attentive servers eagerly refilling your water cup and checking in to ask how you're doing. There's a bit of a 'first table-waiting job' vibe to it, and the staff behind the counter, in contrast, are consistently non-plussed (borderline sullen...). The teas are great! I'd personally go back just for the teas - especially the pot of black house tea with cardamon, and a decent selection of many others. The coffee was so-so, and I haven't had any espresso drinks or smoothies. Lentil soup pretty good, and spinach pies are decent - a little too doughy for my taste, but I like the tangy Syrian/Lebanese style filling (ie no feta/egg like the Greek style). The rest of the menu looks really good - every time I've been someone gets one of the massive chicken sandwiches, and it's a positive sign that they always eat every last bite of it. Others have commented on the unreasonably high prices, and I just don't agree. It's not dirt cheap, but I haven't found a coffee shop in the area with food for much less than $8 per sandwich/salad. Andala's falls in the same range. It does lose points for not having enough power outlets - what is up, just buy a few power strips! I guess it's to deter people like me who camp out with laptop for hours, but still...I've encountered the same lack of powerage in a lot of other places and it's starting to make me sad.
(3)
Julian H.
I went there last night after contemplating between Legal Seafood which was walking distance from where we were at Kendall Square or taking the T to Central Square. I finally decided to take my wife there after reading about it so much lately. Andala is a coffee house. Laid-back ambiance, not too crowded and varieties of coffee and tea to choose from. On the food side, there were not much you can choose from. I didn't see any real food in the menu. However, when walking through the door, I saw the "Tonite's Specials" signage where Lamb Kebab was on the list. The lamb kebab was surprisingly good. Served with cous-cous, salads and pitta. My wife had a couple of pies, which were also served with salad. Overall, it was a nice experience for us to spend some quality time together.
(4)
Ashley G.
Yay, I am a fan. This place has the coziness of your eccentric aunt's library/living room. Their Iced Tea with cardamom is fantastic, their Iced Coffee is super strong (+) and their pressed avocado sandwich is yum. Super fresh and healthy ingredients. I only wish it weren't on such a busy road, otherwise I might make the tables outside under the vines my regular work spot!
(4)
Keith A.
I've had a hard time settling on a favorite coffeehouse in Cambridge, because every place I try seems to be missing a certain . . . something. Some indefinable quality, some je ne sais quoi, some essential integrity that makes a place thoroughly one with itself, a perfect fit for its neighborhood and its clientele. And I've been putting off writing a review of Andala, because my ultimate assessment of it is that it also lacks this je-ne-sais-quoility, and I can't figure out why. At the same time, it seems to lack it just a tiny bit less than its nearest competitors. Does this make it my favorite? Maybe. I don't know. I'm a perfectionist. I will say, in its favor, that it's a much more relaxing place than the packed-to-the-rafters 1369, Algiers and Diesel, all of which can get intense at peak times (which is to say between 10 AM and 9 PM). Free wi-fi is also a nice plus -- and, interestingly, at any given time, only a small number of customers are using it. How weird and cool is that? It's a decent dining deal, and the decor is charmingly funky. The caffe mocha is unsweetened, made with actual cocoa powder instead of Hershey's syrup; I appreciate this difference. Finally, the cinnamon almond brioche is made with either pure love or crack. Possibly both. It's unfortunate, though, that the one place in town that sells sensibly sized desserts has so few of them to choose from. Also, there is no such thing as decaf at Andala, so if you're coming by after 4 PM, watch yourself.
(4)
Tom E.
A possible rival for Carberry's in the Central Square coffee cafe stakes. Perhaps even edging slightly ahead as they have free wifi at Andala's. It's a pretty cafe with good reasonably priced coffee and some appealing-looking baked goods, although the eating options are not as wide as at Carberry's. The decor is french/islamic perhaps? Turkish is another possibility. Either way, it's the most pleasant decor of any of the cafes around, with some elegant furniture, a hidden area and lovely big windows to look out onto the world at. I'll definitely frequent this place from now on and try to work my way through the choices. You can't beat a place that FEELS good to be in. The staff were friendly and had no problems with me ordering a little coffee and then working for several hours with their freebie wifi. Actually, it's a good place for a bit of reading/work - it's not crowded like Sbucks and 1369, there's plenty of light and some nice background music (Massive Attack). There are no big tables for groups though, so don't come with your study group and ruin it for everyone else. Interestingly in my 2 hours at Andala's there were 2 different customers wearing black leather pants. That's surely an above average leather pant-wearing clientele than usual for a cafe. Anyone have any ideas why?
(4)
Vanilla P.
Ooh the men who work here are eye candy, but in a European / Armenian sort of fancy-walking-shoe-and-tight-jean sort of way. The men are all prettier than me, which is why they get 4 stars. Food's good, lots of tables, cute interior. Makes me want to own my own pad so I can paint the walls orange, but then I realize that I look better in pastels. Had some sort of salad, some coffee, and a dessert. All were good but I can't remember what they were....
(4)
Alex S.
Being a non-coffee drinker (heretic, I know) I have a somewhat different approach to cafes, asking questions like "do they have Diet Coke on tap?" as opposed to...well, I don't actually know what any of those coffee questions are, because I don't drink coffee. Anyway, they don't have Diet Coke on tap, but it is a whopping $1.50 for a can of it. Even though I get raped with respect to the soda, this place is pretty much the best place to study in Central Square. It's big, bright, friendly and plays good music to study by. Today's selection was Nat King Cole, which was exactly the perfect sort of music to make me feel guilty when I was slacking off and people watching out of their gigantic windows. The food is great here - it's a combination of standard cafe baked goods (bagels & croissants) and delicious Mediterranean items. The meat pies are delicious, and come with a very passable salad. The kitchen is downstairs, and apparently most of the menu items are made on the premises. The only downside for studying is that so many other people are doing it, you might get distracted by your neighbors. You'd think that chilling out in a cafe you wouldn't have the two people next to you talking about applied statistics while you were studying it, but you would apparently be mistaken. I guess that's what you get in the city of higher learning. Lame. If this cafe goes out of business, I will cry.
(4)
Ali L.
This place was excellent, it was big and the layout with all the persian rugs and such reminded me of my parents house. The waitress was very nice and attentive (AND donning a Yelp! tshirt), she would come by every few minutes to make sure we didn't need anything and promptly brought our food and drinks. My lentil soup was the best I ever had and my cousins hummus plate was among the best I ever had - especially her toasted pita bread which wasn't too crunchy or too flaky. The place itself seemed very much like a hangout spot for locals to use the free WiFi, have some coffee, and on a nice day smoke some hookah outside -- all in all it was awesome.
(5)
S K.
Great coffee, food and middle-eastern fare, the minuses are a less-than-desirable service , although all the servers are very friendly they seem to move at a glacial place. However, a great place to relax and unwind (especially if you are not in a big rush)
(3)
Kelly W.
The food was delicious, the outside seating was really nice, and I really enjoyed the mint tea.
(4)
Nabeel H.
One of the only coffee houses in Cambridge with a healthy amount of space. There is seating upstairs and down in this middle-eastern style coffee house. A combination of that warm arabic hospitality and the fact that is is a converted home makes it feel like you are at a friends' house where he is serving you excellent pastries and arabic coffee. And like any good friends house, the free wifi is welcome. My new favorite Cambridge coffee spot.
(5)
Meaghan S.
EDIT: 9/18/07 Went here again this weekend. This place can be so weird. The servers seem perpetually confused. There's not a great system for cashing out. I still like it.. but there are kinks. ------------- EDIT: 8/31/07 So I finally got around to going to Andala again. My experience was far better this time around. The waiter (a teenage boy) was very attentive and helpful. I ordered the iced Chai and a muffin (I think it was almond-apple) both were very good. I hung out with my food and laptop and chilled there for an hour or so. It was very relaxing. And it looks like they have shisha now - in 9 flavors apparently. I will have to try it out! I'm glad this place is down the street, and based on many of these other reviews it seems that my bad experience was a rare occurrence. ------ I live very near Andala and often drive by and see people sitting there at all times of day. I always wanted to check it out and never had the opportunity until yesterday. I must say, that I was extremely disappointed. The decor inside was very cool, but since it was such a nice day we opted to sit outside. The cafe wasn't particularly busy, but we asked the man at the counter if we should order there. He asked if we were taking food to go or eating in. We told him we would be eating there but we would like to eat outside on the patio and he told us he would send a waitress out with menus. So we sat on the patio and sat... and sat... and sat... Now mind you this was the middle of the day on a Monday, the cafe was not crowded and there were three staff members on duty. After about 15 minutes of waiting my boyfriend went back inside and asked, "Can we have some menus while we wait for our menus?" Kind of sarcastic, but we still hadn't been acknowledged by any wait staff for 15 minutes. The man at the counter, the one who told us he would send someone outside said, "Well isn't that ironic that you want menus while you wait for your menus," and gave my boyfriend menus and he came back outside. We looked at the menus, not a huge selection but the food and coffee seemed interesting. We were ready to order after about 5 minutes of deciding, but were made to wait another 20 minutes. No one came out to take out order AGAIN. At this point we had already wasted enough time and decided to get some food at Falafel Palace or The Middle East. We eventually went with the Mid East. I REALLY wanted to like Andala - but based on their total lack of customer service I must give them one star. Since they are so close I am prepared to give them another chance sometime soon. But I was extremely disappointed in my first try. I want to give props to the Middle East, our waiter was also the host and bartender tending to 6 or 7 tables of people and we were taken care of far more quickly there than at Andala.
(4)
Michael C.
A hit-or-miss menu combined with less-than-minimal service make this place a complete mixed bag. On the plus side, it's the ideal place to meet friends or hang out.
(3)
Aimee P.
Andala is a wonderful place to go to hang out with a friend or to get some work done. The interior is warm and inviting, polished wood floors gleam beneath rich oriental carpets. The atmosphere created by the vibrant wall colorings and marble topped tables will keep me coming back time and time again. Nearly everything on the menu is scrumptious, however the coffee/espresso drinks seem to vary in quality from day to day. Aside from this, my only other (minor) complaint is that the seating could be more comfortable. There is one rather hard sofa and a number of small (but beautiful) tables. These complaints are so minor that they are hardly worth noting. I love this place and will make it a regular haunt. Edit: This has been posted for several days, and I have since realized that I forgot to mention the FREE INTERNET- how silly of me.
(4)
Sean E.
I've recently gotten back into coffee after about a five year hiatus. So on my way to the Central Sq. T stop in the mornings I've been alternating between Starbucks and 1369 -- not really enjoying either of the places. On one hand you have your over-the-top bordering on grating cheerfulness at Starbucks and the cooler-than-thou stuck-up-ness of 1369. Can there not be a comfortable median? Then Andala opened up. At first I didn't know what was going on with this place. For months I watched as they worked on the inside and outside of this little corner store. At one point I couldn't tell -- are they open? What are they serving? Why haven't they gotten rid of the sign for the old place that says they sell wraps and smoothies? What's it called? They have hookahs in the windows -- what does this mean? Well a few weeks back they finally had a grand opening and put a couple small signs in their window saying Andala Coffee House. Tired of the Starbucks vs. 1369 routine I went in and have been stopping in on the way to and from the T ever since. For me, they have a few big pluses going for them -- they're cheaper than both those places, the people working there act like regular human beings, and (this one's just for me) its location is much more convenient. Also, the pastries and "gargantuan muffins" are pretty damn fine. Even the half-off day olds are good. I take a star off because the quality of the coffee can vary a little (though the hot-chocolate is excellent). A welcome addition to Central Square.
(4)
Gabor Z.
Best breakfast place in Central Square. I've only been there for brunch and breakfast on the weekend. The food is tasty and healthy and the place is super cosy. It is Middle Eastern so don't expect bacon and eggs. They have outdoor seating and the wait staff I experienced is always very friendly.
(4)
Alison P.
Let's hear it for Cafe Andala: tons of natural light, two rooms that feel spacious even when packed, great music at a reasonable volume, free wifi, baked goods AND soups/salads, friendly staff, rugs and lanterns (!), and it's even bright enough inside that you can read without straining your not-hip-enough eyes. On top of that, it's open late, unlike several of the other awesome cafes north of the Charles. The espresso is so-so, which breaks my heart a little because I love my espresso. For that, I took off a star. But for a dangerous raspberry-almond muffin, a beautiful salad, and several hours to finish my *@#&@^ thesis, I'll love this place with all my heart. Oh yeah, and they have about 30 teas. Amazing!
(4)
Kathryn D.
Andala has tons of different kinds of teas, fresh juices and lots of coffees and espresso. You can even choose between Turkish and Arabic coffee (which is Turkish coffee brewed with spices and sugar). The prices are really reasonable. They also have baked goods like bagels, croissants and baklava - the lemon poppyseed croissant is the best one I've ever tasted. There's talk of having sandwiches too, at some point in the future. The latte ($2.50) that I had there was pretty standard, but it was also the first day for the guy who made it, so if it's that good the first day I bet they'll be great in a week. The ambiance in this place is awesome - really warm and inviting. Big oriental rugs on the floor, brass tables and brass on the exposed brick walls - I would live in a place like this. They have free wireless and a printer, and in the warmer months they will have outdoor seating. I don't know the exact address of this place, but it's right near the corner of River & Western. -------- Edit: I've been back here a few times now, and they have added soups and salads. This will push my rating up one more star, since now I can get a coffee AND a snack.
(5)
Amy M.
Went here for the first time today and loved it. Beautiful surroundings, lots of interesting space, wifi. The best chai I've ever had. I look forward to going back to try the food because it looks amazing.
(4)
Malkah F.
As always, a great dinner. I love this place as the ambiance is incredible, the wait staff friendly and caring, and the food yummy. The prices are low if you compare it to other places serving home-cooked middle-eastern fare. Another very special thing about this place is that for those of us involved in social justice work -- this is HOME. There is no other restaurant where we can find support and the owner is always willing to share support for our work. As a Palestinian he understands human rights -- and he also understands women's issues, LGBT issues, and anti-racism work. Enjoy the best food in and around Boston at reasonable prices, feel completely at home, and know that you are supporting a business that is on the side of human rights and dignity for ALL of us.
(5)
Tianyi Z.
Love their coffee and omelet, and the sandwiches are pretty good. Cosy environment, great place for brunch or to have a cup of coffee by the street.
(5)
Ana B.
The best place to get a coffee or a a tea around Central Square and meet a friend, read a book, or work a bit. I love to sit there and just enjoy the space- feels like a large middle eastern living room. The large windows overlook the street, there is an outside patio in the summer, and a cozy downstairs. The crew is very nice and will not rush you up. The service is a bit slow and unpredictable but they are so welcoming and casual that it really does not matter. The food is just ok but pricey. But the teas, coffees, pastries and desserts are all wonderful. I love to get a cardamom tea or an arabic coffee and a croissant. They serve it properly, with plates, silverware and napkins. Quite charming. One of my all time favourite secret places.
(4)
Fatos B.
I will try to be fair. I went there for hookah. So I'm not going to comment on coffee or anything else. When I first entered the store, the lady could not for the life of her tell me what the hookah choices were. I had to ask if they have what I was looking for. They said they did so I ordered. First the wait was too long, and once it came it was terrible. It wasnt working. They had no idea how to set it up. The waitresses were not particularly interested to make it work. Everything was confusing and a mess. Seeing that there was nothing I could do anymore I asked if they could puton the soccer match for me to watch. One of the guys said yeah we do if you pay 400 dollars. They were literraly looking at me weirdly until I left. It appeared that they didnt want me in there. There was a waitress who was nice and one of the younger owners. That was the only positive.
(1)
Julie B.
Service takes too long and the orders were not correct the last few times we came here as a group.
(2)
Ama N.
I've been coming here for a while, just for the teas (the tea is heaven)and coffees alone ....but one thing that sucks about here is that their customer service is horrible! So the waitress brings you a menu, which by the way has a bunch of food stains on it... you seriously lose your appetite. Then she literally will never come back! I went there this past week and had to leave the room I was sitting in and walk to the register and ask the guy behind the counter if he could kindly tell our waitress we are ready to order. He looks at me like I have leprosy and says "ya she'll be around". Like why am I being treated like I have no right to ask but as a customer im waiting for 30 min for you to come so i can order a latte! I dont get it but everytime it is the case here and its getting old. Oh and I only had lentil soup here once....just bring some seasoning with you if you want it -_-
(3)
Adam M.
+++++ -Great location in central square -Great place to study, no pressure to leave at all -Amazing Arabic music -Very chill place -Nice interesting crowd of people -Tea!! ------- -Bad service (The staff keeps changing) -Mediocre food
(3)
Nancy Y.
Best hang out place in Cambridge. Somewhat crowded on weekends but my closest friends and I loved hangin out there. Best teas, coffees, and cappuccino's around. Also they had a great chicken sandwich. I miss the grape vines in the summers there. Very laid back and very warm place to be.
(5)
Francisco M.
The rice had no flavor and the service took too long. The chicken was decent but the 35 minute wait for the plate wasn't worth the bill especially since the portions were small. The iced chai was OK but didn't come out until after we ate and the waiter never checked on us so we had to pay the bill up front. I would not eat there again.
(1)
Kasem W.
Great food, great service, great price, great choices. I first discovered this place at a meetup.com event, then I got hooked. Their chicken and beef dishes are all fantastic, and their choices of tea is superb.
(5)
Mar M.
I used to be a regular here, as I live right around the corner. As other people mentioned, service is really horrible here, but I put up with it - I need a place to work and I don't mind waiting for a cup of coffee. However, today is the last day I come here. We went over to order at the counter, as I knew they would take an awfully long time to service us at the table. But the waiter insisted we sit down... we've been waiting for her ever since... it's been an hour. We gave up - but hey, at least we have a free place to work.
(1)
Matthew B.
I've been in central for a year and avoided this spot under the impression foods came second to the college charm of offering hookah. I'm glad to announce today how wrong my conclusion was. The music is as authentic as the culinary delights that span the gambit of Middle Eastern delights. I wish I had headphones as I write this up on the free wifi, but I sure appreciate the latter. Rich, flavorful and plentiful - I could spend every meal here today and be satisfied with the diversity of taste. I rocked a doughy, flavorful set of meat pies that make my mouth water to imagine again while my lady enjoyed the traditional plate of the usual suspects, all of which were incredible. We gave the house tea a shot with its cardamom warning duly noted and I must say, it was the right choice. It's a tasty delight you're not going to find down the street at Starbucks. On a similar trajectory, rock the mint lemon smoothy for the most refreshing drink this side of the Mississippi. Overall, I'm pumped to be a just a stone's throw away. In a word, this spot is flavorful. Enjoy.
(4)
Maria G.
Cute coffee house that is just steps away from central square. They offer a variety of selections of coffee and food. Price is reasonable. Coffee/tea is around $3 - 4. Service is okay. The place is not big but has plenty of tables inside the shop. I ordered hot cider and it was alright. Nothing much to "complain" about.
(4)
George H.
Stopped by around 4 pm for a really late lunch, so we ordered the soup. I had the lentil. It came out quickly enough but it was Luke warm and not really that great, however, the Decor and the quirky charm of the cafe, decorated by genuine grapes hanging from the vines above, stole our heart! Plus the server was a very kind and despite being very busy because he seemed to be the only person serving outdoors, indoors and on the floor below, he was efficient and not at all cranky as other servers are wont to be when they are overwhelmed! So, that rates a 4 stars in my book! Would definitely be back, if I was living close by! And I would definitely recommend it!
(4)
Anpan W.
The ambience was interesting, but food was underwhelming and overpriced, and it was hard to find both a place to sit (laptop squatters took over big tables) and that was quiet (bromance start-up date and awkward MIT students on a date). I ordered the fruit, goat cheese, honey, and pita item. There was not enough honey nor enough pita.
(2)
Alon R.
I had high hopes for this place due to the high stars and recommendations. I am sad to say this was the most foul meal I have ever eaten in Cambridge. I ordered the meat and spinach pies which were literally microwaved out of a box. They were literally inedible. We literally just left the money on the table and walked out because it was so poorly managed and poor in taste.
(1)
Rebecca D.
Love this place! Very cute, quiet, good wifi. Came here while working remotely for the week in Boston. Hunkered down for the afternoon. Staff was super kind and helpful and the food was amazing! Fresh, tasty and healthy. I had the tuna sandwich and it was awesome. Some of the best hummus I've ever had, fresh and homemade. Wonderful tea selection too, I highly recommend this spot to anyone. I'll definitely be back!
(5)
Michelle J.
I was a bit hesitant about meeting my study group here after reading a few of the other reviews on Yelp. However, it was too late to change venues and well sometimes you just have to see things for yourself. When I got here I ordered an apple cider at the counter and then found my group. We were actually at the comfy table setup right in front of the register. The barista brought over my cider and suggested that the lower level had additional seating if we needed more space. We declined and she left us alone. And didn't bother us at all during our time there. A bunch of folks had ordered and got their food and we just enjoyed the ambiance and our conversation, and of course studying. The food I heard from those who ate was average. I liked the cider. It wasn't too sweet and was just what I needed on a cold winter night. The menu was a bit on the pricey side to me but the drinks were average price of most coffeehouses in the area. When we left we paid and there was no fuss. I'd come here to study again. This is a chill place and has more room than most other coffee houses which tend to be kind of cramped hole in the walls.
(3)
Cassandra F.
I love Andala. I unfortunately relocated and no longer live down the street! However, I did come back digitally to return the gratitude and still take the T two stops to go. Their tables are great for study and their tea comes in a pot with little glasses which is charming and practical. I would strongly recommend the Oatmeal topped with coconut shaving and milk with raisin surrounded by a medley of delicious fruit. As a Grad Student, I gained a lot from the positive atmosphere and waitstaff. It's a great location and a special place to me since I have had some life changing conversation their. In a way, it remind me of a charming little spot in the West Village, yet in Cambridge.
(5)
Nina D.
Service here is really bad and the food is sort of bad and overpriced. But overall, the staff is super friendly and the space is unparalleled in its convenience and ambience. In spite of its very strong limitations - Andala remains one of my regular neighborhood spots.
(2)
Alexander P.
This was a very cool, authentic Arab cafe experience. I ordered Turkish coffee and a foole plate. The Turkish coffee was simple but good. It was served with an empty espresso cup and the copper pot that it had been prepared in so you could pour it yourself, which was kind of cool. The Foole Plate was excellent. The pile of fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers and onions mostly) atop a warm bowl of a heavenly combination of mashed fava beans, chick peas garlic and olive oil, served with warm pita made for a really good light breakfast. The Arabic-speaking staff, carpet-covered floors, and walls adorned with various excerpts from the Qur'an reminded me of my days abroad. They have a lot of authentic dishes I look forward to trying in the future.
(4)
Xenia A.
If you want a quick dash in and out, this place is not for you. If you want a place to work, or read, or catch up with a friend, this place is perfect! There is tons of seating and natural light. Food is delicious, there is a huge variety of teas to choose from (that come in pots) and coffee and amazing, divine desserts. In the warm weather, their seating outside under the trellis is so nice - especially when paired with the mint smoothie!
(5)
Miriam A.
Is it bad that the first word that comes to my mind about this restaurant is RATS? I came here twice with my friend to smoke hookah outside on the patio and I couldn't help but feel like we were intruding on a rats night out taking place on Andala's property. I'm not stating that the rats came from inside the restaurant but they run around freely and its safe to say they probably make their way inside as well. Can't they have some sort of exterminator come on a regular basis to prevent this? Okay enough about that...I have to admit the food is yummy here. I've had the foole plate, chicken kabob special, and some sort of chicken sandwich. All delicious and reasonably priced. Hookah is great. Service is uber slow...its okay though no need to rush, hookah time= relaxing time (sans rats).
(3)
Olivia J.
Great tea selection + they give it to you in a big steel pot so it doesn't get cold for a long time. You can also ask for more hot water without extra pay. A very fitting place to get work done!
(5)
Edward S.
a really chill, place... I enjoyed a quietly momentous hour or so under this amazing grape trellis, sipping the best coffee and and chatting with arbitrary, interesting strangers...
(5)
Stefan K.
The location is nice. Grapevines as roofing of the terrace. I've been here twice. Loved the avocado sandwich the first time I ate here. Tea is good too. Went back another day to get the avocado sandwich again. Unfortunately they were out of avocado at 11 am. Waiters we're terribly slow that day. It took 20 minutes to pay.
(3)
Raül R.
So I'd seen lots of people at their patio and wanted to try. We ordered tabule salad, chicken kabab and beef with rice and some vegetables. Because the service is extremely SLOW, they brought the salad first and then took more than 15 minutes to bring the other food, so the person who ordered it had to wait with her food on the table for the rest of us. There wasn't so many people at the restaurant and we were just 3. We had to ask for our food because they hadn't told us anything about the delay... Food is good (tabule just ok) although not very generous quantities. And I think it's a little pricey too. Good location though.
(2)
Jen B.
The service here is atrocious. Don't be fooled by the quirky decor. This place is awful. We went here for a tea/coffee break and were appalled from start to finish. Our waitress dropped my husband's croissant, then brought out the bill before our beverages arrived. The "waitress" (sorry, but she obviously isn't qualified for the job title) then had to consult the check to remember what my husband had even ordered. When the drinks came, my fruit smoothie tasted tasteless (and odorless) and the mint tea had no flavor. THREE PEOPLE came to see if we'd paid our bill within 4 minutes of us getting our items. When the second server came around, my husband said we hadn't paid yet, as he didn't want them to see that I'd left no tip. Within 32 seconds (I am not exaggerating, unfortunately), the third server came around and just took the bill holder. Oh well, the secret's out. They didn't get tipped and I'm now writing this review to spare others the terrible experience of going to the Andala. If there's karma on the cafe scene, this place will be under new ownership sooner than later.
(1)
Ellie W.
Props to Andala for its cozy-warm ambiance and intimate coffee joint feel, but if I wanted service so slow I could almost feel arthritis and osteoporosis coming on, I would've asked a 90 year old to take my order. I was in a rush, so ordered the bagel of the day and a bottle of water, to go. The bagel of the day consisted of cream cheese, tomato slices, and avocado. I kid you not, this order took 25 minutes. In 25 minutes, I could've gone to purchase my own toaster oven, some bagels, tomato, avocado, and found some random electrical outlet in a train station to make my own BAGEL OF THE DAY. It was quickly becoming the BAGEL OF TOMORROW, seeing how slow service was. There was approximately...no, there was ONE other person in this place, so I don't know how it could've possibly taken so long to slice up some goods and shove it in an oven. The staff wasn't remotely apologetic when I asked several times how much longer my bagel would take, which only added to my annoyance. As most men should know, you don't mess with a hungry woman, unless you are prepared to experience the wrath of the raging woman. Yes, I hold hunger grudges.
(1)
Georgina C.
I scheduled a relaxed Sunday meeting with someone I was planning a freelance project with. While I was waiting I ordered a carrot juice and brioche which were both so good I did not even mind when he finally showed up 40 minutes late. I love the location and how much outdoor seating there is. I definitely want to return to try something new, it is the perfect place to spend time with friends or relax on the weekend with a good book.
(4)
Madeline N.
I came in with such high hopes! But was sadly disappointed. Why? 1. I walked in to buy a drink and they told me to go back outside to do table service. 2. I went outside and found one waiter, frazzled, trying to serve the full back porch. 3. I waited 4. Waited 5. Finally was served and asked for water in addition to my food 6. To receive water in a cup that still had lipstick marks on it from a previous user Let's just say I've been more impressed before.
(2)
Rachel N.
Conflicted, I do love the simple Middle Eastern fare they have here, and the space is lovely (think warm, pseudo-bazaar feeling) for studying or meeting with friends; however, all that pro-Palestine, "freedom from the Israeli occupation" stuff on the walls makes me a taddddd uncomfortable -- so, if you're looking for some delicious hummus or a falafel wrap and able to keep your eyes on the food, not on the decor, then Andala is a win. Oh, plenty of seating (they have a downstairs too, with waiter service), unsure abt the wifi status. Coffee + snack/meal is usually around $10-12.
(4)
Heidi L.
The great thing is that there's no real rush at Andala -- you can stay there for a while among all the lovely decor. The downside is that I suspect part of this comes from the somewhat slow service. Note that even at 9am most of the pastries are gone, but the tea and coffee are pleasant and the food is unique (although it is a bit pricey a la Algiers). I'd come here to work or catch up with old friends, but not for the food.
(3)
Yaka M.
Great Atmosphere. Spacious and lots of seating so you can spend a good amount of time here without getting angry look from the staff. Food: I had Chicken Khalili Sandwich. It was pretty spicy but very, very good. Goes very well with the hummus that came on the plate too. Drink: Lemon Mint Smoothie is great.
(4)
Marilyn C.
Came here for lunch last weekend and relaxed outside under the grape vines. Iced coffee was good. During a previous trip I had one of their smoothies - lemon/mint and it was good. This place straddles the line between 3 and 4 stars. The food was pretty good - if it were cheaper (not that it is pricey) I would up this place to 4 stars. Service was up to snuff. They have hookahs if your into that.
(3)
Anthony L.
I am really going against everyone's reviews, but I just don't love this place. I walk and bike ride by Andala almost every day on my way home from work. I've always been intrigued about this place (especially since I love coffee and tea). On the outside, this place is extremely adorable. There are plenty of outdoor seating areas, which is great in the summer. The inside is equally as adorable. I can tell the owners really put a lot of thought and effort into this place. I've never been to the downstairs, but it looks huge. I really enjoy how there are different sections of the house for various uses (board games, studying, group studying). When I went there my first time, I would have rated this place 5 stars. I love the free wifi and the tea was great! The second time was a total flop. - I was rather parched, as it was a scorching summer afternoon. I was craving an iced coffee, but didn't want to walk across the street to Starbucks or 1369, Andala it was! I ordered my beverage and the barista just looked extremely confused (maybe he was new, maybe he never works on the coffee bar, who knows). He pulled out a red solo cup (you know, the ones we all use to play beer pong with) and filled it with ice and coffee and handed it over. Confused, I asked "do you have a lid or something?" then he tossed one that hardly fit to me. Drinking the coffee, I was unimpressed. I could tell this was not double brewed, yet, it was brewed as hot coffee (so it was extremely watered down and had no taste). - My friend ordered a danish (they make the danishes look so delicious in the display case). Thinking it was made in house, the man bends over and pulls out a Stop and Shop plastic basket and pulls a danish out with his hands (without gloves or anything protecting his nasty paws with the store bought danish). I was extremely unimpressed with this! Even if you are going to buy your danishes from Stop and Shop, at least have them taken out of the box to make it look a little more authentic. I much rather go to 1369 for a perfectly brewed iced coffee and home made (or, at least, we think) dessert.
(2)
Chip B.
I really liked this place when I moved into the neighborhood in summer 2011. I dined and studied there about 6 times per month on average. Somewhere between then and now (spring 2013) a clear decline in service and quality occurred. Wait staff often do not realize when I've settled and am ready to order. Entrees do not come out at the same time for multi-person parties. My food once arrived quite cold, and the coffee is good but nothing to write home about. The atmosphere is wonderful for studying or chatting, but that is not enough to make me want to visit as often as I used to. I really hope the owners take note of the decline and correct course.
(2)
Lesley K.
Service isn't great. Food was just ok. Cute restaurant though, the patio seating is nice for a warm day.
(2)
Jing Y.
This is a cute middle eastern coffee shop that has a living room vibe. They have the equivalent of a sun room towards the front of the shop. I can only imagine how great it would be to go on a sunny day!
(4)
Nitya D.
Gah. I am so conflicted. Here's why: Andala is an adorable cafe with great food, lots of seating and free wifi. It's definitely an excellent spot to chill for a bit while reading or studying. The chairs are comfy, the tables are big enough. But gahhh the food. The portions do NOT match the prices. The prices are average at ~$10, but you do not get your money's worth at all. Which is so sad because the food really is delicious and as a result I always want so much more. It's definitely a great little cafe, and I do love it. But only after I've eaten a full meal elsewhere.
(3)
Brian C.
This is a wonderful coffeehouse and restaurant featuring Palestinian-style Middle Eastern food and drink. The owner, Sami, is very welcoming, the food is delicious, and the portions are reasonable (I.e., not more than you can or should eat). A great addition to Central Square!
(5)
Sam M.
Review on their coffee... No knowledge about their coffee, machine, nor does the employee care to even know how to do her job. Two thumbs down.
(1)
Tanya S.
This place is amazing for brunch/lunch. The waiters are really relaxed, the coffee is great - mocha is tasty! And the dishes are so fresh and have a great mixture of tastes. The salads, sandwiches, hummus is all great. They also have tasty juices and a huge selection of teas. It's rarely busy and the atmosphere is really cozy - so rare in the Cambridge/Boston area. There is even outdoor seating when it's warm. A gem.
(5)
Allison R.
There was no music. I thought that was odd. It was practically silent in there. I met a personal shopper for a consult and while they appear to offer full meals, we were meeting for coffee and tea, so I had a Lapsang Suchong. Love that tea. It was a little strange that I was given like a 3 ounce cup to pour my tea kettle into, but whatever. Maybe that's their thing. Totally average and okay. I'd have another meeting here if I needed to catch up with someone near Central. Now, onto the important stuff: do I hire the stylist?
(3)
Mabel F.
The service here is SO BAD. Who doesn't take multiple credit cards anymore? And who takes 30 minutes to process a request to pay? Flip side, the Chicken Khalili sandwich was indeed spicy and delicious. What a nice surprise. I ate the entire thing after my workout. My friend didn't like one of the two specials. The name of the dish starts with an S and contains eggs and tomatoes. I had been here before, and the Arabic coffee was great. This time I tried the filtered coffee, which was good as well. Stick with the drinks and pay cash. And make sure you come when you are not rushed for time!
(3)
Lisa Y.
I really tried to like this place, but I can't. The food is mediocre that basically it's like a ordinary cafe. They try to make it more like middle east food but there is nothing like that...seriously...The eggs and omelet is just like any brunch you have across the street. The tomatoes are just chopped up and put in a plate. The meet (chicken or beef) are just cooked so at least people are safe to eat them. I want to ask the owner/chef, where is your passion? Or do you simply hit up something in the microwave oven? Things taste not fresh at all. And they charge a price like a formal restaurant. Is it just me that feel like that? In addition to food, their service is equally bad. I waited for forty-five minutes to get a cup of water after begging three waitresses and failed. Then when the food is finally on the table, it was so disappointing and not even hot (kind of suspects it is leftovers from last night).
(1)
Sharon L.
Highly recommended to everyone my favorite food there which is called shashokeh, it is a little bit spicy, topped with pouched eggs. Really tasty!
(5)
Mikhail Z.
I felt in love with this place when I accidentally found it walking near Central sq. They have free WiFi, so I typically work from there. They also have projection screen downstairs, so I come there to watch soccer world cup games. Regarding the food, their turkish, and especially arabic, coffee are amazing! When I work, I also take either backlava or nammourrah for desert to accompany my coffee - both are also very-very good!. For more meaningful food, I like their kufta and lentil soup. Most important thing is that all these stuff, though on traditional turkish line, is somehow different compared to what I tried at other turkish places.
(5)
Michelle L.
Cute little cafe in Central Square. The drinks are good, but the food is so-so. There are 2 levels, so no worries if the entrance level looks full! The entrance level has more of a bookstore vibe - little tables where people drink coffee and read. Downstairs has tables for meals as well as a large communal area for book clubs (?). I ordered the ground beef special, which was decent. I expected bits of ground beef but it really was just a beef patty topped with some stuff on rice. My 4 friends got their meals 10 minutes before mine came out, so they can definitely do a better job staging the service. We all shared the hummus plate, which had good presentation but was nothing to write home about. The chai latte I had, however, was divine. Unlike Starbucks where they make it too sweet, this had the perfect blend of spice and sugar. There was even foam on top! All in all, a great cafe. Not much more than that.
Slow slow service, but it's because the chef is basically standing at a 2-3 burner stove and doing everything to order. The food that comes out is generally very flavorful and as spicy as you'd like it. You won't care about the wait though, because this place really shines in its home as a study/hang-out venue. Free wireless with good service, lots and lots of outlets, and plenty of nooks and crannies to get some work done. Location is also great right near the Central Square T Red line stop. Food-wise, I got the Foole Plate, which came in a very generous size and smacked of grandma-quality home cooking. Try it.
(4)
Toni T.
The place is very cute (upstairs) and the food was rather decent. My only gripe is that the downstairs needs a lot of work. I appreciate the homey feel, but at least at home, there are trays I can eat my food on if I choose to eat on the couch. I'm looking forward to going back just to try the tea.
(3)
Grace C.
Right off the central square T line but tucked away into a side street. Great tea. Lots of places to sit. Cozy and inviting atmosphere.
(5)
Sandra S.
Lovely decor, great ambiance and friendly staff. Food is affordable and delicious. Too bad you can't smoke hookah inside. Otherwise one of the best places I've visited in Cambridge. Visited mainly because of the stunning inviting photos I had seen on their Facebook page: facebook.com/andalacafe - wasn't disappointed!
(5)
Jenny S.
stopped in for some drinks on a rainy day!!! we wanted to sit in since this coffee house furniture & set-up was really cute, but it was STUFFY so we opted for TO-GO HOUSE TEA.. enjoyable w/ my addition of soymilk at no extra charge! nice & spicy yet sweet!.. although they did charge me for 2 regular "pots" although i only took 2 mini cups to-go =( BREWED TO ORDER, this was definitely a nice touch!!
(3)
H R.
Thank you for so openly opposing Israel, because now I know not to frequent your establishment ever again. Added bonus is that I won't have to endure the horrible service.
(1)
Karina Q.
My go-to cafe in Cambridge, for nearly anything: studying / writing emails / meeting up with people for coffee, brunch, dinner, etc... 1) Service is great. No rush, very pleasant and helpful in providing suggestions on what to order and little adjustments as necessary. Really go the extra mile. Smile, which is rare in Cambridge. Let you stay for hours to chat and work without batting an eye. 2) Food is wonderful, light, healthy and tastes great. From the foole to the hummous and combo plates to the chicken adina (fantastic stew!). Makes me full, but still feel great about what I ate. Which is also rare in this town. 3) Great ambiance. Good (but admittedly random) music selection, great lighting, comfortable chairs, good variety of seating areas for all sorts of groups (from large tables for discussion, to a cozy little corner for intimate chats, a patio area with tons of windows and natural light, a lounge-y hookah area downstairs, and tables near outlets for working. Oh, did I mention free, unlimited wifi? And at least 15+ outlets spread out around the cafe.
(5)
Chrysanthe P.
Since I work in Central Square, love coffee, and have a decidedly Mediterranean palate, I had been wanting to go to Andala for quite some time. When an old friend wanted to meet up somewhere on a Tuesday evening, I decided that it was the perfect opportunity to try it out. My office is just a few blocks away, so I went immediately following work even though my friend wouldn't be able to meet up until a bit later. Upon entering, I was struck by the decor and layout of the place: so cozy and plenty of seating options. I ordered their house tea and chose a spot on the terrace to do some work while I waited. The tea was also quite good and I enjoyed getting to strain it myself! This will definitely be a study/reading spot for me from now on. When my friend arrived, we both ordered the lentil soup and he got a Turkish coffee as well. His coffee came out first and we were both struck by how thick it was! Luckily, he loves coffee and said it was unlike anything he'd had: definitely strong, but enjoyable. The lentil soup was very good, in my opinion. It wasn't super heavy like most bean soups. It was really quite delicate, but comforting all the same (which was nice, considering that it was pouring rain). All in all, Andala is a solid place to great a nice beverage, read a book, or meet a friend. I can't wait for the weather to get nice so that I can get the most out of that beautiful terrace seating!
(4)
Tamara W.
This place is AWESOME!!! Good enough to make you Pro-Palestine if you were not before... Came here on a total whim because I run by this place ALL THE TIME. I came here with my mother and sister and the food was delicious! It is a lot of food so if you want a filling, hearty lunch I would order something like the shrimp/rice dish I got. But you can also get something smaller like the lentil soup which my mother had. The food is technically "Palestinian Cuisine" but it's very similar to Turkish, Greek, and Israeli food of course. It is delicious. When we told the waiter we were Turkish he hooked it up with a free hummus. They by accident made an extra meal we didn't truly order but they gave it to us for free anyway. The ginger drink is AWESOME-- it's fresh pressed ginger and lemon together. Yum! I don't know the price of the place really because my mother paid :-) but I think it is reasonable... Coming back for sure!
(5)
Yi-Ling H.
I went this store twice, once I stayed outside, and it turned out their service is really slow. The other time that I stayed inside, it became much better. Coffee and foods are ok. The place is convenient for transportation.
(3)
Ben J.
Sure, the service is slow, but don't be so uptight; smoke a hookah.
(5)
Tahani R.
I like this little gem! I got the hummus plate, good tea selection, but servers need to give you napkins with your order.
(3)
Mark R.
Great vibe and great coffee selection (Turkish, Arabic, and everything else)...
(4)
Paris Q.
I have been to this coffee place many times to hang out with friends. I really like the cozy and comfortable atmosphere. You can enjoy a looong chat with friends while being served slooowly! That's true. Half an hour might easily pass without any waiter showing up at your table, and once you have ordered, you may have to wait for another half an hour for your order to be ready! even if it is only a dessert! The location gets (5/5), and the service (3/5) for their delay, but as long as the staff are friendly and I am there to "spend time" with friends, I do not mind the "wait"! I have mostly had desserts and drinks here, and rarely meals. I like their specialty tea and most of the desserts. My favorite desserts are Nammourah and rice pudding.
(4)
Madhura S.
love their hookahs, the ambiance, the hummus sandwich, and the apple juice! Service is kind of slow but it's a nice little find so far!
(4)
Megan C.
Coffee, Kabobs, Tea & Slothful French Service Hey where's my spoon?? Oh wait maybe I should order. Where is our waiter?? Five minutes later waiter enters. Water is now on table & waitress vanishes. Okay so living in NYC I'm spoiled we get the best of all possible worlds. We have excellent variety, great waitstaff (if they're not there are a bevy of actors/singers/artists to replace them) apparently Cambridge this isn't the case. It looks like you're either catering to the Students of the to Staff. This was a noisy, packed little cafe, where we sat ourselves, begged to order, enjoyed our conversation (no rush) chased down our waitress for the check and even though I'm only giving this spot three stars still had such a great time ( I guess my company distracted me). Date Rating: 5 Pick up Scale: 1 (definitely bring your own posse here if you're coming) Strong Suggestion: The lentil soup was good. Huge portions here choose a few and share.
(3)
Nancy W.
I appreciate their large tea selection, the ridiculous amount of seating they have available, and their "no rush, take your time" attitude. My friends and I camped out there for a solid four hours just writing Christmas cards, and it was a comfortable place to focus or to chat. Their music selection is very ... random, though :P
(4)
Anita L.
It might be called a "coffee house" but Andala certainly offers a lot more than that! Andala offers a great alternative to the traditional American brunch. I had the Shakshuka which was made of a bed of tasty rice with fried tomatoes and 2 poached eggs on top. It was filling and delicious. The eggs made it feel breakfast-y and the tomatoes and rice made it feel lunchy. Perfect for brunch! Service was on the slow side and the waiter had a very deliberate way of doing things, but since the food and atmosphere were great, I was willing to be patient and flexible.
(4)
Dorise G.
Really, really enjoyed this place. Went here for dinner on the recommendation of a cool coworker, and walking up the steps already knew I was going to like it here. It felt like walking into someone's apartment - cozy with a coffee bar area and a quaint side room, my dining companion and I opted for the side room - nice ambiance and the room all to ourselves at prime dining time on a friday night! i didn't discover the downstairs area until using the ladies room at the end of the meal, but there's ample seating down there as well. we each ordered the lamb and a pot of peppermint tea to split. the lamb was stewed perfectly with carrots and potatoes, and the price was very right at just over $10 a pop. i'm surprised this place isn't teeming with hipsters yet, but it's a prime place for mediterranean dining. so why only 4 stars, you ask? ~minus 3/4 of a star for slooooow service. our waitress didn't come to ask us how we were doing until we had nearly finished our meal, it wasn't clear we were supposed to seat ourselves, and tho i don't really mind laid back service, it may have been slightly overly laid back. ~minus 1/4 of a star because my tomatoes weren't fresh. everything else about the meal was so delicious, having gotten clearly-refrigerated tomato slices (which totally ruins the flavor and texture of a tomato) detracted from the dining experience, but only a teeeeeeeny tiny bit. yes, it's picky, but i freakin love tomatoes, and it makes me sad when they're not good. if it weren't for the slow service, i'd've still given 5 stars.
(4)
Shaina P.
with its abundance of tables, seating, and free wi-fi, andala is a prime locale for studying, reading, writing, or chatting. it's an ideal spot where they don't pressure you to leave, but i wish it held in heat better than it does... i usually hunker down with a mint tea, my computer, and later, the Kufta over pilaf ... but if i'm not drinking a freshly heated pot of tea, i'm colder than can be in under an hour.
(3)
Jason H.
Super nice staff, amazing lunches (fresh fruit, hummus, meats, etc), and great coffees & teas. Also appreciate the comfy decor. Looking forward to coming here a bunch.
(5)
Kelle S.
I have been going to Andala for a while now for several meetup groups that I run and attend. I have to say, that I like this place. The food is high quality and in large enough portions that I have yet to clear my plate. The coffees are a bit small in size (but then I tend to drink 1/3 pot cups of coffee at home, so I'm a little skewed on what I think is a reasonable size cup of coffee) but still high quality. (And I AM a coffee snob.) The servers are friendly, although my experience is that you get slower and less frequent service downstairs than you do upstairs, so take that into account when you choose where to sit. The owner/manager is always eager to please as well. He really wants you to be happy with your food and that shows in the overall experience. The atmosphere is really quite lovely as well. It is a soothing, Middle Eastern environment with comfortable seating. Try the fruit and cheese plate, the oatmeal with fruit, and the omelettes - you can't go wrong! All - I love it!
(5)
Olivia v.
THE AVERAGE RATING REFLECTS THE "OLD" ANDALA, BEFORE THE ESTABLISHMENT WENT DOWNHILL. I HAVE BEEN DOZENS AND DOZENS OF TIMES OVER THE LAST 3 YEARS. I SHOULD KNOW. I used to love Andala. I live next door. They used to have lovely pastries (which they stopped buying from their supplier) and good coffee. No longer. The last 5 times I went, I was disgusted. I am now never, ever going back again. - I asked for a latte. I was given an espresso with water. When I meekly said that was not a latte, they looked at me like I was crazy. the manager came out. I had to explain that a latte has milk. They came back with the drink, having simply poured unbelievable amounts of cream in. - The avocado press sandwich is never twice the same, and it has miraculously gotten worse every time I, or a friend, has ordered it. This morning, it was a tasteless glop of salad with almost no avocado in a dried pita and disgusting fake-tasting "cheese". And it took them 50 minutes to bring it out. What are you DOING in the kitchen? - All of their pastries now taste like sugary cardboard. I miss the amazing supplier they once had! My ex-housemate and I nearly cry when we reminisce about their previous selection in the good old days. - I used to think the beef kufta was one of the only reliable menu items (yeah, I've learned not to order most other things), but this morning it came drenched in a cup of oil. I love oil way more than normal people do, but wow. Disgusting. - They charge $10 for a bowl of oatmeal. Are you kidding me? - The service is (notoriously) HORRIFIC, which is usually not something I care about at all... until it messes with the quality of my food. Easily a quarter of my orders have been completely wrong when brought to the table. - I had the worst coffee of my life here one morning before a hike. I really needed coffee. They gave me something that tasted worse than dishwater. We had to stop at another coffee shop before leaving town. Look, I used to love this place. This is my first bad review. They have really earned it. They do NOT deserve such a high Yelp rating. I really think the management has changed, or something. Ugh.
(1)
Sara T.
This was my first visit to Andala, and I was really happy with the atmosphere (think: earth tones, interesting spaces, and plants) and free Wifi connection. My jasmine tea was very good, but I was disappointed by the chocolate croissant -- which was a plain croissant with chocolate syrup drizzled over, rather than chocolate baked inside.
(4)
Espresso T.
I love the atmosphere in this place but the beverages here are just horrible! I've tried the chai latte, the regular coffee and the cappuccino. They are all subpar! It's a coffee house! Please do better on your drinks!! Their food, however, does small good though I yet to try it.
My first trip here was at the recommendation of a friend. We went just for the Turkish coffee (it's funny how the Greeks and Turks work out those names) and it was during that visit that I checked out the food menu and decided I would come back and try a few of their dishes. Well, LOW AND BEHOLD, the food was good! The dishes, because they are middle eastern in nature, tend to be a cuisine I don't partake in much. (primarily because I didn't desire much access to them) I totally recommend this place for first-time and frequent visitors to the area, but especially if you have used the mass transit system to get there because parking can be a bit of an annoyance. Atmosphere: Chill. Feels like a coffee house. Plenty of those who can be seen at this restaurant, are students, and will hang there countless hours using their laptops, or reading and studying. Food: I enjoy it a lot. It seems very home-cooked in nature. The menu isn't a blow-my-mind cacophony of complex dishes, it's more timid than that, but the flavor is crisp, clean, fresh, and leaves me happy. Service: Transactional. It's very much business when you in there. I wouldn't say they aren't friendly, but I would suggest that it's very, yes, as I said, transactional. "Hi, what would you like today? Ok, great. Thank you." and off they go. If that's the type of service you like, great. This place is for you. Overall: Love it. Would I change some things, perhaps, but I certainly appreciate it as-is and would continue going without changing a thing. So if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
(4)
Jennifer N.
Things at Andala move at a slow pace -- to enjoyably eat (or drink) there, one has to pretend one is sitting outside at a cafe in, let's say, Barcelona. Then you'll understand that of course the waiter is in no hurry to give you the check -- because you're not supposed to be in a hurry. You're supposed to be slowly enjoying your food and drink. Of course, it's easier to entertain this Barcelona fantasy in summer when one is sitting outside under a beautiful cathedral of stars (ok, fine, we don't get that many stars here, but again, entertain the fantasy). The drinks at Andala are all great-- most spectacular are the fruit juices. Most recently, I had a delicious pear juice-- I'm pretty sure I had my serving of fruit for the next week in that glass, and it was absolutely delicious. All of the teas are terrific, especially the "special tea." I'm less familiar with the food, but the hummus is extraordinary. BTW, if anyone remembers the cafe that was here before the Andala, about three years ago, Andala has really followed in their footsteps- they've created a nice space where one can come and hang out for as long as one wants. That's what a cafe is all about. If you want speed, go to Dunkin' Donuts.
(5)
Peter B.
This place is perfect if you need somewhere quiet to work, refuel (with caffeine), and chill. So much space, fantastic staff, and great coffee. Go a tad off the beaten path in Central Square and you'll find this gem.
(5)
Gelsey B.
I love this place...! Its peaceful, cozy, artistically decorated and quite! If you are looking for a place to meet a friend, or have a small group meeting of just spending some time reading a book, this place would be a good choice. I always go downstairs, since its less crowded most often. There is mostly no music playing in the background, so it makes it comfortable if you want to chat or concentrate on you work. I love the style of having tea in the pot, with that little cup they bring with it, which is more middle eastern style.
(5)
Cha Cha W.
I love the Middle Eastern theme and fare not to mention the cozy seating and casual atmosphere. When the weather gets hot, I escape to the lower level; when spring comes, I take my blunch outside and people watch from the patio. When I have work to get done, I slide open the doors of the sun room and settle in to the free wifi. Oh and that spot by outlet on the banquette, that's mine. My bottom has a claim on it and if it finds you there beware of my evil eye rays! Summers were made for smoking the hookah on the patio. The staff are super friendly if not always so expedient but that's okay by me. This isn't your run of the mill rush in rush out kind of place. A stone's throw from Central Square, parking could be a bit of a hassle if you plan to stay longer than 2 hours. Don't miss out on the Shakshuka (eggs cooked in a tomato sauce over rice) and Green Plate!
(4)
H T.
Andala is _____________ - more relaxing than Starbucks (less foot traffic) - more spacious than Cafe Luna - more serene than Clear Conscience Cafe - less hippie than Toscanini's - less crowded/noisy than the overall shitty 1369 Coffee - less expensive than Mariposa So there- why not go to Andala? A great coffee house with good tea selection, sweet staff, free WiFi, and tasty almond croissants. Just choose a spot: the patio to soak in the sun, the hidden porch for some sweet talk, a small table for some nibbles, or head downstairs for even more space. There's no other coffee shop in the area where I'd want to linger around for hours, and you wouldn't be rushed out the door either.
(5)
Ethan A.
I didn't expect to have such bad service, because I really enjoyed this place previously. I went late last night to get some work done, and ordered an iced coffee. Ended up with some weird iced tea. Whatever, doesn't matter, drank it. That was still in line with my previous good review score. Today I went back with a friend. He ordered a sandwich and iced coffee. Waiter guy asked if he wanted milk in it, friend said sure. Waited then forced, "So you want an iced latte then." Friend said "sure?" We were later charged for the more expensive drink. I ordered an iced tea, and saw they had bagels on the menu, for $.95, cream cheese extra. Perfect, I just want something to snack on and no cream cheese. He tells me they are out of bagels and asks curtly, "What else instead?" I said no thanks, I was fine with just tea. I'm sitting in the basement area, next to the kitchen. I watch the waiter go to the fridge, pull out a bag of six bagels, and comes back and says, "we have bagels now, do you want one?" I said sure. Our drinks arrive, my iced tea has a single cube of ice. It was cold enough, I suppose, but not an iced tea. A few minutes later my bagel comes - with cream cheese, tomato, and avocado. The waiter says, "here its the house special bagel". Not cool throwing cheese on my food - I don't eat it. I didn't touch it. After waiting forever for our check, the waiter says absolutely nothing in response to my entire bagel sandwich going untouched. I was charged $3 for my weak iced tea, $3 for the bagel I ordered which should have been ninety five cents, waited over a half hour for the check, and our waiter clearly was just trying to milk us for all the money we could and didn't care at all that I left an entire dish untouched. I could have forced them to eat the cost and serve me a new bagel, but you know what, I'm a nice guy. I will never return.
(1)
Eric F.
For a place that has "coffee house" in its name, I had the worst latte in years here last night. The espresso was barely discernible and the drink was basically (over)heated skim milk. Oh and the waitress decided that it'd be okay to give me over a dozen nickels in change presumably b/c they ran outta quarters...really? If you wanna come for the food, have at it. But stay far, far away from anything that involves coffee beans.
(1)
Audrey C.
Their food is ok, but nothing I couldn't make easily (and better) at home- and tiny portions. It's really sad how everyone I ate with recently (4 other people) all walked away hungry- and they ordered different dishes. Their portions are more like appetizer portions, and they only provide a couple slices of pita bread that comes with the dishes, so we even had to ask for more pita. It looked extremely stingy really. The hummus appetizers we ordered was spread so thinly across a small plate, it was probably under $1 worth of hummus that you could buy at the grocery store. Also, everything here just looks dirty and worn down. The many rugs are all gray- they look as if they have not been cleaned in years- and are fraying or there was even 1 with an enormous hole torn out right by the front desk.
(1)
Jamaican B.
Awesome food (lamb!!!), so many tea selections, and great AMBIANCE!!! :)
(5)
Sam M.
Review on their coffee... No knowledge about their coffee, machine, nor does the employee care to even know how to do her job. Two thumbs down.
(1)
Tanya S.
This place is amazing for brunch/lunch. The waiters are really relaxed, the coffee is great - mocha is tasty! And the dishes are so fresh and have a great mixture of tastes. The salads, sandwiches, hummus is all great. They also have tasty juices and a huge selection of teas. It's rarely busy and the atmosphere is really cozy - so rare in the Cambridge/Boston area. There is even outdoor seating when it's warm. A gem.
(5)
Allison R.
There was no music. I thought that was odd. It was practically silent in there. I met a personal shopper for a consult and while they appear to offer full meals, we were meeting for coffee and tea, so I had a Lapsang Suchong. Love that tea. It was a little strange that I was given like a 3 ounce cup to pour my tea kettle into, but whatever. Maybe that's their thing. Totally average and okay. I'd have another meeting here if I needed to catch up with someone near Central. Now, onto the important stuff: do I hire the stylist?
(3)
Mabel F.
The service here is SO BAD. Who doesn't take multiple credit cards anymore? And who takes 30 minutes to process a request to pay? Flip side, the Chicken Khalili sandwich was indeed spicy and delicious. What a nice surprise. I ate the entire thing after my workout. My friend didn't like one of the two specials. The name of the dish starts with an S and contains eggs and tomatoes. I had been here before, and the Arabic coffee was great. This time I tried the filtered coffee, which was good as well. Stick with the drinks and pay cash. And make sure you come when you are not rushed for time!
(3)
Lisa Y.
I really tried to like this place, but I can't. The food is mediocre that basically it's like a ordinary cafe. They try to make it more like middle east food but there is nothing like that...seriously...The eggs and omelet is just like any brunch you have across the street. The tomatoes are just chopped up and put in a plate. The meet (chicken or beef) are just cooked so at least people are safe to eat them. I want to ask the owner/chef, where is your passion? Or do you simply hit up something in the microwave oven? Things taste not fresh at all. And they charge a price like a formal restaurant. Is it just me that feel like that? In addition to food, their service is equally bad. I waited for forty-five minutes to get a cup of water after begging three waitresses and failed. Then when the food is finally on the table, it was so disappointing and not even hot (kind of suspects it is leftovers from last night).
(1)
Sharon L.
Highly recommended to everyone my favorite food there which is called shashokeh, it is a little bit spicy, topped with pouched eggs. Really tasty!
(5)
Mikhail Z.
I felt in love with this place when I accidentally found it walking near Central sq. They have free WiFi, so I typically work from there. They also have projection screen downstairs, so I come there to watch soccer world cup games. Regarding the food, their turkish, and especially arabic, coffee are amazing! When I work, I also take either backlava or nammourrah for desert to accompany my coffee - both are also very-very good!. For more meaningful food, I like their kufta and lentil soup. Most important thing is that all these stuff, though on traditional turkish line, is somehow different compared to what I tried at other turkish places.
(5)
Michelle L.
Cute little cafe in Central Square. The drinks are good, but the food is so-so. There are 2 levels, so no worries if the entrance level looks full! The entrance level has more of a bookstore vibe - little tables where people drink coffee and read. Downstairs has tables for meals as well as a large communal area for book clubs (?). I ordered the ground beef special, which was decent. I expected bits of ground beef but it really was just a beef patty topped with some stuff on rice. My 4 friends got their meals 10 minutes before mine came out, so they can definitely do a better job staging the service. We all shared the hummus plate, which had good presentation but was nothing to write home about. The chai latte I had, however, was divine. Unlike Starbucks where they make it too sweet, this had the perfect blend of spice and sugar. There was even foam on top! All in all, a great cafe. Not much more than that.
(3)
Claudia L.
such wholesome authentic food, wonderful setting.
(5)
Nitya D.
Gah. I am so conflicted. Here's why: Andala is an adorable cafe with great food, lots of seating and free wifi. It's definitely an excellent spot to chill for a bit while reading or studying. The chairs are comfy, the tables are big enough. But gahhh the food. The portions do NOT match the prices. The prices are average at ~$10, but you do not get your money's worth at all. Which is so sad because the food really is delicious and as a result I always want so much more. It's definitely a great little cafe, and I do love it. But only after I've eaten a full meal elsewhere.
Slow slow service, but it's because the chef is basically standing at a 2-3 burner stove and doing everything to order. The food that comes out is generally very flavorful and as spicy as you'd like it. You won't care about the wait though, because this place really shines in its home as a study/hang-out venue. Free wireless with good service, lots and lots of outlets, and plenty of nooks and crannies to get some work done. Location is also great right near the Central Square T Red line stop. Food-wise, I got the Foole Plate, which came in a very generous size and smacked of grandma-quality home cooking. Try it.
(4)
Toni T.
The place is very cute (upstairs) and the food was rather decent. My only gripe is that the downstairs needs a lot of work. I appreciate the homey feel, but at least at home, there are trays I can eat my food on if I choose to eat on the couch. I'm looking forward to going back just to try the tea.
(3)
Grace C.
Right off the central square T line but tucked away into a side street. Great tea. Lots of places to sit. Cozy and inviting atmosphere.
(5)
Sandra S.
Lovely decor, great ambiance and friendly staff. Food is affordable and delicious. Too bad you can't smoke hookah inside. Otherwise one of the best places I've visited in Cambridge. Visited mainly because of the stunning inviting photos I had seen on their Facebook page: facebook.com/andalacafe - wasn't disappointed!
(5)
Jenny S.
stopped in for some drinks on a rainy day!!! we wanted to sit in since this coffee house furniture & set-up was really cute, but it was STUFFY so we opted for TO-GO HOUSE TEA.. enjoyable w/ my addition of soymilk at no extra charge! nice & spicy yet sweet!.. although they did charge me for 2 regular "pots" although i only took 2 mini cups to-go =( BREWED TO ORDER, this was definitely a nice touch!!
(3)
H R.
Thank you for so openly opposing Israel, because now I know not to frequent your establishment ever again. Added bonus is that I won't have to endure the horrible service.
(1)
Brian C.
This is a wonderful coffeehouse and restaurant featuring Palestinian-style Middle Eastern food and drink. The owner, Sami, is very welcoming, the food is delicious, and the portions are reasonable (I.e., not more than you can or should eat). A great addition to Central Square!
(5)
Karina Q.
My go-to cafe in Cambridge, for nearly anything: studying / writing emails / meeting up with people for coffee, brunch, dinner, etc... 1) Service is great. No rush, very pleasant and helpful in providing suggestions on what to order and little adjustments as necessary. Really go the extra mile. Smile, which is rare in Cambridge. Let you stay for hours to chat and work without batting an eye. 2) Food is wonderful, light, healthy and tastes great. From the foole to the hummous and combo plates to the chicken adina (fantastic stew!). Makes me full, but still feel great about what I ate. Which is also rare in this town. 3) Great ambiance. Good (but admittedly random) music selection, great lighting, comfortable chairs, good variety of seating areas for all sorts of groups (from large tables for discussion, to a cozy little corner for intimate chats, a patio area with tons of windows and natural light, a lounge-y hookah area downstairs, and tables near outlets for working. Oh, did I mention free, unlimited wifi? And at least 15+ outlets spread out around the cafe.
(5)
Chrysanthe P.
Since I work in Central Square, love coffee, and have a decidedly Mediterranean palate, I had been wanting to go to Andala for quite some time. When an old friend wanted to meet up somewhere on a Tuesday evening, I decided that it was the perfect opportunity to try it out. My office is just a few blocks away, so I went immediately following work even though my friend wouldn't be able to meet up until a bit later. Upon entering, I was struck by the decor and layout of the place: so cozy and plenty of seating options. I ordered their house tea and chose a spot on the terrace to do some work while I waited. The tea was also quite good and I enjoyed getting to strain it myself! This will definitely be a study/reading spot for me from now on. When my friend arrived, we both ordered the lentil soup and he got a Turkish coffee as well. His coffee came out first and we were both struck by how thick it was! Luckily, he loves coffee and said it was unlike anything he'd had: definitely strong, but enjoyable. The lentil soup was very good, in my opinion. It wasn't super heavy like most bean soups. It was really quite delicate, but comforting all the same (which was nice, considering that it was pouring rain). All in all, Andala is a solid place to great a nice beverage, read a book, or meet a friend. I can't wait for the weather to get nice so that I can get the most out of that beautiful terrace seating!
(4)
Tamara W.
This place is AWESOME!!! Good enough to make you Pro-Palestine if you were not before... Came here on a total whim because I run by this place ALL THE TIME. I came here with my mother and sister and the food was delicious! It is a lot of food so if you want a filling, hearty lunch I would order something like the shrimp/rice dish I got. But you can also get something smaller like the lentil soup which my mother had. The food is technically "Palestinian Cuisine" but it's very similar to Turkish, Greek, and Israeli food of course. It is delicious. When we told the waiter we were Turkish he hooked it up with a free hummus. They by accident made an extra meal we didn't truly order but they gave it to us for free anyway. The ginger drink is AWESOME-- it's fresh pressed ginger and lemon together. Yum! I don't know the price of the place really because my mother paid :-) but I think it is reasonable... Coming back for sure!
(5)
Yi-Ling H.
I went this store twice, once I stayed outside, and it turned out their service is really slow. The other time that I stayed inside, it became much better. Coffee and foods are ok. The place is convenient for transportation.
(3)
Ben J.
Sure, the service is slow, but don't be so uptight; smoke a hookah.
(5)
Gustavo D.
Great food, coffee and tea. Horrible, horrible service. Takes forever to get anything in this place. I would not recommend this place if you're in a hurry.
(1)
Adam W.
Went for brunch and ate outside. Not many people and very relaxing environment. Tried the shakshokeh and it was amazing! After clearing our food, the waitress even told us to take our time and ask for the check whenever we were ready. They need new booklets to deliver the checks, though, as they are the standard "We Welcome American Express" black booklets, but they don't actually accept American Express!
(4)
Samantha G.
Food overload! There is so much to this place that it is completely unfair to characterize it as as coffee shop. In addition to the lots of comfy seating and free wifi, they have a great number of non-coffee options (get the hot cider!) and lots of breakfast and lunch options. The omelettes are delicious and quite sizable. They also have other basic breakfast options like toasted bagels. The lunch items include some good options like an interesting take on an egg salad sandwich. And then there are the desserts... It's primarily a Turkish-influenced place - both in decor and food. The service is great. There's no rushing you out (we spent about 6 hours here!) and the servers are always happy to help with whatever you need. It can get crowded at peak times, but yet, it still seems to be able to accommodate everyone. Overall, this is a great spot to chill out and get some work done.
(4)
Josephine L.
Andala gets 19,000 stars for decor/atmosphere/ambiance, 5 stars for service, 4 stars for food and 2.5 stars for tea. I'll get the bad stuff out of the way first. I was super-excited to try the House Special tea with cardamon. Spiced tea is almost always a win. The pot came, the pretty, long, thin, glass cup and saucer with it. I poured. The fragrant smell of cardamon wafted up. I sipped....and.....bleh! The tea was so watered-down that it had absolutely no flavor! Now, I'm one of those people who will happily re-use tea bags/leaves over and over until they've lost all semblance of flavor. But tea should not be flavor-less on the first steep! Especially when I'm paying $2.50 for it! Tea fail. The food: I had the Andala omelette and it was delicious. It was also huge, especially with the accompanying salad. So much more filling than I was intending for a snack. My boyfriend had the Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich and it was toasted perfection. I detest egg salad, but this was more scrambled/fried egg than hard-boiled, so it was just awesome. The pear juice he got was so fresh and tasty. You know it's fresh when it turns slightly brown after 10 mins as the fruit oxidizes. The service is amazing. Friendliest staff ever. The atmosphere. This is the #1 spot in all of Boston/Cambridge that I would choose to set up shop for the day. I LOVE the mismatched furniture, LOVE the cozy rugs, LOVE the fireplace mantle covered in hookah paraphernalia, LOVE the framed pictures, LOVE everything that makes this cafe warm and inviting. Andala is the antithesis of the soulless corporate takeover that Central Sq (and much of Cambridge) has become. Do yourself a favor and make this your go-to spot for beverage, food and socializing needs.
(5)
Giselle R.
Loved, loved, loved it! Deconstructed hummus...yum. Eggsalad sandwich,tasty. Space is homey and feels like my own brownstone. Staff is friendly and hands off. We spent some time here before our train home and it was very relaxing.If we lived in the neighborhood we'd be the several times a week.
(5)
Dawn E.
Turkish coffee! ::jumping and joy ensues:: I had recently eaten before popping in here to pass some time so I did not partake of any food, BUT, my Turkish coffee was everything it should be. Additionally, the atmosphere in here is fantastic and the service was perfection. I will be back for food.
(4)
Alyssa J.
If I could give this place a negative star rating I would. A black hole rating would be preferred. I was here for my first writer's group meeting. The location itself is nice, plenty of room for large groups. The menu seemed a little overpriced, but as an independent cafe that I believe serves free trade coffee, I can understand. There were about ten of us and about 50% of the group had ordered a drink, a muffin, a scone, whatever. A waiter came up to a group of four of us and said "If you don't order something you are going to have to leave right now" ....Wow. Keep in mind the cafe was 60% full and it was 8pm on a Wednesday night. Maybe they were expecting a rush? We all ordered something to appease our 'roided up server. I got a decaf coffee, because there was no way I was going to put any caffeine in my body this late in the evening. My decaf came out...No cream, no sugar. A companions tea came out in a shotglass. Yup. It was in shotglass with a handle. Oooookay. I sipped my decaf. Ahh yes. Freezing cold, just the way I like it. I went up to the waiter, as I was fairly confident that customer service was not his forte, and I didn't expect him to come check up on us; and said two things. #1 My coffee is cold and I wasn't given any cream or sugar; #2 It was a little rude for you to be so aggressive to us. He flipped. FLIPPED. "This isn't a public library! You and your little group can go somewhere else! RABBLE RABBLE RABBLE!" Instead of coming over to the table to give me a new coffee, he threw a check in my face and told me to leave! WHAT THE FUCK ANDALA???? I will never come back here again.
(1)
Hyunu K.
Great service and an awesome place to come study or just lounge around with friends it seems like because of the open area and the ambiance is great. Awesome lattes and seems like they have some awesome food on the menu as well. Service was great and would come back if i was in the area again. Free WiFi too!
(4)
Priyanka A.
The decor is gorgeous, by far the coziest coffee shop in the area (a lot of the other coffee shops in Cambridge feel too sterile/factory made for my taste). The decor is a cue for the mood of the place, though. This isn't an in-and-out caffeination stop; it's somewhere to spend the afternoon in conversation or reading when you don't have to rush anywhere else. They have a great selection of teas, so perhaps tea house would be a better name than coffee house. But is you love tea/coffee shops with good ambiance and unique character, Andala is great. I haven't tried their food, but have heard it's overpriced.
(4)
ChristiAnn B.
Cute little place. Really nice ambiance and not too crowded. I don't think they have air conditioner, so it was a little warm inside on a hot day. The service was slow and our waitress disappeared after she brought out our food. But the food was pretty good- something different. My friend had the mushroom omelet which was yummy despite the overload of salt. I had the beef kufta (see photo) which was even tastier than the omelet. The prices here are a great value. I am going to come back here whenever I have a few hours to spare. The upside of unattentive servers is that one does not feel pressured to leave. Andala's is a great place to come if you want to relax or have a long conversation with a friend.
(4)
Samuel F.
A remarkable spot in the heart of Central Square. The house tea is amazing, the food is great, the decor is nice, and there's plenty of space. Comfortable seating, especially the long benches on the inside porch. Free internet. Very relaxed. The next time you're passing the Central Square Starbucks, consider crossing the street and walking the extra block. You won't regret it.
(4)
Deanna D.
Wonderful coffee house with friendly staff, healthy food, and free wi-fi!! The space is nicely decorated: bright, bold colors, & inviting on the first floor and dark & cozy in the downstairs area. The staff was very friendly and the service was fast. The cappuccinos (read: European style) and croissants were lovely. The Combo Plate with tabouli, salad, and hummus was fresh, filling, delicious, and reasonably priced! The ample seating, inviting ambiance, and good food makes this place a great addition to my coffee shop rotation.
(4)
John S.
My first time here, but I was impressed. The staff was friendly and the atmosphere was cozy and comfortable. I went with the Jerusalem egg salad sandwich and Turkish coffee (which the waiter kindly described for me). Both were great. The sandwich came with a bit of potato salad and a nice slaw. A good meal for about $11. Recommended.
(4)
Maria H.
I've been going here for years. I love the atmosphere and the different seating options in various rooms. However, the prices have more than doubled since I started coming here and it cost me $15 for a tea and a sandwich the other day. It was very tasty nevertheless..I love their avocado sandwiches. I know people who have worked here and they get paid very very low, without making a lot of tips. It's nice when the wi-fi works and when they don't blast pop music.
(3)
Vlad V.
Ambiance 9:30-11pm: business-friendly, good for conversation. Large tables can accommodate groups. TIP: the basement area is quieter. Food: no idea.
(5)
Betsy A.
I really like this place. It sells solid coffee, not to mention I love their warm apple cider. Delicious! I like the feel of stepping into someone's middle eastern house. It has little spaces here and there that you can claim as your own and study to your hearts content. =) Ooo! Don't forget to buy the baklava! And take one to go. ;-) All in all a cute place with some warmth to it. Good to have unique coffee houses around that don't follow the cookie cutter model.
(4)
Rachel N.
Conflicted, I do love the simple Middle Eastern fare they have here, and the space is lovely (think warm, pseudo-bazaar feeling) for studying or meeting with friends; however, all that pro-Palestine, "freedom from the Israeli occupation" stuff on the walls makes me a taddddd uncomfortable -- so, if you're looking for some delicious hummus or a falafel wrap and able to keep your eyes on the food, not on the decor, then Andala is a win. Oh, plenty of seating (they have a downstairs too, with waiter service), unsure abt the wifi status. Coffee + snack/meal is usually around $10-12.
I scheduled a relaxed Sunday meeting with someone I was planning a freelance project with. While I was waiting I ordered a carrot juice and brioche which were both so good I did not even mind when he finally showed up 40 minutes late. I love the location and how much outdoor seating there is. I definitely want to return to try something new, it is the perfect place to spend time with friends or relax on the weekend with a good book.
(4)
Madeline N.
I came in with such high hopes! But was sadly disappointed. Why? 1. I walked in to buy a drink and they told me to go back outside to do table service. 2. I went outside and found one waiter, frazzled, trying to serve the full back porch. 3. I waited 4. Waited 5. Finally was served and asked for water in addition to my food 6. To receive water in a cup that still had lipstick marks on it from a previous user Let's just say I've been more impressed before.
(2)
Heidi L.
The great thing is that there's no real rush at Andala -- you can stay there for a while among all the lovely decor. The downside is that I suspect part of this comes from the somewhat slow service. Note that even at 9am most of the pastries are gone, but the tea and coffee are pleasant and the food is unique (although it is a bit pricey a la Algiers). I'd come here to work or catch up with old friends, but not for the food.
(3)
Yaka M.
Great Atmosphere. Spacious and lots of seating so you can spend a good amount of time here without getting angry look from the staff. Food: I had Chicken Khalili Sandwich. It was pretty spicy but very, very good. Goes very well with the hummus that came on the plate too. Drink: Lemon Mint Smoothie is great.
(4)
Marilyn C.
Came here for lunch last weekend and relaxed outside under the grape vines. Iced coffee was good. During a previous trip I had one of their smoothies - lemon/mint and it was good. This place straddles the line between 3 and 4 stars. The food was pretty good - if it were cheaper (not that it is pricey) I would up this place to 4 stars. Service was up to snuff. They have hookahs if your into that.
(3)
Anthony L.
I am really going against everyone's reviews, but I just don't love this place. I walk and bike ride by Andala almost every day on my way home from work. I've always been intrigued about this place (especially since I love coffee and tea). On the outside, this place is extremely adorable. There are plenty of outdoor seating areas, which is great in the summer. The inside is equally as adorable. I can tell the owners really put a lot of thought and effort into this place. I've never been to the downstairs, but it looks huge. I really enjoy how there are different sections of the house for various uses (board games, studying, group studying). When I went there my first time, I would have rated this place 5 stars. I love the free wifi and the tea was great! The second time was a total flop. - I was rather parched, as it was a scorching summer afternoon. I was craving an iced coffee, but didn't want to walk across the street to Starbucks or 1369, Andala it was! I ordered my beverage and the barista just looked extremely confused (maybe he was new, maybe he never works on the coffee bar, who knows). He pulled out a red solo cup (you know, the ones we all use to play beer pong with) and filled it with ice and coffee and handed it over. Confused, I asked "do you have a lid or something?" then he tossed one that hardly fit to me. Drinking the coffee, I was unimpressed. I could tell this was not double brewed, yet, it was brewed as hot coffee (so it was extremely watered down and had no taste). - My friend ordered a danish (they make the danishes look so delicious in the display case). Thinking it was made in house, the man bends over and pulls out a Stop and Shop plastic basket and pulls a danish out with his hands (without gloves or anything protecting his nasty paws with the store bought danish). I was extremely unimpressed with this! Even if you are going to buy your danishes from Stop and Shop, at least have them taken out of the box to make it look a little more authentic. I much rather go to 1369 for a perfectly brewed iced coffee and home made (or, at least, we think) dessert.
(2)
Chip B.
I really liked this place when I moved into the neighborhood in summer 2011. I dined and studied there about 6 times per month on average. Somewhere between then and now (spring 2013) a clear decline in service and quality occurred. Wait staff often do not realize when I've settled and am ready to order. Entrees do not come out at the same time for multi-person parties. My food once arrived quite cold, and the coffee is good but nothing to write home about. The atmosphere is wonderful for studying or chatting, but that is not enough to make me want to visit as often as I used to. I really hope the owners take note of the decline and correct course.
(2)
Lesley K.
Service isn't great. Food was just ok. Cute restaurant though, the patio seating is nice for a warm day.
(2)
Jing Y.
This is a cute middle eastern coffee shop that has a living room vibe. They have the equivalent of a sun room towards the front of the shop. I can only imagine how great it would be to go on a sunny day!
(4)
Alex N.
andala coffee house -new account 2014
(5)
Erica C.
The service is the only reason I didn't give them a 5. Gluten free friendly I had an awesome chai latte from here. I also had the lunch special of tomatoes, onions, oregano, and. meat over a bed of rice. The food was great. Free WiFi
(4)
Rafael O.
Amazing food! The atmosphere is also great and the location is great. I'm definitely coming back.
(5)
Amanda G.
Came here Wednesday afternoon looking for place where I could have a decent lunch and a place with outlets and coffee to sit and study for a while. What a find! I've never been here, but I will definitely become a frequent customer. The ambiance and layout are amazing - cozy, open, lots of outlets, free-unlimited Wi-fi, pressure free (no rushed feeling...the staff doesn't make you feel like they want you to leave). It's reasonably priced and has *real* food. This is really about as good as it gets!! I typically frequency Espresso Royale, but have since been driven away because of so-so food quality, expensive coffee, lack of seating, and really strong coffee/burnt bread smell you acquire after sitting there for longer than 30 minutes. While I do like ERC, if you're a BU student, the 15 min bus ride is worth it to come to Andala.
(5)
Juliana N.
We got our coffees to go and it was SO WATERED DOWN! sad... i had high expectations too. What went wrong? A majority of the people here had a good experience... ::sad::
(2)
Bastian L.
And the search ends here. Ever since arriving in Boston last summer I have been looking for a coffee shop that truly is that "Third Place" that Starbucks marketing people describe their stores as. I am European, so by definition it is tough to satisfy my expectations of a coffee shop. Generally, paper cups and red EXIT signs suffice to never let me experience the cosiness of a Central European coffee house or cafe - the kind that really makes you want to linger. Andala nails it though. Every kind of seating arrangement you could want, carpets, high ceilings, lots of light and great lighting, fantastic wait staff, great cappuccino and chai. I havent tried the food, but that's not what I am going to a coffee shop for. Oh, free wifi, power outlets, so you can actually get work done here, too. Now if they could just open a branch in Beacon Hill...
(5)
Ash T.
Great place for coffee and to chill out Pros: Very cozy place and has a unique ambiance to it. The downstairs is the place to chill out. Free wifi is an added bonus. I had the honey and goat cheese plate which was ok. The Arabic coffee was amazing. The copper vessel with the titled handle accompanied the small cup and plate...the coffee was brewed with cardamom and had a sweet hint to it. Espresso has now a contender for packing the most calorie free caffeine punches. Somehow the atmosphere downstairs has a charm to make you forget time, dabble in some great conversations or even pull on your creative hat and take a shot at some poetry. It's places like Andala that offer what a true coffee shop should...(are you taking notes Starbucks?) Cons: There is some tension among the wait staff and you can hear it if you're sitting upstairs. I first ordered a Rooibos Tea and the lady behind the counter didn't bother asking me if I wanted it to go or to stay. So the tea made it to my table in the boring drab of a paper cup smitten with advertisements and a black plastic top (minus 1 star for that) But the downstairs ambiance and the arabic coffee made up for it. WIll be back for sure. Highly recommended
(4)
Alan Y.
I stopped by this cafe one Friday night to get some work done. I was rather pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness of the cafe and the decor; I definitely felt that I was in someone's house instead of a generic coffeehouse. The bathroom was also quite nice and tidy. The servers were also quite nice and efficient. Despite these positive attributes, I felt that the food (at least what I ordered) was somewhat lacking. I ordered the vegetarian chili, which left me completely disappointed. The soup was served luke-warm, had very little flavor, and lacked much to compensate for its hefty ($5+) cost. However, the soup did come with 3 flatbreads, which were not anything special. However, their cappuccino is decent, as is their banana-walnut muffin. I'll try to stop by some other day to sample items from their menu, which hopefully will be more appetizing than the food I had.
(3)
Ahmed J.
The location was the best thing about this restaurant. The restaurant was supposed to be serving arabic ( middle eastern), however, the menu had only couple of arabic dishes and few deserts. We ordered a humos platter which was average and kind of over garnished, chicken and rice platter, rice and veggies were decent and the grilled chicken was quit good. As for the service, its the main thing that made me rate this place low. I am talking about a whole hour waiting for our main dish and another 30 minutes to get the bill in a small restaurant. A place that I would not recommend to someone.
(2)
Kacie M.
I've been here at least a few times now, and I'm always pretty happy with everything. If I want a meal, I get the Jersulam Egg Salad Sandwich. It's hard boiled eggs and cheese in a wrap and it's very tasty. A word of warning, though: It comes with onions, which they do not mention on the menu. The first time I got it, I had to send it back and have them remake it without the onions. The girl working there looked kind of annoyed, but I didn't have any problems sending it back and my new sandwich came out quickly. My friends have always been happy with what they've gotten there, and one said the hummus was the best he'd ever had. I haven't tried many drinks, but the hot chocolate is good. Service is usually so-so, but never that bad. The decor is charming and, overall, it's a nice little cafe to spend your afternoon in if you happen to be in Central Square.
(4)
Nan A.
Andala has it all - the wifi, satisfying Mediterranean food, rich coffees, with many different rooms and seating arrangements for socializing, studying or getting some work done.
(5)
Juston P.
Trip #1: "... and an ice water." Trip #2: "... and an ice water." Trip #3: "... and can you please put ice in my water?" What do these 3 have in common? All three times my water arrived nice and warm, without ice. This isn't a big deal. I'm a big boy. I can drink warm water. However, it's representative of the service at Andala. To paraphrase the prophet Eminem, they just don't give a ffff. It's seriously awful. To wit: Trip #1: 15 minutes elapsed between sitting and being given a menu. Trip #2. 7 minutes elapsed, so I approached a waitress and ordered directly. Trip #3: 3 minutes elapsed before I got up. I learn. I'm a smart boy. "Dude, why do you keep going back if all you're gonna do is whine about the service?" Because, my bodacious friend, the food is awesome! Such tasty, spicy sandwiches! Such rich and fresh hummus! And the atmosphere is awesome, too! Look at that cute, outdoor patio! Check out that cool greenhouse room that overlooks the street! Listen to the intricate vocals of the middle eastern music! Partake in the free WiFi! My advice: carve out an hour to eat your food. That way, you won't flip out when 20 minutes passes between your being given the check and the waitress' picking up your money.
(3)
Matt S.
Six stars for the best lentil soup in the Boston area and for a fantastic white chocolate mocha (as well as the one particular cute girl behind the counter who makes the latter). Minus one for the fuckin' every time hassle to get someone to come over and take your order, let alone to get the check when you're in a rush.
(5)
Gabriela F.
When I lived in Central Square, Andala was one of my GO TO cafes. I would often grade papers there while munching on one of their DELICIOUS Jerusalem Egg sandwiches and a mocha. Though their other sandwiches are yummy too, I always order the egg sandwich. The wait staff was always really sweet and I could always find a spot to relax or work while I was there. Now that I'm back in NY, I really wish there was a spot near me as chill and as lovely as Andala. Definitely GO!
(5)
H. A.
Come here for the hookah and nice environment, but not for the food. I'm Middle Eastern and their food doesn't cut it.
(3)
Neeraj D.
2.5 stars The prices seem good, the downstairs is nice and large (and mostly unknown so there is place to sit). This would be good for a group to sit and meet also. The outdoor seating, wi-fi, available power strips make it a good place to camp out for a bit. The service is indeed slow as others commented. The tea was undrinkable because it was over seeped while waiting to be delivered to us (it took more than 10 minutes for the tea to make it downstairs). The Arabian coffee had a smooth and creamy mouth feel with the spice of cardamon a nice compliment to the coffee. I do wish there was a filter though because the end of the coffee is very sludgy with the contents. I will next time try some different drinks or just bring a filter for the Arabian coffee. (-2.0 stars) Street parking (~ spots) with the typical Cambridge meters (25 cents = 15 minutes). I think we will try it again and hope for better service because the locale has potential but it can definitely improve by getting rid of the credit card minimum and better music (-0.5 stars)
(2)
Sushmita M.
How many times have you ordered a mocha from Starbucks or Peet's Coffee and felt a little piece of you die as you realize that you just paid an exorbitant price (again) for subpar chocolate-flavored syrup instead of the real thing? Andala Coffee House is authentic cocoa goodness! These are the best white chocolate mochas I've had in Boston by far -- it's a blessing for me that I don't live in Central Square, or I'd burn a hole through my wallet in mocha consumption. The cafe itself is ideal for a Sunday afternoon of studying or general lazying around. The staff are lovely, they have free wifi, and everything is generally chill.
(4)
Lauren E.
I have been looking for some new coffee shops to add to my circuit, and this one fortuitously came to my attention last week. Immediately upon walking in I could tell that it would be good. (Perhaps sadly,) everyone else and his brother seemed to already know about it, and it was super crowded! Fortunately, we were able to grab the only table in the place after walking downstairs and back up again. In terms of the food/drinks---The Turkish coffee was good, but I wish they had brought me real cream instead of the little tiny packaged thing. I also had chai, which was pretty good and tasted original. I guess the mocha was good, too, but I didn't drink any. I had a pretty mediocre cookie as well. Didn't try any of the food, though it sounded good. At least half of the crowd there was studying. It wasn't too loud, though there were several audible conversations at all times. I had a little trouble with the wireless network, but it worked for most of the time. Despite the numerous imperfections, I give them the 4 stars for the decor and environment. In addition to the tables, there were couches and other forms of cushioned seating. The walls were prettily decorated, and nice to look at while spacing out and needing a break from my reading. All in all, I'm looking forward to going back again, though perhaps next time with my ipod to help with the noise, and at lunch time so I can try the falafel and hummus.
(4)
Jenny V.
Andala is a cute coffeehouse with outdoor seating, free wifi, creative drinks, a Middle Eastern menu, and the cutest waitstaff. I stayed down the street during my visit and stopped by three times during my week long visit. Try the goat cheese and honey fruit plate for a light breakfast or dinner. Who knew that would make a good combination? Delicious. Definitely worth a visit if around the area.
(4)
John S.
I'm the 102nd review? And here I thought this place was out of the way. I've been living within a 15 minute walk of Andala for over three years and only recently learned its name (a friend told me to meet him there). So I went, happy from the get-go to be finally entering the place I passed all the time on the drive home from the Pike. The first thing I noticed was how much light was coming through the floor to ceiling windows. Because Andala faces the very wide Central Square/River Street intersection, it's very bright, even on a cloudy day. I then noticed the menu, which I picked up off a music stand. I perused the Israeli offerings and opted for a pear juice ($2 too expensive) and an omelette ($2 cheaper than expected). Both were delicious. Over the half hour or so I was there, I noticed people taking advantage of the free wi-fi on their laptops, reading books, and calmly sipping tea. Because it's within shouting distance of the Central Square Starbucks, it made me even happier to go to Andala and support local business.
(4)
Stephanie F.
I agree their service is kind of slow, but their food is pretty good. I come here when I want free wifi and would like to work for a long time on my computer, while consuming very flavorful caffeinated drinks and "real" food (other than scones and muffins). At first I thought this place was really small, but the thing that I admire about this place is how homey it is! There is a surprisingly large amount of spaces to hang out and do work in. It's almost like you're at someone's big house which is very nicely decorated with Middle Eastern flair. Yay for it providing a different experience than the usual cafes in Cambridge.
(4)
May N.
The closest coffee house to my apt. It is super cute and the staff seem really nice! Stopped by for coffee on a Saturday morning before running errands. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a handful of staff ready to serve. They had yummy pastries and breakfast foods and their menu included Arabic meals and hookahs (I'm pretty sure they're still bad for you). Prices looked inexpensive. I'll have to return to try more stuff. Only con: they charged an extra 50 cents for iced coffee. On a day that kicked off the hot and muggy weather here.
Atmosphere, ambiance, stellar coffees & teas, and great specialty food all make Andala one of the best places around to grab a coffee, have a bite, and relax. With free (if intermittent) WiFi and many outlets, it's a great study locale as well. Don't expect to be alone, however. The only thing lacking is the staff. If it's busy, expect slow service. I'm not sure if it's understaffed or what but that's my only complaint. On a recent outing, I tried the hummus plate and could not have been happier. It boasted great flavor and the proper authentic consistency you would expect from this sort of cafe while somehow surpassing the expectation all around. I've had the Arabic coffee as well as a few teas (all very good) but decided to try the Turkish coffee this time. I was not disappointed. The flavor was very balanced and it was ground to perfection. Something great about the coffee selection is that they serve it in the proper cups and with the right serving implements. Far too few places do that. That is what makes Andala's coffee fit perfectly into the atmosphere of the cafe thereby completing the Andala experience.
(4)
Sofia B.
Great Turkish coffee at a very nice price. What's better? The lentil soup. Next time I'll try the hookah that's available on the patio in the Summer.
(5)
Marcelo C.
Terrible service and the wifi never works. If you have two hours to spare while you wait to get service, then this is the place for you. Food makes up for it.
(2)
Andrew C.
Your local coffee shop. With an Turkish/Arabic menu for lunch and dinner. Go downstairs to get the semi-authentic feel.
(3)
Joel M.
Ate here for lunch during a hot day... the place wasn't terribly well conditioned, the staff was indeed pretty slack, but the food was excellent and a good value. I'll be back, but getting in and out during a 1 hour lunch break isn't really an option. 5 stars for food/value, 4 stars for ambiance, 2 for service.
(4)
Haley T.
I love this place. It's quiet, beautifully furnished and sunny. The waitstaff is nice and just attentive enough. There are plenty of vegetarian options and their turkish coffee is delicious. A perfect place for a quiet coffee date or a lunch alone with a book.
(4)
Roni E.
If only Central was closer to me and parking isn't a b*tch... I would love to come back for more. Andala is located right on the corner, so it's perfect for people watching along the street. It's got a very cozy, warm feeling. They make a mean Vanilla Chai in a large mug. Perfecto! Came here for the Yelp N00bs Event, and they were great at fitting us all in a large section of their place. The tables are small, but we also had a bunch of Yelp schwag laying all over the place. The hummus was great! The meat pies were great! The chicken m-something I can't remember the name was most excellent. (It's the one on the right hand side of the menu, written on the very top!). Alright to conclude, their food was awesome! Definitely on my list of awesome coffeehouses and must returns.
(4)
Tanaya P.
My boyfriend and I decided to venture out to Central Square for lunch today. Before I delve into the review, let me set the scene: I had not eaten a thing all day and was a starving monster. Thus, as soon as we spotted a place that didn't gross me out from the outside, I ran across the street and plopped myself at a table. Within 3 minutes, we had ordered the egg salad sandwich, lentil soup, veggie chili, hummus plate and the house specialty tea (the name escapes me). The food was fantastic! Albeit, my eyes were larger than my stomach and I couldn't finish everything, but I was stuffed. What's better is that it wasn't gross stuffed where you feel sick... instead all the food is fresh and delicious. After we stuffed our faces in silence, we ended up ordering a Turkish and Arabic coffee, which was a great way to cap our meal. I highly recommend checking out Andala for a quick coffee, meal or new spot to study.
(5)
Krystal T.
This place is good, not awesome. The ambiance is nice, but the staff sucks with the exception of a few. The food is good, and yes, they are constantly changing the staff. I live across the street from this place and do recommend their breakfast omelets and their coffee bar, but if you like you drinks hot, make sure you ask for extra hot.
(3)
Lucy S.
I discovered this restaurant about a year ago, when I came for an internship interview. I didn't get the position, but I did get an AAAMMAAAZZING cup of coffee. This is one of the few independent cafes in Boston, I believe, and I come here at least once a month. Like I said, the coffee is great and the foods good too, free wifi, outdoor patio, but most of all, I LOOVVEEE the staff! They're all friendly and chill which helps the all-around laid back feel of the place. I feel like I could be BFFs with all of them, the service keeps me coming back for more. Sometimes, I take an hour long commute to central square just to go there. For the love of coffee, or something more?
(5)
Jazzie F.
This is a cute coffee shop. I have been here several times w/ a good friend of mine. When I first came here, I thought it was so amazing and fell in love with it instantly. Having said all of that, the service here down-right sucks. Especially if you sit downstairs. I feel like this place is a classic case of they'll hire anyone off the street as long as they're a pretty girl. I have almost always been served by young women, and they are all for lack of a better term: retards. (I apologize if this term offends people but this is how I talk). The women care more about getting off their shift and you settling your bill than actual service. They are sometimes rude, very very very very slow, forgetful, and truly, completely, utterly, incompetent. Did I mention rude? I love the coffee, and the food is pretty amazing but I absolutely despise the service.
(3)
Kar M.
Awesome awesome awesome The menu selection is great! The location is better...but the food is the best part. Bring a large group and this place will accommodate...(why its called a coffee house...im not sure) o_O This is a great find and is really close to the Central Square T stop... Delightful :)
(5)
Betty M.
I had shakshokeh for breakfast. It was amazing. The coffee is different but good. They do not refill cup but the waitress was very sweet and brought me another cup on the house.
(5)
Ebru A.
Nice place If you like to wait an hour for a coffee. They offered a free baklava to 4 people as an apology.
(2)
Nicholas S.
I really liked the vibe this place has. It's laid back and there are tons of couches and chairs around. Some parts are more private than others, such as the downstairs area, so if you need a place for a meeting or just to get some work done, Andala is great. I had a "Chocolate Snail" pastry, which was fantastic, and a nice big cup of Chai Tea. I will definitely be going back to taste some of the other delectable-sounding treats on their menu. The free wi-fi wasn't bad, either!
(4)
Mike M.
When you are in dire need of a chill coffeehouse experience, I think Andala is a great option. Whereas most of your Starbucks and DDs and even like 1369 Coffee House can seem kind of chaotic and hectic, Andala just has a really chill vibe. From the table service by a really nice waistaff to the great outdoor seating you can enjoy once the weather gets nice, this place is pretty legit. The overall vibe in the store is just very chill with plenty of seating and free wifi to sit with your laptop and casually enjoy your day. I also think they have some pretty good food - I had a vanilla scone today that tasted totally fresh and delicious. They also ask for a $5 miniumum on your credit card so if you are cash strapped and just needing a cup of coffee, maybe you should go to Starbucks. My only complaint about Andala is that their coffee station for takeout is pretty inadequate. They only have generic pink packet sugar substitute instead of Splenda or real sugar. Also, they have salt and pepper on the counter right next to the sugar and cocoa powder - that would be a nasty mistake to pick up the salt by accident!
(4)
Aboud Y.
Love, love this place. Great Arabic food / drink in a comfortable atmosphere. Great for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or just a snack. Also a good place to chill and talk with friends or even read / study. The place does have its quirks (service and food are a bit inconsistent) but its all easily forgiven.
(5)
Ina C.
A tenth of a mile from my church, I have now found a new place to get my mid-food-coma, pre-church caffeine! I can only comment on the atmosphere and iced tea, but I still think it's reviewing because this place really has the most seating I've ever seen in a place with the words "coffee house" in the name. Seriously, tons of seating, especially in warm weather with the outdoor patio. It's got a warm feel with maroon-colored walls, high ceilings (on the main floor) and it's spacious. A great place to grab a meal, a coffee, to study, whatever! I'll definitely be back. Oh, my iced tea was delicious, by the way. Unsweetened, very herb-y. :) Love it.
(4)
Hiroki M.
This is my new favorite cafe. One of a kind ambiance, the food and tea is terrific as well. Great place for either just sitting down for some tea/coffee or taking a group of friends for some food.
(5)
Doris T.
Such a cute little cafe! I would totally go there with someonhe special for a relaxing afternoon/brunch excursion. The decor is nothing special other than a collection of mismatched middle-eastern trinkets and paintings but somehow everything comes together to give a wonderfully homey and relaxing atmosphere. I did not try any of their food this time around because of time constraints but I did try a pot of tea from their quite large collection. I had the honeybush and it was just I had expected, perfect on a cold day like today. They have cozy little corners if you want to be on your own or a basement dedicated for a larger group. I also tried a sip of chai from my friend's cup and it was quite delicious. Last of all, the staff there are incredibly sweet. The service is quite efficient and the staff are extremely friendly. Try this cafe Boston dwellers, you will like it :) PS Their online menu has a lot of typos but their collection is quite impressive regardless.
(4)
Liz M.
With Cambridge creepin' w/ cafes, Andala comes up a cut above the rest. Why? ....because it has all the ingredients of a great cafe! But why 4 stars and not 5? Well....it has all the ingredients except student friendly prices. (1) cozy atmosphere and different types of seating. one day you may want a couch, another day a huge table, another, in the basement (though its kinda spooky to me) (2) AWESOME HUMMUS. OMG. AWESOME. GET IT, even if you dont like chick peas. (3) GREAT COFFEE. aint cheap, but great. maybe it'll be a treat for all that studying. (4) CLEAN BATHROOMS! with all the studying and drinking and eating, you need a good can! (5) GREAT SERVICE. people are nice, not snooty. that goes a long way. (6) things to get: the hummus plate, the ground beef special, the latte with an extra espresso shot and coffee. best bets and best eats!
(4)
Steven P.
This place is quite cozy. I friend told me about it and I had to visit. While the coffee is slightly expensive considering how much they give you, the atmosphere is really nice. When I went into the basement I felt like I was walking into a friend's house. It was very inviting. I will definitely have to come back some time, it seems like a good place to sit around for hours working/reading while being supplied with a constant stream of tasty pastries and caffeinated beverages.
(4)
Nadia A.
I love the ambiance and decor of Andala...I have to say I really like their tea selection and coffee as well. I really like the side room with all the windows and the large tables make this a great venue for meetings. I've had just a few dishes here...all very tasty. My only complaint is that the service is ridiculously slow...very courteous, but SLOW. I'm not actually sure it's the waitstaff's fault...i have been to this place and been served by so many different waiters and waitresses that I don't think it's them. I actually think they need more organization or coordination to their waitstaffing system. Maybe they need to hire more people for busier times? The free wi-fi is definitely a bonus. Andala is a great addition to the Cambridge coffee houses. Another plus is that they are open late if you need to get work done. Overall, Andala = awesome.
(4)
Daniel P.
I don't want to say too much because, really, this place speaks for itself. This is where I take anyone who appreciates quality coffee in a stylish cafe. If I lived in Central Square, I'd be here every day for their Turkish or Arabic coffee. During one of my visits, the barista nearly yelled at the waitress for mixing up the two. This speaks to the caliber. It's a perfect spot for Sunday brunch or an afternoon snack while you study. When it's warm, the patio is quite lovely, providing a view of the square we all wish we could live in.
(5)
Cat M.
Like going to a Middle Eastern-Mediterranean friend's house and it turns out they're having a family reunion. Cozy, spacious, excellent for studying -- free wifi, yes, but also the staff won't bother you if you're just hanging out with your book. Delicious chai latte, expansive tea selection, and the goat cheese and honey plate is a treat to share with someone lovely.
(5)
Adam C.
This is my go-to spot, whether I'm stopping by for a laidback conversation with a friend or spending the whole evening working on projects on my laptop. No other Central Square coffeeshop has everything that I'm looking for. More specifically... -Late hours (open until 11 p.m. on weekdays) -Free and generally consistent wifi -Decent, reasonably-priced food and baked goods (I'm a sucker for the baklava, in particular) and, perhaps most importantly, -CHARACTER. The owner is always sitting downstairs at the big, black table with a couple of friends, shooting the breeze. He's an extremely friendly guy, and on more than one occasion has seen me and a friend sipping our teas and given us a pastry on the house! I'm not a tea connoisseur such that I'd be able to speak on the quality of the product, but I've always been satisfied with the variety of herbal and fruit teas, and you can never go wrong with the Arabic Coffee or the house tea. Bottom line: skip all the chains and crunchy-granola spots in the area - not to mention the pair of personality-less 1369s - and check out Andala!
(5)
Allie L.
Went to the Andala with a close friend of mine and my mom because we were looking for a quieter tea house so we could talk and hear ourselves think. All three of us really liked the Andala. I highly recommend the downstairs because it's got a fantastic vib. There are huge benches that form a square and a lot of instruments that you can play including bongo drums, a guitar, and many wonderful Indian instruments. It looks like an ideal place for a music jam or poetry readings. The food as others have said was very simple but very good. Sometimes, I think simple is best. A great little inexpensive place to go with friends and loved ones with good food and a nice quiet atmosphere.
(4)
Sam S.
Just away from the hustle and bustle of Mass Ave in Central Square is a little gem of a coffee shop called the Andala Coffee House. I searched Yelp for a good free wifi cambridge area option to do some work for a few hours. The second I walked in I knew I'd love it here. Such a peaceful atmosphere and charming middle eastern music, great table service, and a nice selection of food. I tried a goat cheese honey plate that came with 5 different kinds of fruit, and huge chunck of delicious goat cheese...well worth the $7.95 cost. The chai tea was delicious. As someone who loves working at coffee shops to get out of the house, I also have a love/hate relationship with them. The busiest ones are great for people watching, and often interesting but also loud, over crowded (fighting for seats/space/outlets sucks!) and very distracting. I recently sat next to someone in JP who held a sales conference meeting over their phone for an hour. However, I should go to the library if I want extreme peace and quiet. So on those days I'm in cambridge where I DO need to focus really well, this little coffee house will be my first choice. Next time I want to try the avocado pressed sandwich...yum!
(5)
Sheila S.
Yes, five stars. This place is good. The mint tea is REALLY refreshing and culturally accurate. All the Lebanese dishes are tasty. The hostesses are nice and willing to refill over the hours that you are there. Most importantly, it has comfy seats and big windows for watching the rest of the world go by as you study.
(5)
Jamay L.
FINALLY! I've found a cafe in Boston that rivals the cafes I used to frequent in Manhattan. Andala Coffee House is a gem. Just a 5-minute walk away from the Central Square T stop, it is a warm, welcoming, spacious place where you can hang out for hours, scribbling in your journal, typing away at your laptop, or chatting over tea and pastries with friends. With two floors that offer a range of seating options, from small tables to cushioned corner booths to large dining tables, you can come by yourself or host a meeting for your new startup. The wifi is fast, the staff is friendly, and the food is good, with plenty of snack and meal options..... I can see myself becoming a regular here!!
(5)
Ana R.
I met a group at Andala last night around 6:30pm for dinner & knitting. I ordered the Avocado Press Sandwich, which was delicious and big enough to satisfy, but a little pricy at $7.95. I also had a Chai, which was also very good. For desert, I opted for the rice pudding, which was super-cold and bland, unfortunately. Like eating wet white rice straight out of the fridge. I was told by a friend who frequents here that the oatmeal and fruit plate is very good. The space was very nice. The atmosphere was great and the owner was very kind. We were outside at the beginning of the evening, but it got a little chilly and windy (actually, their outdoor umbrella nearly collapsed on us, probably because it was being kept up by a chair). We moved inside, into one of three rooms with seating. There was a long, low couch which accomodated us well, but it was difficult to pass by other guests. The decor reminded us all of Algiers. There are many tapestries, rugs, etc to make the space feel cozy. The grill outside exhuded lovely smells of chicken and lamb kabobs. The waitress was a bit flighty and overwhelmed by our group of 6. We were there 3 hours and didn't see her after for the last 1 and a half. She brought us a pitcher of water and only 3 glasses and didn't come back to bring more. Parking is impossible. Walk if you can or take the T. I would come back here alone for breakfast or lunch, to read the paper or knit. Great atmosphere, bad for big groups or those looking to eat cheap. Probably really good for a date, as it's cozy and a little luxurious and different.
(3)
Kristine A.
This place is simply adorable. They have a wide array of teas which hits the spot on cold winter nights. They have good vegetarian options on their menu which are simply tasty. I had no idea they even had a downstairs since I have only been here once before. There is really neat artwork around the place which gives it character.
(4)
Meghan F.
I have been coming to Andala every so often for several years, and it is consistently pretty great. The chai lattes are delicious, the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, and the wifi is free. The service isn't always great, and the food can be overpriced, but the food that I have tried (hummus plate, vegetarian chili, some pastries) is generally good. There is a lot of seating and comfortable chairs and couches. In short, I would definitely recommend Andala: service can be hit or miss, but the location is great and I can't get enough of their chai!
(4)
Angelique A.
This is my all time favorite middle eastern cafe on decor and ambiance alone, especially on a warm sunny day when you can sit outside and just contemplate life. Taking off two stars because 1. The food, rice in particular, is super oily. The oil does does add any flavor so it's hard to understand why it's added. 2. The service is suuuuuuppperrrrr slooowwwwww, especially if you happen to sit outside. Need to leave in an hour? Better ask for the check now coz that's how long it will take. Also, why so stingy with the paper napkins? I dropped some oily rice on my dress and had to wait for half an hour before I could get hold of a paper napkin to dab on it...
(3)
Mika S.
The atmosphere at Andala is one of the best i've ever experienced. The patio is enclosed by a small fence, and tucked underneath a leafy canopy, with twinkling patio lights lighting the area up at night. The seating area in the basement is equally as cosy, with a number of couches and beautiful decorations. The set-up on the patio and in the basement are very casual and intimate, making them great places to go on a date, or hanging out with friends. My friends and I had such a great time here that we spent almost 3 hours eating, and doing hookah while we caught up. The food is simple, and very delicious! I ordered the Meat Pie plate, which came with 2 small meat pies and a salad. The salad was small and lightly dressed in one of the tastiest vinaigrette dressings i've ever had - the exotic blend of spices gave it such a wonderful taste. I would love to know what the dressing is called, and whether it is homemade. The meat pies were even better and so so fresh! I would love to come back here for brunch and coffee.
(4)
Tiffany C.
I'm giving a three because this was my first time here, but I ordered, sat for 2 hours and never got my order. Ambiance: 5 super cute outside patio, enclosed by a small fence. There is seating next to a window facing the balcony (always taken!) & extra seating area in the basement with couches and beautiful decorations, really giving you that middle eastern flavor & culture. It's a great place for a group of friends to just hangout and have coffee, tea, light lunch. Service: I NEVER GOT MY ORDER. The lady came in took our orders. My friend and I chatted a storm long enough that in 2 hours we realized she never came with our orders. I'm giving this a three because I didn't even get to taste the food or coffee, so I'm hoping the next time I go, they can change my mind.
(3)
Isaac E.
I had the goat cheese and fruit platter- big and full of juicy fruit! However, everything else was too spicy!! To be fair tho, I did eat my meals and if I had that kind of palate this would be my place. Additionally, the atmosphere is laid back and it has the true air of a coffee house.
(3)
Tracey L.
Andala is great if you're looking for a quiet place to have a conversation, read a book, or otherwise not use the Internet. Or maybe their internet is just perpetually incompatible with my laptop. In any event, the food here is fresh and definitely feels homemade. I am not a fan at all of their lemon mint smoothie - it's more like a slushie that is impossible to drink, but the foole plate and banana smoothies are delicious.
(3)
John Z.
Was not impressed with the food. My first order of meat pie was not available. Omelet and egg sandwich was basically egg with scallions and salt, something easily prepared at home. Not worth the $9 price tag. The mint smoothie looked promising from previous reviews, but when I got it, the ice to juice ratio was way off. It was a mountain of ice. Did not have a very good impression from this establishment.
(2)
Wanwipa P.
Love the mushroom omelet and orange juice here.
(5)
Richard H.
Definitely hit-or-miss. I've had wonderful experiences - especially on the food side - but most often the service comes up short. The waitress disappears, fails to bring the check, or is very distracted during order-taking. I love the interior and homey feeling of the cafe and basement, which does well to make up for bad service. Water arrived quickly on this visit. However, Andala's filter coffee is much to be desired, cookies seem store bought, and service during my last visit left us in a huff. Among the cafe options in Central Square that can accommodate a long, comfortable conversation, Andala tops my list and bad service won't prevent me from returning to chat with a friend over espresso or tea. However, be prepared to confront hit or miss service, and bring along a good deal of patience. Just a side note, the menus are filthy - the two that we received looked like coffee had been spilled on it for the last two years, several cascading shades of brown. Most of the teas listed in the menu were unavailable. Not really sure what is going on behind the counter.
(2)
Esther J.
Food is amazing. I had rice over beef. A little hot/humid inside. It's like going into a house in a humid, foreign (Arabic) country. Free Wifi. Definitely a place to go with friends or to study on a cooler day.
(4)
Katie L.
Everything about this place is perfect. It is filled with light, it feels like your house with couches and little tables not too close together, but only if your house were a little Middle Eastern cafe. It is clean, not too rushed nor too quiet. The walls are a cheerful yellow, and the whole space has just the nicest details. There's also a blue colored downstairs, with more couches and tables. Tons of space. The tea comes in little teapots, and it is fresh tasting and piping hot, served with a clear glass like the tea I've had in Morocco (though to make their fresh mint tea a true Moroccan tea, you'll need to add several heaping spoons of sugar). I also had rice pudding and a croissant, both of which were solid, especially the rice pudding. Otherwise, I was left in peace to write on my laptop. It seemed like everyone at this cafe was either a student doing homework, or an expat from some middle eastern country out to meet other expats for a Sunday afternoon tea. There were plenty of outlets, the wifi was solid if not lightning fast, and the service was very nice. If I lived closer to Central Square, I'd be here all the time -- it's open till 11, after all! What a rarity for a little cafe! I'd dock a star for the prices ($3.75 for a tiny tea), but this place just makes me feel so nostalgic. Gotta give five.
(5)
Rob C.
This place sucks. I came in at 830am (30 minutes after they had opened) and sat down to order. I ordered the avocado press sandwich that everyone on yelp recommended and a coffee - the server told me the cook was not here yet and didn't know when he would be. The server ended up running into the kitchen to make the sandwich and asking the other employee to get my coffee. The woman responded "no" and sat there folding silverware. I waiting until my sandwich came out to get my coffee (20 minutes later) Save the time and money and go somewhere else.
(1)
Xue L.
This place is great. It's a cute cafe with lots of space. No tight tables squished next to each other. Perfect for sitting and working. It's very relaxed with a lot of natural light. Service was prompt and friendly. Not rude at all! The food is delicious. flavorful and authentic. Awesome selection of teas.
(5)
Alan J.
I love how the roof of their patio is covered with vines. I was a big fan of getting a hooka and some tea and reading a book for a while. Also, call me crazy but like the past three times I've been there at closing, I noticed that the place wasn't emptying but was in fact filling up. Except, the waiters were telling a subset of people (ie non-middle-easterners) they had to leave. I guess it's their prerogative to let whoever they want to stay past closing time, but it creates a weird dynamic when you're the only one they're asking to leave.
(4)
Hai N.
I would only ever come back for the seating/ambience of this cafe. Otherwise, service is super slow -- I had to remind the server twice that I want to have a cup of coffee, and both times she replied saying someone will make it and in the end no one ever did. They werent even busy or crowded. Also, their internet is inaccessible, as in something is wrong because I could connect to wifi but could do nothing, even a simple search.
This cafe has a lot of really great seating options inside and outside, and feels very cozy, with tables, couches, and benches available. The atmosphere is very laid back, they play a lot of old 90s songs and Sara bareilles. I liked studying here because it's relatively quiet, a low traffic area, and you don't feel rushed. But the major downside is that the SERVICE IS TERRIBLE. It takes forever for servers to clean the table, take your order, it once took 45 min for a simple latte to come out when my friends tea came out immediately. It's crazy how slow they are even when they aren't busy..
(2)
Brad M.
Been here a few times with a group. Food is decent if a bit expensive, but the service has always been poor. I've often had to ask for things several times before they show up, having the wrong things come out, slow service, etc. None of that compares to my experience today though. We had made a reservation for this group, which Andala had evidently accepted. Once the group arrived, the manager came over to us and made a big stink about how he doesn't think our group spends enough money at his place (we regularly have $120+ checks), and kicks us all out right then. Keep in mind we have never seen this place crowded, so it's not like we're taking up space other patrons could be using. Some of us had already purchased some coffee and food, so we moved our group meeting immediately outside the place, bringing our cups and dishes with us. The server actually has the gall to come out after us and harass us about the dishware we've taken all of about 20 feet. Well buddy, we wouldn't have had to take it outside if you hadn't kicked us out. I will not be going back here.
(1)
Emily G.
Andala is a decent place to get authentic Middle Eastern food in Central Square. Two-stars seems harsh, but I think there are better places to spend your money. I am no expert in cooking this type of food but I think even I could have thrown something together that would have been more tasty. I went for lunch on a weekday recently with a coworker. My mujaddara was disappointingly flavorless. Her foul plate was just okay. I have heard from many people that the service is exceptionally slow, although we had no issue with that. The space is pretty as well, if you can eat outside, the grapevines covering the whole outdoor area are absolutely beautiful. Two-stars seems harsh, but I think there are better places to spend your money.
(2)
Lily T.
This is a solid 4 star place. Cosy, homey, never a wait, decent-to-good food and coffee. Great off-Central location. Free wifi. Excellent brunch place with zero wait means this is my go to (vs some other places in central sq... My rule is that I never wait more than 10 min for brunch. No brunch is worth that....) 1 star docked because of the following 1. The menu is super vague, when you ask the servers they are often just as vague. But I've never had anything bad here. 2. The chai is weird, it's just black tea without milk Overall this place is a win
(4)
Audra Jamai W.
If you're fond of working in coffee shops for hours, this is a great place to get work done during the week days. This is not the place to go if you're in a rush. Other than the staff working on a more European or Middle Eastern time schedule the servers are very friendly and helpful. The tea selection is vast and the menu has something for whatever mood you're in.
(4)
Ahmed A.
I rushed herefrom downtown to get here at 10;30 pm. It turns out they stop serving food at 10 pm :( FAIL!
(1)
Kristen C.
My favorite things about Andala are the avocado press, the tuna melt press, and the outdoor patio covered in leafy greens. Probably in that order. The ambiance is nice for working or having convos, but I've never found it to feel very cozy. There are usually enough people around, but it never feels crowded or bustling. Staff are generally polite, neither overly friendly or unfriendly. Bottom line: Andala is nice in moderation.
(4)
Mark S.
I used to love this place. I really did. When I first moved to Boston, Andala was a haven. The nicest wait staff, great food, a good vibe, awesome coffee, free wifi. Now? Almost none of the above are true. The vibe is still great, but every single person working there seems to hate their lives--and, by extension, you. The turnover in the waitstaff is so rapid, it makes you wonder whether they're even getting paid. The wifi? Nonexistent. I mean, it's existent, technically. But you can never, ever, ever get on the internet with it, so don't expect to. At this point, I only go here if I know I won't need the internet. The food? Totally gone downhill. A "chocolate croissant" now is a stale croissant, sliced in half, and drizzled halfheartedly with Hershey's chocolate syrup. All those lovely teas you see? Yeah, they don't have them. Oh, and apparently the owner no longer believes in heat during the winter or AC during the summer. It's still true that they won't ever rush you, but going here has become a frustrating experience.
(2)
Anna K.
This is such a great spot for a coffee or delicious snacks. It's lovely and decorated with a unique and very cozy style. The baristas are very friendly, and take coffee orders from your table, so you don't have to run to the bar every time you need something. Great for meetings, study sessions, and coffee-dates. Wish I lived in Boston to frequent this place more often.
(5)
Ana S.
I keep going to Andala for the same reason I keep answering booty calls from my ex: I have poor judgment. The reviews about the service are spot-on. I've never seen a more confused operation. Last time I was there I ordered a salad WITHOUT two of the ingredients listed. When the bill came I noticed it was more expensive than I expected. I asked the server about it and she said there was an extra charge for the change. I told her I wasn't going to pay more for eating less and, if indeed that insane policy was in place, she should have told me before filling the order. All available servers then coalesced next to my table to consider the matter. I felt like I took crazy pills. Come here if you want nothing more than a single cup of straight coffee. Set your expectations to low.
(2)
Robert C.
Go for the Turkish (Arab?) coffee. The desserts are good with it - baklava, etc. Have not tried the restaurant food. The staff is very friendly, but a bit slow. It is a go-to place for a great coffee or Turkish tea break. Parking is not bad either.
(4)
Rafay A.
What good food. The Fooul I ha was the best I've tasted since I are it first in Jerusalem years ago. The owner, Sami, is passionate about his food and the care his customers get. Definitely recommended as solid middle eastern fare.
(5)
Dave M.
The worst service ever! Waited hours for a chicken kabob and a side if rice. Unacceptable!
(1)
Vivian C.
Context: Monday afternoon around 2 PM. Ambiance: There are flies flying everywhere. HUGE BLACK HOUSEFLIES. Yuck. But, they have board games like chess and checkers, which is a huge plus for me. They also have power outlets and a cute additional room that overlooks the street. I happily sat down and then an older gentleman started to talk to me about 9/11 and Harvard conspiracy theories. He's the problem...he talked to me for TWO HOURS. Apparently, this dude is a regular customer there, who often ropes people into these long conversations. He was a nice guy...I just didn't know how to tell him to stop without offending him. Considering that he was deep into these conspiracy theories, I didn't want to set him off or anger him. Service: The service was nice, I think I had at least three different servers though. All three servers KNEW that this man was talking to me and didn't say anything or try to save me from the pain. I was in desperate need of SAVING. Even a customer next to me apologized to me and felt bad that this was happening to me. DEAR GOD. SAVE ME. Lemonade: A bit too sour for my tastes...it was also extremely pricey. $5. My review haiku: Comfortable seats Sour lemonade, black flies and power outlets! Unfortunately, this is may not be a unique experience. There's a resident conspiracy theorist here and be prepared to run away QUICKLY if an older heavier gentleman starts chatting you up. RUN, RUN, RUN. This is not the fault of Andala, but they need to REGULATE or at least say something to him...I just want two hours of my life back.
(1)
Christopher C.
So, I like this place. The coffee/drinks are good, and the food isn't bad for a coffee shop. As with a lot of places in the area, it gets really crowded and there's not a lot of table seating. I've had issues with the wifi as well, which kind of stops it from being a go-to study spot at all times. Also, while the staff is nice, it takes quite a while to be served, and many times I've just gone to the front to place an order. Still, though, I recommend it, especially if you live in the area and are looking for a good meeting spot with friends.
(3)
Amy M.
Went here for the first time today and loved it. Beautiful surroundings, lots of interesting space, wifi. The best chai I've ever had. I look forward to going back to try the food because it looks amazing.
(4)
Malkah F.
As always, a great dinner. I love this place as the ambiance is incredible, the wait staff friendly and caring, and the food yummy. The prices are low if you compare it to other places serving home-cooked middle-eastern fare. Another very special thing about this place is that for those of us involved in social justice work -- this is HOME. There is no other restaurant where we can find support and the owner is always willing to share support for our work. As a Palestinian he understands human rights -- and he also understands women's issues, LGBT issues, and anti-racism work. Enjoy the best food in and around Boston at reasonable prices, feel completely at home, and know that you are supporting a business that is on the side of human rights and dignity for ALL of us.
(5)
Tianyi Z.
Love their coffee and omelet, and the sandwiches are pretty good. Cosy environment, great place for brunch or to have a cup of coffee by the street.
(5)
Ana B.
The best place to get a coffee or a a tea around Central Square and meet a friend, read a book, or work a bit. I love to sit there and just enjoy the space- feels like a large middle eastern living room. The large windows overlook the street, there is an outside patio in the summer, and a cozy downstairs. The crew is very nice and will not rush you up. The service is a bit slow and unpredictable but they are so welcoming and casual that it really does not matter. The food is just ok but pricey. But the teas, coffees, pastries and desserts are all wonderful. I love to get a cardamom tea or an arabic coffee and a croissant. They serve it properly, with plates, silverware and napkins. Quite charming. One of my all time favourite secret places.
(4)
Fatos B.
I will try to be fair. I went there for hookah. So I'm not going to comment on coffee or anything else. When I first entered the store, the lady could not for the life of her tell me what the hookah choices were. I had to ask if they have what I was looking for. They said they did so I ordered. First the wait was too long, and once it came it was terrible. It wasnt working. They had no idea how to set it up. The waitresses were not particularly interested to make it work. Everything was confusing and a mess. Seeing that there was nothing I could do anymore I asked if they could puton the soccer match for me to watch. One of the guys said yeah we do if you pay 400 dollars. They were literraly looking at me weirdly until I left. It appeared that they didnt want me in there. There was a waitress who was nice and one of the younger owners. That was the only positive.
(1)
Julie B.
Service takes too long and the orders were not correct the last few times we came here as a group.
(2)
Ama N.
I've been coming here for a while, just for the teas (the tea is heaven)and coffees alone ....but one thing that sucks about here is that their customer service is horrible! So the waitress brings you a menu, which by the way has a bunch of food stains on it... you seriously lose your appetite. Then she literally will never come back! I went there this past week and had to leave the room I was sitting in and walk to the register and ask the guy behind the counter if he could kindly tell our waitress we are ready to order. He looks at me like I have leprosy and says "ya she'll be around". Like why am I being treated like I have no right to ask but as a customer im waiting for 30 min for you to come so i can order a latte! I dont get it but everytime it is the case here and its getting old. Oh and I only had lentil soup here once....just bring some seasoning with you if you want it -_-
(3)
Adam M.
+++++ -Great location in central square -Great place to study, no pressure to leave at all -Amazing Arabic music -Very chill place -Nice interesting crowd of people -Tea!! ------- -Bad service (The staff keeps changing) -Mediocre food
(3)
Nancy Y.
Best hang out place in Cambridge. Somewhat crowded on weekends but my closest friends and I loved hangin out there. Best teas, coffees, and cappuccino's around. Also they had a great chicken sandwich. I miss the grape vines in the summers there. Very laid back and very warm place to be.
(5)
Francisco M.
The rice had no flavor and the service took too long. The chicken was decent but the 35 minute wait for the plate wasn't worth the bill especially since the portions were small. The iced chai was OK but didn't come out until after we ate and the waiter never checked on us so we had to pay the bill up front. I would not eat there again.
(1)
Kasem W.
Great food, great service, great price, great choices. I first discovered this place at a meetup.com event, then I got hooked. Their chicken and beef dishes are all fantastic, and their choices of tea is superb.
(5)
Mar M.
I used to be a regular here, as I live right around the corner. As other people mentioned, service is really horrible here, but I put up with it - I need a place to work and I don't mind waiting for a cup of coffee. However, today is the last day I come here. We went over to order at the counter, as I knew they would take an awfully long time to service us at the table. But the waiter insisted we sit down... we've been waiting for her ever since... it's been an hour. We gave up - but hey, at least we have a free place to work.
(1)
Matthew B.
I've been in central for a year and avoided this spot under the impression foods came second to the college charm of offering hookah. I'm glad to announce today how wrong my conclusion was. The music is as authentic as the culinary delights that span the gambit of Middle Eastern delights. I wish I had headphones as I write this up on the free wifi, but I sure appreciate the latter. Rich, flavorful and plentiful - I could spend every meal here today and be satisfied with the diversity of taste. I rocked a doughy, flavorful set of meat pies that make my mouth water to imagine again while my lady enjoyed the traditional plate of the usual suspects, all of which were incredible. We gave the house tea a shot with its cardamom warning duly noted and I must say, it was the right choice. It's a tasty delight you're not going to find down the street at Starbucks. On a similar trajectory, rock the mint lemon smoothy for the most refreshing drink this side of the Mississippi. Overall, I'm pumped to be a just a stone's throw away. In a word, this spot is flavorful. Enjoy.
(4)
Maria G.
Cute coffee house that is just steps away from central square. They offer a variety of selections of coffee and food. Price is reasonable. Coffee/tea is around $3 - 4. Service is okay. The place is not big but has plenty of tables inside the shop. I ordered hot cider and it was alright. Nothing much to "complain" about.
(4)
George H.
Stopped by around 4 pm for a really late lunch, so we ordered the soup. I had the lentil. It came out quickly enough but it was Luke warm and not really that great, however, the Decor and the quirky charm of the cafe, decorated by genuine grapes hanging from the vines above, stole our heart! Plus the server was a very kind and despite being very busy because he seemed to be the only person serving outdoors, indoors and on the floor below, he was efficient and not at all cranky as other servers are wont to be when they are overwhelmed! So, that rates a 4 stars in my book! Would definitely be back, if I was living close by! And I would definitely recommend it!
(4)
Anpan W.
The ambience was interesting, but food was underwhelming and overpriced, and it was hard to find both a place to sit (laptop squatters took over big tables) and that was quiet (bromance start-up date and awkward MIT students on a date). I ordered the fruit, goat cheese, honey, and pita item. There was not enough honey nor enough pita.
(2)
Alon R.
I had high hopes for this place due to the high stars and recommendations. I am sad to say this was the most foul meal I have ever eaten in Cambridge. I ordered the meat and spinach pies which were literally microwaved out of a box. They were literally inedible. We literally just left the money on the table and walked out because it was so poorly managed and poor in taste.
(1)
Rebecca D.
Love this place! Very cute, quiet, good wifi. Came here while working remotely for the week in Boston. Hunkered down for the afternoon. Staff was super kind and helpful and the food was amazing! Fresh, tasty and healthy. I had the tuna sandwich and it was awesome. Some of the best hummus I've ever had, fresh and homemade. Wonderful tea selection too, I highly recommend this spot to anyone. I'll definitely be back!
(5)
Michelle J.
I was a bit hesitant about meeting my study group here after reading a few of the other reviews on Yelp. However, it was too late to change venues and well sometimes you just have to see things for yourself. When I got here I ordered an apple cider at the counter and then found my group. We were actually at the comfy table setup right in front of the register. The barista brought over my cider and suggested that the lower level had additional seating if we needed more space. We declined and she left us alone. And didn't bother us at all during our time there. A bunch of folks had ordered and got their food and we just enjoyed the ambiance and our conversation, and of course studying. The food I heard from those who ate was average. I liked the cider. It wasn't too sweet and was just what I needed on a cold winter night. The menu was a bit on the pricey side to me but the drinks were average price of most coffeehouses in the area. When we left we paid and there was no fuss. I'd come here to study again. This is a chill place and has more room than most other coffee houses which tend to be kind of cramped hole in the walls.
(3)
Cassandra F.
I love Andala. I unfortunately relocated and no longer live down the street! However, I did come back digitally to return the gratitude and still take the T two stops to go. Their tables are great for study and their tea comes in a pot with little glasses which is charming and practical. I would strongly recommend the Oatmeal topped with coconut shaving and milk with raisin surrounded by a medley of delicious fruit. As a Grad Student, I gained a lot from the positive atmosphere and waitstaff. It's a great location and a special place to me since I have had some life changing conversation their. In a way, it remind me of a charming little spot in the West Village, yet in Cambridge.
(5)
Nina D.
Service here is really bad and the food is sort of bad and overpriced. But overall, the staff is super friendly and the space is unparalleled in its convenience and ambience. In spite of its very strong limitations - Andala remains one of my regular neighborhood spots.
(2)
Alexander P.
This was a very cool, authentic Arab cafe experience. I ordered Turkish coffee and a foole plate. The Turkish coffee was simple but good. It was served with an empty espresso cup and the copper pot that it had been prepared in so you could pour it yourself, which was kind of cool. The Foole Plate was excellent. The pile of fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers and onions mostly) atop a warm bowl of a heavenly combination of mashed fava beans, chick peas garlic and olive oil, served with warm pita made for a really good light breakfast. The Arabic-speaking staff, carpet-covered floors, and walls adorned with various excerpts from the Qur'an reminded me of my days abroad. They have a lot of authentic dishes I look forward to trying in the future.
(4)
Xenia A.
If you want a quick dash in and out, this place is not for you. If you want a place to work, or read, or catch up with a friend, this place is perfect! There is tons of seating and natural light. Food is delicious, there is a huge variety of teas to choose from (that come in pots) and coffee and amazing, divine desserts. In the warm weather, their seating outside under the trellis is so nice - especially when paired with the mint smoothie!
(5)
Miriam A.
Is it bad that the first word that comes to my mind about this restaurant is RATS? I came here twice with my friend to smoke hookah outside on the patio and I couldn't help but feel like we were intruding on a rats night out taking place on Andala's property. I'm not stating that the rats came from inside the restaurant but they run around freely and its safe to say they probably make their way inside as well. Can't they have some sort of exterminator come on a regular basis to prevent this? Okay enough about that...I have to admit the food is yummy here. I've had the foole plate, chicken kabob special, and some sort of chicken sandwich. All delicious and reasonably priced. Hookah is great. Service is uber slow...its okay though no need to rush, hookah time= relaxing time (sans rats).
(3)
Olivia J.
Great tea selection + they give it to you in a big steel pot so it doesn't get cold for a long time. You can also ask for more hot water without extra pay. A very fitting place to get work done!
(5)
Edward S.
a really chill, place... I enjoyed a quietly momentous hour or so under this amazing grape trellis, sipping the best coffee and and chatting with arbitrary, interesting strangers...
(5)
Stefan K.
The location is nice. Grapevines as roofing of the terrace. I've been here twice. Loved the avocado sandwich the first time I ate here. Tea is good too. Went back another day to get the avocado sandwich again. Unfortunately they were out of avocado at 11 am. Waiters we're terribly slow that day. It took 20 minutes to pay.
(3)
Raül R.
So I'd seen lots of people at their patio and wanted to try. We ordered tabule salad, chicken kabab and beef with rice and some vegetables. Because the service is extremely SLOW, they brought the salad first and then took more than 15 minutes to bring the other food, so the person who ordered it had to wait with her food on the table for the rest of us. There wasn't so many people at the restaurant and we were just 3. We had to ask for our food because they hadn't told us anything about the delay... Food is good (tabule just ok) although not very generous quantities. And I think it's a little pricey too. Good location though.
(2)
Shisham K.
I have been to this place couple of times & I genuinely like the place. The staff here are very friendly. The decor is very Arabic & ethnic...the food is good. Vegetarian have a lot of variety. I also enjoyed their masala chai...The outside seating in the summers with the hookah is the highlight for me. Only one recommendation, they should introduce more hookah flavours. Also, I should mention their baklava are really delicious!!!
(4)
Pavel R.
Very cozy and cute space with a great outdoor patio. Unfortunately every time I've been there have been somewhat disappointed with my meals. They always lack something, don't feel well balanced or thought through. My experience with service has been very disappointing as well. It is always extremely slow and not super friendly. This place has a lot of potential if people that are running it can get their act together.
(3)
Jen B.
The service here is atrocious. Don't be fooled by the quirky decor. This place is awful. We went here for a tea/coffee break and were appalled from start to finish. Our waitress dropped my husband's croissant, then brought out the bill before our beverages arrived. The "waitress" (sorry, but she obviously isn't qualified for the job title) then had to consult the check to remember what my husband had even ordered. When the drinks came, my fruit smoothie tasted tasteless (and odorless) and the mint tea had no flavor. THREE PEOPLE came to see if we'd paid our bill within 4 minutes of us getting our items. When the second server came around, my husband said we hadn't paid yet, as he didn't want them to see that I'd left no tip. Within 32 seconds (I am not exaggerating, unfortunately), the third server came around and just took the bill holder. Oh well, the secret's out. They didn't get tipped and I'm now writing this review to spare others the terrible experience of going to the Andala. If there's karma on the cafe scene, this place will be under new ownership sooner than later.
(1)
Ellie W.
Props to Andala for its cozy-warm ambiance and intimate coffee joint feel, but if I wanted service so slow I could almost feel arthritis and osteoporosis coming on, I would've asked a 90 year old to take my order. I was in a rush, so ordered the bagel of the day and a bottle of water, to go. The bagel of the day consisted of cream cheese, tomato slices, and avocado. I kid you not, this order took 25 minutes. In 25 minutes, I could've gone to purchase my own toaster oven, some bagels, tomato, avocado, and found some random electrical outlet in a train station to make my own BAGEL OF THE DAY. It was quickly becoming the BAGEL OF TOMORROW, seeing how slow service was. There was approximately...no, there was ONE other person in this place, so I don't know how it could've possibly taken so long to slice up some goods and shove it in an oven. The staff wasn't remotely apologetic when I asked several times how much longer my bagel would take, which only added to my annoyance. As most men should know, you don't mess with a hungry woman, unless you are prepared to experience the wrath of the raging woman. Yes, I hold hunger grudges.
(1)
Thunderwoman R.
This cafe is a hidden gem in Central Square. I feel like I am in another part of the world. The atmosphere is comfortable with that old world feel. Great wall art & photographs. Great service. I enjoy the coffee & pastries! Delicious! When my son comes to visit from NY we go to do Hookah there. You can bring your own wine! This is the best time of year to sit outdoors at the lovely patio. Looking forward to my next visit!
(5)
Alexandra M.
I don't know how many times we asked for water and never got it, but it was A LOT. They weren't busy (3 tables outside, 2 inside), so I'm not sure the problem. We also felt like we waited a long time for the food. I had the special hummus which was fantastic. Could have used more things to dip in it, but the hummus was so good I didn't feel bad using my fork at the end.
(3)
Giselle E.
Came here on a Sunday afternoon in late September with my boyfriend. The upstairs was pretty packed but with warm weather we decided to sit outside which was aesthetically pleasing. Let me just say that everything LOOKS good - ambiance, environment, food and beverage. What made me disappointed in my experience was the wait time and food itself. After seating ourselves, we waited about 10 minutes before anyone came to our table, another 30 to get our food, and another 10 minutes into eating our food to get our drinks (we also never got any water in that 50 minute time frame). The food looked beautiful but everything was bland. The rice had no flavor and there wasn't any salt on the tables to sprinkle on my plate. The beef dish I had ordered tested like straight up ground beef that has been pan fried or baked with no seasoning. My boyfriend's chicken dish also had flavorless chicken and sadly his rice had no flavor either. Our iced chais weren't that cold and the flavor was....off. I had asked to replace my chai with a house coffee and even then the coffee was no bueno T_T I'm so sad to write this review because everything looked beautiful. Maybe this was just a bad day and their other dishes are much more stronger. Just a WARNING -- DINE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
(1)
Bilge Zeren A.
The place is really cozy and well decorated. They also have a nice patio. Great place to hang out at. However, I think the food isn't good. Also, they have very few options in the menu.
(3)
E. L.
Today I went with 3 friends to have lunch at Andala. I've had meals here a half dozen or so times before (but that was 2 years ago). Our waitress was very friendly and the food was good, but the wait was LONG. One member of our party didn't even receive his lunch. We asked where it was and they said it was on its way. That was about 35 minutes after waiting already (for an omelette...cooking eggs?). At about 45-50 minutes we got up and told the woman behind the counter that we needed to pay as we had a meeting shortly thereafter. We left two people behind to get the omelette once it came out and bring it back with us. It took another 20 minutes of them waiting and there was no apology. In fact the woman behind the counter seemed perturbed that we were bothering her with something so trivial.
(2)
Annie S.
The food is good, but just a tip-- don't come here during the summer, there is no AC and it gets sooo hot. They have a lot of fans around but they mostly just blow around hot air. Makes for quite an unpleasant experience. That being said, I do enjoy this place. Though the smoothies are overpriced, they are quite good. Banana anything is pretty much my favorite, and the banana smoothie NAILS it. Also the waitress gave me a free second smoothie.. still unclear if she was flirting with me or just bringing me extra. (Let's go with flirting ;)). Foodwise- I recommend the Chicken Khalili Sandwich- if you like spicy!- the jalapenos are strong.
(3)
Ange H.
Stopped in on a snowy night for a Turkish coffee and a quiet place to read. The ladies running the shop were really nice. The coffee was delicious. It's a bit out of my way, but if I ever find myself bored near Central again, I'll be back!
(4)
Ahmad M.
I love this place. I go there at least 3 times a week to study or meet a friend. this is not your typical full service restourant, it's a laid back place where it really feels like home. we stay for a long time and we never feel the pressure that we should leave (like full service restourants). you can tell the waiters what to order and if u dont see them u can just tell them at the counter. thats what i love about it. i also love there food, their tea pots, and THEY HAVE TURKISH COFFEE. i would recommend the musakhan chicken (a Palestinian dish) and their hummas.
(5)
Ben I.
Definitely the best cafe in Central Square. I generally frequent coffee shops quite a bit and I enjoy the unique environment each has to offer. Andala has both excellent food, and a great atmosphere where you can have lunch, dinner, or simply a cup of coffee while studying or working on something via your (Free)wifi connected laptop. The downstairs is a more comfy, and generally quieter place to be. Their is also an area for groups to meet in a living room comfortable setting with couches and tables. Generally, the coffee and tea are excellent, including the Arabic coffee. Currently my favorite dish is the Coq au vin, which is a dinner special running right now. Also the Rice pudding is very very delicious.
(4)
Leighann F.
Though I am not in Andala as much as I'd like, today's visit was delightful. A large glass of Mint Iced Tea, followed by a warmed wheat bagel with tomatoes and avocaods. A simple and perfect way to start the day.
(4)
E K.
Walked into this cool little cafe off Central Square. Didn't know it was middle eastern from the outside, but it was a pleasant surprise. The waiter was cute and funny, and we had a good time. Thumbs up, will be back!
(4)
Nicole P.
I live around the corner from this place and am so sad I haven't ventured over before! The food is awesome- from deconstructed hummus to tasty sandwiches this is a great breakfast/lunch place. I hear that they have some dinner specials and live music on Saturdays which I plan to check out. They also have bagels, pasteries, many different kinds of coffees and teas. The atmosphere is warm and cozy with tables and also couches and little nooks. I can't wait to go there for coffee and scrabble sometime soon! You must check this place out - especially if you live near by!
(5)
Gabriel B.
I'm all for local businesses, but Andala has a few kinks, despite the cool motif. Wi-fi works sometimes, and the drinks are pricey. I wouldn't get anything but a basic coffee to go here.
(2)
lisa v.
A beautiful coffee shop, replete with marble bar and shining brass or something shiny, from what I can recall. The decor is really sumptuous. The free WiFi is great, as is the ease of signing on, and it was a cinch to find a free table near an outlet. It's such a revelation for me to leave Jamaica Plain and JP Licks with its customers' voracious appetite for outlets and tables! If you're looking to come to a neighborhood where the ratio of itinerant worker/sWiFi gypsies to free WiFi squats/outlets is pretty low, then this is a darn good choice. The menu looked interesting on my visit, but my consumption was limited to bandwidth and coffee, so I can't write up any thoughts regarding food. The setting is so airy, light and pleasant, with such beautiful furnishings, I'm sure I'll be back to sample food in the near future. The only downside--and perhaps this is only a downside to cranky middle-aged squatters such as myself--was the waitress' eagerness to interrupt my work so as to ask me, quite repeatedly, how everything was and if I needed anything else. Of course, Andala deserve to squeeze as much payola out of squatters as possible. Just bear in mind that your space will be intruded upon far more frequently than if you were to WiFi squat in a counter-service shop like JP Licks or Peet's or the like.
(4)
Lauren D.
I am a huge fan of tea and this is a wonderful place to drink tea and coffee. It is a relaxed atmosphere where you can either sit back with a book, do work, or hang with a friend. There food is also delicious! I will definitely be back many times to come!
(4)
Barney B.
This seems an odd place for a first date, especially when the guy is talking about what he does for work, while the girl sucks on the tube of a hookah. maybe he found it seductive - but I just thought it strange. but I do like this place. the food was good, the vibe is nice and relaxed, and the waitress was super friendly and attentive (and I overheard someone mentioning it was her first day). and the 'open until 11 with free wifi' sitch made it an enjoyable 1st half of my evening out trying to hang and do some work. I shall return, but doubtful for dinner - this seems like a great place to just grab a coffee in a small part of a whole evening out wandering Central Sqaure and there ain't nothing wrong with that.
(3)
Kathy C.
It's my first time at Andala, and I love it here already. The ambience is great, the food is fantastic, and the servers are polite and the tea is great. I just wish the food was a shade less expensive, but other than that, no complaints. Great if you're a vegetarian, and great if you want to get some work done!
(4)
Bob S.
Indy coffee/cafe.Very cozy atmosphere, Persian rugs. Great mushroom omelet!
(5)
Kristina D.
Real-time Yelping and 5-star reviews are quite highly correlated for me. In fact, they might have an r-squared value of 1. I should do some data analysis on my Yelp reviews to verify that. Anyway. I'm in Andala on free wifi and yelping the incredible soy latte that is sitting next to me--ooh, my pie plate (1 meat, 1 spinach) just arrived. :: post pie and salad-chomping :: Meat pie, spinach pie, and accompanying salad were yummalicious. The delectable soy latte, as my roommate described, had foam so thick that you could eat it with a spoon. The atmosphere is peaceful--I could sit here and work all day amid eclectic decorations and soothing music. There is a cute nook that seems perfect for groups as well as a porch with tiny tables that are perfect for laptopping. I am taking away an invisible star and providing a warning: If you come here with a laptop, make sure the battery is fully charged. I had to wander around like a madwoman to try to find seating near an outlet because I did not charge my battery before coming here. I am sticking around for a while to write lesson plans and portfolio, so I also ordered an Arabic coffee and baklava. Both are also awesome. I might just spend the entire day here ordering new stuff to Yelp! EDIT (5/7/08): Knocked off a star for terrible service tonight and unsolicited drum playing. The star may come back eventually... The tabouli, hummus, and salad plate is good.
(4)
Jacey B.
Iced Lattes are fantastic. The Turkish coffee is yummy. Cinnamon Brioche Twist was buttery and tasty. The Avocado press sandwich is absolutely delicious with generous amount of avocado, olive tapenade, & veggies. The meat pie plate is a good deal and is very tasty. Some of the prices might seem high but you are also paying for fabulous service, FREE WI-FI, and just a great atmosphere. Theres no pretense from the staff - they are great and pleasant. They don't rush you out (it probably helps that every time I have a meeting there we order a ton of food and over tip because the service is fantastic). Andala has become a new favorite for me - particularly in Spring & Summer!
(4)
Corry B.
Oh Waitress- you so pretty that I don't care that it took me several trips to the front counter to get your attention. Oh Central Square- your cafes are so crowded but now I don't care because this place is big and sunny and look! there is a table to fit me and three friends! and decorations too! Oh Cook- maybe you are so slow because of pretty waitress but that's okay because, damn! your food is good! Egg salad is not what I thought, it's so much more: salty hot friend eggs with veggies and cheese, and tuna sandwich is warm, and fool salad is lemony fava goodness- who needs a garnish, it's okay, it still tastes so good. And you can make oh-so-many clever jokes with the salad's name.. clever clever hahaha-
(4)
David M.
Rude service. Now I remember why I don't come here very often.
(1)
Dave L.
I just got back from here. We had the honey/goat-cheese plate, which was excellent. I also ordered a latte: decent but not spectacular. The cuisine is what brings this place up to four stars; plenty of options that you could never find in a "standard" cafe. I unfortunately couldn't try the hookah because it was raining, but I will be back in the future.
(4)
Najat K.
I have initially wrote a raving review about this place until I started going there on a regular basis. I had the most unpleasant experience with one of the waitresses and her friend the expresso bar tender (a guy who wears his hair in a pony tale). Though the place is cute and has a quiet unique set up, the minuses are: - Poor customer service: slow service, rude waitress and rude espresso bar tender, they will give you blank stars and talk and laugh among themselves instead of smiling and greeting you. - Coffee drinks and teas are served cold and watered down - Menu is not so clear as to what the food is about - Food is way overpriced and sometimes completely off in taste and texture I won't go back.
(1)
Sarah R.
It might seem odd to give 4 stars to a place where, upon my first time there, I found a hair in my tabbouli salad (true story). However, I've decided that Andala has redeemed itself in my eyes. Here's why: -Uh, patio? Yeah, this patio rocks. I ran into some friends randomly one day on the way to the hardware store (see Tarah H's review) and spent a lazy simmering hot afternoon sipping lemon water and smoking shisha in the shade of one of the giant umbrellas. Ahhhh, hedonism. -Free wi-fi. w00t. For the price of a cup of tea you can surf teh interwebs in relative peace and quiet. -Cute decor, and the porch is great for people-watching. -The hair in my tabbouli salad was kinda hank, but the hummus plate made up for it. Plus the waitress felt pretty badly about it, so guilt always adds points to a review (in my opinion). This is in my new hood (that's right, I moved to Cambridge) so I have a feeling that it's going to soon grace one of those "Cool Places In My Neighborhood" type lists. You know, if I ever get around to actually making one.
(4)
Amanda Z.
I kind of want to give this place 3.5 stars, but I'll be kind and round up. It's not that the hookah was bad, it was pretty good. It's not that the ambiance is bad, it's wonderful, the entire place is beautiful and the patio was great considering what a beautiful night it was. Probably what is making me give this 4 stars. However, after waiting almost 45 minutes for service, then getting rushed through our entire night, and forced to leave after only being able to smoke for about a half hour, and then getting charged full price. Hmmmm....not a great experience for me. They could have at least told us that we were going to be forced out. I don't blame the waitress at all, she was incredibly overworked. But I think next time, I'll just walk up the street to Nile instead of treking over to Cambridge.
(4)
Alena D.
If you have not made your way to Andala, I would highly recommend the visit. I have yet to have any drink, meal, or experience that I did not love and recommend to others. Example: Shisha: outdoor hookah on patio is very nice during the spring and summer, lots of variety in hookahs and shisha's (ex. nectarine apricot) Juice: fresh juice squeezed to order, they taste very natural and pulpy (favorite is lemon or pear) Teas: around 30 kinds to choose from, buy by cup or pot Food: Foole Plate is wonderful, for new people I always order the Zeit un Zaatar en Labneh (sic) a thick yogurt and seasoning dip for pitas and vegetables, the hummus and tabouli are also wonderful staples. Coffee: they serve a mean Arabic coffee, my friend has been badgering the chef for a couple of weeks now for the recipe (the chef always demurs) Waitstaff can be flighty and spaced out looking, but five stars! Really a place to visit frequently, read a book and chill out.
(5)
S R.
Their hummus is very watery and there are full chickpeas in it. Maybe it's the traditional way to serve it but I was caught off guard. Free wifi and a good study place. Arabic and Turkish coffee are pluses - I also like their chamomile tea.
(3)
Courtney R.
This is by far one of my favorite cafes in the world. It has great ambiance, excellent Middle Eastern food, great coffee, AND a diversity of seating arrangements. They have relaxed, comfy seating perfect for a date or intimate conversation, and they have plenty of seating great for studying. I highly recommend any of their teas, their smoothies, and of course, the falafel plate. The music is diverse and the staff is always friendly.
(5)
greta C.
Never been disappointed with anything I've ordered from here. The coffee isn't the greatest, but you can't have everything, now can you? The lentil soup, salads, pastries and other baked goods kick ass. Their house tea is pretty damned good. Their specialty seems to be their humus. It is the best that I've ever tasted. I mean the best. It is always fresh and creamy and not too garlicy. The waitresses are always slamming hotties. Just don't go their if you are in a hurry. My brother was right: less good looking women make the best waitresses. They really make up in service what they lack in looks. I find the converse to be true in this situation...
(4)
Kate M.
I guess the word of the day is "mediocre." There aren't a lot of outlets to be had here, and the food is a bit pricey. But they do have free wifi. And the service is generally pretty friendly. Also, the patio is neat during the warmer summer months. I'd take 1369 over Andala any day, but if 1369 isn't your style, I guess Andala might be a good substitute in the Central area.
(3)
Iris M.
Staff is really rude and obnoxious. They're not attentive at all, so even if the coffee was better than average, it's not worth going back.
(1)
Derek B.
Quiet location and off the beaten path, Andala boasts great service, strong coffee and really good baclava. It's a nice and relaxing cafe choice that stands out amongst the 1369/Clear Conscience Cafe crowd for its chill "come as you are" vibe.
(4)
Jasmine K.
This place is wonderful. So wonderful I couldn't stop my urge to right a positive comment on yelp! Reading the comments up here, I had high expectations to the atmosphere and food, mixed expectations about the services. I found out, this place is wonderful!!!!!!!!!! I went to have a nice dinner during work. The furniture and atmosphere was amazing. Maybe they don't have air-conditioning but it didn't bother me because as long as you sit near the window its nice and breezy. I had a combo plate and a house-blend tea The hummus was amazing like everybody else is writing; the parsley salad and mint-leaf-wrap-thing, toasted pita bread was all wonderful, and the tea was a mixture of spices that was really good (if you're hoping for ceylon tea, it may be different than what you expect, but I really liked it). They even had putin lemon for my regular ice water. It made me full and I still felt healthy. The next time I would like to try the desserts too. About the services, they were fast, very caring and polite. I met 3 staff and they were all nice. The man who is probably the owner was REALLY nice (he probably came around 3 times and asked if everything was OK). I think I noticed the waitress everybody is complaining about, but I think she was trying, and it didn't make me have any negative feelings. I really hope they can keep it up. I understand food business is tough, but I don't want to lose my favorite place in Cambridge.
(5)
Cahaya S.
Upstairs or downstairs -- I practically live in this place!! it's my hang out away from home and my second office space -- oh, for just sooo many reasons :) cafe's are the places i go to for inspiration to get down to writing and for some peace of mind. Deliciousness, ambiance, calmness..... Andala offers all of the above -- plus beautiful, detailed aesthetics -- that's warm, plush and inviting. I believe the owner is Palestinian and gets much of what adorns this lovely nook from her travels home or in the region. Ever so often, new additions are introduced to the space, be it a tiny piece of artwork, or woodwork or beautiful sandalwood looking furniture - that continues to add to the homey atmosphere of the place. their little sun room ~ covered sunny porch ~ is just gorgeous, with their deep red velvety seats and complimentary red brick walls. The basement level is a little quieter with larger tables for groups to come for conversation or meetings. And there are comfy sofa sections too, in the corner, where one can hide out and work or read quietly. andala serves fresh, delicately flavored food -- my absolute favorite is their Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich -- it's been consistently delicious everytime! I like the way the eggs are scrambled, wet and perfectly salted, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with the freshest of fresh herbs - parsley, i think, with a side of herb potato salad or steamed veggies. They have a heartwarming oatmeal and fruit plate as well -- that is always pure and clean and simple and fresh. Coffees of all kind that look delectable and I'm sure taste so (if I could only drink coffee :(, every variety of loose teas and a satisfactory hot chocolate as well. Baked goods are also always quite well done -- lemon scones, muffins and biscotti. Oh, and aside from the good food .....the cafe has free wi-fi as well - which completely seals the deal for me :). And service so far has been friendly and courteous .....
(5)
Willow G.
I love Andala and go there when (and only when) I have time for a slow, relaxing meal because the service is so so so SLOW. I went in today and had a late lunch. I was sitting at a table right in front of the manager (owner?) and there was only one server on; however, there were at most a handful of people in the restaurant. After I helped myself to a menu, the manager came over and took my order. After my dirty plate sat for a while, I went up to the bar and ordered coffee and dessert. Meanwhile, two other servers came on as they were changing shifts. My coffee came up and sat there, and continued to sit there, while the manager counted the drawer, one server ate, and the other two chatted. I finally stood up and tried to get it myself, at which point the manager said something and a server came over and told me to sit down and brought it over. After it was finished and plates were pushed aside, I waited again for some kind of service. Finally needing to leave, I got up and paid at the bar. ANDALA - PLEASE IMPROVE YOUR SERVICE SO THAT I CAN CONTINUE TO BE A PATRON AT YOUR RESTAURANT. I would really appreciate it. 4 stars for food, atmosphere. 2 stars for service.
(3)
arete j.
Lovely place. It's charming, quite, and spacious. The food is not expensive, and is tasty. The Arabic coffee is so yummy with hints of cardamom...yum. It's a great place to study and be alone. The staff seem friendly. I was just in there today, and will continue to go there more often. During the summer they have a nice patio seating area. I won't forget the day when i was with a friend who is Korean--Annie P.. We were sitting outside enjoying our tea and reading when this random dude started talking to us and assumed that Annie P and I were sisters and Chinese. ????? (As some of you may not know, I'm not Asian, but from Latin America) It was really funny, and then he started to relate "our country" with Kung fu movies. He was telling us about Bruce Lee films, and was doing the kung fu "kicks"--or rather imitating them in a poorly manner as he was a bit old and probably a drunk... All and all, during the winter and summer times, Andala is pleasant place. It's not so often that weirdos come by there. Although it was a bit comical when the Bruce Lee wannabe was talking to us but whatever. Its central sq. The food and beverages are great, and I think eventually they'll get a wine license... YEAH! ps free wi-fi !!! THat's hot!
(5)
J R.
I want to love Andala, I really do. So close to my house, funky decor and alluring menu, but... my GOD does the service here suck! No, that's not fair. I should say the service is erratic, as are a few other elements of Andala: - The coffee: sometimes it's weak, and I can't believe I dropped $2 for it, and other times it's intriguing ("ooh, did they accidentally spill cardamom in this?") - The food: the pastries often taste stale, but their little meat pies are addictive, and I've had some very interesting soups - all a bit overpriced, though. - The setting: *Beautiful*. Airy and light, and the world music isn't obtrusive (WTF, 1369 - Gwar?! Are you kidding me?!). Several nooks you can find if you want to study quietly, but it can be a fight to the death over the outlets (as in most coffeeshops). No A/C makes it a stifling deathtrap in the middle of August, however. But the service is what really blows this for me.... I've had consistently apathetic service from ALL* the waiters I've had in the past three years, and that's quite a few. The turnover in staff is remarkable - I'm not sure if that's because of bad management or whatever, but all waitstaff should be able to bring your change within 20 minutes in a little coffeeshop. Oh, how I wish I could just buy a to-go cup at the counter and then hide in a corner... *OK, I lied - the waitress in the headscarf who is currently serving me is totally on her game. Thank you for taking my order, bringing me coffee, and fixing the internet within ten minutes!
(3)
Nay M.
I tried to live here once, alas was refused. But really, Andala has (almost) everything you could ever ask for in a cafe. I think of it as a coffeehouse 2.0. Don't be fooled by the weathered menus -- the food is surprisingly good for a coffee joint. Fresh pear juice - delicious. Khalili sandwich - delicious (if you like spicy things). Goat cheese and honey - uh, yes please. Turkish coffee - strong. Regular coffee - good. Tabouli - could be better, but I'll let that one slide. Avocado melt - SO GOOD (and the side potato salad that comes with it is awesome, but they skimp on it a bit, which makes me sad =*( because it's so good) I love the atmosphere - particularly the side den with the open windows. Seriously, my most brilliant yelp reviews have been conjured there. It's a room that truly fosters genius. Alright, maybe not...but the space is great - there is a downstairs that is ideal for larger groups. It is a favorite among students, entrepreneurs, and revolutionaries alike because it's a place to get work done -- it's comfortable and you never feel rushed.
(5)
Irene R.
This is a nice little coffee/tea house. There isn't too much space upstairs, but they have a small room downstairs as well. The food was decent as well. I had an avocado sandwich (which was more of a wrap) but still very good. You don't just get a cup of tea, you get your own little pot which beats paying $4 for just a cup at Starbucks.
(4)
Blair H.
Most comfortable/quiet coffee place I've been to in Boston/Cambridge. The place is huge and good for large groups. I'll be back.
(5)
Alexandra G.
Incredible. By far the coziest, loveliest, friendliest cafe I've found in Boston so far (lived here since the summer). So glad to have found it! The sunroom is absolutely gorgeous -- large windows, charming cafe tables, long couches... a pot of loose-leaf tea followed by delicious lentil soup -- this is the perfect spot for a rainy winter day. Free wifi means I can sit and nosh with a friend, enjoying hot tea and getting work done. I really want to come back here at night; the beautiful lanterns and hanging lights, copper accents, wood, reddish walls, and soft carpets would make this a cozy, romantic spot, I'm sure. :) Friendly service too. Highly recommended.
(5)
Allison C.
I think things at Andala move a little too slowly for me. Albeit, I came on a friday night around 9, primarily for the hookah, but my friends and I weren't seated until 10. As friendly as the waitstaff may be, an hour is a long time to wait for hookah, especially when it comes with a semi-broken hose and no tongs. The hookah is relatively inexpensive here- but I've experienced better service at the Nile Lounge. Hookah is only served outside at Andala (so I'm guessing this is only a seasonal thing). Had the waitstaff not forgotten about us, I probably wouldve enjoyed the hookah experience better. I'm sure Andala is great in terms of food and such, I'll have to come back another time. But for now, the Nile Lounge is the way to go, if you want a good hookah experience.
(3)
Logan J.
this place is awesome. i went here to meet with someone and had a great coffee and a great meeting thanks to the staff and atmosphere. the place feels like youre sitting in the dining room in a friends home, and i loved that about it. the coffee and food were unremarkable, but ill give this place a huge rating just for the atmosphere and service. a fun place to try at least once.
(5)
Danielle S.
Let me just say that I LOVE ANDALA. Yes, those caps were needed. This little cafe has been my savior in the past few months due to the massive amount of studying I've been doing in preparation for the LSAT. A quiet, sunny little cafe, Andala has a wonderful, laid back atmosphere. Initially I had thought that it was just another (boring) cafe, and would serve the usual- coffee and croissants, etc., but I was delightfully surprised to find that Andala not only has an extensive range of coffees and teas, but delicious food as well. For those of you who like really strong coffee with a bit of spice, try the Arabic coffee. It's rich, thick, and is spiced with cardamom. I usually tend to get some Moroccan mint tea (I'm on a no-caffeine kick), which is also good. As for the food, I have a horrible habit of only ordering two things from the menu. One is the Goat Cheese and Honey Plate, which, of course is a giant block of goat cheese, and fruits drizzled with honey. Really, I order it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The second thing I order is the Lentil Soup. Yes, boring I know, but the soup tastes just like a homemade soup. Nice, thick and delicious. I do have it on good authority that their other dishes are good too. Service is kind of lackadaisical, but all of the waitresses I've met are very sweet.. One day you might get an overly attentive waitress, the next, you'll have a hard time finding someone to take your order (even if you go up to the register!). However, because the cafe is so laid back, most of its patrons are as well. It's a great little place to go for an afternoon, or an evening, alone, or with friends.
(4)
Cleopatra P.
Andala is one of the best study spots ever. Evar. The establishment is what looks to have once been a large old house that's been reworked into a Middle Eastern restaurant and cafe. This setup works incredibly well as there are several distinct zones to Andala to choose from: the very front and middle "main" areas which are the most busy and restaurant-like, the sun porch area, which is cozy and wonderfully conducive to studying, and the basement, which, while comfy-looking, smells kind of like kitchen (I would avoid). The spaces themselves are sunny, colorful and beautifully decorated. The food is not mind-blowing, but it is very good, and reasonably priced for what you receive. I would especially recommend the meat pies, baklava, and any of the many teas on offer (these aren't listed separately on the menu, but your waiter will come around with a large box filled with a variety of loose teas for you to choose from at your request). The service is friendly, but not overattentive or smothering. Not that you should need any further inducement to drop by Andala at this point, but there's also free WiFi. Go, bring your laptop, study a little, loaf a little, eat baklava, drink hot cocoa, sip tea, go home feeling immensely satisfied about the amount of work you managed to get done, lather, rinse, repeat.
(4)
Shelley S.
Lovely little coffee shop/cafe in Central Square. Great place to hang and work/study. Always plenty of tables and FREE, reliable wifi connection. The atmosphere definitely has way more character than your typical Starbucks. What they say about the waiters bugging you is true... but you know what? I kind of like it. Because at other coffee shops, when I'm there alone with my laptop and all my other stuff, it always sucks to go up and order food and have to either pack up all my stuff or worry about things getting knicked. To have the service come to you is fantastic. The menu is pretty decent. Lots of great Mediterranean fare, hummus, tabouli, stuffed grape leaves, falafel, etc. I got a combo platter for $7.95 and thought it was okay. Everything was pretty fresh and delicious (green salad, hummus, olives, one stuffed grape leaf, and some tabouli) but I could have used bigger portions overall. Next time I come I want to try some of their sandwiches (the pressed avocado sandwich caught my eye) and their coffee but overall, a nice quiet place to hang out.
(4)
Cambridge Y.
Anadala's one of my favorite restaurants in cambridgeport. Staff is friendly and laid back, and they have free wifi. They also have a huge downstairs that's good to hold big meetings, and an awesome patio.
(5)
Erik S.
Where Andala gets off calling itself a coffee house I'm not quite sure. The staff was friendly and efficient, neither woman working there was a barista. They serve Lavazza espresso and it doesn't go up from there. There was no latte art, the milk was way too frothy and the taste is about what i expected (read not good) from Lavazza espresso. I'm not sure about any of the other stuff here, but I wouldn't come back here for the coffee.
(3)
Cecilia L.
OK yelpers, I came to Andala like you told me to, and I ordered Turkish coffee like you told me to. My friend and I were naive of Turkish coffee, so if you are too it's like an espresso with sludge in the bottom. Lotta kick and it tasted great until we got three quarters through and simultaneously choked. I had brown teeth when I went to the bathroom. Are you supposed to drink the bottom part?? I still don't know. But yeah, this place is adorable and the servers are super nice. We moved to regular coffee after that and man was it good. We also had some delicious lunch: a divine chicken dish cooked with spices and onions rolled up in pita whose name I memorized for yelp and then forgot; and the Jerusalem egg sandwich with yummy potato salad. Chicken came with fresh veggies and wonderful zesty hummus. The one demerit is for tables too small for Scrabble, but no else cares about that. Oh yeah, and for the oppressively bourgeois convo: on one side two oldish ladies strategizing to use their ancient Wellesley connections for fundraising; on the other an insufferable authority on how the U.S. exploits third world people. Not that I disagree, but he fancied himself one of the coffeehouse intelligentsia, so brilliant the rest of the place must want to hear what he's saying. Come on now folks, I'm trying to play Scrabble here.
(4)
Kelly K.
I'm a little surprised by all of the positive reviews. I have been frequenting Andala since they opened. I've never written a review, but I would like to mention a few things. 1. The revolving door of staff there is intriguing. Their service is meh for takeout (I've had to wait a while at the counter - the only one in the restaurant - to wait for two of the servers to finish their conversation & get off their phones to take my order). The two times that I have eaten in the restaurant it took a LOOOONG time for ordering/getting food/getting check. If you're looking for a laid back lunch and have absolutely no where to go that's fine, but otherwise I'd think twice. 2. My coworker ,who eats there far more often than I, has noticed on a few occasions that $1-$1.50 was added to her tip amount on her credit card bill. That's pretty shady because most people would likely not notice something like that, but it adds up. 3. And last but not least - my biggest pet peeve. The pastries USED to be awesome. Fresh-baked tasting, varied, delicious, the whole nine yards. They would wrap leftovers in saran wrap and sell them for half price the next day. Now almost all of the pastries are saran wrapped. So pastries are mushy instead of flaky and pretty unappetizing. I have to wonder if they're just now selling day (two day?) old pastries for full price. The croissant that I got today was abysmal, and I don't have very high standards. The muffins come in a cardboard box a la Sams Club before being put out on the platter. Don't piss on my leg and tell me it's raining and don't charge me $2.50 for an old, store-bought muffin that is "supposedly" freshly baked with organic ingredients.
(2)
J. A.
This place is pretty damn near perfect--beautiful atmosphere, nifty decor, natural light, fresh breezes, and cool local owner---except for the the coffee. It's decent, but could be better. The staff are super friendly, but I do wonder why the owner doesn't just cut out the service altogether. The cafe with service thing seems to confuse many a customer. Just let us buy coffee and food at the counter and go sit undisturbed with our laptop. Regardless, if you are lucky enough to live nearby, there's no excuse not be a regular. It's places like this that make Cambridge a livable city.
(5)
Cira B.
Lemon juice by the glass. Not lemonade - lemon juice. Oh man. So good. I'm going to butcher the name, but I've had the shakohsheh here as well - it's listed as one of the specials, and consists of rice with a lightly-spiced tomato sauce and an over-easy egg. Pretty simple dish, and overpriced at $10, but very good nonetheless. Coffee is also quite good - the espresso isn't particularly complex, but it has a rich bold flavor that is difficult to find in other coffeeshops. It's the type of coffee that you sip and enjoy slowly. Mmm. The real standout for me, however, is the atmosphere at Andala. Love the outdoor seating area, and I love the unique couches and tables. I've stayed here all day doing homework and talking to friends, and I've never felt rushed.
(5)
Kenny L.
Thanks to Jessika for treating me to lunch after not killing me driving to Coolidge Corner to pick up her cupcake stand from Party Favors. The lunch that we both got was the egg salad toasted falafel wrap. Good tasting, but for $8, I felt it was a bit expensive for something I can definitely prepare at home. The decor inside was nice and comfortable for me to return for their coffees.
(3)
Kabir H.
Do we really need another coffee shop in Central? Yes, if Andala is any indication. If you're looking for takeout, there are faster options, but Andala wins for its style. It doesn't hurt that they've got a patio either, perfect for lounging outside with a laptop while the wait staff tend to your needs. For what it's worth, the smoothies, while not amazing, are the best I've found in Central. The coffee is no slouch either, and the food options are more than passable. On a side note, if you're prudish, be careful when ordering the meat pie. They're sort of traditional middle eastern fare, baked like a pastry with the sides folded in so it looks like a square, with a diamond in the center. I'm not sure if it was intentional, but mine.. had more than a passing resemblance to another kind of "pie", if you catch my drift. I ate the whole thing. It was delicious. ;)
(4)
Anna F.
What an excellent place to start a sunny Tuesday! I and my lovelies,in the shade of their grape arbor patio sipping a strawberry smoothie with my new pup in tow. They were kind enough to bring her some water in a little takeaway container. The service was swift and pleasant and what limited food I ordered was inexpensive and tasty (the smoothie was pleasantly simple- just juice, strawberries and banana). Will have to return to sample more of the menu.
(4)
Ms. P S.
This is a great place to stumble upon. I've been there late at night for delightful tea and scone (close to 11pm I think) and in the morning for a yummy breakfast of oatmeal with milk and honey and fruits. Their menu is truly varied and the service is excellent--the servers are incredibly nice and accommodating. I think that's what gives the place such a homey feel, like you've just walked into a warm and cozy house. Especially when you come in from the cold this is really the place where you can relax and enjoy tea or a warm meal at your own pace. Highly Recommended! ps: Of course having free wifi is an added plus! Oh and I found this video about the grand opening of the place earlier this year (?) on Cambridge community tv-- cctvcambridge.org/node/1…
(4)
Stephanie H.
went here tonight on somewhat of a whim when matthew c. and i realized we could care less about the first band at the middle east downstairs and had a bunch of time to kill. matthew had been wanting to check it out and we'd both been in search of a satisfying hot beverage. as others have mentioned, the inside is very cozy and warm, and yet it doesn't seem cramped either. the staff was really nice and um, yes, nice to look at. there is however definitely some confusion on how to go about coming and going in this place. we weren't sure if we should order at the front counter, if we should seat ourselves or wait, etc. the guy behind the counter told us we could have a seat and he would send someone over. i picked up the menus myself. [note for later: you'l also have to find your own napkins.] we took a seat at one of the counters along the windows - which actually open, hooray. good for people watching, though either the chairs or the counter seemed at kind of an awkward height for eating. also, to anyone picky about second hand smoke [not me], beware the people on the patio below you. the menu is pretty sparse but everything sounded good, and it's not exactly a place you'd go for a five course meal anyway. the waiter came over and matthew and i both ordered the chai, and a bowl of vegetarian chili. everything came pretty quickly and was delicious. the chai was excellent. spicy, creamy, but not in the dunkin donuts liquified pumpkin pie kind of way. real chai. plus the cup and saucer were really neat and i'm a nerd who likes those kinds of things. the "chili" however...was another story. don't get me wrong, i finished the whole bowl and enjoyed every bite, but it wasn't chili. it was a spicy vegetable stock with carrots, onions, celery, and kidney beans. also be warned it comes with a big dollop of sour cream in it. i like sour cream, but since it wasn't actually a hearty thick chili, i thought it cooled down the soup way too fast and seemed a bit out of place. anyway long story short i'd like it better if it was called soup. paying our bill and leaving proved to be just as confusing as sitting down in the first place. the waiter came back after a bit to take our plates and bowls away, and asked if we needed anything else. we told him that was it, we were all set. normally, these are the things you say when you want the check to appear soon. only it didn't. since we weren't in any hurry it wasn't a huge deal, just kind of confusing. we sat there quietly wondering, do we wait? do we pay at the front and not at the table? turns out they do bring a check to your table, but i ended up paying at the front anyway because i didn't feel like sitting around anymore. i really liked this place, and i'd also like to drink that chai every day this fall. it's just their system for getting from point a to point b that needs a little help, and maybe their chili recipe too. i have one if you want it.
(3)
Dragony F.
A potentially great spot to people watch the characters of Central Sq. VS. a pretty trellis overhanging the patio Who makes my lunch that less interesting? the trellis blocking my view of the people in the street and outdoor seating area Chicken wrap = B+ = Syrian bread generously stuffed with cuts of chicken marinated and spiced in a wonderful sauce (nutmeg, cinnamon, cumin, etc.), comes with a side of hummus Agree with other Yelpers - great atmosphere, cool staff, good food but WAY overpriced ($10 for my sandwich)
(3)
Gracie B.
Is it okay to review a place before you actually leave? The thing is, I'm still here. I have a table, a laptop, a cup of tea, and not a whole lot more to do. So it seems okay. Maybe more experienced yelpers can let me know if I'm supposed to wait till I get home. Anyway! I like it here. My very very first impression was......"very cute, bright, and clean looking" Then, though, I had a kind of strange interaction with my waitress. I thought - maybe - she wasn't very friendly. (I won't go into details) It turns out she was just pretty eccentric. I thought she might be kinda rude - but she was just quirky. I appreciate that. In the end, I felt that I got good service. I did notice all the other servers seemed a little less odd and a little more friendly and customer service oriented. But my waitress made me laugh. Actually, I had another waitress after mine left. (cashed out with me. Asked me to use a credit card for a nine dollar purchase because last time she had to change a twenty dollar bill, it "...took like an hour") My second waitress was super sweet. (I think she noticed I was on Yelp when she brought me my tea. I noticed a little knowing grin) I got a regular salad and a latte. I was impressed with the salad. I had to debate spending six or seven bucks on a salad, only because I was afraid I would get one of those super small four dollar side salad type things. But not at all. The salad was plentiful. Not complicated. Just full of lots of crunchy green lettuce, some tender red pepper, just the right amount of small wedges of feta, and some delicious and fresh carrot sticks. The dressing was perfect. Not overwhelming, but spiced just right to compliment all the veggies. The latte was good. No complaints. They definitely got the foam right, but the strength of the brew - in my opinion - could have been a little stronger. Later, after finishing up my salad, I had a tea. They have a very nice assortment and the way they display your choices is lovely. Makes you feel like you are making a very informed tea selection. I chose chocolate mint. Yummm. They offered me a little pitcher of milk of my choice (skim or whole. Don't know if they have soy. Soy milk is not my cup of tea. Pardon the pun) I did feel kind of cold in the middle of the main dining area. I ended up putting on my scarf and vest to warm up. I don't know if I imagined it or not, but it seemed to me that after I did that I felt more heat streaming in. I wonder if they noticed me looking cold and actually turned up the heat. If so.....very nice touch. I look forward to trying the baked goods. I think I'll buy a muffin to go to take home for later. I like the feel in here. Not pretentious. There is a calm but busy vibe. It is bright and cheery. I will definitely be back. Oh yeah, and the free wifi is a great bonus. It's actually what brought me here after reading that on yelp.
(4)
Colin N.
Andala is right around the corner from my work. I usually just go there to grab coffee a couple of times a week. The coffee is usually better than *$ , but can be a little inconsistent. In the words of Jacobim Mugatu "Todd, are you not aware that I get farty and bloated with a foamy latte? " That's usually how the Soy Lattes are. To eat I've only had their almond croissant which is not bad. 1/2 the time the almond croissant is better at carberrys. The best thing about Andala is that it is usually quite easy to find a table.
(3)
Mikell T.
I'm so torn about this. On one hand, I love the food here. I could die happy eating nothing but the Jerusalem Egg Salad sandwich -- it's less egg salad and more hard boiled egg with cheese, olive oil, and tomato -- and I love the "house special" cardamom tea. The other sandwiches and hummous plates I've tried have also been excellent. But the service is, in a word, abysmal. I know it's a coffee shop, and I know it's a laid-back coffee shop, but there are some simple things I think can be expected even of a laid-back place like this. For example, once while out for lunch with coworkers, two of my group ordered one of the specials. Apparently, for whatever reason, those dishes took forever to make, and as a result, those two got their food a full 20 minutes after the rest of us did. It would have been appropriate to have warned us early on that this dish took much longer to make, thus allowing them to order something else and avoid making us all late for our after-lunch meetings. Today, after waiting a good ten minutes without ever seeing a waitress so I could get more bread for my hummous -- the large bowl was served with three small triangular slices of the Syrian bread -- I realized I needed to get back to work for a meeting. So I had to go upstairs, find the waitress, inform her I needed my check *specifically because I was in a hurry*, and on her way down to give it to me, she veered off to chat with one of the cooks for a couple of minutes. So while I'm not expecting 5-star-restaurant service, it seems simple respect for your customers when they are in a hurry would be appropriate.
(3)
Dana L.
So I will start by saying that I'm a coffee snob. The coffee is quite good here, although I have had better in Boston. However, this is the best coffee shop that I've been to in Central Square. It's big enough that you aren't bumping elbows with the people next to you, but not too large as to feel impersonal. They have a pretty good selection of coffees and teas, and will make custom juices from a variety of ingredients. We also got a bit of the food, including the pita and hummus and some wraps. Thumbs up, although this isn't exactly fine dining. I hear that it is great during the summer, because you can sit outside on the patio.
(4)
T I.
The best Coffee shop in Cambridge. It's really cozy to study. It might be a little dark to read at night. The food is good but what makes here amazing is the teas and the decoration. Most costumers are students. I'd prefer upstairs but downstairs is also fine. I can't remember if I used internet there or not. It's a little hard to find. I think I found it through yelp.
(5)
Erika R.
Went here yesterday, and what a treat it was. The kind waitstaff were patient with patrons there to chat. My friend and I sit and chatted and enjoyed our tea and coffee! I also had the avocado press sandwich, which was flavorful, but not overwhelming. The Chai tea was humongous! + es for the WIFI and for the late hours! Kudos to Andala! Yeah I said it. Kudos.
Ooh the men who work here are eye candy, but in a European / Armenian sort of fancy-walking-shoe-and-tight-jean sort of way. The men are all prettier than me, which is why they get 4 stars. Food's good, lots of tables, cute interior. Makes me want to own my own pad so I can paint the walls orange, but then I realize that I look better in pastels. Had some sort of salad, some coffee, and a dessert. All were good but I can't remember what they were....
(4)
Josephine P.
I was really drawn to this place when I first rode by it. It looks so inviting from the outside and the word Cafe screamed out at me- amiably of course. I finally planned a day to go with my boyfriend and it was pretty disappointing. When we walked in the first thing we did was obviously walk up to the counter where all the waitresses and Batista's were and they all gave us awkward blank stares, then we saw the sign that said to seat ourselves. That wasn't a big deal but we would have appreciated a gesture or something indicating this fact. The service was OK once we sat down. When we sat down and looked over the menu, I noticed that there wasn't very much variety. I was going to settle for a Tuna sandwich, but I wanted to try a signature dish seeing as though this place was so unique. I eventually ordered a caramel latte and the Jerusalem Hummus Plate (Msabaha). (When I ordered it and asked for a caramel latte, the waitress said she didn't think they had caramel, and I thought it was strange that a cafe of all places didn't have caramel...) The latte is was ok and though the hummus special was really like 'no hummus I have ever had' (according to the menu), but it was more like an appetizer than a meal. I had about 5 slices of thin pita bread and a whole cup of hummus to eat. It's not really what I expected and the description is vague. My boyfriend ordered a chai latte and the Chicken Khalili Sandwich. I must say that sandwich was quite tasty! That chai however tasted like watered down cinnamon seasoning. I don't think I have ever had a worse chai tea in my life. This place is really pricey as well. At the end of the meal the total came to about $30 for the two of us. This place is not the worse place I have ever been to, but I don't think I'll be going back.
(2)
Annette N.
Coffee with cardamom. Scrumptious vegetarian chili. Marcel Khalife, Amr Diab, Umm Kulthoum on the stereo system. Free wireless. Narghile under the pergola. Totally relaxed atmosphere. A very cute waiter with curls like the black grapes of Paradise. What more do you want?
(5)
Jocelyn C.
Came here for lunch the other day, and was pleasantly surprised. I honestly don't know why I never came in here before, but I'm glad that the situation has now been rectified. The spinach pie I had was amazing and could easily become a new addiction for me (as if I need more of those). My friend's tuna sandwich was also really good (I took a bite, I couldn't resist). Very chill atmosphere and far enough away from the crazies of Central that you'll forget you're even still in Cambridge. I just hope business starts picking up a little more so I won't have to worry about it closing anytime soon. I will definitely come back, and often.
(4)
kwala t.
Since coffee shops are basically the equivalent of my office cubicle, I can be pretty picky. But I've been finding more and more little gems around Boston and Cambridge, and I really like Andala. However, if it weren't in my general neck o' the woods, I'm not sure I'd insist on going there - so to be fair, I'm giving it three stars (I was tempted to give four, but realized the fourth would be for proximity to my house, which is not a valid factor). On to the nitty gritty of the review. I've only been during the day, thus missing out on some of the hookah action mentioned in other reviews. But it's a cute and comfortable space - good light, ample seating, and an enclosed terrace with big windows. The downstairs is a little claustrophobic. If you're staying in, it's full-service - as in there are incredibly attentive servers eagerly refilling your water cup and checking in to ask how you're doing. There's a bit of a 'first table-waiting job' vibe to it, and the staff behind the counter, in contrast, are consistently non-plussed (borderline sullen...). The teas are great! I'd personally go back just for the teas - especially the pot of black house tea with cardamon, and a decent selection of many others. The coffee was so-so, and I haven't had any espresso drinks or smoothies. Lentil soup pretty good, and spinach pies are decent - a little too doughy for my taste, but I like the tangy Syrian/Lebanese style filling (ie no feta/egg like the Greek style). The rest of the menu looks really good - every time I've been someone gets one of the massive chicken sandwiches, and it's a positive sign that they always eat every last bite of it. Others have commented on the unreasonably high prices, and I just don't agree. It's not dirt cheap, but I haven't found a coffee shop in the area with food for much less than $8 per sandwich/salad. Andala's falls in the same range. It does lose points for not having enough power outlets - what is up, just buy a few power strips! I guess it's to deter people like me who camp out with laptop for hours, but still...I've encountered the same lack of powerage in a lot of other places and it's starting to make me sad.
(3)
Julian H.
I went there last night after contemplating between Legal Seafood which was walking distance from where we were at Kendall Square or taking the T to Central Square. I finally decided to take my wife there after reading about it so much lately. Andala is a coffee house. Laid-back ambiance, not too crowded and varieties of coffee and tea to choose from. On the food side, there were not much you can choose from. I didn't see any real food in the menu. However, when walking through the door, I saw the "Tonite's Specials" signage where Lamb Kebab was on the list. The lamb kebab was surprisingly good. Served with cous-cous, salads and pitta. My wife had a couple of pies, which were also served with salad. Overall, it was a nice experience for us to spend some quality time together.
(4)
Ashley G.
Yay, I am a fan. This place has the coziness of your eccentric aunt's library/living room. Their Iced Tea with cardamom is fantastic, their Iced Coffee is super strong (+) and their pressed avocado sandwich is yum. Super fresh and healthy ingredients. I only wish it weren't on such a busy road, otherwise I might make the tables outside under the vines my regular work spot!
(4)
Keith A.
I've had a hard time settling on a favorite coffeehouse in Cambridge, because every place I try seems to be missing a certain . . . something. Some indefinable quality, some je ne sais quoi, some essential integrity that makes a place thoroughly one with itself, a perfect fit for its neighborhood and its clientele. And I've been putting off writing a review of Andala, because my ultimate assessment of it is that it also lacks this je-ne-sais-quoility, and I can't figure out why. At the same time, it seems to lack it just a tiny bit less than its nearest competitors. Does this make it my favorite? Maybe. I don't know. I'm a perfectionist. I will say, in its favor, that it's a much more relaxing place than the packed-to-the-rafters 1369, Algiers and Diesel, all of which can get intense at peak times (which is to say between 10 AM and 9 PM). Free wi-fi is also a nice plus -- and, interestingly, at any given time, only a small number of customers are using it. How weird and cool is that? It's a decent dining deal, and the decor is charmingly funky. The caffe mocha is unsweetened, made with actual cocoa powder instead of Hershey's syrup; I appreciate this difference. Finally, the cinnamon almond brioche is made with either pure love or crack. Possibly both. It's unfortunate, though, that the one place in town that sells sensibly sized desserts has so few of them to choose from. Also, there is no such thing as decaf at Andala, so if you're coming by after 4 PM, watch yourself.
(4)
Tom E.
A possible rival for Carberry's in the Central Square coffee cafe stakes. Perhaps even edging slightly ahead as they have free wifi at Andala's. It's a pretty cafe with good reasonably priced coffee and some appealing-looking baked goods, although the eating options are not as wide as at Carberry's. The decor is french/islamic perhaps? Turkish is another possibility. Either way, it's the most pleasant decor of any of the cafes around, with some elegant furniture, a hidden area and lovely big windows to look out onto the world at. I'll definitely frequent this place from now on and try to work my way through the choices. You can't beat a place that FEELS good to be in. The staff were friendly and had no problems with me ordering a little coffee and then working for several hours with their freebie wifi. Actually, it's a good place for a bit of reading/work - it's not crowded like Sbucks and 1369, there's plenty of light and some nice background music (Massive Attack). There are no big tables for groups though, so don't come with your study group and ruin it for everyone else. Interestingly in my 2 hours at Andala's there were 2 different customers wearing black leather pants. That's surely an above average leather pant-wearing clientele than usual for a cafe. Anyone have any ideas why?
(4)
Alex S.
Being a non-coffee drinker (heretic, I know) I have a somewhat different approach to cafes, asking questions like "do they have Diet Coke on tap?" as opposed to...well, I don't actually know what any of those coffee questions are, because I don't drink coffee. Anyway, they don't have Diet Coke on tap, but it is a whopping $1.50 for a can of it. Even though I get raped with respect to the soda, this place is pretty much the best place to study in Central Square. It's big, bright, friendly and plays good music to study by. Today's selection was Nat King Cole, which was exactly the perfect sort of music to make me feel guilty when I was slacking off and people watching out of their gigantic windows. The food is great here - it's a combination of standard cafe baked goods (bagels & croissants) and delicious Mediterranean items. The meat pies are delicious, and come with a very passable salad. The kitchen is downstairs, and apparently most of the menu items are made on the premises. The only downside for studying is that so many other people are doing it, you might get distracted by your neighbors. You'd think that chilling out in a cafe you wouldn't have the two people next to you talking about applied statistics while you were studying it, but you would apparently be mistaken. I guess that's what you get in the city of higher learning. Lame. If this cafe goes out of business, I will cry.
(4)
Ali L.
This place was excellent, it was big and the layout with all the persian rugs and such reminded me of my parents house. The waitress was very nice and attentive (AND donning a Yelp! tshirt), she would come by every few minutes to make sure we didn't need anything and promptly brought our food and drinks. My lentil soup was the best I ever had and my cousins hummus plate was among the best I ever had - especially her toasted pita bread which wasn't too crunchy or too flaky. The place itself seemed very much like a hangout spot for locals to use the free WiFi, have some coffee, and on a nice day smoke some hookah outside -- all in all it was awesome.
(5)
S K.
Great coffee, food and middle-eastern fare, the minuses are a less-than-desirable service , although all the servers are very friendly they seem to move at a glacial place. However, a great place to relax and unwind (especially if you are not in a big rush)
(3)
Kelly W.
The food was delicious, the outside seating was really nice, and I really enjoyed the mint tea.
(4)
Nabeel H.
One of the only coffee houses in Cambridge with a healthy amount of space. There is seating upstairs and down in this middle-eastern style coffee house. A combination of that warm arabic hospitality and the fact that is is a converted home makes it feel like you are at a friends' house where he is serving you excellent pastries and arabic coffee. And like any good friends house, the free wifi is welcome. My new favorite Cambridge coffee spot.
(5)
Meaghan S.
EDIT: 9/18/07 Went here again this weekend. This place can be so weird. The servers seem perpetually confused. There's not a great system for cashing out. I still like it.. but there are kinks. ------------- EDIT: 8/31/07 So I finally got around to going to Andala again. My experience was far better this time around. The waiter (a teenage boy) was very attentive and helpful. I ordered the iced Chai and a muffin (I think it was almond-apple) both were very good. I hung out with my food and laptop and chilled there for an hour or so. It was very relaxing. And it looks like they have shisha now - in 9 flavors apparently. I will have to try it out! I'm glad this place is down the street, and based on many of these other reviews it seems that my bad experience was a rare occurrence. ------ I live very near Andala and often drive by and see people sitting there at all times of day. I always wanted to check it out and never had the opportunity until yesterday. I must say, that I was extremely disappointed. The decor inside was very cool, but since it was such a nice day we opted to sit outside. The cafe wasn't particularly busy, but we asked the man at the counter if we should order there. He asked if we were taking food to go or eating in. We told him we would be eating there but we would like to eat outside on the patio and he told us he would send a waitress out with menus. So we sat on the patio and sat... and sat... and sat... Now mind you this was the middle of the day on a Monday, the cafe was not crowded and there were three staff members on duty. After about 15 minutes of waiting my boyfriend went back inside and asked, "Can we have some menus while we wait for our menus?" Kind of sarcastic, but we still hadn't been acknowledged by any wait staff for 15 minutes. The man at the counter, the one who told us he would send someone outside said, "Well isn't that ironic that you want menus while you wait for your menus," and gave my boyfriend menus and he came back outside. We looked at the menus, not a huge selection but the food and coffee seemed interesting. We were ready to order after about 5 minutes of deciding, but were made to wait another 20 minutes. No one came out to take out order AGAIN. At this point we had already wasted enough time and decided to get some food at Falafel Palace or The Middle East. We eventually went with the Mid East. I REALLY wanted to like Andala - but based on their total lack of customer service I must give them one star. Since they are so close I am prepared to give them another chance sometime soon. But I was extremely disappointed in my first try. I want to give props to the Middle East, our waiter was also the host and bartender tending to 6 or 7 tables of people and we were taken care of far more quickly there than at Andala.
(4)
Michael C.
A hit-or-miss menu combined with less-than-minimal service make this place a complete mixed bag. On the plus side, it's the ideal place to meet friends or hang out.
(3)
Aimee P.
Andala is a wonderful place to go to hang out with a friend or to get some work done. The interior is warm and inviting, polished wood floors gleam beneath rich oriental carpets. The atmosphere created by the vibrant wall colorings and marble topped tables will keep me coming back time and time again. Nearly everything on the menu is scrumptious, however the coffee/espresso drinks seem to vary in quality from day to day. Aside from this, my only other (minor) complaint is that the seating could be more comfortable. There is one rather hard sofa and a number of small (but beautiful) tables. These complaints are so minor that they are hardly worth noting. I love this place and will make it a regular haunt. Edit: This has been posted for several days, and I have since realized that I forgot to mention the FREE INTERNET- how silly of me.
(4)
Sean E.
I've recently gotten back into coffee after about a five year hiatus. So on my way to the Central Sq. T stop in the mornings I've been alternating between Starbucks and 1369 -- not really enjoying either of the places. On one hand you have your over-the-top bordering on grating cheerfulness at Starbucks and the cooler-than-thou stuck-up-ness of 1369. Can there not be a comfortable median? Then Andala opened up. At first I didn't know what was going on with this place. For months I watched as they worked on the inside and outside of this little corner store. At one point I couldn't tell -- are they open? What are they serving? Why haven't they gotten rid of the sign for the old place that says they sell wraps and smoothies? What's it called? They have hookahs in the windows -- what does this mean? Well a few weeks back they finally had a grand opening and put a couple small signs in their window saying Andala Coffee House. Tired of the Starbucks vs. 1369 routine I went in and have been stopping in on the way to and from the T ever since. For me, they have a few big pluses going for them -- they're cheaper than both those places, the people working there act like regular human beings, and (this one's just for me) its location is much more convenient. Also, the pastries and "gargantuan muffins" are pretty damn fine. Even the half-off day olds are good. I take a star off because the quality of the coffee can vary a little (though the hot-chocolate is excellent). A welcome addition to Central Square.
(4)
Gabor Z.
Best breakfast place in Central Square. I've only been there for brunch and breakfast on the weekend. The food is tasty and healthy and the place is super cosy. It is Middle Eastern so don't expect bacon and eggs. They have outdoor seating and the wait staff I experienced is always very friendly.
(4)
Alison P.
Let's hear it for Cafe Andala: tons of natural light, two rooms that feel spacious even when packed, great music at a reasonable volume, free wifi, baked goods AND soups/salads, friendly staff, rugs and lanterns (!), and it's even bright enough inside that you can read without straining your not-hip-enough eyes. On top of that, it's open late, unlike several of the other awesome cafes north of the Charles. The espresso is so-so, which breaks my heart a little because I love my espresso. For that, I took off a star. But for a dangerous raspberry-almond muffin, a beautiful salad, and several hours to finish my *@#&@^ thesis, I'll love this place with all my heart. Oh yeah, and they have about 30 teas. Amazing!
(4)
Kathryn D.
Andala has tons of different kinds of teas, fresh juices and lots of coffees and espresso. You can even choose between Turkish and Arabic coffee (which is Turkish coffee brewed with spices and sugar). The prices are really reasonable. They also have baked goods like bagels, croissants and baklava - the lemon poppyseed croissant is the best one I've ever tasted. There's talk of having sandwiches too, at some point in the future. The latte ($2.50) that I had there was pretty standard, but it was also the first day for the guy who made it, so if it's that good the first day I bet they'll be great in a week. The ambiance in this place is awesome - really warm and inviting. Big oriental rugs on the floor, brass tables and brass on the exposed brick walls - I would live in a place like this. They have free wireless and a printer, and in the warmer months they will have outdoor seating. I don't know the exact address of this place, but it's right near the corner of River & Western. -------- Edit: I've been back here a few times now, and they have added soups and salads. This will push my rating up one more star, since now I can get a coffee AND a snack.
(5)
Michael B.
Great place to catch up with a friend. Despite the coffee house name, this place actually has a decent menu of Mediterranean food as well. I ate outside with a friend for lunch on a Saturday. The food was good. Above average Mediterranean cuisine for a cafe. Great selection of fruit juices. The goat cheese and fruit tray was delicious. The kafta was good, although not the best I've ever had. The outdoor ambiance is nice, slightly off the main part of Central Sq, where it isn't quite as noisy.
(4)
kimberly l.
the ambiance at this place is great, but the food isn't that spectacular. If you want a quiet place to do some work, with free internet and caffiene this place is great though!
(3)
Ryuji S.
This unique local coffee house is friendly environment I enjoy meeting friends or just read books... or just listen to others talk. They have better coffee than 1369 and friendlier people than C3 cafe. My favorite is their smoothie.
(5)
Aaron B.
I still haven't given in and tried the Turkish coffee yet, but I did go for the house tea. Infused with cardamom, it was all that was promised. Outstanding. Didn't get a chance to have much more than a bagel (I was there for a quick breakfast meeting) but I took a look over the menu and was pleased to find a good selection of traditional Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern fare. Definitely going back soon, as it also seems like a great place to get some work done (lots of space).
(4)
Toodles K.
On 2/7, I enjoyed an awesome espresso and my 22 year-old nephew had French press coffee and loved it. We split a German Chocolate cupcake that was small but very rich and filling. Absolutely delicious! The service was a little slow but they were VERY busy and our waitress was a sweetheart so I forgive.
Extremely poor service (forgot things, slow, and slower). Great food. Decent prices. Very chill atmosphere. I love the interior decor.
(4)
Arjun K.
I like this place but there menu is a little limited they always seem to give me really poor service which is a little frustrating. there food options are good though and I especially like the Turkish coffee
(2)
Jordan L.
well, i went with my favorite boston female to this cute little cafe in cambridge and was actually surprised by the selection of good food they had. not at all what i expected. i had the pressed avocado and it was delicious. my gorgeous accomplice has the fruit and oatmeal plate which also looked pretty tasty. it is really hard to find vegetarian places that offer more than the usual veg cuisine but this place mas a nice mix of cafe and mediterranean food for all tastes. that in combination with their selection of fresh fruit juices and smoothies which rounded out the menu nicely may make this little place a regular stop in when i am in cambridge...just to try everything they offer including a hookah. i really like the outside seating too, it is nice when the weather permits. if you haven't checked out andala yet, do it...'tis all.
(4)
M L.
Quiet, sunny, with delicious small plates of food -- Andala is the perfect place to catch up with friends or read a novel on Sunday. Their foole plate is warm and drenched in olive oil with lots of spices...try it with some fresh mint tea. The service is generally great but can be a little hit-or-miss, depending on who's behind the bar. The only possible minus is that they don't have AC in the summer or heat the little front room much in the winter. It's really a lovely place, though, and the owner seems to have put a lot of care into the details.
(4)
leon p.
Great place to work and coffee, lots of light, some music but not too loud, good simple food and a reasonable price.
(4)
Ligaya T.
Bwaaaaaah! How have I been remiss to have not written a review for one of my favorite laptop hangouts?! I could click the day away sipping their tasty juices or teas on their bright sun porch, outdoors smoking shisha, or munching on their Middle Eastern eats. If you're looking for a relaxed spot with free wifi, your search ends here.
(5)
Rob R.
I've been to boston three times this year and every time I've been frustrated with the choice of cafes in the area. On my third visit, after spending way too much time yelping for a decent cafe and nearly giving up because it seemed most cafes in Boston are stingy with their wifi, I found Andala. First, the atmosphere of the place is great. The seating options range from outside to a sun room where you can open all of the sliding glass doors for fresh air and an inside area. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of food too. I would definitely suggest getting the hummus. Oh, and free wifi!
(5)
Maria Z.
Wonderful! I went here for brunch a few weeks ago and wondered why on earth I hadn't found Andala sooner? My platter of goat cheese, pita and fresh fruit was delicious and copious. Service and ambience were both very nice.
(4)
Alyssa H.
The best spinach pie I've ever had, and I'm Greek so I should know ;) Andala is brand new and the owners have renovated the space into a beautiful, fresh and serene spot to have lunch. I usually do take out but had lunch there a few weeks ago with a friend. The staff is friendly, the food is great but limited. The pastries look amazing, but I have not tried them yet - mostly out of fear that I will try one and be hooked and not fit into any of my clothes anymore. Also the fresh juices are great - try the lemon, apple ginger..
(4)
Juju W.
cozy atmosphere. free wifi. plenty of seat. delicious food. It's a nice place if you want to hang out with friends, bring your laptop and have coffee, or eat there.
(5)
mickey l.
How many of us watched it as we walked by, it's "opening soon" sign up for a year or so? They're very attentive. You order. Dip into lemony hummus. Drink turkish coffee. Pay when you're done eating, not ordering--who does that? I can't believe they put their plush hand made (persian?) numbers under our feet. If I had these carpets I would ask you to take your shoes off. I'd lay down on them and nap. If they only had hash at the bar to go with those hookahs they proudly display.
(4)
Diane I.
i love this place. everything here is delicious - the people are super friendly and they don't get annoyed that you are staying forever. this was last weeks stop on our quest for the perfect cafe. they add some spice to the coffee that is delicious. too bad there were no free refills. i spent quite a lot because i just couldn't get enough.
(4)
John W.
I cant believe that i havent written a review of this place before. I've been coming here since they opened a few years ago and have nothing but great experiences here. The vibe is utterly laid back, the tea and coffee is excellent, and their menu of Middle Eastern food is yummy and affordable. A great place to meet up with a friend or to bring a laptop and get some work done.
(4)
Yuko I.
Good atmosphere and good tea/coffee. I never tried their food but the menu looks good. I would love to go back for more. It's a bit slow service so this is not for a busy grab and go cafe.
(4)
Muckenfuss V.
Far and away the best cafe I've visited in the Boston area. The pot of house tea with cardamom pods is original and exquisite, and though there could be a larger selection of baked goods they are all tasty nibbles. Stay for lunch, though: the avocado press sandwich is wonderful, and comes generously dabbed in a divine olive oil. And what other cafe brings you tall glasses of ice water? The only downside may be that this is not a drink-and-dash establishment. Though you can get items to go, you're encouraged to sit down and order from the waiter. That's not a problem, though -- the staff is friendly, attentive, and attractive, and there's ample and variegated places to sit, and even a downstairs where the kitchen is. The music is a subtle global selection, relatively unobtrusive (in contrast, say, to the hipster backbeat at 1369) when you need to get work done.
(5)
Trish F.
I've been here twice so far and I really dig the atmosphere. It's so close to my old place, I have no idea why I never came here when I was in Central! It must be a converted apartment building just by looking at where it's situated and the way the inside is laid out. I think that helps it give off a homier less pretentious vibe than other places of its kind.. methinks. heh I also really dig the couch on the balcony-esque addition. I'm assuming they open the windows in the spring.. it must be lovely! Passing by the counter, I got excited looking their tea collection. Right now I can only drink decaf and they had about 6+ choices. Sadly, they were out of my top two choices (loose teas).. but then I remembered this drink Ligaya and I got at the n00bs event.. carrot, ginger, and apple juice! YUM! Tea.. I'll get you next time. Glancing at the menu I couldn't choose between the meat pie and the spinach pie. Both dishes are the same price and they give you two portions, so I asked if I could get one 'slice' of each and the waitress was happy to oblige. The spinach pie is a little different that I'm used to. It had more onion and a bit of a vinegary taste to it. I still liked it though. The meat pie reminded me of chao pau (Chinese pork bun).. a LEETLE bit.. haha. Both came baked in this doughy bread that I really enjoyed. At the n00bs event we had a variety of food, but I'm not gonna lie I don't remember it all. Plus Amanda kind of fed me. haha Hummus? The service was a bit slow.. which in this case didn't rub me the wrong way. I think the waitress thought Allix and I were deep in talk so she didn't come over right away to take our order. I realized we stayed for awhile well after we were done eating (I think we were there for like 3 hours actually) and our waitress didn't rush us at all. In fact she made sure our glasses of water were full after our dinner plates had been taken away. When we were there for the n00bs event, I remember the waitresses being very attentive as well. Everyone there is super friendly. They also have free WiFi.. which is always a plus. I'll definitely be back soon! OH and last time I was in they were trying to get a liquor license.. so if you see a petition at the front counter.. sign it! :)
(4)
Kate L.
I went here to study over the weekend and thought it was the perfect place. Various rooms and settings to choose from and nice service. I got the goat cheese, fruit, and honey plate as a snack -- it was delicious! The only drawback is that their AC unit is not too strong so the restaurant was a bit too warm. Still, my friend and I stayed for 4.5 hours and enjoyed the atmosphere a lot. Sigh...I went back two days later to continue studying and it was SO HOT inside that I had to leave. It's an 80-degree day and they had the door open (but not the windows) and no AC on. I'm all about conserving energy but I would have been sweating profusely had I sat and stayed (there's no breeze running through the place and the few fans they've set up aren't adequate).
(2)
micah f.
wifi is nice, but the 17 yr old baristas at this dingy overrated coffee shop have confused "handmade" with "messy." drinks are sub-par, bad top 40 on the radio, and sweaty pastries under cellophane is what many people awarded 5 stars. really? i understand the need or solid alternatives to starbucks, but central square is hurting if this is considered good.
(2)
peggy c.
Free wifi, cute AND comfy decor, away from the traffic of Mass Ave, friendly servers, good tea selection and most importantly for me... I could veg out undisturbed during the day :)
(4)
Jamie S.
This place is extremely chill. Service reflects this atmosphere -- friendly, but hands-off without being inattentive. Great espresso (and inexpensive). Extremely accessible location that's just far enough off Mass Ave so that this place stays relatively quiet, even when it's relatively busy. I've been here for breakfast (good croissants) and Sunday afternoon snacking (try the Goat Cheese and Fruit plate for something light). Thumbs up.
(4)
molly f.
Friendly staff, tasty food, sem-reasonable prices...and honestly, I will basically eat anything if I get to sit outside. Looking forward to exploring more of their menu (the goat cheese & honey plate sounds divine!) but can vouch for the tea & scone I carried out...just what i wanted to hold me over until dinner. Love that this place is right around the corner, too!
(4)
Philippe K.
Good food, pretty good coffee (espresso, Turkish, Arabian), very slow service
(3)
Ruvi P.
terrible service. They didn't event bring me my drink and after an hour of waiting told them so and they didn't event apologize, then handed us a check. TERRIBLE
(1)
sara h.
I love the vibe of this coffee house that's literally in a house, partially hidden behind Central Square. I sought it out on a Saturday and found a comfy spot on the couch in the sunroom. I tried the strong Turkish coffee, just the jolt I needed to dig in to the work I brought along. The free wifi was a definite perk. I tried a few things from the menu over the course of my visit, including the vegetable chili. The couple next to me ordered meat pies, and they looked tasty. I wasn't thoroughly impressed with my food but it wasn't really the reason for my visit, and it was actually just nice to have the option of ordering food and coffee from my spot on the couch without having to find a stopping place in my project to run up to the counter. I loved the ambience of the space and the friendly staff who let you sit for hours.
(4)
Christina B.
I should mention now that the weather is nice that they have a small section of outdoor seating and there are umbrellas which is a nice touch to avoid getting crispy while you eat. I'd recommend it on a Sunday morning when the traffic is light since it's right on the corner of River Street which is a busy road.
(4)
Deepa C.
due to all the recent rave reviews, this place has been on my list for a while. so while the freelance work was piling up, i found myself in a clean house, with no laundry to do, nothing good on tv and no excuse not to get out of the house and venture to someplace new (with wifi of course) . it is indeed a very cute coffee place, great atmosphere, staff and decor. my waitress (a dead ringer for the first person to get kicked off ANTM this season) was perfect, anticipating my needs with water or another cup of coffee. as the place filled up, they became very accommodating with seating, expanding tables for a group of students or setting up a lone patron at an accent bench in the corner. ' i love that there is a lot of light coming in through the windows. none of the furnishings seem planned, and that hodgepodge design works well here. the only reason it has 4 stars and not 5 is the coffee. even though i am on my third cup (i am typing VERY FAST right now) it is a little strong/burnt for me. i like my turkish coffee a wee bit lighter (see cafe algiers). also, the "scone" was so dry you could sand paint off the walls. the food food looks great, but stay away from the baked goods.
(4)
Annie P.
EDIT: I usually don't give two shits about my old reviews but since a fellow yelper laughed about the newb who called me out on this one.. I'm going to respond. I don't do inside jobs for anybody. I'm from Queens. No just kidding but seriously.. I love getting fingers pointed at me for reviewing a place that ALREADY has 5 billion stars just because the Yelp headquarter people gave me a random ROTD. I must be crazy and must work there to like it. Hey what are you BLIND? It says the price right next to the words, don;t order the tuna wrap for $9 then. Believe it or not you have a choice before ordering the damn thing you don;t want to shell out for. Also if you note the date on my review.. it's been awhile. Sorry dude but I don;t keep tabs on how good looking the staff is on a daily basis.. so chill out. Summer is over and now the kids are back. Truth. com. Places are busier than a few months ago.. so things are bound to change when it comes down to the pace of things. Yeah and if you want self service where you read off the menu above the counter.. go to DD or Starbucks. ------------------------------------------------ Everyone who works here is beautiful. They float around in pretty dresses and plain t-shirts. They are all soft spoken too. Sit inside, outside or downstairs! Don't expect chippy loud baristas... Tuna sandwich was nice and fresh without the overpowering mayo everywhere else gives. I like walking over and getting the Strawberry Banana Orange smoothie in between loads at Pearl Laundry. $4 treat. It's by where that fork is to split Magazine, River and Western Ave. You are a douche if you get lost. The colors in here are amazing. Never get sick and tired of looking around.. cellophane wrapped bagels in a silver bowl in the middle of the room. If you like pastry looks only rating.. this is the place to go. To make me even more happier... they started playing Leonard Cohen and when Dance Me To The End of Love came on.. I was like OMG OMG swoon. Also saw the loose tea they sell. Now this is what a cafe is. This house is the best house on the block. That's because it;'s the only house I think. No but I would like to rent out the little room with the top to bottom window seating and live there but I wouldn;t wear a skirt and sit by the window because the people on the sidewalk can look up and HELLO. Thanks.
(5)
James L.
Besides the ambience, what can you get here that you can't get at Moody's Falafel Palace (or Falafel Corner in Harvard Square)?
(2)
Eli G.
A breath of fresh, Muhammara and espresso-laden air. Sit at a large oak table in the main dining room, eat your labne, pretend that you are the late, great Richard Holbrooke.
(5)
Ben C.
Andala is what a coffee house should be. Atmosphere is laid back and comfortable. Decor is stylish with a bit of middle-eastern flair. Big windows and sun-porch lend a sense of openness and provide a great view of all that is going on outside. Service is friendly and attentive. Quality of lattes has improved tremendously since I first started going. Espresso beverages are pretty solid now. Andala also offers a small menu of generally yummy and very reasonably priced food too. If you need a snack to get you through to dinner, I recommend the hummus plate. Outside seating (weather permitting), free wi-fi, clean restrooms ... what more do you want?! Hookah perhaps? Well they have that too!
(4)
Hyerun K.
The older man behind the register (the owner?) who took my order was the jolliest man I had met, so we were off to a good start! The cafe was cute with it's ethnic decor, and it seemed spacious and clean enough. I asked for a pot of green tea and the jolly man boldly claimed that he had "the best green tea in the world!" I chuckled and found a seat, and the tea was served to me a few minutes later. However, I use the word "served" very loosely here -- a younger man basically dropped it in front of me with a clatter, and abruptly walked off without a smile. Not a huge deal -- I can put up with subpar service so long as the food/drinks are good. I figured "best green tea in the world" was a slightly exaggerated claim, but I was still expecting something decent since green tea is pretty hard to mess up. My green tea was SALTY and BITTER. I took a couple sips and couldn't drink anymore. Aside from visiting the jolly old man, I won't be coming back here again.
(2)
Melinda M.
I had given up on my quest to find a relaxing coffee place within city limits a few months back after ripping out a page in the phone book and hiking all over the place only to stare into claustrophobia-inducing crowds, random sandwich shops, and vacant buildings (ironically, using the yellow pages as a guidebook wasn't enough of a reminder for me to call ahead). Fortunately, the other day I decided to go for a walk across the river and I spotted a tiny window sign that said Andala Coffee House, and despite the warm weather, an empty patio. This is the first coffee house I've been to in Boston where I didn't have to stand around awkwardly waiting for others to leave, or start running once I caught a glimpse of an open table through a window. Although I spent my visit at a table outside (sipping a yummy banana, milk and honey smoothie and staring into space bc I was not prepared with my usual coffee shop materials) I will definitely be heading back soon to hang out inside the next time the weather isn't so great. The inside of the shop has my ideal coffee house feel, nice decor, random furnishings, a scattering of polite patrons typing away on laptops (free wi-fi) or with books open, and music at just the right volume. And they have food! Not just standard muffin fare but cafe-like middle eastern selections. For such a very hard to find five star setting such as this, I am willing to ignore the fact that the staff didn't have it together...at all. For some reason they weren't using the cash register, and the guys behind the counter had to track down my server who took a few minutes to write out a check, a few minutes to figure out the tax, a few minutes to go find the originial guys I asked for help to get some money, etc, etc, very weird, but it was all done with a smile so who cares. Besides, who goes to hang out in an awesome coffee house like this when they are in a hurry? That's what Dunkin Donuts is for...
(4)
Kevin G.
I really can't think of a better cafe for both location, sunlight, ease/cheapness of parking, layout, coffee, food - my one wish is that one could get a glass of wine there, but if the ownership is observant religious (turkish) that ain't gonna happen - don't know. They do have quite an assemblage of huccha's.
(5)
Heidi S.
A great find located off the bustle of MA Ave. It has some wonderful nooks to escape into and with the free wifi, it's possible to get lost all afternoon. With the weather warming up, the porch is a terrific place to spend the day as it gets direct sun in the afternoon. The food is homemade and fresh, so it's a good place to rest when time is not of the essence. It can get very crowded and busy, so if you are looking for a chill place to relax, have some tea and enjoy some wonderful food, come by on a weekday afternoon.
(4)
Sabrina P.
I LOVE this place! What Andala is: -A great place to work with your laptop: free wireless, not crowded, quiet but with enough noise to keep you focused (at least for me, since I need a bit of distraction to work!), open late (until 10:30 or 11pm, I think, maybe even later?) -A great place to not work with your laptop: chill atmosphere, nice decor, friendly servers, cool music (Beatles and others) -A great place to grab a snack/meal and/or some coffee: tasty wraps, I had a good soy latte with lots of foam (I like foam) What Andala isn't: -Somewhere to go when you're in a hurry: stay and relax for a while! It makes doing work almost enjoyable, and that's saying a lot.
(5)
Kelly L.
This place is fantastic. I love to go on the weekend mornings for a Bagel and Cappuccino. The man who I think is the owner, is always there and is always friendly. The seating is comfy and the ambiance is calm and relaxed, open and airy.
(5)
Cody W.
I'm not sure what more anyone could ask for in a coffee shop. This place has it all, plus the servers are exceedingly friendly and good at their job. I have no idea how they cover rent in that place, but I'm really glad they do. I count Andala as one of the biggest assets Central Square has.
(5)
Heather H.
This is a really cute and comfortable-looking coffee shop just off Central Square. I stopped in one cold night after dinner for some hot chocolate that was just delicious. Also of note is how friendly and laid back the staff was- I think they were actually disappointed that we were taking our hot chocolates to go! The pastries purchased for the next morning were excellent- I ate two instead of my allotted one pastry! I look forward to coming back to try their savory treats.
(4)
Alexis S.
Oh Andala, I had such high hopes. You had such promise. I read your lovely reviews. I saw your lovely exterior. I visited once, with a group, for food and conversation and was pleasantly surprised. I visited a second time and sat on your gorgeous patio on an equally gorgeous day. I had no internet (which was a draw for this grad student) but I figured it was down for the day (it was). I delighted in your iced tea. You had such promise. I had such hope. I was on the verge of making you my *place*. Sick after weeks of C3's subpar food and limited internet, I decided to make my switch. So tonight, study buddy is in tow, I headed over for what I thought would be my first night of many. Your electrical plugs were sparse but I am willing to sacrifice. I ordered a tea. Fantastic. But my study buddy ordered rice pudding. And there was none. He ordered cake. And there was none. Fear not! He ordered baklava- we were saved! But when it came it was a mere one inch by one inch piece, so small that I did not even feel right sneaking a corner. And for almost $3! I expected heaven for that price. But heaven I did not find and instead was left with a half soggy, half stale corner in my mouth. My tea came and was clearly the bottom of the bin- for the tea leaves were indeed tiny- not the usual for Harney and Sons product. I know because I have met the Harneys and attended their tea conferences and tastings. I was served the scraps. So now I am left with no plugs, little food, and subpar tea. If this was what I wanted, I would have gone to Starbucks. In true, I am perhaps being hard on this albeit charming cafe. But, as I said, I had such high hopes. I will return. But this is not my *place* yet.
(3)
Abigail D.
Great food at a reasonable price (and excellent portions). A nice tea selection, and the setup is great.
(4)
Alli J.
I just moved here and found this coffeehouse, it looks upscale on the inside, but its really quite homey. Like everyone says, the pies are great, very comfort-food like. They also sell discounted day-old pastries if you live beyond your means and need to scrimp a little, like moi. Please keep the convos quite so we can maintain this excellent study and relaxing atmosphere -- remember there is no white noise to cancel you out like at 1369, yr neighbors can hear all. ;)
(5)
Ethan C.
helpful staff, free wifi, great food (don't stop at the pastries). coffee can be irregular. some of the best lattes i've had as well as some really mediocre ones.
(5)
Susie Q.
I went here last night for the first time and it was great. I got there about 6pm and there was a helpful sign telling me to a take a menu and sit wherever, and a server would come to the table. I was totally hot and sweaty after walking a long way, and was planning to order a glass of ice water first thing. Lo and behold, the waitress showed up with....a big glass of ice water! Thanks, Andala. I had the hummus sandwich, which is a hot pressed sandwich although the menu doesn't say that. It was incredibly delicious, and came with a yummy and unusual potato salad, which there wasn't very much of, unfortunately. My friend got an avocado sandwich which she said was also yummy. She also got fresh-squeezed juice, which I had shied away from myself because of the price ($4.50). She couldn't choose between apple and orange, so the waitress recommended she get a blend of both. It was essentially heaven in a glass, and so incredibly fresh. The service was leisurely--possibly annoyingly so if you're in a hurry, but just right for catching up with a friend, or for hanging out/studying. The vibe in the place was just perfect--warm, cozy, relaxed, and truly friendly. How often do you get service with a smile in a Cambridge coffeeshop?
(4)
Kristin M.
a warm, but well-lit (which i really appreciate, b/c i find it hard to read in dark coffeeshops) cafe. i went here on recommendation of yelpers to have an informal meeting with a few people. there's a lot of space, broken up into a couple rooms, which makes it feel cozy. i had the soup & salad (lentil soup and a simple salad)- it was fresh, simple, and healthy. a good little spot to gather- we all enjoyed it. p.s. free wifi!
(4)
Srikanth S.
Liked it. The spinach pie w/ salad was smartly presented. Flavors were clean. The coffee was tasty. I was caught off guard a bit by the fact that this is a 'sit-down' coffee shop, at which you order with a waitress. I'm not sure that that's the best model for a place like this. My only other complaint is that I found the window seating a bit cramped. Those tables sure like good, though.
(3)
Monika S.
This coffee house has an impressive interior design and feel, a decent tea selection, however, their desserts don't taste well. I ordered rice pudding and it tasted like it was a week old ...Overall, their tea selection is better than Au Bon Pain but still limited ( yes, there are few coffeehouses that can impress me with their tea selection.)
(3)
Emily S.
Delightful. Puts Algiers in Harvard Square to shame. This joint in Central Square is light and airy and bright with tons of space to move around and scattered furniture. The owner is Palestinian so it's authentic and I loooove the gorgeous carpets strewn over hardwood floors. Didn't have a pastry but they looked incredible, and had a hard time picking from the 30ish teas they have to chose from. Basically, it's the same thing as Algiers- down to the decor and brightly painted walls- only less crowded, with more space, less pretentious clients, nicer waitstaff who actually, like, smile and check on you and don't act like they're being abused when you ask them questions, and reasonable prices.
(4)
Bird B.
we went for an iced coffee this weekend and it was warm and watered down. we couldn't order at the register and take our coffee to the tables outside. we had to wait for a waitress (we weren't ordering food) and when she brought out the coffee, we had to go back inside to add cream/sugar. its a wacky system but a nice atmosphere. we're sad the iced coffee was so 'meh.'
(3)
Lenny T.
Andala proximity is one of the best things about living next to Central. The traditional breakfast with zatar is wonderful. Their Jerusalem omelet is surprisingly delicious. The Andala tea has a perfect sprinkling of cardamom.
(5)
Bulba S.
I love Andala. I love being able to sit on the porch and smoke hookah and drink some of the best vanilla chai tea I've ever had. Like seriously, something is in that chai that makes it way better than chai I've had elsewhere. I am guessing liquid crack cocaine. I haven't tried a ton of the food, but what I've had was really good. Also, the servers are quite friendly and funny.
(5)
Bruno L.
A true culture mix, middleastern food, French music, people from all around the globe and social background. And on top of it the food is original and very good. Highly recommended if you are looking for something different and original.
(5)
S K.
andala is a place that i find myself really wanting to like. they ambiance is great, but the chairs are uncomfortable. their teas are good, but their coffee is not so good - and for being a coffee house, that's not good. i haven't tried their food, which is why i'm giving this 3 stars and not 2. staff is very friendly and attentive and the wifi is great. outdoor seating is nice too. i hear they have hooka, so that's cool, but i've never tried it here.
(3)
Melody V.
Andala Coffee House is such a chill place, whether if you're here to do some work on the laptop, getting together with a few friends over tea and coffee, and enjoying some hookah. The atmosphere is perfect for such a great cafe. They don't care how long you stay to hang out. The staff was incredibly friendly, especially the first time I went with a group when we had no idea how to order. They have a decent choice of teas to choose from and it's all pretty flavorful. Their lattes are good. They offer free wi-fi.
(5)
Maya M.
After 2 years of wondering if I would ever find the kind of cafe I wished for in Cambridge/Boston, I finally happened upon Andala. I'm not sure I can adequately express how much I like this place. Great espresso, delicious muffins, very clean, FREE Internet, cozy space, lots of seating, great music playing, and it's not crowded (yet)! I fear it will become too popular and over-crowded eventually (which I guess wouldn't be totally horrible - I really want it to succeed!), but for now it is the perfect spot to write, read, and hang out. I'm so glad I found it...
(5)
Scott L.
Gotta echo what everyone else here has said -- Andala is a gem and a perfect study spot! Usually less crowded than 1369 Coffeehouse down the street, and with an airier, fresher vibe.
(4)
Caleb M.
I absolutely love this place. Whenever I need a cafe to work at, or if I want to enjoy a nice lunch with a friend, or whatever, I always come here. The reason why? It's amazing!! The decor/atmosphere/decorations/etc are lovely. All the random pieces of Middle Eastern art add to the general feel of the place, but not as much as the Middle Eastern utensils and tables and serving platters. I especially love the little silver teapots. The service is attentive and friendly (though I waited a little too long for food-and coming from me, that's saying a lot-last time I came) and otherwise very helpful. Now to the food- SPECTACULAR. I can't come here without eating the Jerusalem salad. The zeit u zatar labneh thing is very nice and the hummus plate is absolutely essential, even if you don't like hummus. Then there's the chicken musakhan sandwich, which is very nicely done. Even if you don't like desserts, get the delicious baklava. And-I almost forgot-to drink you must order the house special tea with cardamom. I usually get 2 pots which I refill (for free) once each, which makes for 4 pots of this amazing tea. To sum up- COME HERE NOW
(5)
Anonymous P.
I like the free wifi and spacious seating. I've found the baked goods just acceptable and the espresso woody.
(2)
sage f.
I want to like this place more. The food and coffee are delicious. Table service at a coffee shop. It's right in Central. There's free wi-fi. But the seating options are bad. The radio plays on speakers (I mean, you can hear the DJs and the commercials.) There aren't enough accessible outlets for my computer plug. And the people who work there are kind of scowl-ly. Maybe it's better for talking with a friend than working. And it could be nice to sit outside when it's warm.
(3)
Sara C.
I love this place! The perfect little cafe, warm, sunny and calm in the middle of crazy central square. I loved the food as well. The Foole plate was really nice with just the right amount of garlic...lots.
(5)
Huan z.
One of my favorite Tea/Coffee House. Well designed rooms with very relaxing atmosphere. also like the porch with Moroccan wall lamps. Hot collocate is awesome, not too sweet like other coffee shop has. Breakfast is just delicious. Lunch with chicken sanwich is excellent. Two thumbs up!
(5)
Emily C.
I keep meaning to write a review of this place, and since I'm currently sitting in Andala Coffee House, enjoying their excellent (free!) wi-fi and a cardamon iced tea, I figured this was as good a time as any! The omelettes are delicious and the hummus platter always fills me up! If you're looking for a place to hangoout with your friends for the afternoon and enjoy a coffee or tea, or for a light, healthier meal, this is a great place. I personally like it most because I can come here and study and the waitresses are attentive, refilling tea/water, without bothering me too much as I work on my laptop.
(5)
David L.
I'm only an occasional coffee drinker so I don't know my espresso's from my latte's, but I do like a good coffee house to hang out sometimes. Andala's has a nice atmosphere and location, but the service and food there are not that great. Food is just kinda overpriced for what you get and the service can be horribly slow. I've waited for over an hour for food on multiple occasions and have gone 30 minutes without seeing any servers around or anything. Way over rated if you ask me.
(2)
Andrew M.
I went here. It seemed ok.
(3)
Jennie W.
I love, love love this place! I'm always impressed by how friendly the staff are, for a coffee shop they definitely go above and beyond. The lentil soup rocks, and they have some of the best hummus in town!
(5)
Daniel F.
I found this place because I take the 70 bus by here everyday and saw they had shisha. We went in later that night around 930pm on a Friday and found the outside completely full, so we told the guy we would wait. He later told us they closed at 11pm and if we wanted a hookah we should stay around for a while. He was very friendly and moved one of the inside tables outside for us! The staff was very attentive and nice and the coffee was quite good/european style. The cafe has a nice feel to it and the inside decor is quite nice.
(4)
Diana C.
I've been coming to this place with my friend a couple of times so far, and loved everything I've tried here! The first time I came - I was blown away by the antique decor and the at-home feel that it gives off. It's so cozy and warm inside, perfect for winter. I always get the chai, because it's the closest to what I fell in love with in San Diego. Ironically, the best chai I've had to date was served at a coffee cart located on UCSD's campus - Art of Espresso. When I first came to Boston, I searched frantically to satisfy my chai cravings, and was very pleased when I came here... :) Yesterday, I tried the Turkish Coffee - it was served in a cute little antique-ish pot. Just delish~and you can request extra strong (more coffee beans) or less beans - they cater to your taste buds! Dinner time came and we were so hungry. We looked around and saw all the delicious foods and aroma, couldnt resist and asked for a menu, haha. I got the Adama Chicken with Wine Sauce. It was so good! Light tasting, feels healthy, and stewy. I loved it so much that I had to order one to go. My friend got the Chicken Kebab with a salad, she loved it too. Definitely do the food some justice and get your chompers going already! NOTE: I'm not sure why so many are saying the staff is rude. I had experienced the complete opposite. Both the young women and the male barista were incredibly attentive. They asked if we needed anything else/took away our dishes and cups/smiled/helped think of ways to find me a seat with an outlet and were very courteous. Either I was darn lucky or yelp reviewers are incredibly picky.
(5)
Christopher R.
I work in a coffee shop, and frequent many others, so when I try somewhere new, I have very high expectations. That said, Andala is quite possibly THE coziest coffee shop in the Boston/Cambridge area. If you're looking for a nice, quiet, chill-vibed place to grab a sandwich and a fresh cup of coffee (french press preferred), you'd do well by giving Andala a try. It's not the absolute best coffee in town, but it's a cut above most, and the ambience is perfect. You even have your choice of lighting/setting, as there are several different areas in which you can sit, and even be waited on. It's a good thing for them that I don't live too close by, otherwise I'd most definitely be perched there for hours on a nightly basis!
(5)
Yasmin E.
very cute place to lounge around with a group of friends after dinner. the desserts weren't superb (they were ok...waaaay too sweet for my taste) and (while i don't smoke it) the company i was with complained about the arguila since it was relatively expensive and had very little taste. all in all however, on a crisp summer's evening, it is nice to sit under the grapevine (with REAL grapes mind you) louvered awning while sipping mint tea and nibbling on dessert. sounds cute huh....it is :) bon apetite!!
(3)
George S.
Very nice atmosphere. Very good coffee. Solid food. Big windows with a nice view. The tables are a bit crammed, so if you go to coffeehouses with your laptop in tow, things might get messy. It's nice to hang out with friends though. (And they have free Wi-Fi!)
(4)
J K.
Variety of choices for any meal. Great place to sit and chill. Staff were nice/helpfull and the prices were good too.
(4)
Liz P.
This place gets so much natural light and fresh air - it's a great place to go as Spring begins her descent on New England. The goldenrod color of the walls welcomes you in and invites you to stay for as long as you like. I love the rugs and wide array of seating from single seats along the window, to cafe tables for two, to homey couches on which I would love to laze with a hookah. The waitress was attentive enough, while still leaving me to the book I had brought. Even when she brought me my check because she was clocking out, I was invited to stay longer and assured that she was not rushing me out. I had the Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich and it was great! The tomato and onions tasted crisp and not at all soggy from meeting the hot egg and melted cheese. The bread was divine and wholly unique. The potato salad alongside was as good as the sandwich: very well seasoned with fresh herbs and perhaps the most delicious olive oil I've ever tasted. It's probably my own fault that I ordered a Darjeeling tea and not something more adventurous. It was fine, but I'm not going to rave about it the way that people seem to be about the specialty teas. I'll keep this in mind and order a different tea when I return to Andala, which I hope will be very soon!
(4)
Brett W.
Maybe it was my lucky day. Maybe it was the right morning. Or maybe this place is just wonderful. I suppose at 11am on a Thursday I wouldn't run into the long waits that the other reviewers ran into - in fact, our server was quite speedy with our food and tea. Once again I had the honey-cheese, pita bread, and fruit plate. I just can't get over how good the honey drizzled cheese and fresh fruit is. My friend had the egg salad sandwich which was soft and warm and scrumptious. The pot of Chai that we ordered brought the meal full circle. Yay!
(5)
Lauren G.
The hummus at this place is amazing, though I found the portion sizes to be a little on the small side. if you are really hungry and need to eat a lot of food you should probably not eat here because you will end up spending a lot of $$ for a decent sized portion. Service was a little slow but very friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is nice and a little funky. I would definitely go back (when I'm not so hungry) especially to try the coffee.
(4)
Amanda L.
If I lived in Central, I would probably come here all the time. It really spacious, but cozy as the same time. The only problem, it's a bitch to find. If you don't know where it is, you'll never find it. Since I go to Central about once every few months, I ended up going in every direction but the right one. Oh well, I guess I can't knock on anyone except myself. The food that we had was pretty tasty. I really enjoyed the spinach and meat pies the most. They were very moist and doughy, and delicious. This place is also really good for groups, there's a big open area where you can shlep a bunch of tables together, and its away from the other seats so it doesn't get too annoying for everyone else.
(4)
J R.
$9 for a tuna wrap? You've got to be kidding me. Don't get me wrong, it tasted very good, but after waiting 25 min what wouldn't? The problem with this place is its ambiguity. Which is fine if your name is Pat. But, Andala is a cafe trying to be a restaurant. When I enter a cafe I expect good coffee, snacks and self service. I don't expect to be seated, handed a copy-shop menu (with only a handful of items on it), written a check and expected to tip. I'll give it another shot but its nothing to write home about.
(3)
Calli C.
A little tricky to find, Andala is an oasis in the middle of Central Square. Warm, cozy, free wi-fi, where can you go wrong? I was meeting someone there, and the wait staff definitely didn't put any pressure on me to order up while I was waiting. They didn't put any pressure on us at all - didn't ask if we wanted anything else, if we wanted the bill, or anything. In this situation that was great because we just wanted to talk and be left alone, but I could see how it could be a problem in the service industry. Great tea. Mmmmm.
(4)
Te R.
when i was there i felt like i was at a friend's house. there are dining tables. the kind that you would imagine having at home. there are some comfy couches and coffee tables. so it looks like a dining room and a living room. i really like the ambiance here. plus, there's free wifi! i was here just for a coffee in the afternoon and worked on my laptop. there's power outlet and stuff. the servers were cute and polite. but as other reviews say things here move really slow, which i kinda appreciated. you order a coffee at the table like a restaurant. so i saw some confused people who walked in and ordered a coffee at the counter, and the server told him to have a seat and she gave him the menu. i ordered iced white chocolate mocha and an espresso. the mocha was little too sweet for me. and the espresso wasn't spectacular. if the drinks were better, i would give this place 4 stars.
(3)
Sandy M.
This is my all time favorite cafe in Cambridge. Absolutely fav in Central Square. It's one block from busy Central Sq. The interior is decorated beautifully, with lovely colors, middle eastern decor and touches, an interesting tin ceiling, a fabulous downstairs that comes in handy now that the cafe is being discovered (yesterday, it was full at lunchtime - almost couldn't find a table - both happy for them and a little sad for me!) The coffees and teas are excellent and the food is perfect for lunch or breakfast (haven't tried dinner yet). You can eat light and healthy, or have something more substantial. You can have a smoothie, or an omelet or a sandwich. But my favorites are the Jerusalem Egg Sandwich and the Hummus Plate - as they say, hummus like you've never had before, warm and delicious. Served with fresh veges and crisp pita. There are so many things I haven't tried yet... so many reasons to go back again and again... did I say that it has a great outdoor space? Can't wait for the warm weather.
(5)
Molly M.
I agree with Katrina L. This place is an Oasis in the middle of the Sahara. After just moving here, and searching for any place to work other than my apartment, because Harvard won't let me into it's libraries (because I'm just an auditor), I searched high and low for any coffee shop that was even tolerable. Harvard Square's establishments generally are overrated. Crema Cafe is always crowded, and Algiers Cafe is cold and it feels disorganized (although those are my favorites at Harvard Square). But Andala is warm. It's spacious. The wi-fi works very well. The servers are punctual and they even smile! There is always seating at Andala, though it is never empty. The coffee and pastries are great. Maybe it is because it is slightly off Central Square that it isn't insanely crowded. They have an upstairs and downstairs, it's spacious and has lots of natural light, and it has a good, organized vibe. Definitely five stars!
(5)
Nisrine E.
This is a great little jem of a cafe. Very cozy, well lit (for doing work) and comfortable atmosphere. I love the big tables for groups and the beautiful background Arabic music. The service was friendly. Oh, and free WiFi :D The raspberry cookies are delicious!!! But I was disappointed at the limited selection they had of baked goods and treats. I would go back often :)
(4)
Sox G.
I went here for lunch with a group of 12. I was pleasantly surprised by the place (considering I went here for an iced coffee this past summer and felt as though it was a huge rip off.). I had the Mjaddarah plate special, which left me so full, that by dinner time, I was still full! We also split the hummus plate which was amazing! Homemade hummus is the best. I would go here again-the portions are a good size, depending on what you get, and the prices are decent. Try the chai latte. It's pretty amazing.
(4)
Alex K.
Horrible. I just wanted a cup of tea to go and had to wait 5 minutes just to order. They don't have tea bags! Only brewed tea, so I had to wait another 5 minutes for the tea to brew. And the price was twice as much as any place I have ever been. Also while standing right next to the counter/blender the scummy looking employee started the blender and it wasn't locked in place. So I was subjected to a VERY loud jarring screech 12 inches away from my ear. Never going back.
(1)
Charlotte E.
Hmmm, a mixed bag here. The ambiance is incredible. 5 stars for sure. But if you're looking for a nice little date with your husband before work, you'd better move along. We thought we'd try Andala this morning. We arrived and looked around, we saw the scones and decided we'd have those and coffee but the girl behind the counter told us that if we wanted to stay we should sit down and they'd provide table service. We took a lovely seat on the grape arbor covered patio and waited, and waited, and waited. People came and left with take-out and I was finally about to go in when she remembered us and came out to take our order. Turns out those scones we saw were the only ones they had and my husband's had been purchased by one of those subsequent take-out orders. We adjusted and placed our order. And waited and waited and waited and waited. Finally I went inside to tell her we had to go, we couldn't wait anymore. Turns out our breakfast had been sitting there the whole time, she just hadn't brought it out yet. I brought it out myself. Our coffee was ambient temperature at this point but I didn't care, I just wanted to eat and get out of there. The mystery of the limited scones was solved - they don't make their own, I am sure these are being re-sold from 1369 down the block, so that's why they only possess 3. She was very prompt in bringing us the bill. I'll give her that! If you have a laptop and want to spend hours here, perfect. If you have anything to do somewhere else in the morning you're better off getting your scone at the source (1369), or the new Flour just down the street. You might also get those to go and eat them on the lovely patio here - you'll have at least half an hour before they'll even notice you're there!
(2)
Melissa C.
If I didn't spend so much money on their goat cheese and honey plate (apple, banana, mango, pear, grapes, goat cheese, honey and pita -- what's not to love?) so regularly, I would encourage the good people at Andala to charge me rent. Seriously. I used to come here frequently about two years ago, and recently rediscovered my love for this legit coffee house now that my exams are nearing. Between the free wifi, the gracious service (but not of the overly-attentive/hovering variety), awesome sunlight, and the fact that they let me sit at the same table for 8 hours at a time, this is my favorite study spot in all of Bos/Camb. (Docked one star because lately, the temperature has been a little strange in there -- I go from sweating to reaching for my jacket pretty frequently.)
(4)
Amit G.
I love this place. It feels like home. Free wifi, friendly staff, great decor. The Sami Tea is quite tasty. They have this dessert called Nammourah which was amazing if you want to be especially indulgent. I'm working my way through the menu but in general have never been disappointed. I really must say, the atmosphere is something else. It's a shining light in central square. The place is unbelievably spacious - so it's great for small one on one chats and larger group chats. And the music, decorations, etc. etc. make you feel like you aren't visiting a business but instead walking into a portion of someone's house. Negatives? Hmmm. Having a hard time finding them. It might be slightly, just slightly, above market in terms of pricing. But that's not enough to take a star off.
(5)
S W.
This place concentrates a lot of things I love: free wifi, middle eastern food and interior design, interesting people and best Turkish coffee ever! I can stay there all day.
(5)
Erin M.
I am giving this a high three stars--- if I found out they had really good food, I might bump it up, but I've only had coffee here. Coffee was very good and atmosphere was relaxed. There was a boom box blaring top-40 hits behind my head the whole time, which seemed out of place in a funky little middle-eastern coffeehouse (although actually, I've had that kind of experience in many funky middle-eastern places). Met here for an informational interview, and it was a nice setting for that because we weren't rushed by the waitstaff and (besides the music) it was quiet and nice. There was nothing that made this coffee shop spectacular, but it was quiet enjoyable.
(3)
Dan C.
I love this place, this has become my official neighborhood cafe. It is spacious and beautifully decorated with big windows upstairs, the service is excellent and really friendly, and the food seems reasonably priced, although i've only eaten something of substance once (an avocado sandwich, which was very good). I've had their house tea several times now and it's always terrific and only a couple of bucks for a pot. They also have an amazing selection of things to sit on. Seriously. They have regular chairs upstairs and downstairs, as well as the funky couch inset in the wall next to the entrance, couches on the indoor porch, giant pillows in the basement, and then outdoor patio seating. I'm pretty sure your butt will never feel uncomfortable.
(5)
Rosie Z.
Nice ambiance, a great place to study or read. The downstairs area is good for conversations and group meetings. When it is not sub-30 degrees outside, you can usually find me smoking hookah in the outdoor garden. Food is very good and reasonably priced. Although they do have very slow service, but then you just need to ask for things, which I have gotten used to in Andala. Overall, it is a great place to have a laid back Sunday afternoon.
(4)
Sophi K.
One of the best coffee shops here in Cambridge. I like the atmosphere, coffee (white chocolate mocha is the best!), friendly waiters/waitresses, and food. Plus, free internet. Two thumbs up!
(5)
Mariya G.
Yes, the service here is slow, but that's one of the reasons I love the place! You can sit here all day, munching tasty platters (try the meat pies and then, when you've digested, order the fruit/goat cheese!) at your leisure and never feel rushed or pressured to leave. The only time they'll bother you at all is during waitress shift changes and even then you're free to close out your tab with your original waitress and continue to hang around. I can't think of an area coffee shop better suited for studying or long conversations.
(5)
Ploy K.
A cute, spacious coffee house with free wifi? Sign me up! I spent an incredibly pleasant afternoon doing schoolwork at Andala. I can't really comment on the food or drinks, however, because I really didn't like the Turkish coffee I ordered (I had never had one before, and had no idea what to expect - I don't like coffee that strong, so just because I didn't like it doesn't mean it wasn't of good quality). My friend got an iced peppermint tea and said it was really good. The waitress who helped us was very friendly and attentive, but the real kicker for me was the atmosphere. It's so open and colorfully decorated, it really is a perfect place to just sit and sip some coffee while working or reading a book. I'll definitely be back to try another coffee drink more to my taste!
(4)
Julie L.
I live right down the street from this pleasant coffee shop. I love the food and the variety of coffee and tea drinks. BUT the past few times I have been here, the service has been AWFUL! The last time I went there, just a few days ago, it was around 8:00pm when my friend and I arrived to work on homework and sip some tea. It was a bit slow in service on a Tuesday evening, however, it is still not acceptable for the waitresses to invite several of their friends and have a fun social hour while their on the job. Also, they were just plain rude we actually did ask for something. This isn't even half as bad a having the worst waitress EVER a few months ago. Among many things, like rolling her eyes at all of her customers and getting our order wrong multiple times and then arguing with us that we were the ones at fault - all I have to say is, I hope she got fired. She was horrible. Andala, I really love your charm, but please, let's work on the service.
(3)
Denise W.
I think my review has already been stated by some of the people below, but here goes: Food I'm inclined to think that some of the food is over-priced and some of it is just right. I've been to Andala twice and the first time had a plate that had a bowl of oatmeal and tons of fresh fruit; the oatmeal was kind of dull, but the fresh fruit was so .. fresh. So good. The second time I had some kind of spiced chicken and onions on Arabic bread, which was INCREDIBLE (but I was famished, so you know how that always sort of skews your taste buds). I was also fortunate to grab some pastries during a visit - they were excellent. Service: This is such a relaxed atmosphere that the waitresses watch to see if you come in then eventually come to greet you .. trust me, there is no rushing in this place. I've never found the servers to be mean or idiotic, but severely lacking in their presence or returning to your table, yes. On a completely different note, Andala has the most beautiful servers you have ever seen in your life. I noticed a "Help Wanted" ad in the window and despite several years of serving experience and the need for a PT job, I was intimidated as hell to apply cuz these women are bananas hot. Just sayin. Atmostphere I remember sitting at a table with my friend and noting that someone had created the funniest, most eclectic playlist to rock over the speakers. There is SO MUCH SPACE in Andala and gorgeous, just beautiful decor. People are scattered about drinking coffee, eating food/pastries, or just using their computers on the free wifi. I have to give Andala props for that, along with their long hours. I think this was incredibly disjointed .. idiocy. It was a great introduction to middle eastern fare.
(3)
Molly F.
Great way to wake up! Initially caught my attention with their pleasant string lights outside t night, and decided to go in for brunch this morning. Very laid back and welcoming ambiance. Decor is very homey. Nice oriental rugs with a variety of seating options from low couches to study tables to large bay window benches. Nice, genuine servers and an interesting menu. Between the two of us, we got one omelet and the Foole Plate, one small French press and turkish espresso. The presentation was nice and the food came out quickly. I did, however, notify the, of my celiac disease and they brought my omelet out with a big honkin wheat pita slapped across the top. I think a bit of a language barrier caused this between the native server and me. The food was really tasty though (I took a risk and ate the half of the omelet that the pita did not touch). Overall, great experience and I look forward to returning!
(4)
Lahnna E.
My friends and I were interested in finding an affordable hookah bar in the area. Someone suggested Andala so we figured we'd try it out for the afternoon. Some afternoon we picked! It was bright, sunny, and warm and Cambridge was buzzing with people. We managed to find parking pretty close on Mass Ave (although maybe we should've just taken the T *shrugs*). Anyway, we went inside, the decor was nice and easy-going. Not dark and stuffy like some coffee shops can be. The woman behind the counter was friendly and offered us to sit where we liked, but that if we wanted to smoke it would have to be outside. I remember a bit of waiting, which we were all right with for the most part. We mainly wanted to just drink coffee, smoke, and talk. As she was preparing our hookah and our coffees, I noted the variety on the menu and was impressed. Prep time took a bit longer than I'm used to, but our server was just so pleasant that I really have no complaints. And besides, I don't think people who come to a cafe to sit down should be in any rush. Go to the Starbucks across the street in that case. Peach shisha was delectable, and there were several kinds available. It was how I envision a lengthy cafe visit to be. Relaxed, little bother from the server, and good coffee.
(4)
Barry B.
Sometimes you're a stranger in a strange town and you need a good cup of coffee to put things right. That's how I ended up at Andala two days ago. Someone told me that Andala served an excellent cup of coffee. Well, that's not true, by a long shot. But it was a decent cup of coffee, nicely brewed (two shots in an 8 ounce 2% latte). The espresso was one dimensional, with a nutty quality. The milk was properly foamed. Andala uses Lavazza coffee from Italy, a reputable brand of "standard" espresso. But the best places either roast their own beans in small batches or toss any roasted beans over one week old. Lavazza beans, of course, are neither roasted in small batches nor fresh. I think this accounts for the single flavor note. I'd go back to Andala for coffee, given what I've heard about some of Cambridge's other places. The atmosphere was quite wonderful - big windows, high ceilings, bright and cheery. The table service was a little slow, which puzzled me since the cafe was not busy. I didn't eat anything so can't comment on the food. ====== 2013 Update: I've been back to Andala a couple of times in the last 10 days, first for coffee and then for food. The coffee (in the form of a small latte) is pretty terrible - worse than Starbucks - although very nicely presented. And the server brings your coffee to your table. You pay when you're ready to leave. Nice touch. But not nice coffee. A few days later, I went for lunch and ordered the "egg salad sandwich," which it's not. Not salad, that is. Just a lightly scrambled egg in a wheat tortilla. Not actually very tasty, given the possibilities. So, although I really like the interior design of Andala, and appreciate the attentive service, the fare just doesn't deserve more than a couple of stars. I really wish it were otherwise.
(2)
Morgan F.
Egg sandwich on the indoor/outdoor dealio, surrounded by writers typing on their computers, like woah! Grab a seat upstairs, downstairs or enjoy the patio, friendly servers and even nicer cafe comp-anions! Come alone for hours, they won't try to make you go, Show up with your possie and and make the shisha blow! Why you waitin' -- just go!
(4)
Danny D.
Awesome Turkish coffee with cardamom !! Pretty good food, nice open space, lots of light, different decor, friendly/passionate service. A great place to chill, eat, drink, chat.
(5)
Shaina S.
I took my English conversation group here and treated them to a royally awesome hummus plate. (They had never even heard of hummus.) I also got the banana, milk, and honey smoothie. Have I mooned yet over how much I adore honey in my smoothies? Cause I do. This place has style. It's got a friendly and authentic theme and the porch is a delight, especially now that the weather is just a little brisk. The prices aren't as cheap as some Central Square fare, but I think it's worth it for the mood. Just don't try ordering at the counter. Easily my favorite cafe in Central and it barely had to try.
(5)
Alex H.
Love and love this place. Boston needs more places like it. The atmosphere is great, I love the decor. It is centrally located. Service is slow nevertheless, and I am giving it 5-star for overall experience and food. I LOVE the $2.95 Avocado Bagel Special! We certainly need more places like these.
(5)
Adam L.
This place is more cozy than the food is good, but it's an interesting change of pace and has a nice atmosphere. I'll probably be back here on a nice day to hang out under their ivy-covered outdoor-seating terrace and get some work done.
(3)
Tarah H.
What would it take to entice two twenty-something young professionals, firmly entrenched in Boston proper out to Central? A breezy patio, fresh juice, wonderful teas, aromatic coffees, delicious middle eastern food, free wifi and shisha. The humus plate, as stated by many others is great - although the heat had me wanting nothing more than a slew of cucumber and bell peppers, not pita for dipping. The lemon juice was light and flavorful - not overly tart and no sugar needed. (for me, anyway) I would have tried a smoothie, but my aversion to bananas and their presence in both smoothies deterred me from doing so. I like the table service, it allows me to keep working while remaining hydrated and nourished without interrupting my work (I have friends and other distractions for that) Our waitress was lovely and sweet. She even popped her head out the window a few times to check on us. I was tempted to stand on my tippy toes and ask for a Screwball ( happytimeicecream.com/IM… ) We've been here for hours, slowly sipping on water, juice and tea, smoking our hooka with no pushiness from the waitress. She didn't bat an eye as our group grew and we eventually combined tables. Thanks Andala for the lovely time on a very hot June afternoon.
(5)
Shang S.
One tiny piece of baklava is all it takes to have me as a fan. In addition, i like the variety in the decor of the place - different nooks and crannies to meet with one person or multiple. Great late night place to hang out as well - as long as you don't expect fast service, because everything is so laid back
(4)
Courtney H.
I went here for the first time today -- I was expecting an average coffee shop. This place is anything but average! I had the lentil soup and salad combo. The lentil soup was outstanding, nice and light, and the salad was also delicious, full of crunchy veggies. My husband liked his chicken sandwich, and we both split the goat cheese and fruit platter. The decor is very pretty, and the free wi-fi is fantastic. There are places to sit outside, and a huge downstairs area, too. I thought the service was fine -- the waitress brought us more water when we needed it, and checked on us a couple of times. I can't wait to go again!
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No Good for Working : Yes
Angelique A.
This is my all time favorite middle eastern cafe on decor and ambiance alone, especially on a warm sunny day when you can sit outside and just contemplate life. Taking off two stars because 1. The food, rice in particular, is super oily. The oil does does add any flavor so it's hard to understand why it's added. 2. The service is suuuuuuppperrrrr slooowwwwww, especially if you happen to sit outside. Need to leave in an hour? Better ask for the check now coz that's how long it will take. Also, why so stingy with the paper napkins? I dropped some oily rice on my dress and had to wait for half an hour before I could get hold of a paper napkin to dab on it...
(3)Mika S.
The atmosphere at Andala is one of the best i've ever experienced. The patio is enclosed by a small fence, and tucked underneath a leafy canopy, with twinkling patio lights lighting the area up at night. The seating area in the basement is equally as cosy, with a number of couches and beautiful decorations. The set-up on the patio and in the basement are very casual and intimate, making them great places to go on a date, or hanging out with friends. My friends and I had such a great time here that we spent almost 3 hours eating, and doing hookah while we caught up. The food is simple, and very delicious! I ordered the Meat Pie plate, which came with 2 small meat pies and a salad. The salad was small and lightly dressed in one of the tastiest vinaigrette dressings i've ever had - the exotic blend of spices gave it such a wonderful taste. I would love to know what the dressing is called, and whether it is homemade. The meat pies were even better and so so fresh! I would love to come back here for brunch and coffee.
(4)Tiffany C.
I'm giving a three because this was my first time here, but I ordered, sat for 2 hours and never got my order. Ambiance: 5 super cute outside patio, enclosed by a small fence. There is seating next to a window facing the balcony (always taken!) & extra seating area in the basement with couches and beautiful decorations, really giving you that middle eastern flavor & culture. It's a great place for a group of friends to just hangout and have coffee, tea, light lunch. Service: I NEVER GOT MY ORDER. The lady came in took our orders. My friend and I chatted a storm long enough that in 2 hours we realized she never came with our orders. I'm giving this a three because I didn't even get to taste the food or coffee, so I'm hoping the next time I go, they can change my mind.
(3)Isaac E.
I had the goat cheese and fruit platter- big and full of juicy fruit! However, everything else was too spicy!! To be fair tho, I did eat my meals and if I had that kind of palate this would be my place. Additionally, the atmosphere is laid back and it has the true air of a coffee house.
(3)Tracey L.
Andala is great if you're looking for a quiet place to have a conversation, read a book, or otherwise not use the Internet. Or maybe their internet is just perpetually incompatible with my laptop. In any event, the food here is fresh and definitely feels homemade. I am not a fan at all of their lemon mint smoothie - it's more like a slushie that is impossible to drink, but the foole plate and banana smoothies are delicious.
(3)John Z.
Was not impressed with the food. My first order of meat pie was not available. Omelet and egg sandwich was basically egg with scallions and salt, something easily prepared at home. Not worth the $9 price tag. The mint smoothie looked promising from previous reviews, but when I got it, the ice to juice ratio was way off. It was a mountain of ice. Did not have a very good impression from this establishment.
(2)Wanwipa P.
Love the mushroom omelet and orange juice here.
(5)Richard H.
Definitely hit-or-miss. I've had wonderful experiences - especially on the food side - but most often the service comes up short. The waitress disappears, fails to bring the check, or is very distracted during order-taking. I love the interior and homey feeling of the cafe and basement, which does well to make up for bad service. Water arrived quickly on this visit. However, Andala's filter coffee is much to be desired, cookies seem store bought, and service during my last visit left us in a huff. Among the cafe options in Central Square that can accommodate a long, comfortable conversation, Andala tops my list and bad service won't prevent me from returning to chat with a friend over espresso or tea. However, be prepared to confront hit or miss service, and bring along a good deal of patience. Just a side note, the menus are filthy - the two that we received looked like coffee had been spilled on it for the last two years, several cascading shades of brown. Most of the teas listed in the menu were unavailable. Not really sure what is going on behind the counter.
(2)Esther J.
Food is amazing. I had rice over beef. A little hot/humid inside. It's like going into a house in a humid, foreign (Arabic) country. Free Wifi. Definitely a place to go with friends or to study on a cooler day.
(4)Katie L.
Everything about this place is perfect. It is filled with light, it feels like your house with couches and little tables not too close together, but only if your house were a little Middle Eastern cafe. It is clean, not too rushed nor too quiet. The walls are a cheerful yellow, and the whole space has just the nicest details. There's also a blue colored downstairs, with more couches and tables. Tons of space. The tea comes in little teapots, and it is fresh tasting and piping hot, served with a clear glass like the tea I've had in Morocco (though to make their fresh mint tea a true Moroccan tea, you'll need to add several heaping spoons of sugar). I also had rice pudding and a croissant, both of which were solid, especially the rice pudding. Otherwise, I was left in peace to write on my laptop. It seemed like everyone at this cafe was either a student doing homework, or an expat from some middle eastern country out to meet other expats for a Sunday afternoon tea. There were plenty of outlets, the wifi was solid if not lightning fast, and the service was very nice. If I lived closer to Central Square, I'd be here all the time -- it's open till 11, after all! What a rarity for a little cafe! I'd dock a star for the prices ($3.75 for a tiny tea), but this place just makes me feel so nostalgic. Gotta give five.
(5)Thunderwoman R.
This cafe is a hidden gem in Central Square. I feel like I am in another part of the world. The atmosphere is comfortable with that old world feel. Great wall art & photographs. Great service. I enjoy the coffee & pastries! Delicious! When my son comes to visit from NY we go to do Hookah there. You can bring your own wine! This is the best time of year to sit outdoors at the lovely patio. Looking forward to my next visit!
(5)Alexandra M.
I don't know how many times we asked for water and never got it, but it was A LOT. They weren't busy (3 tables outside, 2 inside), so I'm not sure the problem. We also felt like we waited a long time for the food. I had the special hummus which was fantastic. Could have used more things to dip in it, but the hummus was so good I didn't feel bad using my fork at the end.
(3)Shisham K.
I have been to this place couple of times & I genuinely like the place. The staff here are very friendly. The decor is very Arabic & ethnic...the food is good. Vegetarian have a lot of variety. I also enjoyed their masala chai...The outside seating in the summers with the hookah is the highlight for me. Only one recommendation, they should introduce more hookah flavours. Also, I should mention their baklava are really delicious!!!
(4)Pavel R.
Very cozy and cute space with a great outdoor patio. Unfortunately every time I've been there have been somewhat disappointed with my meals. They always lack something, don't feel well balanced or thought through. My experience with service has been very disappointing as well. It is always extremely slow and not super friendly. This place has a lot of potential if people that are running it can get their act together.
(3)Giselle E.
Came here on a Sunday afternoon in late September with my boyfriend. The upstairs was pretty packed but with warm weather we decided to sit outside which was aesthetically pleasing. Let me just say that everything LOOKS good - ambiance, environment, food and beverage. What made me disappointed in my experience was the wait time and food itself. After seating ourselves, we waited about 10 minutes before anyone came to our table, another 30 to get our food, and another 10 minutes into eating our food to get our drinks (we also never got any water in that 50 minute time frame). The food looked beautiful but everything was bland. The rice had no flavor and there wasn't any salt on the tables to sprinkle on my plate. The beef dish I had ordered tested like straight up ground beef that has been pan fried or baked with no seasoning. My boyfriend's chicken dish also had flavorless chicken and sadly his rice had no flavor either. Our iced chais weren't that cold and the flavor was....off. I had asked to replace my chai with a house coffee and even then the coffee was no bueno T_T I'm so sad to write this review because everything looked beautiful. Maybe this was just a bad day and their other dishes are much more stronger. Just a WARNING -- DINE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
(1)Bilge Zeren A.
The place is really cozy and well decorated. They also have a nice patio. Great place to hang out at. However, I think the food isn't good. Also, they have very few options in the menu.
(3)E. L.
Today I went with 3 friends to have lunch at Andala. I've had meals here a half dozen or so times before (but that was 2 years ago). Our waitress was very friendly and the food was good, but the wait was LONG. One member of our party didn't even receive his lunch. We asked where it was and they said it was on its way. That was about 35 minutes after waiting already (for an omelette...cooking eggs?). At about 45-50 minutes we got up and told the woman behind the counter that we needed to pay as we had a meeting shortly thereafter. We left two people behind to get the omelette once it came out and bring it back with us. It took another 20 minutes of them waiting and there was no apology. In fact the woman behind the counter seemed perturbed that we were bothering her with something so trivial.
(2)Annie S.
The food is good, but just a tip-- don't come here during the summer, there is no AC and it gets sooo hot. They have a lot of fans around but they mostly just blow around hot air. Makes for quite an unpleasant experience. That being said, I do enjoy this place. Though the smoothies are overpriced, they are quite good. Banana anything is pretty much my favorite, and the banana smoothie NAILS it. Also the waitress gave me a free second smoothie.. still unclear if she was flirting with me or just bringing me extra. (Let's go with flirting ;)). Foodwise- I recommend the Chicken Khalili Sandwich- if you like spicy!- the jalapenos are strong.
(3)Ange H.
Stopped in on a snowy night for a Turkish coffee and a quiet place to read. The ladies running the shop were really nice. The coffee was delicious. It's a bit out of my way, but if I ever find myself bored near Central again, I'll be back!
(4)Ahmad M.
I love this place. I go there at least 3 times a week to study or meet a friend. this is not your typical full service restourant, it's a laid back place where it really feels like home. we stay for a long time and we never feel the pressure that we should leave (like full service restourants). you can tell the waiters what to order and if u dont see them u can just tell them at the counter. thats what i love about it. i also love there food, their tea pots, and THEY HAVE TURKISH COFFEE. i would recommend the musakhan chicken (a Palestinian dish) and their hummas.
(5)Rob C.
This place sucks. I came in at 830am (30 minutes after they had opened) and sat down to order. I ordered the avocado press sandwich that everyone on yelp recommended and a coffee - the server told me the cook was not here yet and didn't know when he would be. The server ended up running into the kitchen to make the sandwich and asking the other employee to get my coffee. The woman responded "no" and sat there folding silverware. I waiting until my sandwich came out to get my coffee (20 minutes later) Save the time and money and go somewhere else.
(1)Xue L.
This place is great. It's a cute cafe with lots of space. No tight tables squished next to each other. Perfect for sitting and working. It's very relaxed with a lot of natural light. Service was prompt and friendly. Not rude at all! The food is delicious. flavorful and authentic. Awesome selection of teas.
(5)Alan J.
I love how the roof of their patio is covered with vines. I was a big fan of getting a hooka and some tea and reading a book for a while. Also, call me crazy but like the past three times I've been there at closing, I noticed that the place wasn't emptying but was in fact filling up. Except, the waiters were telling a subset of people (ie non-middle-easterners) they had to leave. I guess it's their prerogative to let whoever they want to stay past closing time, but it creates a weird dynamic when you're the only one they're asking to leave.
(4)Hai N.
I would only ever come back for the seating/ambience of this cafe. Otherwise, service is super slow -- I had to remind the server twice that I want to have a cup of coffee, and both times she replied saying someone will make it and in the end no one ever did. They werent even busy or crowded. Also, their internet is inaccessible, as in something is wrong because I could connect to wifi but could do nothing, even a simple search.
(2)Christine P.
This is one of my favorite cafés in all of boston. This small family owned two-floor establishment is a hidden gem, behind the large church near central square. It's a very very brief walk from the red line. The classic suggestions I would pose for your dining experience includes the avocado press sandwich which I almost always get. As for a beverage I recommend either the house tea or the lime mint smoothie depending on the season or weather. Enjoy!!
(5)Susanna L.
This cafe has a lot of really great seating options inside and outside, and feels very cozy, with tables, couches, and benches available. The atmosphere is very laid back, they play a lot of old 90s songs and Sara bareilles. I liked studying here because it's relatively quiet, a low traffic area, and you don't feel rushed. But the major downside is that the SERVICE IS TERRIBLE. It takes forever for servers to clean the table, take your order, it once took 45 min for a simple latte to come out when my friends tea came out immediately. It's crazy how slow they are even when they aren't busy..
(2)Brad M.
Been here a few times with a group. Food is decent if a bit expensive, but the service has always been poor. I've often had to ask for things several times before they show up, having the wrong things come out, slow service, etc. None of that compares to my experience today though. We had made a reservation for this group, which Andala had evidently accepted. Once the group arrived, the manager came over to us and made a big stink about how he doesn't think our group spends enough money at his place (we regularly have $120+ checks), and kicks us all out right then. Keep in mind we have never seen this place crowded, so it's not like we're taking up space other patrons could be using. Some of us had already purchased some coffee and food, so we moved our group meeting immediately outside the place, bringing our cups and dishes with us. The server actually has the gall to come out after us and harass us about the dishware we've taken all of about 20 feet. Well buddy, we wouldn't have had to take it outside if you hadn't kicked us out. I will not be going back here.
(1)Emily G.
Andala is a decent place to get authentic Middle Eastern food in Central Square. Two-stars seems harsh, but I think there are better places to spend your money. I am no expert in cooking this type of food but I think even I could have thrown something together that would have been more tasty. I went for lunch on a weekday recently with a coworker. My mujaddara was disappointingly flavorless. Her foul plate was just okay. I have heard from many people that the service is exceptionally slow, although we had no issue with that. The space is pretty as well, if you can eat outside, the grapevines covering the whole outdoor area are absolutely beautiful. Two-stars seems harsh, but I think there are better places to spend your money.
(2)Lily T.
This is a solid 4 star place. Cosy, homey, never a wait, decent-to-good food and coffee. Great off-Central location. Free wifi. Excellent brunch place with zero wait means this is my go to (vs some other places in central sq... My rule is that I never wait more than 10 min for brunch. No brunch is worth that....) 1 star docked because of the following 1. The menu is super vague, when you ask the servers they are often just as vague. But I've never had anything bad here. 2. The chai is weird, it's just black tea without milk Overall this place is a win
(4)Audra Jamai W.
If you're fond of working in coffee shops for hours, this is a great place to get work done during the week days. This is not the place to go if you're in a rush. Other than the staff working on a more European or Middle Eastern time schedule the servers are very friendly and helpful. The tea selection is vast and the menu has something for whatever mood you're in.
(4)Ahmed A.
I rushed herefrom downtown to get here at 10;30 pm. It turns out they stop serving food at 10 pm :( FAIL!
(1)Kristen C.
My favorite things about Andala are the avocado press, the tuna melt press, and the outdoor patio covered in leafy greens. Probably in that order. The ambiance is nice for working or having convos, but I've never found it to feel very cozy. There are usually enough people around, but it never feels crowded or bustling. Staff are generally polite, neither overly friendly or unfriendly. Bottom line: Andala is nice in moderation.
(4)Mark S.
I used to love this place. I really did. When I first moved to Boston, Andala was a haven. The nicest wait staff, great food, a good vibe, awesome coffee, free wifi. Now? Almost none of the above are true. The vibe is still great, but every single person working there seems to hate their lives--and, by extension, you. The turnover in the waitstaff is so rapid, it makes you wonder whether they're even getting paid. The wifi? Nonexistent. I mean, it's existent, technically. But you can never, ever, ever get on the internet with it, so don't expect to. At this point, I only go here if I know I won't need the internet. The food? Totally gone downhill. A "chocolate croissant" now is a stale croissant, sliced in half, and drizzled halfheartedly with Hershey's chocolate syrup. All those lovely teas you see? Yeah, they don't have them. Oh, and apparently the owner no longer believes in heat during the winter or AC during the summer. It's still true that they won't ever rush you, but going here has become a frustrating experience.
(2)Anna K.
This is such a great spot for a coffee or delicious snacks. It's lovely and decorated with a unique and very cozy style. The baristas are very friendly, and take coffee orders from your table, so you don't have to run to the bar every time you need something. Great for meetings, study sessions, and coffee-dates. Wish I lived in Boston to frequent this place more often.
(5)Ana S.
I keep going to Andala for the same reason I keep answering booty calls from my ex: I have poor judgment. The reviews about the service are spot-on. I've never seen a more confused operation. Last time I was there I ordered a salad WITHOUT two of the ingredients listed. When the bill came I noticed it was more expensive than I expected. I asked the server about it and she said there was an extra charge for the change. I told her I wasn't going to pay more for eating less and, if indeed that insane policy was in place, she should have told me before filling the order. All available servers then coalesced next to my table to consider the matter. I felt like I took crazy pills. Come here if you want nothing more than a single cup of straight coffee. Set your expectations to low.
(2)Robert C.
Go for the Turkish (Arab?) coffee. The desserts are good with it - baklava, etc. Have not tried the restaurant food. The staff is very friendly, but a bit slow. It is a go-to place for a great coffee or Turkish tea break. Parking is not bad either.
(4)Rafay A.
What good food. The Fooul I ha was the best I've tasted since I are it first in Jerusalem years ago. The owner, Sami, is passionate about his food and the care his customers get. Definitely recommended as solid middle eastern fare.
(5)Dave M.
The worst service ever! Waited hours for a chicken kabob and a side if rice. Unacceptable!
(1)Vivian C.
Context: Monday afternoon around 2 PM. Ambiance: There are flies flying everywhere. HUGE BLACK HOUSEFLIES. Yuck. But, they have board games like chess and checkers, which is a huge plus for me. They also have power outlets and a cute additional room that overlooks the street. I happily sat down and then an older gentleman started to talk to me about 9/11 and Harvard conspiracy theories. He's the problem...he talked to me for TWO HOURS. Apparently, this dude is a regular customer there, who often ropes people into these long conversations. He was a nice guy...I just didn't know how to tell him to stop without offending him. Considering that he was deep into these conspiracy theories, I didn't want to set him off or anger him. Service: The service was nice, I think I had at least three different servers though. All three servers KNEW that this man was talking to me and didn't say anything or try to save me from the pain. I was in desperate need of SAVING. Even a customer next to me apologized to me and felt bad that this was happening to me. DEAR GOD. SAVE ME. Lemonade: A bit too sour for my tastes...it was also extremely pricey. $5. My review haiku: Comfortable seats Sour lemonade, black flies and power outlets! Unfortunately, this is may not be a unique experience. There's a resident conspiracy theorist here and be prepared to run away QUICKLY if an older heavier gentleman starts chatting you up. RUN, RUN, RUN. This is not the fault of Andala, but they need to REGULATE or at least say something to him...I just want two hours of my life back.
(1)Christopher C.
So, I like this place. The coffee/drinks are good, and the food isn't bad for a coffee shop. As with a lot of places in the area, it gets really crowded and there's not a lot of table seating. I've had issues with the wifi as well, which kind of stops it from being a go-to study spot at all times. Also, while the staff is nice, it takes quite a while to be served, and many times I've just gone to the front to place an order. Still, though, I recommend it, especially if you live in the area and are looking for a good meeting spot with friends.
(3)Dawn E.
Turkish coffee! ::jumping and joy ensues:: I had recently eaten before popping in here to pass some time so I did not partake of any food, BUT, my Turkish coffee was everything it should be. Additionally, the atmosphere in here is fantastic and the service was perfection. I will be back for food.
(4)Gustavo D.
Great food, coffee and tea. Horrible, horrible service. Takes forever to get anything in this place. I would not recommend this place if you're in a hurry.
(1)Adam W.
Went for brunch and ate outside. Not many people and very relaxing environment. Tried the shakshokeh and it was amazing! After clearing our food, the waitress even told us to take our time and ask for the check whenever we were ready. They need new booklets to deliver the checks, though, as they are the standard "We Welcome American Express" black booklets, but they don't actually accept American Express!
(4)Giselle R.
Loved, loved, loved it! Deconstructed hummus...yum. Eggsalad sandwich,tasty. Space is homey and feels like my own brownstone. Staff is friendly and hands off. We spent some time here before our train home and it was very relaxing.If we lived in the neighborhood we'd be the several times a week.
(5)Samantha G.
Food overload! There is so much to this place that it is completely unfair to characterize it as as coffee shop. In addition to the lots of comfy seating and free wifi, they have a great number of non-coffee options (get the hot cider!) and lots of breakfast and lunch options. The omelettes are delicious and quite sizable. They also have other basic breakfast options like toasted bagels. The lunch items include some good options like an interesting take on an egg salad sandwich. And then there are the desserts... It's primarily a Turkish-influenced place - both in decor and food. The service is great. There's no rushing you out (we spent about 6 hours here!) and the servers are always happy to help with whatever you need. It can get crowded at peak times, but yet, it still seems to be able to accommodate everyone. Overall, this is a great spot to chill out and get some work done.
(4)Josephine L.
Andala gets 19,000 stars for decor/atmosphere/ambiance, 5 stars for service, 4 stars for food and 2.5 stars for tea. I'll get the bad stuff out of the way first. I was super-excited to try the House Special tea with cardamon. Spiced tea is almost always a win. The pot came, the pretty, long, thin, glass cup and saucer with it. I poured. The fragrant smell of cardamon wafted up. I sipped....and.....bleh! The tea was so watered-down that it had absolutely no flavor! Now, I'm one of those people who will happily re-use tea bags/leaves over and over until they've lost all semblance of flavor. But tea should not be flavor-less on the first steep! Especially when I'm paying $2.50 for it! Tea fail. The food: I had the Andala omelette and it was delicious. It was also huge, especially with the accompanying salad. So much more filling than I was intending for a snack. My boyfriend had the Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich and it was toasted perfection. I detest egg salad, but this was more scrambled/fried egg than hard-boiled, so it was just awesome. The pear juice he got was so fresh and tasty. You know it's fresh when it turns slightly brown after 10 mins as the fruit oxidizes. The service is amazing. Friendliest staff ever. The atmosphere. This is the #1 spot in all of Boston/Cambridge that I would choose to set up shop for the day. I LOVE the mismatched furniture, LOVE the cozy rugs, LOVE the fireplace mantle covered in hookah paraphernalia, LOVE the framed pictures, LOVE everything that makes this cafe warm and inviting. Andala is the antithesis of the soulless corporate takeover that Central Sq (and much of Cambridge) has become. Do yourself a favor and make this your go-to spot for beverage, food and socializing needs.
(5)Alyssa J.
If I could give this place a negative star rating I would. A black hole rating would be preferred. I was here for my first writer's group meeting. The location itself is nice, plenty of room for large groups. The menu seemed a little overpriced, but as an independent cafe that I believe serves free trade coffee, I can understand. There were about ten of us and about 50% of the group had ordered a drink, a muffin, a scone, whatever. A waiter came up to a group of four of us and said "If you don't order something you are going to have to leave right now" ....Wow. Keep in mind the cafe was 60% full and it was 8pm on a Wednesday night. Maybe they were expecting a rush? We all ordered something to appease our 'roided up server. I got a decaf coffee, because there was no way I was going to put any caffeine in my body this late in the evening. My decaf came out...No cream, no sugar. A companions tea came out in a shotglass. Yup. It was in shotglass with a handle. Oooookay. I sipped my decaf. Ahh yes. Freezing cold, just the way I like it. I went up to the waiter, as I was fairly confident that customer service was not his forte, and I didn't expect him to come check up on us; and said two things. #1 My coffee is cold and I wasn't given any cream or sugar; #2 It was a little rude for you to be so aggressive to us. He flipped. FLIPPED. "This isn't a public library! You and your little group can go somewhere else! RABBLE RABBLE RABBLE!" Instead of coming over to the table to give me a new coffee, he threw a check in my face and told me to leave! WHAT THE FUCK ANDALA???? I will never come back here again.
(1)Hyunu K.
Great service and an awesome place to come study or just lounge around with friends it seems like because of the open area and the ambiance is great. Awesome lattes and seems like they have some awesome food on the menu as well. Service was great and would come back if i was in the area again. Free WiFi too!
(4)Priyanka A.
The decor is gorgeous, by far the coziest coffee shop in the area (a lot of the other coffee shops in Cambridge feel too sterile/factory made for my taste). The decor is a cue for the mood of the place, though. This isn't an in-and-out caffeination stop; it's somewhere to spend the afternoon in conversation or reading when you don't have to rush anywhere else. They have a great selection of teas, so perhaps tea house would be a better name than coffee house. But is you love tea/coffee shops with good ambiance and unique character, Andala is great. I haven't tried their food, but have heard it's overpriced.
(4)ChristiAnn B.
Cute little place. Really nice ambiance and not too crowded. I don't think they have air conditioner, so it was a little warm inside on a hot day. The service was slow and our waitress disappeared after she brought out our food. But the food was pretty good- something different. My friend had the mushroom omelet which was yummy despite the overload of salt. I had the beef kufta (see photo) which was even tastier than the omelet. The prices here are a great value. I am going to come back here whenever I have a few hours to spare. The upside of unattentive servers is that one does not feel pressured to leave. Andala's is a great place to come if you want to relax or have a long conversation with a friend.
(4)Samuel F.
A remarkable spot in the heart of Central Square. The house tea is amazing, the food is great, the decor is nice, and there's plenty of space. Comfortable seating, especially the long benches on the inside porch. Free internet. Very relaxed. The next time you're passing the Central Square Starbucks, consider crossing the street and walking the extra block. You won't regret it.
(4)Deanna D.
Wonderful coffee house with friendly staff, healthy food, and free wi-fi!! The space is nicely decorated: bright, bold colors, & inviting on the first floor and dark & cozy in the downstairs area. The staff was very friendly and the service was fast. The cappuccinos (read: European style) and croissants were lovely. The Combo Plate with tabouli, salad, and hummus was fresh, filling, delicious, and reasonably priced! The ample seating, inviting ambiance, and good food makes this place a great addition to my coffee shop rotation.
(4)John S.
My first time here, but I was impressed. The staff was friendly and the atmosphere was cozy and comfortable. I went with the Jerusalem egg salad sandwich and Turkish coffee (which the waiter kindly described for me). Both were great. The sandwich came with a bit of potato salad and a nice slaw. A good meal for about $11. Recommended.
(4)Maria H.
I've been going here for years. I love the atmosphere and the different seating options in various rooms. However, the prices have more than doubled since I started coming here and it cost me $15 for a tea and a sandwich the other day. It was very tasty nevertheless..I love their avocado sandwiches. I know people who have worked here and they get paid very very low, without making a lot of tips. It's nice when the wi-fi works and when they don't blast pop music.
(3)Vlad V.
Ambiance 9:30-11pm: business-friendly, good for conversation. Large tables can accommodate groups. TIP: the basement area is quieter. Food: no idea.
(5)Betsy A.
I really like this place. It sells solid coffee, not to mention I love their warm apple cider. Delicious! I like the feel of stepping into someone's middle eastern house. It has little spaces here and there that you can claim as your own and study to your hearts content. =) Ooo! Don't forget to buy the baklava! And take one to go. ;-) All in all a cute place with some warmth to it. Good to have unique coffee houses around that don't follow the cookie cutter model.
(4)Claude F.
Probably the most grotesquely false advertising in the Boston area (and that's SAYING something) is how Andala Coffee House advertises it self as Authentic Middle Eastern fare. The ONLY thing authentically Middle Eastern about this place is the wretchedly filthy bathroom (which the cashier acted like I was given a big special favor to use) which will indeed make you feel like you just walked into an Egyptian slum. If Truth in advertising was the national law of the land (I know...a guy can dream can't he?) Andala Coffee House would be forced to advertise it self as: "Coffee for college kids who don't know ANYTHING about coffee but keep giving us props since we make them feel sorry for the Palestinians. Thanks you Harvard Trustafarians!" This place had the worst Coffee I had ever had!!!! (and I have drank McDonald's Coffee ...at 3pm...in Kentucky!) I ordered the Arabic Coffee -over priced at $2.95 for not a whole lotta coffee- not that I was able to drink more then a third of it! Simply put: it was what EVIL must taste like. It was just a Terribadtastic combination of bitter, stale and pure disease ridden awful! To eat (if you can call it that) I ordered the "Goat Cheese & Honey Plate" which, for $7.95, was advertised as "Goat cheese slices sprinkled with honey, served with Arabic toast and fresh fruit of the season" The Goat cheese was rotten. The honey was bad super market quality. The Toast was stale and dry (I mean: How can you screw up toast???) And I they really need to consult the Webster's English dictionary for the definition of "Fresh" for the fruit. And now a point about the Service... Something else, even more Rotten then the Goat cheese, that I noticed while I was sitting there waaay too long (It took a while to scarf down that food with out puking) and watching the shockingly brisk traffic go in and out: The staff treated the African American patrons much worse then the non-African American patrons. Always seeming to demand with a pissy tone: "Are you going to order anything?" (And Just when I thought my experience at Andala could not get any more nausiating!) So a special message to the staff: We Bostonians are proud that we purged that vile stench from our fare city in the 1970's. So Please get with the 21st century! (though we all know you want to bring back the 13th) Though perhaps it is fitting: since the décor in your establishment kinda looks like the 1970's threw up everywhere. Note: My suspicions are definitely confirmed by other Yelper's reviews. Please read Alyssa J.'s excellent review dated 10/21/2010. Now, a friend of mine is very mad at me that I even went here at ALL because a newspaper reported that the owners of Andala Coffee House support Hamas (the Terrorist organization well known for their Rabid Anti-American, Anti-Israeli, Anti-Women, Anti-Christian, Generally Wacko activities) But after coming here, I don't thinks that story in the newspaper was true because this place is sooooooo bad EVEN Hamas would not want to be associated with Anadala. I think if all the Hamas terrorists came to Boston (the ones that are not already here going to BU that is) they would sooner eat at Zaftigs- the Jewish deli in Brookline- because judging by all the pictures of the Hamas Leaders- they really like good food and drink....which you will NOT find here. Negative stars if I could (a first for me) Foot note: "Trustafarians" are rich kids with trust funds who dress like Rastafarians and have a new annoying cause every week. Usually championing some poor, "oppressed" and suitably distant peoples.
(1)Tahani R.
I like this little gem! I got the hummus plate, good tea selection, but servers need to give you napkins with your order.
(3)Mark R.
Great vibe and great coffee selection (Turkish, Arabic, and everything else)...
(4)Alex N.
andala coffee house -new account 2014
(5)Erica C.
The service is the only reason I didn't give them a 5. Gluten free friendly I had an awesome chai latte from here. I also had the lunch special of tomatoes, onions, oregano, and. meat over a bed of rice. The food was great. Free WiFi
(4)Rafael O.
Amazing food! The atmosphere is also great and the location is great. I'm definitely coming back.
(5)Paris Q.
I have been to this coffee place many times to hang out with friends. I really like the cozy and comfortable atmosphere. You can enjoy a looong chat with friends while being served slooowly! That's true. Half an hour might easily pass without any waiter showing up at your table, and once you have ordered, you may have to wait for another half an hour for your order to be ready! even if it is only a dessert! The location gets (5/5), and the service (3/5) for their delay, but as long as the staff are friendly and I am there to "spend time" with friends, I do not mind the "wait"! I have mostly had desserts and drinks here, and rarely meals. I like their specialty tea and most of the desserts. My favorite desserts are Nammourah and rice pudding.
(4)Madhura S.
love their hookahs, the ambiance, the hummus sandwich, and the apple juice! Service is kind of slow but it's a nice little find so far!
(4)Megan C.
Coffee, Kabobs, Tea & Slothful French Service Hey where's my spoon?? Oh wait maybe I should order. Where is our waiter?? Five minutes later waiter enters. Water is now on table & waitress vanishes. Okay so living in NYC I'm spoiled we get the best of all possible worlds. We have excellent variety, great waitstaff (if they're not there are a bevy of actors/singers/artists to replace them) apparently Cambridge this isn't the case. It looks like you're either catering to the Students of the to Staff. This was a noisy, packed little cafe, where we sat ourselves, begged to order, enjoyed our conversation (no rush) chased down our waitress for the check and even though I'm only giving this spot three stars still had such a great time ( I guess my company distracted me). Date Rating: 5 Pick up Scale: 1 (definitely bring your own posse here if you're coming) Strong Suggestion: The lentil soup was good. Huge portions here choose a few and share.
(3)Dorise G.
Really, really enjoyed this place. Went here for dinner on the recommendation of a cool coworker, and walking up the steps already knew I was going to like it here. It felt like walking into someone's apartment - cozy with a coffee bar area and a quaint side room, my dining companion and I opted for the side room - nice ambiance and the room all to ourselves at prime dining time on a friday night! i didn't discover the downstairs area until using the ladies room at the end of the meal, but there's ample seating down there as well. we each ordered the lamb and a pot of peppermint tea to split. the lamb was stewed perfectly with carrots and potatoes, and the price was very right at just over $10 a pop. i'm surprised this place isn't teeming with hipsters yet, but it's a prime place for mediterranean dining. so why only 4 stars, you ask? ~minus 3/4 of a star for slooooow service. our waitress didn't come to ask us how we were doing until we had nearly finished our meal, it wasn't clear we were supposed to seat ourselves, and tho i don't really mind laid back service, it may have been slightly overly laid back. ~minus 1/4 of a star because my tomatoes weren't fresh. everything else about the meal was so delicious, having gotten clearly-refrigerated tomato slices (which totally ruins the flavor and texture of a tomato) detracted from the dining experience, but only a teeeeeeeny tiny bit. yes, it's picky, but i freakin love tomatoes, and it makes me sad when they're not good. if it weren't for the slow service, i'd've still given 5 stars.
(4)Shaina P.
with its abundance of tables, seating, and free wi-fi, andala is a prime locale for studying, reading, writing, or chatting. it's an ideal spot where they don't pressure you to leave, but i wish it held in heat better than it does... i usually hunker down with a mint tea, my computer, and later, the Kufta over pilaf ... but if i'm not drinking a freshly heated pot of tea, i'm colder than can be in under an hour.
(3)Olivia v.
THE AVERAGE RATING REFLECTS THE "OLD" ANDALA, BEFORE THE ESTABLISHMENT WENT DOWNHILL. I HAVE BEEN DOZENS AND DOZENS OF TIMES OVER THE LAST 3 YEARS. I SHOULD KNOW. I used to love Andala. I live next door. They used to have lovely pastries (which they stopped buying from their supplier) and good coffee. No longer. The last 5 times I went, I was disgusted. I am now never, ever going back again. - I asked for a latte. I was given an espresso with water. When I meekly said that was not a latte, they looked at me like I was crazy. the manager came out. I had to explain that a latte has milk. They came back with the drink, having simply poured unbelievable amounts of cream in. - The avocado press sandwich is never twice the same, and it has miraculously gotten worse every time I, or a friend, has ordered it. This morning, it was a tasteless glop of salad with almost no avocado in a dried pita and disgusting fake-tasting "cheese". And it took them 50 minutes to bring it out. What are you DOING in the kitchen? - All of their pastries now taste like sugary cardboard. I miss the amazing supplier they once had! My ex-housemate and I nearly cry when we reminisce about their previous selection in the good old days. - I used to think the beef kufta was one of the only reliable menu items (yeah, I've learned not to order most other things), but this morning it came drenched in a cup of oil. I love oil way more than normal people do, but wow. Disgusting. - They charge $10 for a bowl of oatmeal. Are you kidding me? - The service is (notoriously) HORRIFIC, which is usually not something I care about at all... until it messes with the quality of my food. Easily a quarter of my orders have been completely wrong when brought to the table. - I had the worst coffee of my life here one morning before a hike. I really needed coffee. They gave me something that tasted worse than dishwater. We had to stop at another coffee shop before leaving town. Look, I used to love this place. This is my first bad review. They have really earned it. They do NOT deserve such a high Yelp rating. I really think the management has changed, or something. Ugh.
(1)Sara T.
This was my first visit to Andala, and I was really happy with the atmosphere (think: earth tones, interesting spaces, and plants) and free Wifi connection. My jasmine tea was very good, but I was disappointed by the chocolate croissant -- which was a plain croissant with chocolate syrup drizzled over, rather than chocolate baked inside.
(4)Espresso T.
I love the atmosphere in this place but the beverages here are just horrible! I've tried the chai latte, the regular coffee and the cappuccino. They are all subpar! It's a coffee house! Please do better on your drinks!! Their food, however, does small good though I yet to try it.
(2)Yue Z.
This is a gem. It's a small, unpretentious neighborhood café, that attracts the entrepreneurial, quiet, nerdy types. Whenever I go, I hear chatter of startups and world philosophy--an intriguing combination. Their coffees and teas are very well done, and the entire atmosphere is just very relaxed. Being from California, I've had a hard time finding such a café around Harvard square area, but this place is just perfect. The seating is not huge, but they do not seem to be extremely busy either. I can always find a seat when I visit, making it one of my favorite places to go.
(4)Nancy W.
I appreciate their large tea selection, the ridiculous amount of seating they have available, and their "no rush, take your time" attitude. My friends and I camped out there for a solid four hours just writing Christmas cards, and it was a comfortable place to focus or to chat. Their music selection is very ... random, though :P
(4)Chris T.
My first trip here was at the recommendation of a friend. We went just for the Turkish coffee (it's funny how the Greeks and Turks work out those names) and it was during that visit that I checked out the food menu and decided I would come back and try a few of their dishes. Well, LOW AND BEHOLD, the food was good! The dishes, because they are middle eastern in nature, tend to be a cuisine I don't partake in much. (primarily because I didn't desire much access to them) I totally recommend this place for first-time and frequent visitors to the area, but especially if you have used the mass transit system to get there because parking can be a bit of an annoyance. Atmosphere: Chill. Feels like a coffee house. Plenty of those who can be seen at this restaurant, are students, and will hang there countless hours using their laptops, or reading and studying. Food: I enjoy it a lot. It seems very home-cooked in nature. The menu isn't a blow-my-mind cacophony of complex dishes, it's more timid than that, but the flavor is crisp, clean, fresh, and leaves me happy. Service: Transactional. It's very much business when you in there. I wouldn't say they aren't friendly, but I would suggest that it's very, yes, as I said, transactional. "Hi, what would you like today? Ok, great. Thank you." and off they go. If that's the type of service you like, great. This place is for you. Overall: Love it. Would I change some things, perhaps, but I certainly appreciate it as-is and would continue going without changing a thing. So if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
(4)Anita L.
It might be called a "coffee house" but Andala certainly offers a lot more than that! Andala offers a great alternative to the traditional American brunch. I had the Shakshuka which was made of a bed of tasty rice with fried tomatoes and 2 poached eggs on top. It was filling and delicious. The eggs made it feel breakfast-y and the tomatoes and rice made it feel lunchy. Perfect for brunch! Service was on the slow side and the waiter had a very deliberate way of doing things, but since the food and atmosphere were great, I was willing to be patient and flexible.
(4)Jason H.
Super nice staff, amazing lunches (fresh fruit, hummus, meats, etc), and great coffees & teas. Also appreciate the comfy decor. Looking forward to coming here a bunch.
(5)Jennifer N.
Things at Andala move at a slow pace -- to enjoyably eat (or drink) there, one has to pretend one is sitting outside at a cafe in, let's say, Barcelona. Then you'll understand that of course the waiter is in no hurry to give you the check -- because you're not supposed to be in a hurry. You're supposed to be slowly enjoying your food and drink. Of course, it's easier to entertain this Barcelona fantasy in summer when one is sitting outside under a beautiful cathedral of stars (ok, fine, we don't get that many stars here, but again, entertain the fantasy). The drinks at Andala are all great-- most spectacular are the fruit juices. Most recently, I had a delicious pear juice-- I'm pretty sure I had my serving of fruit for the next week in that glass, and it was absolutely delicious. All of the teas are terrific, especially the "special tea." I'm less familiar with the food, but the hummus is extraordinary. BTW, if anyone remembers the cafe that was here before the Andala, about three years ago, Andala has really followed in their footsteps- they've created a nice space where one can come and hang out for as long as one wants. That's what a cafe is all about. If you want speed, go to Dunkin' Donuts.
(5)Te R.
when i was there i felt like i was at a friend's house. there are dining tables. the kind that you would imagine having at home. there are some comfy couches and coffee tables. so it looks like a dining room and a living room. i really like the ambiance here. plus, there's free wifi! i was here just for a coffee in the afternoon and worked on my laptop. there's power outlet and stuff. the servers were cute and polite. but as other reviews say things here move really slow, which i kinda appreciated. you order a coffee at the table like a restaurant. so i saw some confused people who walked in and ordered a coffee at the counter, and the server told him to have a seat and she gave him the menu. i ordered iced white chocolate mocha and an espresso. the mocha was little too sweet for me. and the espresso wasn't spectacular. if the drinks were better, i would give this place 4 stars.
(3)Sandy M.
This is my all time favorite cafe in Cambridge. Absolutely fav in Central Square. It's one block from busy Central Sq. The interior is decorated beautifully, with lovely colors, middle eastern decor and touches, an interesting tin ceiling, a fabulous downstairs that comes in handy now that the cafe is being discovered (yesterday, it was full at lunchtime - almost couldn't find a table - both happy for them and a little sad for me!) The coffees and teas are excellent and the food is perfect for lunch or breakfast (haven't tried dinner yet). You can eat light and healthy, or have something more substantial. You can have a smoothie, or an omelet or a sandwich. But my favorites are the Jerusalem Egg Sandwich and the Hummus Plate - as they say, hummus like you've never had before, warm and delicious. Served with fresh veges and crisp pita. There are so many things I haven't tried yet... so many reasons to go back again and again... did I say that it has a great outdoor space? Can't wait for the warm weather.
(5)Molly M.
I agree with Katrina L. This place is an Oasis in the middle of the Sahara. After just moving here, and searching for any place to work other than my apartment, because Harvard won't let me into it's libraries (because I'm just an auditor), I searched high and low for any coffee shop that was even tolerable. Harvard Square's establishments generally are overrated. Crema Cafe is always crowded, and Algiers Cafe is cold and it feels disorganized (although those are my favorites at Harvard Square). But Andala is warm. It's spacious. The wi-fi works very well. The servers are punctual and they even smile! There is always seating at Andala, though it is never empty. The coffee and pastries are great. Maybe it is because it is slightly off Central Square that it isn't insanely crowded. They have an upstairs and downstairs, it's spacious and has lots of natural light, and it has a good, organized vibe. Definitely five stars!
(5)Nisrine E.
This is a great little jem of a cafe. Very cozy, well lit (for doing work) and comfortable atmosphere. I love the big tables for groups and the beautiful background Arabic music. The service was friendly. Oh, and free WiFi :D The raspberry cookies are delicious!!! But I was disappointed at the limited selection they had of baked goods and treats. I would go back often :)
(4)Sox G.
I went here for lunch with a group of 12. I was pleasantly surprised by the place (considering I went here for an iced coffee this past summer and felt as though it was a huge rip off.). I had the Mjaddarah plate special, which left me so full, that by dinner time, I was still full! We also split the hummus plate which was amazing! Homemade hummus is the best. I would go here again-the portions are a good size, depending on what you get, and the prices are decent. Try the chai latte. It's pretty amazing.
(4)Alex K.
Horrible. I just wanted a cup of tea to go and had to wait 5 minutes just to order. They don't have tea bags! Only brewed tea, so I had to wait another 5 minutes for the tea to brew. And the price was twice as much as any place I have ever been. Also while standing right next to the counter/blender the scummy looking employee started the blender and it wasn't locked in place. So I was subjected to a VERY loud jarring screech 12 inches away from my ear. Never going back.
(1)Charlotte E.
Hmmm, a mixed bag here. The ambiance is incredible. 5 stars for sure. But if you're looking for a nice little date with your husband before work, you'd better move along. We thought we'd try Andala this morning. We arrived and looked around, we saw the scones and decided we'd have those and coffee but the girl behind the counter told us that if we wanted to stay we should sit down and they'd provide table service. We took a lovely seat on the grape arbor covered patio and waited, and waited, and waited. People came and left with take-out and I was finally about to go in when she remembered us and came out to take our order. Turns out those scones we saw were the only ones they had and my husband's had been purchased by one of those subsequent take-out orders. We adjusted and placed our order. And waited and waited and waited and waited. Finally I went inside to tell her we had to go, we couldn't wait anymore. Turns out our breakfast had been sitting there the whole time, she just hadn't brought it out yet. I brought it out myself. Our coffee was ambient temperature at this point but I didn't care, I just wanted to eat and get out of there. The mystery of the limited scones was solved - they don't make their own, I am sure these are being re-sold from 1369 down the block, so that's why they only possess 3. She was very prompt in bringing us the bill. I'll give her that! If you have a laptop and want to spend hours here, perfect. If you have anything to do somewhere else in the morning you're better off getting your scone at the source (1369), or the new Flour just down the street. You might also get those to go and eat them on the lovely patio here - you'll have at least half an hour before they'll even notice you're there!
(2)Irene R.
This is a nice little coffee/tea house. There isn't too much space upstairs, but they have a small room downstairs as well. The food was decent as well. I had an avocado sandwich (which was more of a wrap) but still very good. You don't just get a cup of tea, you get your own little pot which beats paying $4 for just a cup at Starbucks.
(4)Blair H.
Most comfortable/quiet coffee place I've been to in Boston/Cambridge. The place is huge and good for large groups. I'll be back.
(5)Melissa C.
If I didn't spend so much money on their goat cheese and honey plate (apple, banana, mango, pear, grapes, goat cheese, honey and pita -- what's not to love?) so regularly, I would encourage the good people at Andala to charge me rent. Seriously. I used to come here frequently about two years ago, and recently rediscovered my love for this legit coffee house now that my exams are nearing. Between the free wifi, the gracious service (but not of the overly-attentive/hovering variety), awesome sunlight, and the fact that they let me sit at the same table for 8 hours at a time, this is my favorite study spot in all of Bos/Camb. (Docked one star because lately, the temperature has been a little strange in there -- I go from sweating to reaching for my jacket pretty frequently.)
(4)J R.
I want to love Andala, I really do. So close to my house, funky decor and alluring menu, but... my GOD does the service here suck! No, that's not fair. I should say the service is erratic, as are a few other elements of Andala: - The coffee: sometimes it's weak, and I can't believe I dropped $2 for it, and other times it's intriguing ("ooh, did they accidentally spill cardamom in this?") - The food: the pastries often taste stale, but their little meat pies are addictive, and I've had some very interesting soups - all a bit overpriced, though. - The setting: *Beautiful*. Airy and light, and the world music isn't obtrusive (WTF, 1369 - Gwar?! Are you kidding me?!). Several nooks you can find if you want to study quietly, but it can be a fight to the death over the outlets (as in most coffeeshops). No A/C makes it a stifling deathtrap in the middle of August, however. But the service is what really blows this for me.... I've had consistently apathetic service from ALL* the waiters I've had in the past three years, and that's quite a few. The turnover in staff is remarkable - I'm not sure if that's because of bad management or whatever, but all waitstaff should be able to bring your change within 20 minutes in a little coffeeshop. Oh, how I wish I could just buy a to-go cup at the counter and then hide in a corner... *OK, I lied - the waitress in the headscarf who is currently serving me is totally on her game. Thank you for taking my order, bringing me coffee, and fixing the internet within ten minutes!
(3)Nay M.
I tried to live here once, alas was refused. But really, Andala has (almost) everything you could ever ask for in a cafe. I think of it as a coffeehouse 2.0. Don't be fooled by the weathered menus -- the food is surprisingly good for a coffee joint. Fresh pear juice - delicious. Khalili sandwich - delicious (if you like spicy things). Goat cheese and honey - uh, yes please. Turkish coffee - strong. Regular coffee - good. Tabouli - could be better, but I'll let that one slide. Avocado melt - SO GOOD (and the side potato salad that comes with it is awesome, but they skimp on it a bit, which makes me sad =*( because it's so good) I love the atmosphere - particularly the side den with the open windows. Seriously, my most brilliant yelp reviews have been conjured there. It's a room that truly fosters genius. Alright, maybe not...but the space is great - there is a downstairs that is ideal for larger groups. It is a favorite among students, entrepreneurs, and revolutionaries alike because it's a place to get work done -- it's comfortable and you never feel rushed.
(5)Alexandra G.
Incredible. By far the coziest, loveliest, friendliest cafe I've found in Boston so far (lived here since the summer). So glad to have found it! The sunroom is absolutely gorgeous -- large windows, charming cafe tables, long couches... a pot of loose-leaf tea followed by delicious lentil soup -- this is the perfect spot for a rainy winter day. Free wifi means I can sit and nosh with a friend, enjoying hot tea and getting work done. I really want to come back here at night; the beautiful lanterns and hanging lights, copper accents, wood, reddish walls, and soft carpets would make this a cozy, romantic spot, I'm sure. :) Friendly service too. Highly recommended.
(5)Allison C.
I think things at Andala move a little too slowly for me. Albeit, I came on a friday night around 9, primarily for the hookah, but my friends and I weren't seated until 10. As friendly as the waitstaff may be, an hour is a long time to wait for hookah, especially when it comes with a semi-broken hose and no tongs. The hookah is relatively inexpensive here- but I've experienced better service at the Nile Lounge. Hookah is only served outside at Andala (so I'm guessing this is only a seasonal thing). Had the waitstaff not forgotten about us, I probably wouldve enjoyed the hookah experience better. I'm sure Andala is great in terms of food and such, I'll have to come back another time. But for now, the Nile Lounge is the way to go, if you want a good hookah experience.
(3)Logan J.
this place is awesome. i went here to meet with someone and had a great coffee and a great meeting thanks to the staff and atmosphere. the place feels like youre sitting in the dining room in a friends home, and i loved that about it. the coffee and food were unremarkable, but ill give this place a huge rating just for the atmosphere and service. a fun place to try at least once.
(5)Danielle S.
Let me just say that I LOVE ANDALA. Yes, those caps were needed. This little cafe has been my savior in the past few months due to the massive amount of studying I've been doing in preparation for the LSAT. A quiet, sunny little cafe, Andala has a wonderful, laid back atmosphere. Initially I had thought that it was just another (boring) cafe, and would serve the usual- coffee and croissants, etc., but I was delightfully surprised to find that Andala not only has an extensive range of coffees and teas, but delicious food as well. For those of you who like really strong coffee with a bit of spice, try the Arabic coffee. It's rich, thick, and is spiced with cardamom. I usually tend to get some Moroccan mint tea (I'm on a no-caffeine kick), which is also good. As for the food, I have a horrible habit of only ordering two things from the menu. One is the Goat Cheese and Honey Plate, which, of course is a giant block of goat cheese, and fruits drizzled with honey. Really, I order it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The second thing I order is the Lentil Soup. Yes, boring I know, but the soup tastes just like a homemade soup. Nice, thick and delicious. I do have it on good authority that their other dishes are good too. Service is kind of lackadaisical, but all of the waitresses I've met are very sweet.. One day you might get an overly attentive waitress, the next, you'll have a hard time finding someone to take your order (even if you go up to the register!). However, because the cafe is so laid back, most of its patrons are as well. It's a great little place to go for an afternoon, or an evening, alone, or with friends.
(4)Cleopatra P.
Andala is one of the best study spots ever. Evar. The establishment is what looks to have once been a large old house that's been reworked into a Middle Eastern restaurant and cafe. This setup works incredibly well as there are several distinct zones to Andala to choose from: the very front and middle "main" areas which are the most busy and restaurant-like, the sun porch area, which is cozy and wonderfully conducive to studying, and the basement, which, while comfy-looking, smells kind of like kitchen (I would avoid). The spaces themselves are sunny, colorful and beautifully decorated. The food is not mind-blowing, but it is very good, and reasonably priced for what you receive. I would especially recommend the meat pies, baklava, and any of the many teas on offer (these aren't listed separately on the menu, but your waiter will come around with a large box filled with a variety of loose teas for you to choose from at your request). The service is friendly, but not overattentive or smothering. Not that you should need any further inducement to drop by Andala at this point, but there's also free WiFi. Go, bring your laptop, study a little, loaf a little, eat baklava, drink hot cocoa, sip tea, go home feeling immensely satisfied about the amount of work you managed to get done, lather, rinse, repeat.
(4)Shelley S.
Lovely little coffee shop/cafe in Central Square. Great place to hang and work/study. Always plenty of tables and FREE, reliable wifi connection. The atmosphere definitely has way more character than your typical Starbucks. What they say about the waiters bugging you is true... but you know what? I kind of like it. Because at other coffee shops, when I'm there alone with my laptop and all my other stuff, it always sucks to go up and order food and have to either pack up all my stuff or worry about things getting knicked. To have the service come to you is fantastic. The menu is pretty decent. Lots of great Mediterranean fare, hummus, tabouli, stuffed grape leaves, falafel, etc. I got a combo platter for $7.95 and thought it was okay. Everything was pretty fresh and delicious (green salad, hummus, olives, one stuffed grape leaf, and some tabouli) but I could have used bigger portions overall. Next time I come I want to try some of their sandwiches (the pressed avocado sandwich caught my eye) and their coffee but overall, a nice quiet place to hang out.
(4)Amit G.
I love this place. It feels like home. Free wifi, friendly staff, great decor. The Sami Tea is quite tasty. They have this dessert called Nammourah which was amazing if you want to be especially indulgent. I'm working my way through the menu but in general have never been disappointed. I really must say, the atmosphere is something else. It's a shining light in central square. The place is unbelievably spacious - so it's great for small one on one chats and larger group chats. And the music, decorations, etc. etc. make you feel like you aren't visiting a business but instead walking into a portion of someone's house. Negatives? Hmmm. Having a hard time finding them. It might be slightly, just slightly, above market in terms of pricing. But that's not enough to take a star off.
(5)S W.
This place concentrates a lot of things I love: free wifi, middle eastern food and interior design, interesting people and best Turkish coffee ever! I can stay there all day.
(5)Erin M.
I am giving this a high three stars--- if I found out they had really good food, I might bump it up, but I've only had coffee here. Coffee was very good and atmosphere was relaxed. There was a boom box blaring top-40 hits behind my head the whole time, which seemed out of place in a funky little middle-eastern coffeehouse (although actually, I've had that kind of experience in many funky middle-eastern places). Met here for an informational interview, and it was a nice setting for that because we weren't rushed by the waitstaff and (besides the music) it was quiet and nice. There was nothing that made this coffee shop spectacular, but it was quiet enjoyable.
(3)Dan C.
I love this place, this has become my official neighborhood cafe. It is spacious and beautifully decorated with big windows upstairs, the service is excellent and really friendly, and the food seems reasonably priced, although i've only eaten something of substance once (an avocado sandwich, which was very good). I've had their house tea several times now and it's always terrific and only a couple of bucks for a pot. They also have an amazing selection of things to sit on. Seriously. They have regular chairs upstairs and downstairs, as well as the funky couch inset in the wall next to the entrance, couches on the indoor porch, giant pillows in the basement, and then outdoor patio seating. I'm pretty sure your butt will never feel uncomfortable.
(5)Rosie Z.
Nice ambiance, a great place to study or read. The downstairs area is good for conversations and group meetings. When it is not sub-30 degrees outside, you can usually find me smoking hookah in the outdoor garden. Food is very good and reasonably priced. Although they do have very slow service, but then you just need to ask for things, which I have gotten used to in Andala. Overall, it is a great place to have a laid back Sunday afternoon.
(4)Sophi K.
One of the best coffee shops here in Cambridge. I like the atmosphere, coffee (white chocolate mocha is the best!), friendly waiters/waitresses, and food. Plus, free internet. Two thumbs up!
(5)Mariya G.
Yes, the service here is slow, but that's one of the reasons I love the place! You can sit here all day, munching tasty platters (try the meat pies and then, when you've digested, order the fruit/goat cheese!) at your leisure and never feel rushed or pressured to leave. The only time they'll bother you at all is during waitress shift changes and even then you're free to close out your tab with your original waitress and continue to hang around. I can't think of an area coffee shop better suited for studying or long conversations.
(5)Ploy K.
A cute, spacious coffee house with free wifi? Sign me up! I spent an incredibly pleasant afternoon doing schoolwork at Andala. I can't really comment on the food or drinks, however, because I really didn't like the Turkish coffee I ordered (I had never had one before, and had no idea what to expect - I don't like coffee that strong, so just because I didn't like it doesn't mean it wasn't of good quality). My friend got an iced peppermint tea and said it was really good. The waitress who helped us was very friendly and attentive, but the real kicker for me was the atmosphere. It's so open and colorfully decorated, it really is a perfect place to just sit and sip some coffee while working or reading a book. I'll definitely be back to try another coffee drink more to my taste!
(4)Julie L.
I live right down the street from this pleasant coffee shop. I love the food and the variety of coffee and tea drinks. BUT the past few times I have been here, the service has been AWFUL! The last time I went there, just a few days ago, it was around 8:00pm when my friend and I arrived to work on homework and sip some tea. It was a bit slow in service on a Tuesday evening, however, it is still not acceptable for the waitresses to invite several of their friends and have a fun social hour while their on the job. Also, they were just plain rude we actually did ask for something. This isn't even half as bad a having the worst waitress EVER a few months ago. Among many things, like rolling her eyes at all of her customers and getting our order wrong multiple times and then arguing with us that we were the ones at fault - all I have to say is, I hope she got fired. She was horrible. Andala, I really love your charm, but please, let's work on the service.
(3)Denise W.
I think my review has already been stated by some of the people below, but here goes: Food I'm inclined to think that some of the food is over-priced and some of it is just right. I've been to Andala twice and the first time had a plate that had a bowl of oatmeal and tons of fresh fruit; the oatmeal was kind of dull, but the fresh fruit was so .. fresh. So good. The second time I had some kind of spiced chicken and onions on Arabic bread, which was INCREDIBLE (but I was famished, so you know how that always sort of skews your taste buds). I was also fortunate to grab some pastries during a visit - they were excellent. Service: This is such a relaxed atmosphere that the waitresses watch to see if you come in then eventually come to greet you .. trust me, there is no rushing in this place. I've never found the servers to be mean or idiotic, but severely lacking in their presence or returning to your table, yes. On a completely different note, Andala has the most beautiful servers you have ever seen in your life. I noticed a "Help Wanted" ad in the window and despite several years of serving experience and the need for a PT job, I was intimidated as hell to apply cuz these women are bananas hot. Just sayin. Atmostphere I remember sitting at a table with my friend and noting that someone had created the funniest, most eclectic playlist to rock over the speakers. There is SO MUCH SPACE in Andala and gorgeous, just beautiful decor. People are scattered about drinking coffee, eating food/pastries, or just using their computers on the free wifi. I have to give Andala props for that, along with their long hours. I think this was incredibly disjointed .. idiocy. It was a great introduction to middle eastern fare.
(3)Molly F.
Great way to wake up! Initially caught my attention with their pleasant string lights outside t night, and decided to go in for brunch this morning. Very laid back and welcoming ambiance. Decor is very homey. Nice oriental rugs with a variety of seating options from low couches to study tables to large bay window benches. Nice, genuine servers and an interesting menu. Between the two of us, we got one omelet and the Foole Plate, one small French press and turkish espresso. The presentation was nice and the food came out quickly. I did, however, notify the, of my celiac disease and they brought my omelet out with a big honkin wheat pita slapped across the top. I think a bit of a language barrier caused this between the native server and me. The food was really tasty though (I took a risk and ate the half of the omelet that the pita did not touch). Overall, great experience and I look forward to returning!
(4)Lahnna E.
My friends and I were interested in finding an affordable hookah bar in the area. Someone suggested Andala so we figured we'd try it out for the afternoon. Some afternoon we picked! It was bright, sunny, and warm and Cambridge was buzzing with people. We managed to find parking pretty close on Mass Ave (although maybe we should've just taken the T *shrugs*). Anyway, we went inside, the decor was nice and easy-going. Not dark and stuffy like some coffee shops can be. The woman behind the counter was friendly and offered us to sit where we liked, but that if we wanted to smoke it would have to be outside. I remember a bit of waiting, which we were all right with for the most part. We mainly wanted to just drink coffee, smoke, and talk. As she was preparing our hookah and our coffees, I noted the variety on the menu and was impressed. Prep time took a bit longer than I'm used to, but our server was just so pleasant that I really have no complaints. And besides, I don't think people who come to a cafe to sit down should be in any rush. Go to the Starbucks across the street in that case. Peach shisha was delectable, and there were several kinds available. It was how I envision a lengthy cafe visit to be. Relaxed, little bother from the server, and good coffee.
(4)Adam L.
This place is more cozy than the food is good, but it's an interesting change of pace and has a nice atmosphere. I'll probably be back here on a nice day to hang out under their ivy-covered outdoor-seating terrace and get some work done.
(3)Barry B.
Sometimes you're a stranger in a strange town and you need a good cup of coffee to put things right. That's how I ended up at Andala two days ago. Someone told me that Andala served an excellent cup of coffee. Well, that's not true, by a long shot. But it was a decent cup of coffee, nicely brewed (two shots in an 8 ounce 2% latte). The espresso was one dimensional, with a nutty quality. The milk was properly foamed. Andala uses Lavazza coffee from Italy, a reputable brand of "standard" espresso. But the best places either roast their own beans in small batches or toss any roasted beans over one week old. Lavazza beans, of course, are neither roasted in small batches nor fresh. I think this accounts for the single flavor note. I'd go back to Andala for coffee, given what I've heard about some of Cambridge's other places. The atmosphere was quite wonderful - big windows, high ceilings, bright and cheery. The table service was a little slow, which puzzled me since the cafe was not busy. I didn't eat anything so can't comment on the food. ====== 2013 Update: I've been back to Andala a couple of times in the last 10 days, first for coffee and then for food. The coffee (in the form of a small latte) is pretty terrible - worse than Starbucks - although very nicely presented. And the server brings your coffee to your table. You pay when you're ready to leave. Nice touch. But not nice coffee. A few days later, I went for lunch and ordered the "egg salad sandwich," which it's not. Not salad, that is. Just a lightly scrambled egg in a wheat tortilla. Not actually very tasty, given the possibilities. So, although I really like the interior design of Andala, and appreciate the attentive service, the fare just doesn't deserve more than a couple of stars. I really wish it were otherwise.
(2)Morgan F.
Egg sandwich on the indoor/outdoor dealio, surrounded by writers typing on their computers, like woah! Grab a seat upstairs, downstairs or enjoy the patio, friendly servers and even nicer cafe comp-anions! Come alone for hours, they won't try to make you go, Show up with your possie and and make the shisha blow! Why you waitin' -- just go!
(4)Danny D.
Awesome Turkish coffee with cardamom !! Pretty good food, nice open space, lots of light, different decor, friendly/passionate service. A great place to chill, eat, drink, chat.
(5)Shaina S.
I took my English conversation group here and treated them to a royally awesome hummus plate. (They had never even heard of hummus.) I also got the banana, milk, and honey smoothie. Have I mooned yet over how much I adore honey in my smoothies? Cause I do. This place has style. It's got a friendly and authentic theme and the porch is a delight, especially now that the weather is just a little brisk. The prices aren't as cheap as some Central Square fare, but I think it's worth it for the mood. Just don't try ordering at the counter. Easily my favorite cafe in Central and it barely had to try.
(5)Alex H.
Love and love this place. Boston needs more places like it. The atmosphere is great, I love the decor. It is centrally located. Service is slow nevertheless, and I am giving it 5-star for overall experience and food. I LOVE the $2.95 Avocado Bagel Special! We certainly need more places like these.
(5)Tarah H.
What would it take to entice two twenty-something young professionals, firmly entrenched in Boston proper out to Central? A breezy patio, fresh juice, wonderful teas, aromatic coffees, delicious middle eastern food, free wifi and shisha. The humus plate, as stated by many others is great - although the heat had me wanting nothing more than a slew of cucumber and bell peppers, not pita for dipping. The lemon juice was light and flavorful - not overly tart and no sugar needed. (for me, anyway) I would have tried a smoothie, but my aversion to bananas and their presence in both smoothies deterred me from doing so. I like the table service, it allows me to keep working while remaining hydrated and nourished without interrupting my work (I have friends and other distractions for that) Our waitress was lovely and sweet. She even popped her head out the window a few times to check on us. I was tempted to stand on my tippy toes and ask for a Screwball ( happytimeicecream.com/IM… ) We've been here for hours, slowly sipping on water, juice and tea, smoking our hooka with no pushiness from the waitress. She didn't bat an eye as our group grew and we eventually combined tables. Thanks Andala for the lovely time on a very hot June afternoon.
(5)Shang S.
One tiny piece of baklava is all it takes to have me as a fan. In addition, i like the variety in the decor of the place - different nooks and crannies to meet with one person or multiple. Great late night place to hang out as well - as long as you don't expect fast service, because everything is so laid back
(4)Courtney H.
I went here for the first time today -- I was expecting an average coffee shop. This place is anything but average! I had the lentil soup and salad combo. The lentil soup was outstanding, nice and light, and the salad was also delicious, full of crunchy veggies. My husband liked his chicken sandwich, and we both split the goat cheese and fruit platter. The decor is very pretty, and the free wi-fi is fantastic. There are places to sit outside, and a huge downstairs area, too. I thought the service was fine -- the waitress brought us more water when we needed it, and checked on us a couple of times. I can't wait to go again!
(5)Ben I.
Definitely the best cafe in Central Square. I generally frequent coffee shops quite a bit and I enjoy the unique environment each has to offer. Andala has both excellent food, and a great atmosphere where you can have lunch, dinner, or simply a cup of coffee while studying or working on something via your (Free)wifi connected laptop. The downstairs is a more comfy, and generally quieter place to be. Their is also an area for groups to meet in a living room comfortable setting with couches and tables. Generally, the coffee and tea are excellent, including the Arabic coffee. Currently my favorite dish is the Coq au vin, which is a dinner special running right now. Also the Rice pudding is very very delicious.
(4)Leighann F.
Though I am not in Andala as much as I'd like, today's visit was delightful. A large glass of Mint Iced Tea, followed by a warmed wheat bagel with tomatoes and avocaods. A simple and perfect way to start the day.
(4)E K.
Walked into this cool little cafe off Central Square. Didn't know it was middle eastern from the outside, but it was a pleasant surprise. The waiter was cute and funny, and we had a good time. Thumbs up, will be back!
(4)Kathy C.
It's my first time at Andala, and I love it here already. The ambience is great, the food is fantastic, and the servers are polite and the tea is great. I just wish the food was a shade less expensive, but other than that, no complaints. Great if you're a vegetarian, and great if you want to get some work done!
(4)Bob S.
Indy coffee/cafe.Very cozy atmosphere, Persian rugs. Great mushroom omelet!
(5)lisa v.
A beautiful coffee shop, replete with marble bar and shining brass or something shiny, from what I can recall. The decor is really sumptuous. The free WiFi is great, as is the ease of signing on, and it was a cinch to find a free table near an outlet. It's such a revelation for me to leave Jamaica Plain and JP Licks with its customers' voracious appetite for outlets and tables! If you're looking to come to a neighborhood where the ratio of itinerant worker/sWiFi gypsies to free WiFi squats/outlets is pretty low, then this is a darn good choice. The menu looked interesting on my visit, but my consumption was limited to bandwidth and coffee, so I can't write up any thoughts regarding food. The setting is so airy, light and pleasant, with such beautiful furnishings, I'm sure I'll be back to sample food in the near future. The only downside--and perhaps this is only a downside to cranky middle-aged squatters such as myself--was the waitress' eagerness to interrupt my work so as to ask me, quite repeatedly, how everything was and if I needed anything else. Of course, Andala deserve to squeeze as much payola out of squatters as possible. Just bear in mind that your space will be intruded upon far more frequently than if you were to WiFi squat in a counter-service shop like JP Licks or Peet's or the like.
(4)Lauren D.
I am a huge fan of tea and this is a wonderful place to drink tea and coffee. It is a relaxed atmosphere where you can either sit back with a book, do work, or hang with a friend. There food is also delicious! I will definitely be back many times to come!
(4)Barney B.
This seems an odd place for a first date, especially when the guy is talking about what he does for work, while the girl sucks on the tube of a hookah. maybe he found it seductive - but I just thought it strange. but I do like this place. the food was good, the vibe is nice and relaxed, and the waitress was super friendly and attentive (and I overheard someone mentioning it was her first day). and the 'open until 11 with free wifi' sitch made it an enjoyable 1st half of my evening out trying to hang and do some work. I shall return, but doubtful for dinner - this seems like a great place to just grab a coffee in a small part of a whole evening out wandering Central Sqaure and there ain't nothing wrong with that.
(3)Nicole P.
I live around the corner from this place and am so sad I haven't ventured over before! The food is awesome- from deconstructed hummus to tasty sandwiches this is a great breakfast/lunch place. I hear that they have some dinner specials and live music on Saturdays which I plan to check out. They also have bagels, pasteries, many different kinds of coffees and teas. The atmosphere is warm and cozy with tables and also couches and little nooks. I can't wait to go there for coffee and scrabble sometime soon! You must check this place out - especially if you live near by!
(5)Gabriel B.
I'm all for local businesses, but Andala has a few kinks, despite the cool motif. Wi-fi works sometimes, and the drinks are pricey. I wouldn't get anything but a basic coffee to go here.
(2)Kristina D.
Real-time Yelping and 5-star reviews are quite highly correlated for me. In fact, they might have an r-squared value of 1. I should do some data analysis on my Yelp reviews to verify that. Anyway. I'm in Andala on free wifi and yelping the incredible soy latte that is sitting next to me--ooh, my pie plate (1 meat, 1 spinach) just arrived. :: post pie and salad-chomping :: Meat pie, spinach pie, and accompanying salad were yummalicious. The delectable soy latte, as my roommate described, had foam so thick that you could eat it with a spoon. The atmosphere is peaceful--I could sit here and work all day amid eclectic decorations and soothing music. There is a cute nook that seems perfect for groups as well as a porch with tiny tables that are perfect for laptopping. I am taking away an invisible star and providing a warning: If you come here with a laptop, make sure the battery is fully charged. I had to wander around like a madwoman to try to find seating near an outlet because I did not charge my battery before coming here. I am sticking around for a while to write lesson plans and portfolio, so I also ordered an Arabic coffee and baklava. Both are also awesome. I might just spend the entire day here ordering new stuff to Yelp! EDIT (5/7/08): Knocked off a star for terrible service tonight and unsolicited drum playing. The star may come back eventually... The tabouli, hummus, and salad plate is good.
(4)Jacey B.
Iced Lattes are fantastic. The Turkish coffee is yummy. Cinnamon Brioche Twist was buttery and tasty. The Avocado press sandwich is absolutely delicious with generous amount of avocado, olive tapenade, & veggies. The meat pie plate is a good deal and is very tasty. Some of the prices might seem high but you are also paying for fabulous service, FREE WI-FI, and just a great atmosphere. Theres no pretense from the staff - they are great and pleasant. They don't rush you out (it probably helps that every time I have a meeting there we order a ton of food and over tip because the service is fantastic). Andala has become a new favorite for me - particularly in Spring & Summer!
(4)Corry B.
Oh Waitress- you so pretty that I don't care that it took me several trips to the front counter to get your attention. Oh Central Square- your cafes are so crowded but now I don't care because this place is big and sunny and look! there is a table to fit me and three friends! and decorations too! Oh Cook- maybe you are so slow because of pretty waitress but that's okay because, damn! your food is good! Egg salad is not what I thought, it's so much more: salty hot friend eggs with veggies and cheese, and tuna sandwich is warm, and fool salad is lemony fava goodness- who needs a garnish, it's okay, it still tastes so good. And you can make oh-so-many clever jokes with the salad's name.. clever clever hahaha-
(4)David M.
Rude service. Now I remember why I don't come here very often.
(1)Dave L.
I just got back from here. We had the honey/goat-cheese plate, which was excellent. I also ordered a latte: decent but not spectacular. The cuisine is what brings this place up to four stars; plenty of options that you could never find in a "standard" cafe. I unfortunately couldn't try the hookah because it was raining, but I will be back in the future.
(4)Najat K.
I have initially wrote a raving review about this place until I started going there on a regular basis. I had the most unpleasant experience with one of the waitresses and her friend the expresso bar tender (a guy who wears his hair in a pony tale). Though the place is cute and has a quiet unique set up, the minuses are: - Poor customer service: slow service, rude waitress and rude espresso bar tender, they will give you blank stars and talk and laugh among themselves instead of smiling and greeting you. - Coffee drinks and teas are served cold and watered down - Menu is not so clear as to what the food is about - Food is way overpriced and sometimes completely off in taste and texture I won't go back.
(1)Michael B.
Great place to catch up with a friend. Despite the coffee house name, this place actually has a decent menu of Mediterranean food as well. I ate outside with a friend for lunch on a Saturday. The food was good. Above average Mediterranean cuisine for a cafe. Great selection of fruit juices. The goat cheese and fruit tray was delicious. The kafta was good, although not the best I've ever had. The outdoor ambiance is nice, slightly off the main part of Central Sq, where it isn't quite as noisy.
(4)kimberly l.
the ambiance at this place is great, but the food isn't that spectacular. If you want a quiet place to do some work, with free internet and caffiene this place is great though!
(3)Ryuji S.
This unique local coffee house is friendly environment I enjoy meeting friends or just read books... or just listen to others talk. They have better coffee than 1369 and friendlier people than C3 cafe. My favorite is their smoothie.
(5)Aaron B.
I still haven't given in and tried the Turkish coffee yet, but I did go for the house tea. Infused with cardamom, it was all that was promised. Outstanding. Didn't get a chance to have much more than a bagel (I was there for a quick breakfast meeting) but I took a look over the menu and was pleased to find a good selection of traditional Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern fare. Definitely going back soon, as it also seems like a great place to get some work done (lots of space).
(4)Toodles K.
On 2/7, I enjoyed an awesome espresso and my 22 year-old nephew had French press coffee and loved it. We split a German Chocolate cupcake that was small but very rich and filling. Absolutely delicious! The service was a little slow but they were VERY busy and our waitress was a sweetheart so I forgive.
(5)Janelle M.
I liked this place a lot. In fact, had I known they offered a full menu, I would have eaten dinner here instead of the Indian restaurant down the street. I believe this restaurant and café offers Israeli specialties, as well as al fresco dining and hookah. I was able to enjoy their coffee and pastry the following morning.
(4)Al A.
Extremely poor service (forgot things, slow, and slower). Great food. Decent prices. Very chill atmosphere. I love the interior decor.
(4)Arjun K.
I like this place but there menu is a little limited they always seem to give me really poor service which is a little frustrating. there food options are good though and I especially like the Turkish coffee
(2)Jordan L.
well, i went with my favorite boston female to this cute little cafe in cambridge and was actually surprised by the selection of good food they had. not at all what i expected. i had the pressed avocado and it was delicious. my gorgeous accomplice has the fruit and oatmeal plate which also looked pretty tasty. it is really hard to find vegetarian places that offer more than the usual veg cuisine but this place mas a nice mix of cafe and mediterranean food for all tastes. that in combination with their selection of fresh fruit juices and smoothies which rounded out the menu nicely may make this little place a regular stop in when i am in cambridge...just to try everything they offer including a hookah. i really like the outside seating too, it is nice when the weather permits. if you haven't checked out andala yet, do it...'tis all.
(4)M L.
Quiet, sunny, with delicious small plates of food -- Andala is the perfect place to catch up with friends or read a novel on Sunday. Their foole plate is warm and drenched in olive oil with lots of spices...try it with some fresh mint tea. The service is generally great but can be a little hit-or-miss, depending on who's behind the bar. The only possible minus is that they don't have AC in the summer or heat the little front room much in the winter. It's really a lovely place, though, and the owner seems to have put a lot of care into the details.
(4)leon p.
Great place to work and coffee, lots of light, some music but not too loud, good simple food and a reasonable price.
(4)Ligaya T.
Bwaaaaaah! How have I been remiss to have not written a review for one of my favorite laptop hangouts?! I could click the day away sipping their tasty juices or teas on their bright sun porch, outdoors smoking shisha, or munching on their Middle Eastern eats. If you're looking for a relaxed spot with free wifi, your search ends here.
(5)Rob R.
I've been to boston three times this year and every time I've been frustrated with the choice of cafes in the area. On my third visit, after spending way too much time yelping for a decent cafe and nearly giving up because it seemed most cafes in Boston are stingy with their wifi, I found Andala. First, the atmosphere of the place is great. The seating options range from outside to a sun room where you can open all of the sliding glass doors for fresh air and an inside area. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of food too. I would definitely suggest getting the hummus. Oh, and free wifi!
(5)Maria Z.
Wonderful! I went here for brunch a few weeks ago and wondered why on earth I hadn't found Andala sooner? My platter of goat cheese, pita and fresh fruit was delicious and copious. Service and ambience were both very nice.
(4)Alyssa H.
The best spinach pie I've ever had, and I'm Greek so I should know ;) Andala is brand new and the owners have renovated the space into a beautiful, fresh and serene spot to have lunch. I usually do take out but had lunch there a few weeks ago with a friend. The staff is friendly, the food is great but limited. The pastries look amazing, but I have not tried them yet - mostly out of fear that I will try one and be hooked and not fit into any of my clothes anymore. Also the fresh juices are great - try the lemon, apple ginger..
(4)Juju W.
cozy atmosphere. free wifi. plenty of seat. delicious food. It's a nice place if you want to hang out with friends, bring your laptop and have coffee, or eat there.
(5)mickey l.
How many of us watched it as we walked by, it's "opening soon" sign up for a year or so? They're very attentive. You order. Dip into lemony hummus. Drink turkish coffee. Pay when you're done eating, not ordering--who does that? I can't believe they put their plush hand made (persian?) numbers under our feet. If I had these carpets I would ask you to take your shoes off. I'd lay down on them and nap. If they only had hash at the bar to go with those hookahs they proudly display.
(4)Diane I.
i love this place. everything here is delicious - the people are super friendly and they don't get annoyed that you are staying forever. this was last weeks stop on our quest for the perfect cafe. they add some spice to the coffee that is delicious. too bad there were no free refills. i spent quite a lot because i just couldn't get enough.
(4)John W.
I cant believe that i havent written a review of this place before. I've been coming here since they opened a few years ago and have nothing but great experiences here. The vibe is utterly laid back, the tea and coffee is excellent, and their menu of Middle Eastern food is yummy and affordable. A great place to meet up with a friend or to bring a laptop and get some work done.
(4)Yuko I.
Good atmosphere and good tea/coffee. I never tried their food but the menu looks good. I would love to go back for more. It's a bit slow service so this is not for a busy grab and go cafe.
(4)Muckenfuss V.
Far and away the best cafe I've visited in the Boston area. The pot of house tea with cardamom pods is original and exquisite, and though there could be a larger selection of baked goods they are all tasty nibbles. Stay for lunch, though: the avocado press sandwich is wonderful, and comes generously dabbed in a divine olive oil. And what other cafe brings you tall glasses of ice water? The only downside may be that this is not a drink-and-dash establishment. Though you can get items to go, you're encouraged to sit down and order from the waiter. That's not a problem, though -- the staff is friendly, attentive, and attractive, and there's ample and variegated places to sit, and even a downstairs where the kitchen is. The music is a subtle global selection, relatively unobtrusive (in contrast, say, to the hipster backbeat at 1369) when you need to get work done.
(5)Trish F.
I've been here twice so far and I really dig the atmosphere. It's so close to my old place, I have no idea why I never came here when I was in Central! It must be a converted apartment building just by looking at where it's situated and the way the inside is laid out. I think that helps it give off a homier less pretentious vibe than other places of its kind.. methinks. heh I also really dig the couch on the balcony-esque addition. I'm assuming they open the windows in the spring.. it must be lovely! Passing by the counter, I got excited looking their tea collection. Right now I can only drink decaf and they had about 6+ choices. Sadly, they were out of my top two choices (loose teas).. but then I remembered this drink Ligaya and I got at the n00bs event.. carrot, ginger, and apple juice! YUM! Tea.. I'll get you next time. Glancing at the menu I couldn't choose between the meat pie and the spinach pie. Both dishes are the same price and they give you two portions, so I asked if I could get one 'slice' of each and the waitress was happy to oblige. The spinach pie is a little different that I'm used to. It had more onion and a bit of a vinegary taste to it. I still liked it though. The meat pie reminded me of chao pau (Chinese pork bun).. a LEETLE bit.. haha. Both came baked in this doughy bread that I really enjoyed. At the n00bs event we had a variety of food, but I'm not gonna lie I don't remember it all. Plus Amanda kind of fed me. haha Hummus? The service was a bit slow.. which in this case didn't rub me the wrong way. I think the waitress thought Allix and I were deep in talk so she didn't come over right away to take our order. I realized we stayed for awhile well after we were done eating (I think we were there for like 3 hours actually) and our waitress didn't rush us at all. In fact she made sure our glasses of water were full after our dinner plates had been taken away. When we were there for the n00bs event, I remember the waitresses being very attentive as well. Everyone there is super friendly. They also have free WiFi.. which is always a plus. I'll definitely be back soon! OH and last time I was in they were trying to get a liquor license.. so if you see a petition at the front counter.. sign it! :)
(4)Kate L.
I went here to study over the weekend and thought it was the perfect place. Various rooms and settings to choose from and nice service. I got the goat cheese, fruit, and honey plate as a snack -- it was delicious! The only drawback is that their AC unit is not too strong so the restaurant was a bit too warm. Still, my friend and I stayed for 4.5 hours and enjoyed the atmosphere a lot. Sigh...I went back two days later to continue studying and it was SO HOT inside that I had to leave. It's an 80-degree day and they had the door open (but not the windows) and no AC on. I'm all about conserving energy but I would have been sweating profusely had I sat and stayed (there's no breeze running through the place and the few fans they've set up aren't adequate).
(2)micah f.
wifi is nice, but the 17 yr old baristas at this dingy overrated coffee shop have confused "handmade" with "messy." drinks are sub-par, bad top 40 on the radio, and sweaty pastries under cellophane is what many people awarded 5 stars. really? i understand the need or solid alternatives to starbucks, but central square is hurting if this is considered good.
(2)peggy c.
Free wifi, cute AND comfy decor, away from the traffic of Mass Ave, friendly servers, good tea selection and most importantly for me... I could veg out undisturbed during the day :)
(4)Jamie S.
This place is extremely chill. Service reflects this atmosphere -- friendly, but hands-off without being inattentive. Great espresso (and inexpensive). Extremely accessible location that's just far enough off Mass Ave so that this place stays relatively quiet, even when it's relatively busy. I've been here for breakfast (good croissants) and Sunday afternoon snacking (try the Goat Cheese and Fruit plate for something light). Thumbs up.
(4)molly f.
Friendly staff, tasty food, sem-reasonable prices...and honestly, I will basically eat anything if I get to sit outside. Looking forward to exploring more of their menu (the goat cheese & honey plate sounds divine!) but can vouch for the tea & scone I carried out...just what i wanted to hold me over until dinner. Love that this place is right around the corner, too!
(4)Philippe K.
Good food, pretty good coffee (espresso, Turkish, Arabian), very slow service
(3)Ruvi P.
terrible service. They didn't event bring me my drink and after an hour of waiting told them so and they didn't event apologize, then handed us a check. TERRIBLE
(1)sara h.
I love the vibe of this coffee house that's literally in a house, partially hidden behind Central Square. I sought it out on a Saturday and found a comfy spot on the couch in the sunroom. I tried the strong Turkish coffee, just the jolt I needed to dig in to the work I brought along. The free wifi was a definite perk. I tried a few things from the menu over the course of my visit, including the vegetable chili. The couple next to me ordered meat pies, and they looked tasty. I wasn't thoroughly impressed with my food but it wasn't really the reason for my visit, and it was actually just nice to have the option of ordering food and coffee from my spot on the couch without having to find a stopping place in my project to run up to the counter. I loved the ambience of the space and the friendly staff who let you sit for hours.
(4)Christina B.
I should mention now that the weather is nice that they have a small section of outdoor seating and there are umbrellas which is a nice touch to avoid getting crispy while you eat. I'd recommend it on a Sunday morning when the traffic is light since it's right on the corner of River Street which is a busy road.
(4)Deepa C.
due to all the recent rave reviews, this place has been on my list for a while. so while the freelance work was piling up, i found myself in a clean house, with no laundry to do, nothing good on tv and no excuse not to get out of the house and venture to someplace new (with wifi of course) . it is indeed a very cute coffee place, great atmosphere, staff and decor. my waitress (a dead ringer for the first person to get kicked off ANTM this season) was perfect, anticipating my needs with water or another cup of coffee. as the place filled up, they became very accommodating with seating, expanding tables for a group of students or setting up a lone patron at an accent bench in the corner. ' i love that there is a lot of light coming in through the windows. none of the furnishings seem planned, and that hodgepodge design works well here. the only reason it has 4 stars and not 5 is the coffee. even though i am on my third cup (i am typing VERY FAST right now) it is a little strong/burnt for me. i like my turkish coffee a wee bit lighter (see cafe algiers). also, the "scone" was so dry you could sand paint off the walls. the food food looks great, but stay away from the baked goods.
(4)Annie P.
EDIT: I usually don't give two shits about my old reviews but since a fellow yelper laughed about the newb who called me out on this one.. I'm going to respond. I don't do inside jobs for anybody. I'm from Queens. No just kidding but seriously.. I love getting fingers pointed at me for reviewing a place that ALREADY has 5 billion stars just because the Yelp headquarter people gave me a random ROTD. I must be crazy and must work there to like it. Hey what are you BLIND? It says the price right next to the words, don;t order the tuna wrap for $9 then. Believe it or not you have a choice before ordering the damn thing you don;t want to shell out for. Also if you note the date on my review.. it's been awhile. Sorry dude but I don;t keep tabs on how good looking the staff is on a daily basis.. so chill out. Summer is over and now the kids are back. Truth. com. Places are busier than a few months ago.. so things are bound to change when it comes down to the pace of things. Yeah and if you want self service where you read off the menu above the counter.. go to DD or Starbucks. ------------------------------------------------ Everyone who works here is beautiful. They float around in pretty dresses and plain t-shirts. They are all soft spoken too. Sit inside, outside or downstairs! Don't expect chippy loud baristas... Tuna sandwich was nice and fresh without the overpowering mayo everywhere else gives. I like walking over and getting the Strawberry Banana Orange smoothie in between loads at Pearl Laundry. $4 treat. It's by where that fork is to split Magazine, River and Western Ave. You are a douche if you get lost. The colors in here are amazing. Never get sick and tired of looking around.. cellophane wrapped bagels in a silver bowl in the middle of the room. If you like pastry looks only rating.. this is the place to go. To make me even more happier... they started playing Leonard Cohen and when Dance Me To The End of Love came on.. I was like OMG OMG swoon. Also saw the loose tea they sell. Now this is what a cafe is. This house is the best house on the block. That's because it;'s the only house I think. No but I would like to rent out the little room with the top to bottom window seating and live there but I wouldn;t wear a skirt and sit by the window because the people on the sidewalk can look up and HELLO. Thanks.
(5)James L.
Besides the ambience, what can you get here that you can't get at Moody's Falafel Palace (or Falafel Corner in Harvard Square)?
(2)Eli G.
A breath of fresh, Muhammara and espresso-laden air. Sit at a large oak table in the main dining room, eat your labne, pretend that you are the late, great Richard Holbrooke.
(5)Ben C.
Andala is what a coffee house should be. Atmosphere is laid back and comfortable. Decor is stylish with a bit of middle-eastern flair. Big windows and sun-porch lend a sense of openness and provide a great view of all that is going on outside. Service is friendly and attentive. Quality of lattes has improved tremendously since I first started going. Espresso beverages are pretty solid now. Andala also offers a small menu of generally yummy and very reasonably priced food too. If you need a snack to get you through to dinner, I recommend the hummus plate. Outside seating (weather permitting), free wi-fi, clean restrooms ... what more do you want?! Hookah perhaps? Well they have that too!
(4)Hyerun K.
The older man behind the register (the owner?) who took my order was the jolliest man I had met, so we were off to a good start! The cafe was cute with it's ethnic decor, and it seemed spacious and clean enough. I asked for a pot of green tea and the jolly man boldly claimed that he had "the best green tea in the world!" I chuckled and found a seat, and the tea was served to me a few minutes later. However, I use the word "served" very loosely here -- a younger man basically dropped it in front of me with a clatter, and abruptly walked off without a smile. Not a huge deal -- I can put up with subpar service so long as the food/drinks are good. I figured "best green tea in the world" was a slightly exaggerated claim, but I was still expecting something decent since green tea is pretty hard to mess up. My green tea was SALTY and BITTER. I took a couple sips and couldn't drink anymore. Aside from visiting the jolly old man, I won't be coming back here again.
(2)sage f.
I want to like this place more. The food and coffee are delicious. Table service at a coffee shop. It's right in Central. There's free wi-fi. But the seating options are bad. The radio plays on speakers (I mean, you can hear the DJs and the commercials.) There aren't enough accessible outlets for my computer plug. And the people who work there are kind of scowl-ly. Maybe it's better for talking with a friend than working. And it could be nice to sit outside when it's warm.
(3)Sara C.
I love this place! The perfect little cafe, warm, sunny and calm in the middle of crazy central square. I loved the food as well. The Foole plate was really nice with just the right amount of garlic...lots.
(5)Huan z.
One of my favorite Tea/Coffee House. Well designed rooms with very relaxing atmosphere. also like the porch with Moroccan wall lamps. Hot collocate is awesome, not too sweet like other coffee shop has. Breakfast is just delicious. Lunch with chicken sanwich is excellent. Two thumbs up!
(5)Melinda M.
I had given up on my quest to find a relaxing coffee place within city limits a few months back after ripping out a page in the phone book and hiking all over the place only to stare into claustrophobia-inducing crowds, random sandwich shops, and vacant buildings (ironically, using the yellow pages as a guidebook wasn't enough of a reminder for me to call ahead). Fortunately, the other day I decided to go for a walk across the river and I spotted a tiny window sign that said Andala Coffee House, and despite the warm weather, an empty patio. This is the first coffee house I've been to in Boston where I didn't have to stand around awkwardly waiting for others to leave, or start running once I caught a glimpse of an open table through a window. Although I spent my visit at a table outside (sipping a yummy banana, milk and honey smoothie and staring into space bc I was not prepared with my usual coffee shop materials) I will definitely be heading back soon to hang out inside the next time the weather isn't so great. The inside of the shop has my ideal coffee house feel, nice decor, random furnishings, a scattering of polite patrons typing away on laptops (free wi-fi) or with books open, and music at just the right volume. And they have food! Not just standard muffin fare but cafe-like middle eastern selections. For such a very hard to find five star setting such as this, I am willing to ignore the fact that the staff didn't have it together...at all. For some reason they weren't using the cash register, and the guys behind the counter had to track down my server who took a few minutes to write out a check, a few minutes to figure out the tax, a few minutes to go find the originial guys I asked for help to get some money, etc, etc, very weird, but it was all done with a smile so who cares. Besides, who goes to hang out in an awesome coffee house like this when they are in a hurry? That's what Dunkin Donuts is for...
(4)Kevin G.
I really can't think of a better cafe for both location, sunlight, ease/cheapness of parking, layout, coffee, food - my one wish is that one could get a glass of wine there, but if the ownership is observant religious (turkish) that ain't gonna happen - don't know. They do have quite an assemblage of huccha's.
(5)Heidi S.
A great find located off the bustle of MA Ave. It has some wonderful nooks to escape into and with the free wifi, it's possible to get lost all afternoon. With the weather warming up, the porch is a terrific place to spend the day as it gets direct sun in the afternoon. The food is homemade and fresh, so it's a good place to rest when time is not of the essence. It can get very crowded and busy, so if you are looking for a chill place to relax, have some tea and enjoy some wonderful food, come by on a weekday afternoon.
(4)Anonymous P.
I like the free wifi and spacious seating. I've found the baked goods just acceptable and the espresso woody.
(2)Emily C.
I keep meaning to write a review of this place, and since I'm currently sitting in Andala Coffee House, enjoying their excellent (free!) wi-fi and a cardamon iced tea, I figured this was as good a time as any! The omelettes are delicious and the hummus platter always fills me up! If you're looking for a place to hangoout with your friends for the afternoon and enjoy a coffee or tea, or for a light, healthier meal, this is a great place. I personally like it most because I can come here and study and the waitresses are attentive, refilling tea/water, without bothering me too much as I work on my laptop.
(5)David L.
I'm only an occasional coffee drinker so I don't know my espresso's from my latte's, but I do like a good coffee house to hang out sometimes. Andala's has a nice atmosphere and location, but the service and food there are not that great. Food is just kinda overpriced for what you get and the service can be horribly slow. I've waited for over an hour for food on multiple occasions and have gone 30 minutes without seeing any servers around or anything. Way over rated if you ask me.
(2)Andrew M.
I went here. It seemed ok.
(3)Jennie W.
I love, love love this place! I'm always impressed by how friendly the staff are, for a coffee shop they definitely go above and beyond. The lentil soup rocks, and they have some of the best hummus in town!
(5)Daniel F.
I found this place because I take the 70 bus by here everyday and saw they had shisha. We went in later that night around 930pm on a Friday and found the outside completely full, so we told the guy we would wait. He later told us they closed at 11pm and if we wanted a hookah we should stay around for a while. He was very friendly and moved one of the inside tables outside for us! The staff was very attentive and nice and the coffee was quite good/european style. The cafe has a nice feel to it and the inside decor is quite nice.
(4)Sabrina P.
I LOVE this place! What Andala is: -A great place to work with your laptop: free wireless, not crowded, quiet but with enough noise to keep you focused (at least for me, since I need a bit of distraction to work!), open late (until 10:30 or 11pm, I think, maybe even later?) -A great place to not work with your laptop: chill atmosphere, nice decor, friendly servers, cool music (Beatles and others) -A great place to grab a snack/meal and/or some coffee: tasty wraps, I had a good soy latte with lots of foam (I like foam) What Andala isn't: -Somewhere to go when you're in a hurry: stay and relax for a while! It makes doing work almost enjoyable, and that's saying a lot.
(5)Kelly L.
This place is fantastic. I love to go on the weekend mornings for a Bagel and Cappuccino. The man who I think is the owner, is always there and is always friendly. The seating is comfy and the ambiance is calm and relaxed, open and airy.
(5)Cody W.
I'm not sure what more anyone could ask for in a coffee shop. This place has it all, plus the servers are exceedingly friendly and good at their job. I have no idea how they cover rent in that place, but I'm really glad they do. I count Andala as one of the biggest assets Central Square has.
(5)Heather H.
This is a really cute and comfortable-looking coffee shop just off Central Square. I stopped in one cold night after dinner for some hot chocolate that was just delicious. Also of note is how friendly and laid back the staff was- I think they were actually disappointed that we were taking our hot chocolates to go! The pastries purchased for the next morning were excellent- I ate two instead of my allotted one pastry! I look forward to coming back to try their savory treats.
(4)Alexis S.
Oh Andala, I had such high hopes. You had such promise. I read your lovely reviews. I saw your lovely exterior. I visited once, with a group, for food and conversation and was pleasantly surprised. I visited a second time and sat on your gorgeous patio on an equally gorgeous day. I had no internet (which was a draw for this grad student) but I figured it was down for the day (it was). I delighted in your iced tea. You had such promise. I had such hope. I was on the verge of making you my *place*. Sick after weeks of C3's subpar food and limited internet, I decided to make my switch. So tonight, study buddy is in tow, I headed over for what I thought would be my first night of many. Your electrical plugs were sparse but I am willing to sacrifice. I ordered a tea. Fantastic. But my study buddy ordered rice pudding. And there was none. He ordered cake. And there was none. Fear not! He ordered baklava- we were saved! But when it came it was a mere one inch by one inch piece, so small that I did not even feel right sneaking a corner. And for almost $3! I expected heaven for that price. But heaven I did not find and instead was left with a half soggy, half stale corner in my mouth. My tea came and was clearly the bottom of the bin- for the tea leaves were indeed tiny- not the usual for Harney and Sons product. I know because I have met the Harneys and attended their tea conferences and tastings. I was served the scraps. So now I am left with no plugs, little food, and subpar tea. If this was what I wanted, I would have gone to Starbucks. In true, I am perhaps being hard on this albeit charming cafe. But, as I said, I had such high hopes. I will return. But this is not my *place* yet.
(3)Abigail D.
Great food at a reasonable price (and excellent portions). A nice tea selection, and the setup is great.
(4)Alli J.
I just moved here and found this coffeehouse, it looks upscale on the inside, but its really quite homey. Like everyone says, the pies are great, very comfort-food like. They also sell discounted day-old pastries if you live beyond your means and need to scrimp a little, like moi. Please keep the convos quite so we can maintain this excellent study and relaxing atmosphere -- remember there is no white noise to cancel you out like at 1369, yr neighbors can hear all. ;)
(5)Susie Q.
I went here last night for the first time and it was great. I got there about 6pm and there was a helpful sign telling me to a take a menu and sit wherever, and a server would come to the table. I was totally hot and sweaty after walking a long way, and was planning to order a glass of ice water first thing. Lo and behold, the waitress showed up with....a big glass of ice water! Thanks, Andala. I had the hummus sandwich, which is a hot pressed sandwich although the menu doesn't say that. It was incredibly delicious, and came with a yummy and unusual potato salad, which there wasn't very much of, unfortunately. My friend got an avocado sandwich which she said was also yummy. She also got fresh-squeezed juice, which I had shied away from myself because of the price ($4.50). She couldn't choose between apple and orange, so the waitress recommended she get a blend of both. It was essentially heaven in a glass, and so incredibly fresh. The service was leisurely--possibly annoyingly so if you're in a hurry, but just right for catching up with a friend, or for hanging out/studying. The vibe in the place was just perfect--warm, cozy, relaxed, and truly friendly. How often do you get service with a smile in a Cambridge coffeeshop?
(4)Kristin M.
a warm, but well-lit (which i really appreciate, b/c i find it hard to read in dark coffeeshops) cafe. i went here on recommendation of yelpers to have an informal meeting with a few people. there's a lot of space, broken up into a couple rooms, which makes it feel cozy. i had the soup & salad (lentil soup and a simple salad)- it was fresh, simple, and healthy. a good little spot to gather- we all enjoyed it. p.s. free wifi!
(4)Srikanth S.
Liked it. The spinach pie w/ salad was smartly presented. Flavors were clean. The coffee was tasty. I was caught off guard a bit by the fact that this is a 'sit-down' coffee shop, at which you order with a waitress. I'm not sure that that's the best model for a place like this. My only other complaint is that I found the window seating a bit cramped. Those tables sure like good, though.
(3)Monika S.
This coffee house has an impressive interior design and feel, a decent tea selection, however, their desserts don't taste well. I ordered rice pudding and it tasted like it was a week old ...Overall, their tea selection is better than Au Bon Pain but still limited ( yes, there are few coffeehouses that can impress me with their tea selection.)
(3)Emily S.
Delightful. Puts Algiers in Harvard Square to shame. This joint in Central Square is light and airy and bright with tons of space to move around and scattered furniture. The owner is Palestinian so it's authentic and I loooove the gorgeous carpets strewn over hardwood floors. Didn't have a pastry but they looked incredible, and had a hard time picking from the 30ish teas they have to chose from. Basically, it's the same thing as Algiers- down to the decor and brightly painted walls- only less crowded, with more space, less pretentious clients, nicer waitstaff who actually, like, smile and check on you and don't act like they're being abused when you ask them questions, and reasonable prices.
(4)Ethan C.
helpful staff, free wifi, great food (don't stop at the pastries). coffee can be irregular. some of the best lattes i've had as well as some really mediocre ones.
(5)Bird B.
we went for an iced coffee this weekend and it was warm and watered down. we couldn't order at the register and take our coffee to the tables outside. we had to wait for a waitress (we weren't ordering food) and when she brought out the coffee, we had to go back inside to add cream/sugar. its a wacky system but a nice atmosphere. we're sad the iced coffee was so 'meh.'
(3)Lenny T.
Andala proximity is one of the best things about living next to Central. The traditional breakfast with zatar is wonderful. Their Jerusalem omelet is surprisingly delicious. The Andala tea has a perfect sprinkling of cardamom.
(5)Bulba S.
I love Andala. I love being able to sit on the porch and smoke hookah and drink some of the best vanilla chai tea I've ever had. Like seriously, something is in that chai that makes it way better than chai I've had elsewhere. I am guessing liquid crack cocaine. I haven't tried a ton of the food, but what I've had was really good. Also, the servers are quite friendly and funny.
(5)Bruno L.
A true culture mix, middleastern food, French music, people from all around the globe and social background. And on top of it the food is original and very good. Highly recommended if you are looking for something different and original.
(5)S K.
andala is a place that i find myself really wanting to like. they ambiance is great, but the chairs are uncomfortable. their teas are good, but their coffee is not so good - and for being a coffee house, that's not good. i haven't tried their food, which is why i'm giving this 3 stars and not 2. staff is very friendly and attentive and the wifi is great. outdoor seating is nice too. i hear they have hooka, so that's cool, but i've never tried it here.
(3)Melody V.
Andala Coffee House is such a chill place, whether if you're here to do some work on the laptop, getting together with a few friends over tea and coffee, and enjoying some hookah. The atmosphere is perfect for such a great cafe. They don't care how long you stay to hang out. The staff was incredibly friendly, especially the first time I went with a group when we had no idea how to order. They have a decent choice of teas to choose from and it's all pretty flavorful. Their lattes are good. They offer free wi-fi.
(5)Sarah R.
It might seem odd to give 4 stars to a place where, upon my first time there, I found a hair in my tabbouli salad (true story). However, I've decided that Andala has redeemed itself in my eyes. Here's why: -Uh, patio? Yeah, this patio rocks. I ran into some friends randomly one day on the way to the hardware store (see Tarah H's review) and spent a lazy simmering hot afternoon sipping lemon water and smoking shisha in the shade of one of the giant umbrellas. Ahhhh, hedonism. -Free wi-fi. w00t. For the price of a cup of tea you can surf teh interwebs in relative peace and quiet. -Cute decor, and the porch is great for people-watching. -The hair in my tabbouli salad was kinda hank, but the hummus plate made up for it. Plus the waitress felt pretty badly about it, so guilt always adds points to a review (in my opinion). This is in my new hood (that's right, I moved to Cambridge) so I have a feeling that it's going to soon grace one of those "Cool Places In My Neighborhood" type lists. You know, if I ever get around to actually making one.
(4)Amanda Z.
I kind of want to give this place 3.5 stars, but I'll be kind and round up. It's not that the hookah was bad, it was pretty good. It's not that the ambiance is bad, it's wonderful, the entire place is beautiful and the patio was great considering what a beautiful night it was. Probably what is making me give this 4 stars. However, after waiting almost 45 minutes for service, then getting rushed through our entire night, and forced to leave after only being able to smoke for about a half hour, and then getting charged full price. Hmmmm....not a great experience for me. They could have at least told us that we were going to be forced out. I don't blame the waitress at all, she was incredibly overworked. But I think next time, I'll just walk up the street to Nile instead of treking over to Cambridge.
(4)Alena D.
If you have not made your way to Andala, I would highly recommend the visit. I have yet to have any drink, meal, or experience that I did not love and recommend to others. Example: Shisha: outdoor hookah on patio is very nice during the spring and summer, lots of variety in hookahs and shisha's (ex. nectarine apricot) Juice: fresh juice squeezed to order, they taste very natural and pulpy (favorite is lemon or pear) Teas: around 30 kinds to choose from, buy by cup or pot Food: Foole Plate is wonderful, for new people I always order the Zeit un Zaatar en Labneh (sic) a thick yogurt and seasoning dip for pitas and vegetables, the hummus and tabouli are also wonderful staples. Coffee: they serve a mean Arabic coffee, my friend has been badgering the chef for a couple of weeks now for the recipe (the chef always demurs) Waitstaff can be flighty and spaced out looking, but five stars! Really a place to visit frequently, read a book and chill out.
(5)S R.
Their hummus is very watery and there are full chickpeas in it. Maybe it's the traditional way to serve it but I was caught off guard. Free wifi and a good study place. Arabic and Turkish coffee are pluses - I also like their chamomile tea.
(3)Courtney R.
This is by far one of my favorite cafes in the world. It has great ambiance, excellent Middle Eastern food, great coffee, AND a diversity of seating arrangements. They have relaxed, comfy seating perfect for a date or intimate conversation, and they have plenty of seating great for studying. I highly recommend any of their teas, their smoothies, and of course, the falafel plate. The music is diverse and the staff is always friendly.
(5)greta C.
Never been disappointed with anything I've ordered from here. The coffee isn't the greatest, but you can't have everything, now can you? The lentil soup, salads, pastries and other baked goods kick ass. Their house tea is pretty damned good. Their specialty seems to be their humus. It is the best that I've ever tasted. I mean the best. It is always fresh and creamy and not too garlicy. The waitresses are always slamming hotties. Just don't go their if you are in a hurry. My brother was right: less good looking women make the best waitresses. They really make up in service what they lack in looks. I find the converse to be true in this situation...
(4)Kate M.
I guess the word of the day is "mediocre." There aren't a lot of outlets to be had here, and the food is a bit pricey. But they do have free wifi. And the service is generally pretty friendly. Also, the patio is neat during the warmer summer months. I'd take 1369 over Andala any day, but if 1369 isn't your style, I guess Andala might be a good substitute in the Central area.
(3)Iris M.
Staff is really rude and obnoxious. They're not attentive at all, so even if the coffee was better than average, it's not worth going back.
(1)Derek B.
Quiet location and off the beaten path, Andala boasts great service, strong coffee and really good baclava. It's a nice and relaxing cafe choice that stands out amongst the 1369/Clear Conscience Cafe crowd for its chill "come as you are" vibe.
(4)Jasmine K.
This place is wonderful. So wonderful I couldn't stop my urge to right a positive comment on yelp! Reading the comments up here, I had high expectations to the atmosphere and food, mixed expectations about the services. I found out, this place is wonderful!!!!!!!!!! I went to have a nice dinner during work. The furniture and atmosphere was amazing. Maybe they don't have air-conditioning but it didn't bother me because as long as you sit near the window its nice and breezy. I had a combo plate and a house-blend tea The hummus was amazing like everybody else is writing; the parsley salad and mint-leaf-wrap-thing, toasted pita bread was all wonderful, and the tea was a mixture of spices that was really good (if you're hoping for ceylon tea, it may be different than what you expect, but I really liked it). They even had putin lemon for my regular ice water. It made me full and I still felt healthy. The next time I would like to try the desserts too. About the services, they were fast, very caring and polite. I met 3 staff and they were all nice. The man who is probably the owner was REALLY nice (he probably came around 3 times and asked if everything was OK). I think I noticed the waitress everybody is complaining about, but I think she was trying, and it didn't make me have any negative feelings. I really hope they can keep it up. I understand food business is tough, but I don't want to lose my favorite place in Cambridge.
(5)Cahaya S.
Upstairs or downstairs -- I practically live in this place!! it's my hang out away from home and my second office space -- oh, for just sooo many reasons :) cafe's are the places i go to for inspiration to get down to writing and for some peace of mind. Deliciousness, ambiance, calmness..... Andala offers all of the above -- plus beautiful, detailed aesthetics -- that's warm, plush and inviting. I believe the owner is Palestinian and gets much of what adorns this lovely nook from her travels home or in the region. Ever so often, new additions are introduced to the space, be it a tiny piece of artwork, or woodwork or beautiful sandalwood looking furniture - that continues to add to the homey atmosphere of the place. their little sun room ~ covered sunny porch ~ is just gorgeous, with their deep red velvety seats and complimentary red brick walls. The basement level is a little quieter with larger tables for groups to come for conversation or meetings. And there are comfy sofa sections too, in the corner, where one can hide out and work or read quietly. andala serves fresh, delicately flavored food -- my absolute favorite is their Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich -- it's been consistently delicious everytime! I like the way the eggs are scrambled, wet and perfectly salted, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with the freshest of fresh herbs - parsley, i think, with a side of herb potato salad or steamed veggies. They have a heartwarming oatmeal and fruit plate as well -- that is always pure and clean and simple and fresh. Coffees of all kind that look delectable and I'm sure taste so (if I could only drink coffee :(, every variety of loose teas and a satisfactory hot chocolate as well. Baked goods are also always quite well done -- lemon scones, muffins and biscotti. Oh, and aside from the good food .....the cafe has free wi-fi as well - which completely seals the deal for me :). And service so far has been friendly and courteous .....
(5)Willow G.
I love Andala and go there when (and only when) I have time for a slow, relaxing meal because the service is so so so SLOW. I went in today and had a late lunch. I was sitting at a table right in front of the manager (owner?) and there was only one server on; however, there were at most a handful of people in the restaurant. After I helped myself to a menu, the manager came over and took my order. After my dirty plate sat for a while, I went up to the bar and ordered coffee and dessert. Meanwhile, two other servers came on as they were changing shifts. My coffee came up and sat there, and continued to sit there, while the manager counted the drawer, one server ate, and the other two chatted. I finally stood up and tried to get it myself, at which point the manager said something and a server came over and told me to sit down and brought it over. After it was finished and plates were pushed aside, I waited again for some kind of service. Finally needing to leave, I got up and paid at the bar. ANDALA - PLEASE IMPROVE YOUR SERVICE SO THAT I CAN CONTINUE TO BE A PATRON AT YOUR RESTAURANT. I would really appreciate it. 4 stars for food, atmosphere. 2 stars for service.
(3)arete j.
Lovely place. It's charming, quite, and spacious. The food is not expensive, and is tasty. The Arabic coffee is so yummy with hints of cardamom...yum. It's a great place to study and be alone. The staff seem friendly. I was just in there today, and will continue to go there more often. During the summer they have a nice patio seating area. I won't forget the day when i was with a friend who is Korean--Annie P.. We were sitting outside enjoying our tea and reading when this random dude started talking to us and assumed that Annie P and I were sisters and Chinese. ????? (As some of you may not know, I'm not Asian, but from Latin America) It was really funny, and then he started to relate "our country" with Kung fu movies. He was telling us about Bruce Lee films, and was doing the kung fu "kicks"--or rather imitating them in a poorly manner as he was a bit old and probably a drunk... All and all, during the winter and summer times, Andala is pleasant place. It's not so often that weirdos come by there. Although it was a bit comical when the Bruce Lee wannabe was talking to us but whatever. Its central sq. The food and beverages are great, and I think eventually they'll get a wine license... YEAH! ps free wi-fi !!! THat's hot!
(5)J R.
$9 for a tuna wrap? You've got to be kidding me. Don't get me wrong, it tasted very good, but after waiting 25 min what wouldn't? The problem with this place is its ambiguity. Which is fine if your name is Pat. But, Andala is a cafe trying to be a restaurant. When I enter a cafe I expect good coffee, snacks and self service. I don't expect to be seated, handed a copy-shop menu (with only a handful of items on it), written a check and expected to tip. I'll give it another shot but its nothing to write home about.
(3)Diana C.
I've been coming to this place with my friend a couple of times so far, and loved everything I've tried here! The first time I came - I was blown away by the antique decor and the at-home feel that it gives off. It's so cozy and warm inside, perfect for winter. I always get the chai, because it's the closest to what I fell in love with in San Diego. Ironically, the best chai I've had to date was served at a coffee cart located on UCSD's campus - Art of Espresso. When I first came to Boston, I searched frantically to satisfy my chai cravings, and was very pleased when I came here... :) Yesterday, I tried the Turkish Coffee - it was served in a cute little antique-ish pot. Just delish~and you can request extra strong (more coffee beans) or less beans - they cater to your taste buds! Dinner time came and we were so hungry. We looked around and saw all the delicious foods and aroma, couldnt resist and asked for a menu, haha. I got the Adama Chicken with Wine Sauce. It was so good! Light tasting, feels healthy, and stewy. I loved it so much that I had to order one to go. My friend got the Chicken Kebab with a salad, she loved it too. Definitely do the food some justice and get your chompers going already! NOTE: I'm not sure why so many are saying the staff is rude. I had experienced the complete opposite. Both the young women and the male barista were incredibly attentive. They asked if we needed anything else/took away our dishes and cups/smiled/helped think of ways to find me a seat with an outlet and were very courteous. Either I was darn lucky or yelp reviewers are incredibly picky.
(5)Peter B.
This place is perfect if you need somewhere quiet to work, refuel (with caffeine), and chill. So much space, fantastic staff, and great coffee. Go a tad off the beaten path in Central Square and you'll find this gem.
(5)Kelle S.
I have been going to Andala for a while now for several meetup groups that I run and attend. I have to say, that I like this place. The food is high quality and in large enough portions that I have yet to clear my plate. The coffees are a bit small in size (but then I tend to drink 1/3 pot cups of coffee at home, so I'm a little skewed on what I think is a reasonable size cup of coffee) but still high quality. (And I AM a coffee snob.) The servers are friendly, although my experience is that you get slower and less frequent service downstairs than you do upstairs, so take that into account when you choose where to sit. The owner/manager is always eager to please as well. He really wants you to be happy with your food and that shows in the overall experience. The atmosphere is really quite lovely as well. It is a soothing, Middle Eastern environment with comfortable seating. Try the fruit and cheese plate, the oatmeal with fruit, and the omelettes - you can't go wrong! All - I love it!
(5)Gelsey B.
I love this place...! Its peaceful, cozy, artistically decorated and quite! If you are looking for a place to meet a friend, or have a small group meeting of just spending some time reading a book, this place would be a good choice. I always go downstairs, since its less crowded most often. There is mostly no music playing in the background, so it makes it comfortable if you want to chat or concentrate on you work. I love the style of having tea in the pot, with that little cup they bring with it, which is more middle eastern style.
(5)Cha Cha W.
I love the Middle Eastern theme and fare not to mention the cozy seating and casual atmosphere. When the weather gets hot, I escape to the lower level; when spring comes, I take my blunch outside and people watch from the patio. When I have work to get done, I slide open the doors of the sun room and settle in to the free wifi. Oh and that spot by outlet on the banquette, that's mine. My bottom has a claim on it and if it finds you there beware of my evil eye rays! Summers were made for smoking the hookah on the patio. The staff are super friendly if not always so expedient but that's okay by me. This isn't your run of the mill rush in rush out kind of place. A stone's throw from Central Square, parking could be a bit of a hassle if you plan to stay longer than 2 hours. Don't miss out on the Shakshuka (eggs cooked in a tomato sauce over rice) and Green Plate!
(4)H T.
Andala is _____________ - more relaxing than Starbucks (less foot traffic) - more spacious than Cafe Luna - more serene than Clear Conscience Cafe - less hippie than Toscanini's - less crowded/noisy than the overall shitty 1369 Coffee - less expensive than Mariposa So there- why not go to Andala? A great coffee house with good tea selection, sweet staff, free WiFi, and tasty almond croissants. Just choose a spot: the patio to soak in the sun, the hidden porch for some sweet talk, a small table for some nibbles, or head downstairs for even more space. There's no other coffee shop in the area where I'd want to linger around for hours, and you wouldn't be rushed out the door either.
(5)Ethan A.
I didn't expect to have such bad service, because I really enjoyed this place previously. I went late last night to get some work done, and ordered an iced coffee. Ended up with some weird iced tea. Whatever, doesn't matter, drank it. That was still in line with my previous good review score. Today I went back with a friend. He ordered a sandwich and iced coffee. Waiter guy asked if he wanted milk in it, friend said sure. Waited then forced, "So you want an iced latte then." Friend said "sure?" We were later charged for the more expensive drink. I ordered an iced tea, and saw they had bagels on the menu, for $.95, cream cheese extra. Perfect, I just want something to snack on and no cream cheese. He tells me they are out of bagels and asks curtly, "What else instead?" I said no thanks, I was fine with just tea. I'm sitting in the basement area, next to the kitchen. I watch the waiter go to the fridge, pull out a bag of six bagels, and comes back and says, "we have bagels now, do you want one?" I said sure. Our drinks arrive, my iced tea has a single cube of ice. It was cold enough, I suppose, but not an iced tea. A few minutes later my bagel comes - with cream cheese, tomato, and avocado. The waiter says, "here its the house special bagel". Not cool throwing cheese on my food - I don't eat it. I didn't touch it. After waiting forever for our check, the waiter says absolutely nothing in response to my entire bagel sandwich going untouched. I was charged $3 for my weak iced tea, $3 for the bagel I ordered which should have been ninety five cents, waited over a half hour for the check, and our waiter clearly was just trying to milk us for all the money we could and didn't care at all that I left an entire dish untouched. I could have forced them to eat the cost and serve me a new bagel, but you know what, I'm a nice guy. I will never return.
(1)Eric F.
For a place that has "coffee house" in its name, I had the worst latte in years here last night. The espresso was barely discernible and the drink was basically (over)heated skim milk. Oh and the waitress decided that it'd be okay to give me over a dozen nickels in change presumably b/c they ran outta quarters...really? If you wanna come for the food, have at it. But stay far, far away from anything that involves coffee beans.
(1)Audrey C.
Their food is ok, but nothing I couldn't make easily (and better) at home- and tiny portions. It's really sad how everyone I ate with recently (4 other people) all walked away hungry- and they ordered different dishes. Their portions are more like appetizer portions, and they only provide a couple slices of pita bread that comes with the dishes, so we even had to ask for more pita. It looked extremely stingy really. The hummus appetizers we ordered was spread so thinly across a small plate, it was probably under $1 worth of hummus that you could buy at the grocery store. Also, everything here just looks dirty and worn down. The many rugs are all gray- they look as if they have not been cleaned in years- and are fraying or there was even 1 with an enormous hole torn out right by the front desk.
(1)Jamaican B.
Awesome food (lamb!!!), so many tea selections, and great AMBIANCE!!! :)
(5)Ash T.
Great place for coffee and to chill out Pros: Very cozy place and has a unique ambiance to it. The downstairs is the place to chill out. Free wifi is an added bonus. I had the honey and goat cheese plate which was ok. The Arabic coffee was amazing. The copper vessel with the titled handle accompanied the small cup and plate...the coffee was brewed with cardamom and had a sweet hint to it. Espresso has now a contender for packing the most calorie free caffeine punches. Somehow the atmosphere downstairs has a charm to make you forget time, dabble in some great conversations or even pull on your creative hat and take a shot at some poetry. It's places like Andala that offer what a true coffee shop should...(are you taking notes Starbucks?) Cons: There is some tension among the wait staff and you can hear it if you're sitting upstairs. I first ordered a Rooibos Tea and the lady behind the counter didn't bother asking me if I wanted it to go or to stay. So the tea made it to my table in the boring drab of a paper cup smitten with advertisements and a black plastic top (minus 1 star for that) But the downstairs ambiance and the arabic coffee made up for it. WIll be back for sure. Highly recommended
(4)Alan Y.
I stopped by this cafe one Friday night to get some work done. I was rather pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness of the cafe and the decor; I definitely felt that I was in someone's house instead of a generic coffeehouse. The bathroom was also quite nice and tidy. The servers were also quite nice and efficient. Despite these positive attributes, I felt that the food (at least what I ordered) was somewhat lacking. I ordered the vegetarian chili, which left me completely disappointed. The soup was served luke-warm, had very little flavor, and lacked much to compensate for its hefty ($5+) cost. However, the soup did come with 3 flatbreads, which were not anything special. However, their cappuccino is decent, as is their banana-walnut muffin. I'll try to stop by some other day to sample items from their menu, which hopefully will be more appetizing than the food I had.
(3)Ahmed J.
The location was the best thing about this restaurant. The restaurant was supposed to be serving arabic ( middle eastern), however, the menu had only couple of arabic dishes and few deserts. We ordered a humos platter which was average and kind of over garnished, chicken and rice platter, rice and veggies were decent and the grilled chicken was quit good. As for the service, its the main thing that made me rate this place low. I am talking about a whole hour waiting for our main dish and another 30 minutes to get the bill in a small restaurant. A place that I would not recommend to someone.
(2)Kacie M.
I've been here at least a few times now, and I'm always pretty happy with everything. If I want a meal, I get the Jersulam Egg Salad Sandwich. It's hard boiled eggs and cheese in a wrap and it's very tasty. A word of warning, though: It comes with onions, which they do not mention on the menu. The first time I got it, I had to send it back and have them remake it without the onions. The girl working there looked kind of annoyed, but I didn't have any problems sending it back and my new sandwich came out quickly. My friends have always been happy with what they've gotten there, and one said the hummus was the best he'd ever had. I haven't tried many drinks, but the hot chocolate is good. Service is usually so-so, but never that bad. The decor is charming and, overall, it's a nice little cafe to spend your afternoon in if you happen to be in Central Square.
(4)Nan A.
Andala has it all - the wifi, satisfying Mediterranean food, rich coffees, with many different rooms and seating arrangements for socializing, studying or getting some work done.
(5)Juston P.
Trip #1: "... and an ice water." Trip #2: "... and an ice water." Trip #3: "... and can you please put ice in my water?" What do these 3 have in common? All three times my water arrived nice and warm, without ice. This isn't a big deal. I'm a big boy. I can drink warm water. However, it's representative of the service at Andala. To paraphrase the prophet Eminem, they just don't give a ffff. It's seriously awful. To wit: Trip #1: 15 minutes elapsed between sitting and being given a menu. Trip #2. 7 minutes elapsed, so I approached a waitress and ordered directly. Trip #3: 3 minutes elapsed before I got up. I learn. I'm a smart boy. "Dude, why do you keep going back if all you're gonna do is whine about the service?" Because, my bodacious friend, the food is awesome! Such tasty, spicy sandwiches! Such rich and fresh hummus! And the atmosphere is awesome, too! Look at that cute, outdoor patio! Check out that cool greenhouse room that overlooks the street! Listen to the intricate vocals of the middle eastern music! Partake in the free WiFi! My advice: carve out an hour to eat your food. That way, you won't flip out when 20 minutes passes between your being given the check and the waitress' picking up your money.
(3)Matt S.
Six stars for the best lentil soup in the Boston area and for a fantastic white chocolate mocha (as well as the one particular cute girl behind the counter who makes the latter). Minus one for the fuckin' every time hassle to get someone to come over and take your order, let alone to get the check when you're in a rush.
(5)Gabriela F.
When I lived in Central Square, Andala was one of my GO TO cafes. I would often grade papers there while munching on one of their DELICIOUS Jerusalem Egg sandwiches and a mocha. Though their other sandwiches are yummy too, I always order the egg sandwich. The wait staff was always really sweet and I could always find a spot to relax or work while I was there. Now that I'm back in NY, I really wish there was a spot near me as chill and as lovely as Andala. Definitely GO!
(5)H. A.
Come here for the hookah and nice environment, but not for the food. I'm Middle Eastern and their food doesn't cut it.
(3)Amanda G.
Came here Wednesday afternoon looking for place where I could have a decent lunch and a place with outlets and coffee to sit and study for a while. What a find! I've never been here, but I will definitely become a frequent customer. The ambiance and layout are amazing - cozy, open, lots of outlets, free-unlimited Wi-fi, pressure free (no rushed feeling...the staff doesn't make you feel like they want you to leave). It's reasonably priced and has *real* food. This is really about as good as it gets!! I typically frequency Espresso Royale, but have since been driven away because of so-so food quality, expensive coffee, lack of seating, and really strong coffee/burnt bread smell you acquire after sitting there for longer than 30 minutes. While I do like ERC, if you're a BU student, the 15 min bus ride is worth it to come to Andala.
(5)Juliana N.
We got our coffees to go and it was SO WATERED DOWN! sad... i had high expectations too. What went wrong? A majority of the people here had a good experience... ::sad::
(2)Bastian L.
And the search ends here. Ever since arriving in Boston last summer I have been looking for a coffee shop that truly is that "Third Place" that Starbucks marketing people describe their stores as. I am European, so by definition it is tough to satisfy my expectations of a coffee shop. Generally, paper cups and red EXIT signs suffice to never let me experience the cosiness of a Central European coffee house or cafe - the kind that really makes you want to linger. Andala nails it though. Every kind of seating arrangement you could want, carpets, high ceilings, lots of light and great lighting, fantastic wait staff, great cappuccino and chai. I havent tried the food, but that's not what I am going to a coffee shop for. Oh, free wifi, power outlets, so you can actually get work done here, too. Now if they could just open a branch in Beacon Hill...
(5)Sushmita M.
How many times have you ordered a mocha from Starbucks or Peet's Coffee and felt a little piece of you die as you realize that you just paid an exorbitant price (again) for subpar chocolate-flavored syrup instead of the real thing? Andala Coffee House is authentic cocoa goodness! These are the best white chocolate mochas I've had in Boston by far -- it's a blessing for me that I don't live in Central Square, or I'd burn a hole through my wallet in mocha consumption. The cafe itself is ideal for a Sunday afternoon of studying or general lazying around. The staff are lovely, they have free wifi, and everything is generally chill.
(4)Neeraj D.
2.5 stars The prices seem good, the downstairs is nice and large (and mostly unknown so there is place to sit). This would be good for a group to sit and meet also. The outdoor seating, wi-fi, available power strips make it a good place to camp out for a bit. The service is indeed slow as others commented. The tea was undrinkable because it was over seeped while waiting to be delivered to us (it took more than 10 minutes for the tea to make it downstairs). The Arabian coffee had a smooth and creamy mouth feel with the spice of cardamon a nice compliment to the coffee. I do wish there was a filter though because the end of the coffee is very sludgy with the contents. I will next time try some different drinks or just bring a filter for the Arabian coffee. (-2.0 stars) Street parking (~ spots) with the typical Cambridge meters (25 cents = 15 minutes). I think we will try it again and hope for better service because the locale has potential but it can definitely improve by getting rid of the credit card minimum and better music (-0.5 stars)
(2)Stephanie F.
I agree their service is kind of slow, but their food is pretty good. I come here when I want free wifi and would like to work for a long time on my computer, while consuming very flavorful caffeinated drinks and "real" food (other than scones and muffins). At first I thought this place was really small, but the thing that I admire about this place is how homey it is! There is a surprisingly large amount of spaces to hang out and do work in. It's almost like you're at someone's big house which is very nicely decorated with Middle Eastern flair. Yay for it providing a different experience than the usual cafes in Cambridge.
(4)Lauren E.
I have been looking for some new coffee shops to add to my circuit, and this one fortuitously came to my attention last week. Immediately upon walking in I could tell that it would be good. (Perhaps sadly,) everyone else and his brother seemed to already know about it, and it was super crowded! Fortunately, we were able to grab the only table in the place after walking downstairs and back up again. In terms of the food/drinks---The Turkish coffee was good, but I wish they had brought me real cream instead of the little tiny packaged thing. I also had chai, which was pretty good and tasted original. I guess the mocha was good, too, but I didn't drink any. I had a pretty mediocre cookie as well. Didn't try any of the food, though it sounded good. At least half of the crowd there was studying. It wasn't too loud, though there were several audible conversations at all times. I had a little trouble with the wireless network, but it worked for most of the time. Despite the numerous imperfections, I give them the 4 stars for the decor and environment. In addition to the tables, there were couches and other forms of cushioned seating. The walls were prettily decorated, and nice to look at while spacing out and needing a break from my reading. All in all, I'm looking forward to going back again, though perhaps next time with my ipod to help with the noise, and at lunch time so I can try the falafel and hummus.
(4)Jenny V.
Andala is a cute coffeehouse with outdoor seating, free wifi, creative drinks, a Middle Eastern menu, and the cutest waitstaff. I stayed down the street during my visit and stopped by three times during my week long visit. Try the goat cheese and honey fruit plate for a light breakfast or dinner. Who knew that would make a good combination? Delicious. Definitely worth a visit if around the area.
(4)John S.
I'm the 102nd review? And here I thought this place was out of the way. I've been living within a 15 minute walk of Andala for over three years and only recently learned its name (a friend told me to meet him there). So I went, happy from the get-go to be finally entering the place I passed all the time on the drive home from the Pike. The first thing I noticed was how much light was coming through the floor to ceiling windows. Because Andala faces the very wide Central Square/River Street intersection, it's very bright, even on a cloudy day. I then noticed the menu, which I picked up off a music stand. I perused the Israeli offerings and opted for a pear juice ($2 too expensive) and an omelette ($2 cheaper than expected). Both were delicious. Over the half hour or so I was there, I noticed people taking advantage of the free wi-fi on their laptops, reading books, and calmly sipping tea. Because it's within shouting distance of the Central Square Starbucks, it made me even happier to go to Andala and support local business.
(4)May N.
The closest coffee house to my apt. It is super cute and the staff seem really nice! Stopped by for coffee on a Saturday morning before running errands. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a handful of staff ready to serve. They had yummy pastries and breakfast foods and their menu included Arabic meals and hookahs (I'm pretty sure they're still bad for you). Prices looked inexpensive. I'll have to return to try more stuff. Only con: they charged an extra 50 cents for iced coffee. On a day that kicked off the hot and muggy weather here.
(4)Tiffany Z.
Another great café in the Central Square area with lighter, Mediterranean fare (as compared to the sandwiches and pizzas of La Luna Café). While there is no live entertainment here, there is plenty of seating in a tastefully yet eclectically decorated environment with an enormous amount of natural light flooding through the windows during the daylight hours. Brightly colored walls, oriental rugs, interesting lanterns, and an assortment of different styles of tables and seating arrangements is what greets you when you step into what looks like it could be a large house. It manages to have a cozy, home-like feel while still being so spacious. This is a wonderful place to leisurely sit for hours over a cup of reasonably priced tea (they have a very nice tea selection here!) or coffee (I like the Turkish coffee) and to read or converse.
(5)Erin B.
Atmosphere, ambiance, stellar coffees & teas, and great specialty food all make Andala one of the best places around to grab a coffee, have a bite, and relax. With free (if intermittent) WiFi and many outlets, it's a great study locale as well. Don't expect to be alone, however. The only thing lacking is the staff. If it's busy, expect slow service. I'm not sure if it's understaffed or what but that's my only complaint. On a recent outing, I tried the hummus plate and could not have been happier. It boasted great flavor and the proper authentic consistency you would expect from this sort of cafe while somehow surpassing the expectation all around. I've had the Arabic coffee as well as a few teas (all very good) but decided to try the Turkish coffee this time. I was not disappointed. The flavor was very balanced and it was ground to perfection. Something great about the coffee selection is that they serve it in the proper cups and with the right serving implements. Far too few places do that. That is what makes Andala's coffee fit perfectly into the atmosphere of the cafe thereby completing the Andala experience.
(4)Sofia B.
Great Turkish coffee at a very nice price. What's better? The lentil soup. Next time I'll try the hookah that's available on the patio in the Summer.
(5)Marcelo C.
Terrible service and the wifi never works. If you have two hours to spare while you wait to get service, then this is the place for you. Food makes up for it.
(2)Andrew C.
Your local coffee shop. With an Turkish/Arabic menu for lunch and dinner. Go downstairs to get the semi-authentic feel.
(3)Joel M.
Ate here for lunch during a hot day... the place wasn't terribly well conditioned, the staff was indeed pretty slack, but the food was excellent and a good value. I'll be back, but getting in and out during a 1 hour lunch break isn't really an option. 5 stars for food/value, 4 stars for ambiance, 2 for service.
(4)Haley T.
I love this place. It's quiet, beautifully furnished and sunny. The waitstaff is nice and just attentive enough. There are plenty of vegetarian options and their turkish coffee is delicious. A perfect place for a quiet coffee date or a lunch alone with a book.
(4)Roni E.
If only Central was closer to me and parking isn't a b*tch... I would love to come back for more. Andala is located right on the corner, so it's perfect for people watching along the street. It's got a very cozy, warm feeling. They make a mean Vanilla Chai in a large mug. Perfecto! Came here for the Yelp N00bs Event, and they were great at fitting us all in a large section of their place. The tables are small, but we also had a bunch of Yelp schwag laying all over the place. The hummus was great! The meat pies were great! The chicken m-something I can't remember the name was most excellent. (It's the one on the right hand side of the menu, written on the very top!). Alright to conclude, their food was awesome! Definitely on my list of awesome coffeehouses and must returns.
(4)Tanaya P.
My boyfriend and I decided to venture out to Central Square for lunch today. Before I delve into the review, let me set the scene: I had not eaten a thing all day and was a starving monster. Thus, as soon as we spotted a place that didn't gross me out from the outside, I ran across the street and plopped myself at a table. Within 3 minutes, we had ordered the egg salad sandwich, lentil soup, veggie chili, hummus plate and the house specialty tea (the name escapes me). The food was fantastic! Albeit, my eyes were larger than my stomach and I couldn't finish everything, but I was stuffed. What's better is that it wasn't gross stuffed where you feel sick... instead all the food is fresh and delicious. After we stuffed our faces in silence, we ended up ordering a Turkish and Arabic coffee, which was a great way to cap our meal. I highly recommend checking out Andala for a quick coffee, meal or new spot to study.
(5)Krystal T.
This place is good, not awesome. The ambiance is nice, but the staff sucks with the exception of a few. The food is good, and yes, they are constantly changing the staff. I live across the street from this place and do recommend their breakfast omelets and their coffee bar, but if you like you drinks hot, make sure you ask for extra hot.
(3)Lucy S.
I discovered this restaurant about a year ago, when I came for an internship interview. I didn't get the position, but I did get an AAAMMAAAZZING cup of coffee. This is one of the few independent cafes in Boston, I believe, and I come here at least once a month. Like I said, the coffee is great and the foods good too, free wifi, outdoor patio, but most of all, I LOOVVEEE the staff! They're all friendly and chill which helps the all-around laid back feel of the place. I feel like I could be BFFs with all of them, the service keeps me coming back for more. Sometimes, I take an hour long commute to central square just to go there. For the love of coffee, or something more?
(5)Jazzie F.
This is a cute coffee shop. I have been here several times w/ a good friend of mine. When I first came here, I thought it was so amazing and fell in love with it instantly. Having said all of that, the service here down-right sucks. Especially if you sit downstairs. I feel like this place is a classic case of they'll hire anyone off the street as long as they're a pretty girl. I have almost always been served by young women, and they are all for lack of a better term: retards. (I apologize if this term offends people but this is how I talk). The women care more about getting off their shift and you settling your bill than actual service. They are sometimes rude, very very very very slow, forgetful, and truly, completely, utterly, incompetent. Did I mention rude? I love the coffee, and the food is pretty amazing but I absolutely despise the service.
(3)Kar M.
Awesome awesome awesome The menu selection is great! The location is better...but the food is the best part. Bring a large group and this place will accommodate...(why its called a coffee house...im not sure) o_O This is a great find and is really close to the Central Square T stop... Delightful :)
(5)Betty M.
I had shakshokeh for breakfast. It was amazing. The coffee is different but good. They do not refill cup but the waitress was very sweet and brought me another cup on the house.
(5)Ebru A.
Nice place If you like to wait an hour for a coffee. They offered a free baklava to 4 people as an apology.
(2)Nicholas S.
I really liked the vibe this place has. It's laid back and there are tons of couches and chairs around. Some parts are more private than others, such as the downstairs area, so if you need a place for a meeting or just to get some work done, Andala is great. I had a "Chocolate Snail" pastry, which was fantastic, and a nice big cup of Chai Tea. I will definitely be going back to taste some of the other delectable-sounding treats on their menu. The free wi-fi wasn't bad, either!
(4)Mike M.
When you are in dire need of a chill coffeehouse experience, I think Andala is a great option. Whereas most of your Starbucks and DDs and even like 1369 Coffee House can seem kind of chaotic and hectic, Andala just has a really chill vibe. From the table service by a really nice waistaff to the great outdoor seating you can enjoy once the weather gets nice, this place is pretty legit. The overall vibe in the store is just very chill with plenty of seating and free wifi to sit with your laptop and casually enjoy your day. I also think they have some pretty good food - I had a vanilla scone today that tasted totally fresh and delicious. They also ask for a $5 miniumum on your credit card so if you are cash strapped and just needing a cup of coffee, maybe you should go to Starbucks. My only complaint about Andala is that their coffee station for takeout is pretty inadequate. They only have generic pink packet sugar substitute instead of Splenda or real sugar. Also, they have salt and pepper on the counter right next to the sugar and cocoa powder - that would be a nasty mistake to pick up the salt by accident!
(4)Aboud Y.
Love, love this place. Great Arabic food / drink in a comfortable atmosphere. Great for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or just a snack. Also a good place to chill and talk with friends or even read / study. The place does have its quirks (service and food are a bit inconsistent) but its all easily forgiven.
(5)Ina C.
A tenth of a mile from my church, I have now found a new place to get my mid-food-coma, pre-church caffeine! I can only comment on the atmosphere and iced tea, but I still think it's reviewing because this place really has the most seating I've ever seen in a place with the words "coffee house" in the name. Seriously, tons of seating, especially in warm weather with the outdoor patio. It's got a warm feel with maroon-colored walls, high ceilings (on the main floor) and it's spacious. A great place to grab a meal, a coffee, to study, whatever! I'll definitely be back. Oh, my iced tea was delicious, by the way. Unsweetened, very herb-y. :) Love it.
(4)Hiroki M.
This is my new favorite cafe. One of a kind ambiance, the food and tea is terrific as well. Great place for either just sitting down for some tea/coffee or taking a group of friends for some food.
(5)Doris T.
Such a cute little cafe! I would totally go there with someonhe special for a relaxing afternoon/brunch excursion. The decor is nothing special other than a collection of mismatched middle-eastern trinkets and paintings but somehow everything comes together to give a wonderfully homey and relaxing atmosphere. I did not try any of their food this time around because of time constraints but I did try a pot of tea from their quite large collection. I had the honeybush and it was just I had expected, perfect on a cold day like today. They have cozy little corners if you want to be on your own or a basement dedicated for a larger group. I also tried a sip of chai from my friend's cup and it was quite delicious. Last of all, the staff there are incredibly sweet. The service is quite efficient and the staff are extremely friendly. Try this cafe Boston dwellers, you will like it :) PS Their online menu has a lot of typos but their collection is quite impressive regardless.
(4)Liz M.
With Cambridge creepin' w/ cafes, Andala comes up a cut above the rest. Why? ....because it has all the ingredients of a great cafe! But why 4 stars and not 5? Well....it has all the ingredients except student friendly prices. (1) cozy atmosphere and different types of seating. one day you may want a couch, another day a huge table, another, in the basement (though its kinda spooky to me) (2) AWESOME HUMMUS. OMG. AWESOME. GET IT, even if you dont like chick peas. (3) GREAT COFFEE. aint cheap, but great. maybe it'll be a treat for all that studying. (4) CLEAN BATHROOMS! with all the studying and drinking and eating, you need a good can! (5) GREAT SERVICE. people are nice, not snooty. that goes a long way. (6) things to get: the hummus plate, the ground beef special, the latte with an extra espresso shot and coffee. best bets and best eats!
(4)Steven P.
This place is quite cozy. I friend told me about it and I had to visit. While the coffee is slightly expensive considering how much they give you, the atmosphere is really nice. When I went into the basement I felt like I was walking into a friend's house. It was very inviting. I will definitely have to come back some time, it seems like a good place to sit around for hours working/reading while being supplied with a constant stream of tasty pastries and caffeinated beverages.
(4)Nadia A.
I love the ambiance and decor of Andala...I have to say I really like their tea selection and coffee as well. I really like the side room with all the windows and the large tables make this a great venue for meetings. I've had just a few dishes here...all very tasty. My only complaint is that the service is ridiculously slow...very courteous, but SLOW. I'm not actually sure it's the waitstaff's fault...i have been to this place and been served by so many different waiters and waitresses that I don't think it's them. I actually think they need more organization or coordination to their waitstaffing system. Maybe they need to hire more people for busier times? The free wi-fi is definitely a bonus. Andala is a great addition to the Cambridge coffee houses. Another plus is that they are open late if you need to get work done. Overall, Andala = awesome.
(4)Daniel P.
I don't want to say too much because, really, this place speaks for itself. This is where I take anyone who appreciates quality coffee in a stylish cafe. If I lived in Central Square, I'd be here every day for their Turkish or Arabic coffee. During one of my visits, the barista nearly yelled at the waitress for mixing up the two. This speaks to the caliber. It's a perfect spot for Sunday brunch or an afternoon snack while you study. When it's warm, the patio is quite lovely, providing a view of the square we all wish we could live in.
(5)Cat M.
Like going to a Middle Eastern-Mediterranean friend's house and it turns out they're having a family reunion. Cozy, spacious, excellent for studying -- free wifi, yes, but also the staff won't bother you if you're just hanging out with your book. Delicious chai latte, expansive tea selection, and the goat cheese and honey plate is a treat to share with someone lovely.
(5)Adam C.
This is my go-to spot, whether I'm stopping by for a laidback conversation with a friend or spending the whole evening working on projects on my laptop. No other Central Square coffeeshop has everything that I'm looking for. More specifically... -Late hours (open until 11 p.m. on weekdays) -Free and generally consistent wifi -Decent, reasonably-priced food and baked goods (I'm a sucker for the baklava, in particular) and, perhaps most importantly, -CHARACTER. The owner is always sitting downstairs at the big, black table with a couple of friends, shooting the breeze. He's an extremely friendly guy, and on more than one occasion has seen me and a friend sipping our teas and given us a pastry on the house! I'm not a tea connoisseur such that I'd be able to speak on the quality of the product, but I've always been satisfied with the variety of herbal and fruit teas, and you can never go wrong with the Arabic Coffee or the house tea. Bottom line: skip all the chains and crunchy-granola spots in the area - not to mention the pair of personality-less 1369s - and check out Andala!
(5)Allie L.
Went to the Andala with a close friend of mine and my mom because we were looking for a quieter tea house so we could talk and hear ourselves think. All three of us really liked the Andala. I highly recommend the downstairs because it's got a fantastic vib. There are huge benches that form a square and a lot of instruments that you can play including bongo drums, a guitar, and many wonderful Indian instruments. It looks like an ideal place for a music jam or poetry readings. The food as others have said was very simple but very good. Sometimes, I think simple is best. A great little inexpensive place to go with friends and loved ones with good food and a nice quiet atmosphere.
(4)Sam S.
Just away from the hustle and bustle of Mass Ave in Central Square is a little gem of a coffee shop called the Andala Coffee House. I searched Yelp for a good free wifi cambridge area option to do some work for a few hours. The second I walked in I knew I'd love it here. Such a peaceful atmosphere and charming middle eastern music, great table service, and a nice selection of food. I tried a goat cheese honey plate that came with 5 different kinds of fruit, and huge chunck of delicious goat cheese...well worth the $7.95 cost. The chai tea was delicious. As someone who loves working at coffee shops to get out of the house, I also have a love/hate relationship with them. The busiest ones are great for people watching, and often interesting but also loud, over crowded (fighting for seats/space/outlets sucks!) and very distracting. I recently sat next to someone in JP who held a sales conference meeting over their phone for an hour. However, I should go to the library if I want extreme peace and quiet. So on those days I'm in cambridge where I DO need to focus really well, this little coffee house will be my first choice. Next time I want to try the avocado pressed sandwich...yum!
(5)Sheila S.
Yes, five stars. This place is good. The mint tea is REALLY refreshing and culturally accurate. All the Lebanese dishes are tasty. The hostesses are nice and willing to refill over the hours that you are there. Most importantly, it has comfy seats and big windows for watching the rest of the world go by as you study.
(5)Jamay L.
FINALLY! I've found a cafe in Boston that rivals the cafes I used to frequent in Manhattan. Andala Coffee House is a gem. Just a 5-minute walk away from the Central Square T stop, it is a warm, welcoming, spacious place where you can hang out for hours, scribbling in your journal, typing away at your laptop, or chatting over tea and pastries with friends. With two floors that offer a range of seating options, from small tables to cushioned corner booths to large dining tables, you can come by yourself or host a meeting for your new startup. The wifi is fast, the staff is friendly, and the food is good, with plenty of snack and meal options..... I can see myself becoming a regular here!!
(5)Ana R.
I met a group at Andala last night around 6:30pm for dinner & knitting. I ordered the Avocado Press Sandwich, which was delicious and big enough to satisfy, but a little pricy at $7.95. I also had a Chai, which was also very good. For desert, I opted for the rice pudding, which was super-cold and bland, unfortunately. Like eating wet white rice straight out of the fridge. I was told by a friend who frequents here that the oatmeal and fruit plate is very good. The space was very nice. The atmosphere was great and the owner was very kind. We were outside at the beginning of the evening, but it got a little chilly and windy (actually, their outdoor umbrella nearly collapsed on us, probably because it was being kept up by a chair). We moved inside, into one of three rooms with seating. There was a long, low couch which accomodated us well, but it was difficult to pass by other guests. The decor reminded us all of Algiers. There are many tapestries, rugs, etc to make the space feel cozy. The grill outside exhuded lovely smells of chicken and lamb kabobs. The waitress was a bit flighty and overwhelmed by our group of 6. We were there 3 hours and didn't see her after for the last 1 and a half. She brought us a pitcher of water and only 3 glasses and didn't come back to bring more. Parking is impossible. Walk if you can or take the T. I would come back here alone for breakfast or lunch, to read the paper or knit. Great atmosphere, bad for big groups or those looking to eat cheap. Probably really good for a date, as it's cozy and a little luxurious and different.
(3)Kristine A.
This place is simply adorable. They have a wide array of teas which hits the spot on cold winter nights. They have good vegetarian options on their menu which are simply tasty. I had no idea they even had a downstairs since I have only been here once before. There is really neat artwork around the place which gives it character.
(4)Calli C.
A little tricky to find, Andala is an oasis in the middle of Central Square. Warm, cozy, free wi-fi, where can you go wrong? I was meeting someone there, and the wait staff definitely didn't put any pressure on me to order up while I was waiting. They didn't put any pressure on us at all - didn't ask if we wanted anything else, if we wanted the bill, or anything. In this situation that was great because we just wanted to talk and be left alone, but I could see how it could be a problem in the service industry. Great tea. Mmmmm.
(4)Meghan F.
I have been coming to Andala every so often for several years, and it is consistently pretty great. The chai lattes are delicious, the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, and the wifi is free. The service isn't always great, and the food can be overpriced, but the food that I have tried (hummus plate, vegetarian chili, some pastries) is generally good. There is a lot of seating and comfortable chairs and couches. In short, I would definitely recommend Andala: service can be hit or miss, but the location is great and I can't get enough of their chai!
(4)Maya M.
After 2 years of wondering if I would ever find the kind of cafe I wished for in Cambridge/Boston, I finally happened upon Andala. I'm not sure I can adequately express how much I like this place. Great espresso, delicious muffins, very clean, FREE Internet, cozy space, lots of seating, great music playing, and it's not crowded (yet)! I fear it will become too popular and over-crowded eventually (which I guess wouldn't be totally horrible - I really want it to succeed!), but for now it is the perfect spot to write, read, and hang out. I'm so glad I found it...
(5)Scott L.
Gotta echo what everyone else here has said -- Andala is a gem and a perfect study spot! Usually less crowded than 1369 Coffeehouse down the street, and with an airier, fresher vibe.
(4)Caleb M.
I absolutely love this place. Whenever I need a cafe to work at, or if I want to enjoy a nice lunch with a friend, or whatever, I always come here. The reason why? It's amazing!! The decor/atmosphere/decorations/etc are lovely. All the random pieces of Middle Eastern art add to the general feel of the place, but not as much as the Middle Eastern utensils and tables and serving platters. I especially love the little silver teapots. The service is attentive and friendly (though I waited a little too long for food-and coming from me, that's saying a lot-last time I came) and otherwise very helpful. Now to the food- SPECTACULAR. I can't come here without eating the Jerusalem salad. The zeit u zatar labneh thing is very nice and the hummus plate is absolutely essential, even if you don't like hummus. Then there's the chicken musakhan sandwich, which is very nicely done. Even if you don't like desserts, get the delicious baklava. And-I almost forgot-to drink you must order the house special tea with cardamom. I usually get 2 pots which I refill (for free) once each, which makes for 4 pots of this amazing tea. To sum up- COME HERE NOW
(5)Christopher R.
I work in a coffee shop, and frequent many others, so when I try somewhere new, I have very high expectations. That said, Andala is quite possibly THE coziest coffee shop in the Boston/Cambridge area. If you're looking for a nice, quiet, chill-vibed place to grab a sandwich and a fresh cup of coffee (french press preferred), you'd do well by giving Andala a try. It's not the absolute best coffee in town, but it's a cut above most, and the ambience is perfect. You even have your choice of lighting/setting, as there are several different areas in which you can sit, and even be waited on. It's a good thing for them that I don't live too close by, otherwise I'd most definitely be perched there for hours on a nightly basis!
(5)Yasmin E.
very cute place to lounge around with a group of friends after dinner. the desserts weren't superb (they were ok...waaaay too sweet for my taste) and (while i don't smoke it) the company i was with complained about the arguila since it was relatively expensive and had very little taste. all in all however, on a crisp summer's evening, it is nice to sit under the grapevine (with REAL grapes mind you) louvered awning while sipping mint tea and nibbling on dessert. sounds cute huh....it is :) bon apetite!!
(3)George S.
Very nice atmosphere. Very good coffee. Solid food. Big windows with a nice view. The tables are a bit crammed, so if you go to coffeehouses with your laptop in tow, things might get messy. It's nice to hang out with friends though. (And they have free Wi-Fi!)
(4)J K.
Variety of choices for any meal. Great place to sit and chill. Staff were nice/helpfull and the prices were good too.
(4)Liz P.
This place gets so much natural light and fresh air - it's a great place to go as Spring begins her descent on New England. The goldenrod color of the walls welcomes you in and invites you to stay for as long as you like. I love the rugs and wide array of seating from single seats along the window, to cafe tables for two, to homey couches on which I would love to laze with a hookah. The waitress was attentive enough, while still leaving me to the book I had brought. Even when she brought me my check because she was clocking out, I was invited to stay longer and assured that she was not rushing me out. I had the Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich and it was great! The tomato and onions tasted crisp and not at all soggy from meeting the hot egg and melted cheese. The bread was divine and wholly unique. The potato salad alongside was as good as the sandwich: very well seasoned with fresh herbs and perhaps the most delicious olive oil I've ever tasted. It's probably my own fault that I ordered a Darjeeling tea and not something more adventurous. It was fine, but I'm not going to rave about it the way that people seem to be about the specialty teas. I'll keep this in mind and order a different tea when I return to Andala, which I hope will be very soon!
(4)Brett W.
Maybe it was my lucky day. Maybe it was the right morning. Or maybe this place is just wonderful. I suppose at 11am on a Thursday I wouldn't run into the long waits that the other reviewers ran into - in fact, our server was quite speedy with our food and tea. Once again I had the honey-cheese, pita bread, and fruit plate. I just can't get over how good the honey drizzled cheese and fresh fruit is. My friend had the egg salad sandwich which was soft and warm and scrumptious. The pot of Chai that we ordered brought the meal full circle. Yay!
(5)Lauren G.
The hummus at this place is amazing, though I found the portion sizes to be a little on the small side. if you are really hungry and need to eat a lot of food you should probably not eat here because you will end up spending a lot of $$ for a decent sized portion. Service was a little slow but very friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is nice and a little funky. I would definitely go back (when I'm not so hungry) especially to try the coffee.
(4)Amanda L.
If I lived in Central, I would probably come here all the time. It really spacious, but cozy as the same time. The only problem, it's a bitch to find. If you don't know where it is, you'll never find it. Since I go to Central about once every few months, I ended up going in every direction but the right one. Oh well, I guess I can't knock on anyone except myself. The food that we had was pretty tasty. I really enjoyed the spinach and meat pies the most. They were very moist and doughy, and delicious. This place is also really good for groups, there's a big open area where you can shlep a bunch of tables together, and its away from the other seats so it doesn't get too annoying for everyone else.
(4)Cambridge Y.
Anadala's one of my favorite restaurants in cambridgeport. Staff is friendly and laid back, and they have free wifi. They also have a huge downstairs that's good to hold big meetings, and an awesome patio.
(5)Dragony F.
A potentially great spot to people watch the characters of Central Sq. VS. a pretty trellis overhanging the patio Who makes my lunch that less interesting? the trellis blocking my view of the people in the street and outdoor seating area Chicken wrap = B+ = Syrian bread generously stuffed with cuts of chicken marinated and spiced in a wonderful sauce (nutmeg, cinnamon, cumin, etc.), comes with a side of hummus Agree with other Yelpers - great atmosphere, cool staff, good food but WAY overpriced ($10 for my sandwich)
(3)Erik S.
Where Andala gets off calling itself a coffee house I'm not quite sure. The staff was friendly and efficient, neither woman working there was a barista. They serve Lavazza espresso and it doesn't go up from there. There was no latte art, the milk was way too frothy and the taste is about what i expected (read not good) from Lavazza espresso. I'm not sure about any of the other stuff here, but I wouldn't come back here for the coffee.
(3)Cecilia L.
OK yelpers, I came to Andala like you told me to, and I ordered Turkish coffee like you told me to. My friend and I were naive of Turkish coffee, so if you are too it's like an espresso with sludge in the bottom. Lotta kick and it tasted great until we got three quarters through and simultaneously choked. I had brown teeth when I went to the bathroom. Are you supposed to drink the bottom part?? I still don't know. But yeah, this place is adorable and the servers are super nice. We moved to regular coffee after that and man was it good. We also had some delicious lunch: a divine chicken dish cooked with spices and onions rolled up in pita whose name I memorized for yelp and then forgot; and the Jerusalem egg sandwich with yummy potato salad. Chicken came with fresh veggies and wonderful zesty hummus. The one demerit is for tables too small for Scrabble, but no else cares about that. Oh yeah, and for the oppressively bourgeois convo: on one side two oldish ladies strategizing to use their ancient Wellesley connections for fundraising; on the other an insufferable authority on how the U.S. exploits third world people. Not that I disagree, but he fancied himself one of the coffeehouse intelligentsia, so brilliant the rest of the place must want to hear what he's saying. Come on now folks, I'm trying to play Scrabble here.
(4)Kelly K.
I'm a little surprised by all of the positive reviews. I have been frequenting Andala since they opened. I've never written a review, but I would like to mention a few things. 1. The revolving door of staff there is intriguing. Their service is meh for takeout (I've had to wait a while at the counter - the only one in the restaurant - to wait for two of the servers to finish their conversation & get off their phones to take my order). The two times that I have eaten in the restaurant it took a LOOOONG time for ordering/getting food/getting check. If you're looking for a laid back lunch and have absolutely no where to go that's fine, but otherwise I'd think twice. 2. My coworker ,who eats there far more often than I, has noticed on a few occasions that $1-$1.50 was added to her tip amount on her credit card bill. That's pretty shady because most people would likely not notice something like that, but it adds up. 3. And last but not least - my biggest pet peeve. The pastries USED to be awesome. Fresh-baked tasting, varied, delicious, the whole nine yards. They would wrap leftovers in saran wrap and sell them for half price the next day. Now almost all of the pastries are saran wrapped. So pastries are mushy instead of flaky and pretty unappetizing. I have to wonder if they're just now selling day (two day?) old pastries for full price. The croissant that I got today was abysmal, and I don't have very high standards. The muffins come in a cardboard box a la Sams Club before being put out on the platter. Don't piss on my leg and tell me it's raining and don't charge me $2.50 for an old, store-bought muffin that is "supposedly" freshly baked with organic ingredients.
(2)J. A.
This place is pretty damn near perfect--beautiful atmosphere, nifty decor, natural light, fresh breezes, and cool local owner---except for the the coffee. It's decent, but could be better. The staff are super friendly, but I do wonder why the owner doesn't just cut out the service altogether. The cafe with service thing seems to confuse many a customer. Just let us buy coffee and food at the counter and go sit undisturbed with our laptop. Regardless, if you are lucky enough to live nearby, there's no excuse not be a regular. It's places like this that make Cambridge a livable city.
(5)Cira B.
Lemon juice by the glass. Not lemonade - lemon juice. Oh man. So good. I'm going to butcher the name, but I've had the shakohsheh here as well - it's listed as one of the specials, and consists of rice with a lightly-spiced tomato sauce and an over-easy egg. Pretty simple dish, and overpriced at $10, but very good nonetheless. Coffee is also quite good - the espresso isn't particularly complex, but it has a rich bold flavor that is difficult to find in other coffeeshops. It's the type of coffee that you sip and enjoy slowly. Mmm. The real standout for me, however, is the atmosphere at Andala. Love the outdoor seating area, and I love the unique couches and tables. I've stayed here all day doing homework and talking to friends, and I've never felt rushed.
(5)Kenny L.
Thanks to Jessika for treating me to lunch after not killing me driving to Coolidge Corner to pick up her cupcake stand from Party Favors. The lunch that we both got was the egg salad toasted falafel wrap. Good tasting, but for $8, I felt it was a bit expensive for something I can definitely prepare at home. The decor inside was nice and comfortable for me to return for their coffees.
(3)Kabir H.
Do we really need another coffee shop in Central? Yes, if Andala is any indication. If you're looking for takeout, there are faster options, but Andala wins for its style. It doesn't hurt that they've got a patio either, perfect for lounging outside with a laptop while the wait staff tend to your needs. For what it's worth, the smoothies, while not amazing, are the best I've found in Central. The coffee is no slouch either, and the food options are more than passable. On a side note, if you're prudish, be careful when ordering the meat pie. They're sort of traditional middle eastern fare, baked like a pastry with the sides folded in so it looks like a square, with a diamond in the center. I'm not sure if it was intentional, but mine.. had more than a passing resemblance to another kind of "pie", if you catch my drift. I ate the whole thing. It was delicious. ;)
(4)Anna F.
What an excellent place to start a sunny Tuesday! I and my lovelies,in the shade of their grape arbor patio sipping a strawberry smoothie with my new pup in tow. They were kind enough to bring her some water in a little takeaway container. The service was swift and pleasant and what limited food I ordered was inexpensive and tasty (the smoothie was pleasantly simple- just juice, strawberries and banana). Will have to return to sample more of the menu.
(4)Ms. P S.
This is a great place to stumble upon. I've been there late at night for delightful tea and scone (close to 11pm I think) and in the morning for a yummy breakfast of oatmeal with milk and honey and fruits. Their menu is truly varied and the service is excellent--the servers are incredibly nice and accommodating. I think that's what gives the place such a homey feel, like you've just walked into a warm and cozy house. Especially when you come in from the cold this is really the place where you can relax and enjoy tea or a warm meal at your own pace. Highly Recommended! ps: Of course having free wifi is an added plus! Oh and I found this video about the grand opening of the place earlier this year (?) on Cambridge community tv-- cctvcambridge.org/node/1…
(4)Stephanie H.
went here tonight on somewhat of a whim when matthew c. and i realized we could care less about the first band at the middle east downstairs and had a bunch of time to kill. matthew had been wanting to check it out and we'd both been in search of a satisfying hot beverage. as others have mentioned, the inside is very cozy and warm, and yet it doesn't seem cramped either. the staff was really nice and um, yes, nice to look at. there is however definitely some confusion on how to go about coming and going in this place. we weren't sure if we should order at the front counter, if we should seat ourselves or wait, etc. the guy behind the counter told us we could have a seat and he would send someone over. i picked up the menus myself. [note for later: you'l also have to find your own napkins.] we took a seat at one of the counters along the windows - which actually open, hooray. good for people watching, though either the chairs or the counter seemed at kind of an awkward height for eating. also, to anyone picky about second hand smoke [not me], beware the people on the patio below you. the menu is pretty sparse but everything sounded good, and it's not exactly a place you'd go for a five course meal anyway. the waiter came over and matthew and i both ordered the chai, and a bowl of vegetarian chili. everything came pretty quickly and was delicious. the chai was excellent. spicy, creamy, but not in the dunkin donuts liquified pumpkin pie kind of way. real chai. plus the cup and saucer were really neat and i'm a nerd who likes those kinds of things. the "chili" however...was another story. don't get me wrong, i finished the whole bowl and enjoyed every bite, but it wasn't chili. it was a spicy vegetable stock with carrots, onions, celery, and kidney beans. also be warned it comes with a big dollop of sour cream in it. i like sour cream, but since it wasn't actually a hearty thick chili, i thought it cooled down the soup way too fast and seemed a bit out of place. anyway long story short i'd like it better if it was called soup. paying our bill and leaving proved to be just as confusing as sitting down in the first place. the waiter came back after a bit to take our plates and bowls away, and asked if we needed anything else. we told him that was it, we were all set. normally, these are the things you say when you want the check to appear soon. only it didn't. since we weren't in any hurry it wasn't a huge deal, just kind of confusing. we sat there quietly wondering, do we wait? do we pay at the front and not at the table? turns out they do bring a check to your table, but i ended up paying at the front anyway because i didn't feel like sitting around anymore. i really liked this place, and i'd also like to drink that chai every day this fall. it's just their system for getting from point a to point b that needs a little help, and maybe their chili recipe too. i have one if you want it.
(3)Gracie B.
Is it okay to review a place before you actually leave? The thing is, I'm still here. I have a table, a laptop, a cup of tea, and not a whole lot more to do. So it seems okay. Maybe more experienced yelpers can let me know if I'm supposed to wait till I get home. Anyway! I like it here. My very very first impression was......"very cute, bright, and clean looking" Then, though, I had a kind of strange interaction with my waitress. I thought - maybe - she wasn't very friendly. (I won't go into details) It turns out she was just pretty eccentric. I thought she might be kinda rude - but she was just quirky. I appreciate that. In the end, I felt that I got good service. I did notice all the other servers seemed a little less odd and a little more friendly and customer service oriented. But my waitress made me laugh. Actually, I had another waitress after mine left. (cashed out with me. Asked me to use a credit card for a nine dollar purchase because last time she had to change a twenty dollar bill, it "...took like an hour") My second waitress was super sweet. (I think she noticed I was on Yelp when she brought me my tea. I noticed a little knowing grin) I got a regular salad and a latte. I was impressed with the salad. I had to debate spending six or seven bucks on a salad, only because I was afraid I would get one of those super small four dollar side salad type things. But not at all. The salad was plentiful. Not complicated. Just full of lots of crunchy green lettuce, some tender red pepper, just the right amount of small wedges of feta, and some delicious and fresh carrot sticks. The dressing was perfect. Not overwhelming, but spiced just right to compliment all the veggies. The latte was good. No complaints. They definitely got the foam right, but the strength of the brew - in my opinion - could have been a little stronger. Later, after finishing up my salad, I had a tea. They have a very nice assortment and the way they display your choices is lovely. Makes you feel like you are making a very informed tea selection. I chose chocolate mint. Yummm. They offered me a little pitcher of milk of my choice (skim or whole. Don't know if they have soy. Soy milk is not my cup of tea. Pardon the pun) I did feel kind of cold in the middle of the main dining area. I ended up putting on my scarf and vest to warm up. I don't know if I imagined it or not, but it seemed to me that after I did that I felt more heat streaming in. I wonder if they noticed me looking cold and actually turned up the heat. If so.....very nice touch. I look forward to trying the baked goods. I think I'll buy a muffin to go to take home for later. I like the feel in here. Not pretentious. There is a calm but busy vibe. It is bright and cheery. I will definitely be back. Oh yeah, and the free wifi is a great bonus. It's actually what brought me here after reading that on yelp.
(4)Colin N.
Andala is right around the corner from my work. I usually just go there to grab coffee a couple of times a week. The coffee is usually better than *$ , but can be a little inconsistent. In the words of Jacobim Mugatu "Todd, are you not aware that I get farty and bloated with a foamy latte? " That's usually how the Soy Lattes are. To eat I've only had their almond croissant which is not bad. 1/2 the time the almond croissant is better at carberrys. The best thing about Andala is that it is usually quite easy to find a table.
(3)Mikell T.
I'm so torn about this. On one hand, I love the food here. I could die happy eating nothing but the Jerusalem Egg Salad sandwich -- it's less egg salad and more hard boiled egg with cheese, olive oil, and tomato -- and I love the "house special" cardamom tea. The other sandwiches and hummous plates I've tried have also been excellent. But the service is, in a word, abysmal. I know it's a coffee shop, and I know it's a laid-back coffee shop, but there are some simple things I think can be expected even of a laid-back place like this. For example, once while out for lunch with coworkers, two of my group ordered one of the specials. Apparently, for whatever reason, those dishes took forever to make, and as a result, those two got their food a full 20 minutes after the rest of us did. It would have been appropriate to have warned us early on that this dish took much longer to make, thus allowing them to order something else and avoid making us all late for our after-lunch meetings. Today, after waiting a good ten minutes without ever seeing a waitress so I could get more bread for my hummous -- the large bowl was served with three small triangular slices of the Syrian bread -- I realized I needed to get back to work for a meeting. So I had to go upstairs, find the waitress, inform her I needed my check *specifically because I was in a hurry*, and on her way down to give it to me, she veered off to chat with one of the cooks for a couple of minutes. So while I'm not expecting 5-star-restaurant service, it seems simple respect for your customers when they are in a hurry would be appropriate.
(3)Dana L.
So I will start by saying that I'm a coffee snob. The coffee is quite good here, although I have had better in Boston. However, this is the best coffee shop that I've been to in Central Square. It's big enough that you aren't bumping elbows with the people next to you, but not too large as to feel impersonal. They have a pretty good selection of coffees and teas, and will make custom juices from a variety of ingredients. We also got a bit of the food, including the pita and hummus and some wraps. Thumbs up, although this isn't exactly fine dining. I hear that it is great during the summer, because you can sit outside on the patio.
(4)T I.
The best Coffee shop in Cambridge. It's really cozy to study. It might be a little dark to read at night. The food is good but what makes here amazing is the teas and the decoration. Most costumers are students. I'd prefer upstairs but downstairs is also fine. I can't remember if I used internet there or not. It's a little hard to find. I think I found it through yelp.
(5)barbaric y.
Let's be frank: I like this place. I like this place but as it stands, that 4th star is remaining in the Temporary Autonomous Zone until I can start to feel better about it. The last few times I've been here were great- Andala is tucked back a little bit from Central Square proper, right behind the Church, which probably explains why it (thankfully) appears less crowded than the neighboring 1369 or Clear Conscience, who've been blessed with their situation along the cacophonous, foot-trafficked causeway that is Massachusetts Ave. I'd actually been eyeing this place for some time; my rationale for taking so long to actually go back probably had something to do with the fact that I never quite knew which bus stop to disembark at (taking the 70/A) unless I wanted to double back from Central. Having rediscovered it, I was able to finally find a cozy spot in this café, which has a nice little side room with a full-sized settee and little tables along the window. The café's decor is charming- somewhat of a Middle Eastern flair to compliment the food, with a sort of worn-out, broken in appeal that I've come to associate with warm atmospheres and long stays. Their egg salad sandwiches are wonderful- the egg salad itself is different from what you'd typically expect, as the eggs had been cooked in a pan with the resulting texture that was not quite scrambled, but more like a delicate fritatta. It was served in a lavash-type flatbread, making it more of a wrap than a sandwich. The coleslaw on the side was tasty but unfortunately looked limp enough to be confused with something you'd draw out of the washing machine. I ate it just the same. Again, I'll definitely be swinging by here from time to time, if only for the large mugs of chai tea and the occasional hummus plate. Maybe I'll even bring a friend or two. Last time I was there, my waitress gave me my tea for free for having complimented her jewelry- a very gracious gesture indeed! On the other hand, after a few of my friends arrived to study, the second waitress to serve us kept opening the window, which drove more than a few people from the room (it was a chilly day). When asked why she was doing so, she complained that the room smelled, which drove even more people away (as they were probably insulted by the implications). One woman finally got up to close the window, telling us that if she came back to politely remind her that the customer is always right. When a man entered the room to look for seating, the same waitress told him that my friends had been there "all day" (they had been there for two hours) and that he should look elsewhere for seating. My friends got fed up with her attitude and finally left, leaving me to feel awkward for having recommended the establishment in the first place. Again, dangling star for now- egg salad in the future for me, which might just seal the deal on a proper review.
(3)Erika R.
Went here yesterday, and what a treat it was. The kind waitstaff were patient with patrons there to chat. My friend and I sit and chatted and enjoyed our tea and coffee! I also had the avocado press sandwich, which was flavorful, but not overwhelming. The Chai tea was humongous! + es for the WIFI and for the late hours! Kudos to Andala! Yeah I said it. Kudos.
(5)Josephine P.
I was really drawn to this place when I first rode by it. It looks so inviting from the outside and the word Cafe screamed out at me- amiably of course. I finally planned a day to go with my boyfriend and it was pretty disappointing. When we walked in the first thing we did was obviously walk up to the counter where all the waitresses and Batista's were and they all gave us awkward blank stares, then we saw the sign that said to seat ourselves. That wasn't a big deal but we would have appreciated a gesture or something indicating this fact. The service was OK once we sat down. When we sat down and looked over the menu, I noticed that there wasn't very much variety. I was going to settle for a Tuna sandwich, but I wanted to try a signature dish seeing as though this place was so unique. I eventually ordered a caramel latte and the Jerusalem Hummus Plate (Msabaha). (When I ordered it and asked for a caramel latte, the waitress said she didn't think they had caramel, and I thought it was strange that a cafe of all places didn't have caramel...) The latte is was ok and though the hummus special was really like 'no hummus I have ever had' (according to the menu), but it was more like an appetizer than a meal. I had about 5 slices of thin pita bread and a whole cup of hummus to eat. It's not really what I expected and the description is vague. My boyfriend ordered a chai latte and the Chicken Khalili Sandwich. I must say that sandwich was quite tasty! That chai however tasted like watered down cinnamon seasoning. I don't think I have ever had a worse chai tea in my life. This place is really pricey as well. At the end of the meal the total came to about $30 for the two of us. This place is not the worse place I have ever been to, but I don't think I'll be going back.
(2)Annette N.
Coffee with cardamom. Scrumptious vegetarian chili. Marcel Khalife, Amr Diab, Umm Kulthoum on the stereo system. Free wireless. Narghile under the pergola. Totally relaxed atmosphere. A very cute waiter with curls like the black grapes of Paradise. What more do you want?
(5)Jocelyn C.
Came here for lunch the other day, and was pleasantly surprised. I honestly don't know why I never came in here before, but I'm glad that the situation has now been rectified. The spinach pie I had was amazing and could easily become a new addiction for me (as if I need more of those). My friend's tuna sandwich was also really good (I took a bite, I couldn't resist). Very chill atmosphere and far enough away from the crazies of Central that you'll forget you're even still in Cambridge. I just hope business starts picking up a little more so I won't have to worry about it closing anytime soon. I will definitely come back, and often.
(4)kwala t.
Since coffee shops are basically the equivalent of my office cubicle, I can be pretty picky. But I've been finding more and more little gems around Boston and Cambridge, and I really like Andala. However, if it weren't in my general neck o' the woods, I'm not sure I'd insist on going there - so to be fair, I'm giving it three stars (I was tempted to give four, but realized the fourth would be for proximity to my house, which is not a valid factor). On to the nitty gritty of the review. I've only been during the day, thus missing out on some of the hookah action mentioned in other reviews. But it's a cute and comfortable space - good light, ample seating, and an enclosed terrace with big windows. The downstairs is a little claustrophobic. If you're staying in, it's full-service - as in there are incredibly attentive servers eagerly refilling your water cup and checking in to ask how you're doing. There's a bit of a 'first table-waiting job' vibe to it, and the staff behind the counter, in contrast, are consistently non-plussed (borderline sullen...). The teas are great! I'd personally go back just for the teas - especially the pot of black house tea with cardamon, and a decent selection of many others. The coffee was so-so, and I haven't had any espresso drinks or smoothies. Lentil soup pretty good, and spinach pies are decent - a little too doughy for my taste, but I like the tangy Syrian/Lebanese style filling (ie no feta/egg like the Greek style). The rest of the menu looks really good - every time I've been someone gets one of the massive chicken sandwiches, and it's a positive sign that they always eat every last bite of it. Others have commented on the unreasonably high prices, and I just don't agree. It's not dirt cheap, but I haven't found a coffee shop in the area with food for much less than $8 per sandwich/salad. Andala's falls in the same range. It does lose points for not having enough power outlets - what is up, just buy a few power strips! I guess it's to deter people like me who camp out with laptop for hours, but still...I've encountered the same lack of powerage in a lot of other places and it's starting to make me sad.
(3)Julian H.
I went there last night after contemplating between Legal Seafood which was walking distance from where we were at Kendall Square or taking the T to Central Square. I finally decided to take my wife there after reading about it so much lately. Andala is a coffee house. Laid-back ambiance, not too crowded and varieties of coffee and tea to choose from. On the food side, there were not much you can choose from. I didn't see any real food in the menu. However, when walking through the door, I saw the "Tonite's Specials" signage where Lamb Kebab was on the list. The lamb kebab was surprisingly good. Served with cous-cous, salads and pitta. My wife had a couple of pies, which were also served with salad. Overall, it was a nice experience for us to spend some quality time together.
(4)Ashley G.
Yay, I am a fan. This place has the coziness of your eccentric aunt's library/living room. Their Iced Tea with cardamom is fantastic, their Iced Coffee is super strong (+) and their pressed avocado sandwich is yum. Super fresh and healthy ingredients. I only wish it weren't on such a busy road, otherwise I might make the tables outside under the vines my regular work spot!
(4)Keith A.
I've had a hard time settling on a favorite coffeehouse in Cambridge, because every place I try seems to be missing a certain . . . something. Some indefinable quality, some je ne sais quoi, some essential integrity that makes a place thoroughly one with itself, a perfect fit for its neighborhood and its clientele. And I've been putting off writing a review of Andala, because my ultimate assessment of it is that it also lacks this je-ne-sais-quoility, and I can't figure out why. At the same time, it seems to lack it just a tiny bit less than its nearest competitors. Does this make it my favorite? Maybe. I don't know. I'm a perfectionist. I will say, in its favor, that it's a much more relaxing place than the packed-to-the-rafters 1369, Algiers and Diesel, all of which can get intense at peak times (which is to say between 10 AM and 9 PM). Free wi-fi is also a nice plus -- and, interestingly, at any given time, only a small number of customers are using it. How weird and cool is that? It's a decent dining deal, and the decor is charmingly funky. The caffe mocha is unsweetened, made with actual cocoa powder instead of Hershey's syrup; I appreciate this difference. Finally, the cinnamon almond brioche is made with either pure love or crack. Possibly both. It's unfortunate, though, that the one place in town that sells sensibly sized desserts has so few of them to choose from. Also, there is no such thing as decaf at Andala, so if you're coming by after 4 PM, watch yourself.
(4)Tom E.
A possible rival for Carberry's in the Central Square coffee cafe stakes. Perhaps even edging slightly ahead as they have free wifi at Andala's. It's a pretty cafe with good reasonably priced coffee and some appealing-looking baked goods, although the eating options are not as wide as at Carberry's. The decor is french/islamic perhaps? Turkish is another possibility. Either way, it's the most pleasant decor of any of the cafes around, with some elegant furniture, a hidden area and lovely big windows to look out onto the world at. I'll definitely frequent this place from now on and try to work my way through the choices. You can't beat a place that FEELS good to be in. The staff were friendly and had no problems with me ordering a little coffee and then working for several hours with their freebie wifi. Actually, it's a good place for a bit of reading/work - it's not crowded like Sbucks and 1369, there's plenty of light and some nice background music (Massive Attack). There are no big tables for groups though, so don't come with your study group and ruin it for everyone else. Interestingly in my 2 hours at Andala's there were 2 different customers wearing black leather pants. That's surely an above average leather pant-wearing clientele than usual for a cafe. Anyone have any ideas why?
(4)Vanilla P.
Ooh the men who work here are eye candy, but in a European / Armenian sort of fancy-walking-shoe-and-tight-jean sort of way. The men are all prettier than me, which is why they get 4 stars. Food's good, lots of tables, cute interior. Makes me want to own my own pad so I can paint the walls orange, but then I realize that I look better in pastels. Had some sort of salad, some coffee, and a dessert. All were good but I can't remember what they were....
(4)Alex S.
Being a non-coffee drinker (heretic, I know) I have a somewhat different approach to cafes, asking questions like "do they have Diet Coke on tap?" as opposed to...well, I don't actually know what any of those coffee questions are, because I don't drink coffee. Anyway, they don't have Diet Coke on tap, but it is a whopping $1.50 for a can of it. Even though I get raped with respect to the soda, this place is pretty much the best place to study in Central Square. It's big, bright, friendly and plays good music to study by. Today's selection was Nat King Cole, which was exactly the perfect sort of music to make me feel guilty when I was slacking off and people watching out of their gigantic windows. The food is great here - it's a combination of standard cafe baked goods (bagels & croissants) and delicious Mediterranean items. The meat pies are delicious, and come with a very passable salad. The kitchen is downstairs, and apparently most of the menu items are made on the premises. The only downside for studying is that so many other people are doing it, you might get distracted by your neighbors. You'd think that chilling out in a cafe you wouldn't have the two people next to you talking about applied statistics while you were studying it, but you would apparently be mistaken. I guess that's what you get in the city of higher learning. Lame. If this cafe goes out of business, I will cry.
(4)Ali L.
This place was excellent, it was big and the layout with all the persian rugs and such reminded me of my parents house. The waitress was very nice and attentive (AND donning a Yelp! tshirt), she would come by every few minutes to make sure we didn't need anything and promptly brought our food and drinks. My lentil soup was the best I ever had and my cousins hummus plate was among the best I ever had - especially her toasted pita bread which wasn't too crunchy or too flaky. The place itself seemed very much like a hangout spot for locals to use the free WiFi, have some coffee, and on a nice day smoke some hookah outside -- all in all it was awesome.
(5)S K.
Great coffee, food and middle-eastern fare, the minuses are a less-than-desirable service , although all the servers are very friendly they seem to move at a glacial place. However, a great place to relax and unwind (especially if you are not in a big rush)
(3)Kelly W.
The food was delicious, the outside seating was really nice, and I really enjoyed the mint tea.
(4)Nabeel H.
One of the only coffee houses in Cambridge with a healthy amount of space. There is seating upstairs and down in this middle-eastern style coffee house. A combination of that warm arabic hospitality and the fact that is is a converted home makes it feel like you are at a friends' house where he is serving you excellent pastries and arabic coffee. And like any good friends house, the free wifi is welcome. My new favorite Cambridge coffee spot.
(5)Meaghan S.
EDIT: 9/18/07 Went here again this weekend. This place can be so weird. The servers seem perpetually confused. There's not a great system for cashing out. I still like it.. but there are kinks. ------------- EDIT: 8/31/07 So I finally got around to going to Andala again. My experience was far better this time around. The waiter (a teenage boy) was very attentive and helpful. I ordered the iced Chai and a muffin (I think it was almond-apple) both were very good. I hung out with my food and laptop and chilled there for an hour or so. It was very relaxing. And it looks like they have shisha now - in 9 flavors apparently. I will have to try it out! I'm glad this place is down the street, and based on many of these other reviews it seems that my bad experience was a rare occurrence. ------ I live very near Andala and often drive by and see people sitting there at all times of day. I always wanted to check it out and never had the opportunity until yesterday. I must say, that I was extremely disappointed. The decor inside was very cool, but since it was such a nice day we opted to sit outside. The cafe wasn't particularly busy, but we asked the man at the counter if we should order there. He asked if we were taking food to go or eating in. We told him we would be eating there but we would like to eat outside on the patio and he told us he would send a waitress out with menus. So we sat on the patio and sat... and sat... and sat... Now mind you this was the middle of the day on a Monday, the cafe was not crowded and there were three staff members on duty. After about 15 minutes of waiting my boyfriend went back inside and asked, "Can we have some menus while we wait for our menus?" Kind of sarcastic, but we still hadn't been acknowledged by any wait staff for 15 minutes. The man at the counter, the one who told us he would send someone outside said, "Well isn't that ironic that you want menus while you wait for your menus," and gave my boyfriend menus and he came back outside. We looked at the menus, not a huge selection but the food and coffee seemed interesting. We were ready to order after about 5 minutes of deciding, but were made to wait another 20 minutes. No one came out to take out order AGAIN. At this point we had already wasted enough time and decided to get some food at Falafel Palace or The Middle East. We eventually went with the Mid East. I REALLY wanted to like Andala - but based on their total lack of customer service I must give them one star. Since they are so close I am prepared to give them another chance sometime soon. But I was extremely disappointed in my first try. I want to give props to the Middle East, our waiter was also the host and bartender tending to 6 or 7 tables of people and we were taken care of far more quickly there than at Andala.
(4)Michael C.
A hit-or-miss menu combined with less-than-minimal service make this place a complete mixed bag. On the plus side, it's the ideal place to meet friends or hang out.
(3)Aimee P.
Andala is a wonderful place to go to hang out with a friend or to get some work done. The interior is warm and inviting, polished wood floors gleam beneath rich oriental carpets. The atmosphere created by the vibrant wall colorings and marble topped tables will keep me coming back time and time again. Nearly everything on the menu is scrumptious, however the coffee/espresso drinks seem to vary in quality from day to day. Aside from this, my only other (minor) complaint is that the seating could be more comfortable. There is one rather hard sofa and a number of small (but beautiful) tables. These complaints are so minor that they are hardly worth noting. I love this place and will make it a regular haunt. Edit: This has been posted for several days, and I have since realized that I forgot to mention the FREE INTERNET- how silly of me.
(4)Sean E.
I've recently gotten back into coffee after about a five year hiatus. So on my way to the Central Sq. T stop in the mornings I've been alternating between Starbucks and 1369 -- not really enjoying either of the places. On one hand you have your over-the-top bordering on grating cheerfulness at Starbucks and the cooler-than-thou stuck-up-ness of 1369. Can there not be a comfortable median? Then Andala opened up. At first I didn't know what was going on with this place. For months I watched as they worked on the inside and outside of this little corner store. At one point I couldn't tell -- are they open? What are they serving? Why haven't they gotten rid of the sign for the old place that says they sell wraps and smoothies? What's it called? They have hookahs in the windows -- what does this mean? Well a few weeks back they finally had a grand opening and put a couple small signs in their window saying Andala Coffee House. Tired of the Starbucks vs. 1369 routine I went in and have been stopping in on the way to and from the T ever since. For me, they have a few big pluses going for them -- they're cheaper than both those places, the people working there act like regular human beings, and (this one's just for me) its location is much more convenient. Also, the pastries and "gargantuan muffins" are pretty damn fine. Even the half-off day olds are good. I take a star off because the quality of the coffee can vary a little (though the hot-chocolate is excellent). A welcome addition to Central Square.
(4)Gabor Z.
Best breakfast place in Central Square. I've only been there for brunch and breakfast on the weekend. The food is tasty and healthy and the place is super cosy. It is Middle Eastern so don't expect bacon and eggs. They have outdoor seating and the wait staff I experienced is always very friendly.
(4)Alison P.
Let's hear it for Cafe Andala: tons of natural light, two rooms that feel spacious even when packed, great music at a reasonable volume, free wifi, baked goods AND soups/salads, friendly staff, rugs and lanterns (!), and it's even bright enough inside that you can read without straining your not-hip-enough eyes. On top of that, it's open late, unlike several of the other awesome cafes north of the Charles. The espresso is so-so, which breaks my heart a little because I love my espresso. For that, I took off a star. But for a dangerous raspberry-almond muffin, a beautiful salad, and several hours to finish my *@#&@^ thesis, I'll love this place with all my heart. Oh yeah, and they have about 30 teas. Amazing!
(4)Kathryn D.
Andala has tons of different kinds of teas, fresh juices and lots of coffees and espresso. You can even choose between Turkish and Arabic coffee (which is Turkish coffee brewed with spices and sugar). The prices are really reasonable. They also have baked goods like bagels, croissants and baklava - the lemon poppyseed croissant is the best one I've ever tasted. There's talk of having sandwiches too, at some point in the future. The latte ($2.50) that I had there was pretty standard, but it was also the first day for the guy who made it, so if it's that good the first day I bet they'll be great in a week. The ambiance in this place is awesome - really warm and inviting. Big oriental rugs on the floor, brass tables and brass on the exposed brick walls - I would live in a place like this. They have free wireless and a printer, and in the warmer months they will have outdoor seating. I don't know the exact address of this place, but it's right near the corner of River & Western. -------- Edit: I've been back here a few times now, and they have added soups and salads. This will push my rating up one more star, since now I can get a coffee AND a snack.
(5)Amy M.
Went here for the first time today and loved it. Beautiful surroundings, lots of interesting space, wifi. The best chai I've ever had. I look forward to going back to try the food because it looks amazing.
(4)Malkah F.
As always, a great dinner. I love this place as the ambiance is incredible, the wait staff friendly and caring, and the food yummy. The prices are low if you compare it to other places serving home-cooked middle-eastern fare. Another very special thing about this place is that for those of us involved in social justice work -- this is HOME. There is no other restaurant where we can find support and the owner is always willing to share support for our work. As a Palestinian he understands human rights -- and he also understands women's issues, LGBT issues, and anti-racism work. Enjoy the best food in and around Boston at reasonable prices, feel completely at home, and know that you are supporting a business that is on the side of human rights and dignity for ALL of us.
(5)Tianyi Z.
Love their coffee and omelet, and the sandwiches are pretty good. Cosy environment, great place for brunch or to have a cup of coffee by the street.
(5)Ana B.
The best place to get a coffee or a a tea around Central Square and meet a friend, read a book, or work a bit. I love to sit there and just enjoy the space- feels like a large middle eastern living room. The large windows overlook the street, there is an outside patio in the summer, and a cozy downstairs. The crew is very nice and will not rush you up. The service is a bit slow and unpredictable but they are so welcoming and casual that it really does not matter. The food is just ok but pricey. But the teas, coffees, pastries and desserts are all wonderful. I love to get a cardamom tea or an arabic coffee and a croissant. They serve it properly, with plates, silverware and napkins. Quite charming. One of my all time favourite secret places.
(4)Fatos B.
I will try to be fair. I went there for hookah. So I'm not going to comment on coffee or anything else. When I first entered the store, the lady could not for the life of her tell me what the hookah choices were. I had to ask if they have what I was looking for. They said they did so I ordered. First the wait was too long, and once it came it was terrible. It wasnt working. They had no idea how to set it up. The waitresses were not particularly interested to make it work. Everything was confusing and a mess. Seeing that there was nothing I could do anymore I asked if they could puton the soccer match for me to watch. One of the guys said yeah we do if you pay 400 dollars. They were literraly looking at me weirdly until I left. It appeared that they didnt want me in there. There was a waitress who was nice and one of the younger owners. That was the only positive.
(1)Julie B.
Service takes too long and the orders were not correct the last few times we came here as a group.
(2)Ama N.
I've been coming here for a while, just for the teas (the tea is heaven)and coffees alone ....but one thing that sucks about here is that their customer service is horrible! So the waitress brings you a menu, which by the way has a bunch of food stains on it... you seriously lose your appetite. Then she literally will never come back! I went there this past week and had to leave the room I was sitting in and walk to the register and ask the guy behind the counter if he could kindly tell our waitress we are ready to order. He looks at me like I have leprosy and says "ya she'll be around". Like why am I being treated like I have no right to ask but as a customer im waiting for 30 min for you to come so i can order a latte! I dont get it but everytime it is the case here and its getting old. Oh and I only had lentil soup here once....just bring some seasoning with you if you want it -_-
(3)Adam M.
+++++ -Great location in central square -Great place to study, no pressure to leave at all -Amazing Arabic music -Very chill place -Nice interesting crowd of people -Tea!! ------- -Bad service (The staff keeps changing) -Mediocre food
(3)Nancy Y.
Best hang out place in Cambridge. Somewhat crowded on weekends but my closest friends and I loved hangin out there. Best teas, coffees, and cappuccino's around. Also they had a great chicken sandwich. I miss the grape vines in the summers there. Very laid back and very warm place to be.
(5)Francisco M.
The rice had no flavor and the service took too long. The chicken was decent but the 35 minute wait for the plate wasn't worth the bill especially since the portions were small. The iced chai was OK but didn't come out until after we ate and the waiter never checked on us so we had to pay the bill up front. I would not eat there again.
(1)Kasem W.
Great food, great service, great price, great choices. I first discovered this place at a meetup.com event, then I got hooked. Their chicken and beef dishes are all fantastic, and their choices of tea is superb.
(5)Mar M.
I used to be a regular here, as I live right around the corner. As other people mentioned, service is really horrible here, but I put up with it - I need a place to work and I don't mind waiting for a cup of coffee. However, today is the last day I come here. We went over to order at the counter, as I knew they would take an awfully long time to service us at the table. But the waiter insisted we sit down... we've been waiting for her ever since... it's been an hour. We gave up - but hey, at least we have a free place to work.
(1)Matthew B.
I've been in central for a year and avoided this spot under the impression foods came second to the college charm of offering hookah. I'm glad to announce today how wrong my conclusion was. The music is as authentic as the culinary delights that span the gambit of Middle Eastern delights. I wish I had headphones as I write this up on the free wifi, but I sure appreciate the latter. Rich, flavorful and plentiful - I could spend every meal here today and be satisfied with the diversity of taste. I rocked a doughy, flavorful set of meat pies that make my mouth water to imagine again while my lady enjoyed the traditional plate of the usual suspects, all of which were incredible. We gave the house tea a shot with its cardamom warning duly noted and I must say, it was the right choice. It's a tasty delight you're not going to find down the street at Starbucks. On a similar trajectory, rock the mint lemon smoothy for the most refreshing drink this side of the Mississippi. Overall, I'm pumped to be a just a stone's throw away. In a word, this spot is flavorful. Enjoy.
(4)Maria G.
Cute coffee house that is just steps away from central square. They offer a variety of selections of coffee and food. Price is reasonable. Coffee/tea is around $3 - 4. Service is okay. The place is not big but has plenty of tables inside the shop. I ordered hot cider and it was alright. Nothing much to "complain" about.
(4)George H.
Stopped by around 4 pm for a really late lunch, so we ordered the soup. I had the lentil. It came out quickly enough but it was Luke warm and not really that great, however, the Decor and the quirky charm of the cafe, decorated by genuine grapes hanging from the vines above, stole our heart! Plus the server was a very kind and despite being very busy because he seemed to be the only person serving outdoors, indoors and on the floor below, he was efficient and not at all cranky as other servers are wont to be when they are overwhelmed! So, that rates a 4 stars in my book! Would definitely be back, if I was living close by! And I would definitely recommend it!
(4)Anpan W.
The ambience was interesting, but food was underwhelming and overpriced, and it was hard to find both a place to sit (laptop squatters took over big tables) and that was quiet (bromance start-up date and awkward MIT students on a date). I ordered the fruit, goat cheese, honey, and pita item. There was not enough honey nor enough pita.
(2)Alon R.
I had high hopes for this place due to the high stars and recommendations. I am sad to say this was the most foul meal I have ever eaten in Cambridge. I ordered the meat and spinach pies which were literally microwaved out of a box. They were literally inedible. We literally just left the money on the table and walked out because it was so poorly managed and poor in taste.
(1)Rebecca D.
Love this place! Very cute, quiet, good wifi. Came here while working remotely for the week in Boston. Hunkered down for the afternoon. Staff was super kind and helpful and the food was amazing! Fresh, tasty and healthy. I had the tuna sandwich and it was awesome. Some of the best hummus I've ever had, fresh and homemade. Wonderful tea selection too, I highly recommend this spot to anyone. I'll definitely be back!
(5)Michelle J.
I was a bit hesitant about meeting my study group here after reading a few of the other reviews on Yelp. However, it was too late to change venues and well sometimes you just have to see things for yourself. When I got here I ordered an apple cider at the counter and then found my group. We were actually at the comfy table setup right in front of the register. The barista brought over my cider and suggested that the lower level had additional seating if we needed more space. We declined and she left us alone. And didn't bother us at all during our time there. A bunch of folks had ordered and got their food and we just enjoyed the ambiance and our conversation, and of course studying. The food I heard from those who ate was average. I liked the cider. It wasn't too sweet and was just what I needed on a cold winter night. The menu was a bit on the pricey side to me but the drinks were average price of most coffeehouses in the area. When we left we paid and there was no fuss. I'd come here to study again. This is a chill place and has more room than most other coffee houses which tend to be kind of cramped hole in the walls.
(3)Cassandra F.
I love Andala. I unfortunately relocated and no longer live down the street! However, I did come back digitally to return the gratitude and still take the T two stops to go. Their tables are great for study and their tea comes in a pot with little glasses which is charming and practical. I would strongly recommend the Oatmeal topped with coconut shaving and milk with raisin surrounded by a medley of delicious fruit. As a Grad Student, I gained a lot from the positive atmosphere and waitstaff. It's a great location and a special place to me since I have had some life changing conversation their. In a way, it remind me of a charming little spot in the West Village, yet in Cambridge.
(5)Nina D.
Service here is really bad and the food is sort of bad and overpriced. But overall, the staff is super friendly and the space is unparalleled in its convenience and ambience. In spite of its very strong limitations - Andala remains one of my regular neighborhood spots.
(2)Alexander P.
This was a very cool, authentic Arab cafe experience. I ordered Turkish coffee and a foole plate. The Turkish coffee was simple but good. It was served with an empty espresso cup and the copper pot that it had been prepared in so you could pour it yourself, which was kind of cool. The Foole Plate was excellent. The pile of fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers and onions mostly) atop a warm bowl of a heavenly combination of mashed fava beans, chick peas garlic and olive oil, served with warm pita made for a really good light breakfast. The Arabic-speaking staff, carpet-covered floors, and walls adorned with various excerpts from the Qur'an reminded me of my days abroad. They have a lot of authentic dishes I look forward to trying in the future.
(4)Xenia A.
If you want a quick dash in and out, this place is not for you. If you want a place to work, or read, or catch up with a friend, this place is perfect! There is tons of seating and natural light. Food is delicious, there is a huge variety of teas to choose from (that come in pots) and coffee and amazing, divine desserts. In the warm weather, their seating outside under the trellis is so nice - especially when paired with the mint smoothie!
(5)Miriam A.
Is it bad that the first word that comes to my mind about this restaurant is RATS? I came here twice with my friend to smoke hookah outside on the patio and I couldn't help but feel like we were intruding on a rats night out taking place on Andala's property. I'm not stating that the rats came from inside the restaurant but they run around freely and its safe to say they probably make their way inside as well. Can't they have some sort of exterminator come on a regular basis to prevent this? Okay enough about that...I have to admit the food is yummy here. I've had the foole plate, chicken kabob special, and some sort of chicken sandwich. All delicious and reasonably priced. Hookah is great. Service is uber slow...its okay though no need to rush, hookah time= relaxing time (sans rats).
(3)Olivia J.
Great tea selection + they give it to you in a big steel pot so it doesn't get cold for a long time. You can also ask for more hot water without extra pay. A very fitting place to get work done!
(5)Edward S.
a really chill, place... I enjoyed a quietly momentous hour or so under this amazing grape trellis, sipping the best coffee and and chatting with arbitrary, interesting strangers...
(5)Stefan K.
The location is nice. Grapevines as roofing of the terrace. I've been here twice. Loved the avocado sandwich the first time I ate here. Tea is good too. Went back another day to get the avocado sandwich again. Unfortunately they were out of avocado at 11 am. Waiters we're terribly slow that day. It took 20 minutes to pay.
(3)Raül R.
So I'd seen lots of people at their patio and wanted to try. We ordered tabule salad, chicken kabab and beef with rice and some vegetables. Because the service is extremely SLOW, they brought the salad first and then took more than 15 minutes to bring the other food, so the person who ordered it had to wait with her food on the table for the rest of us. There wasn't so many people at the restaurant and we were just 3. We had to ask for our food because they hadn't told us anything about the delay... Food is good (tabule just ok) although not very generous quantities. And I think it's a little pricey too. Good location though.
(2)Jen B.
The service here is atrocious. Don't be fooled by the quirky decor. This place is awful. We went here for a tea/coffee break and were appalled from start to finish. Our waitress dropped my husband's croissant, then brought out the bill before our beverages arrived. The "waitress" (sorry, but she obviously isn't qualified for the job title) then had to consult the check to remember what my husband had even ordered. When the drinks came, my fruit smoothie tasted tasteless (and odorless) and the mint tea had no flavor. THREE PEOPLE came to see if we'd paid our bill within 4 minutes of us getting our items. When the second server came around, my husband said we hadn't paid yet, as he didn't want them to see that I'd left no tip. Within 32 seconds (I am not exaggerating, unfortunately), the third server came around and just took the bill holder. Oh well, the secret's out. They didn't get tipped and I'm now writing this review to spare others the terrible experience of going to the Andala. If there's karma on the cafe scene, this place will be under new ownership sooner than later.
(1)Ellie W.
Props to Andala for its cozy-warm ambiance and intimate coffee joint feel, but if I wanted service so slow I could almost feel arthritis and osteoporosis coming on, I would've asked a 90 year old to take my order. I was in a rush, so ordered the bagel of the day and a bottle of water, to go. The bagel of the day consisted of cream cheese, tomato slices, and avocado. I kid you not, this order took 25 minutes. In 25 minutes, I could've gone to purchase my own toaster oven, some bagels, tomato, avocado, and found some random electrical outlet in a train station to make my own BAGEL OF THE DAY. It was quickly becoming the BAGEL OF TOMORROW, seeing how slow service was. There was approximately...no, there was ONE other person in this place, so I don't know how it could've possibly taken so long to slice up some goods and shove it in an oven. The staff wasn't remotely apologetic when I asked several times how much longer my bagel would take, which only added to my annoyance. As most men should know, you don't mess with a hungry woman, unless you are prepared to experience the wrath of the raging woman. Yes, I hold hunger grudges.
(1)Georgina C.
I scheduled a relaxed Sunday meeting with someone I was planning a freelance project with. While I was waiting I ordered a carrot juice and brioche which were both so good I did not even mind when he finally showed up 40 minutes late. I love the location and how much outdoor seating there is. I definitely want to return to try something new, it is the perfect place to spend time with friends or relax on the weekend with a good book.
(4)Madeline N.
I came in with such high hopes! But was sadly disappointed. Why? 1. I walked in to buy a drink and they told me to go back outside to do table service. 2. I went outside and found one waiter, frazzled, trying to serve the full back porch. 3. I waited 4. Waited 5. Finally was served and asked for water in addition to my food 6. To receive water in a cup that still had lipstick marks on it from a previous user Let's just say I've been more impressed before.
(2)Rachel N.
Conflicted, I do love the simple Middle Eastern fare they have here, and the space is lovely (think warm, pseudo-bazaar feeling) for studying or meeting with friends; however, all that pro-Palestine, "freedom from the Israeli occupation" stuff on the walls makes me a taddddd uncomfortable -- so, if you're looking for some delicious hummus or a falafel wrap and able to keep your eyes on the food, not on the decor, then Andala is a win. Oh, plenty of seating (they have a downstairs too, with waiter service), unsure abt the wifi status. Coffee + snack/meal is usually around $10-12.
(4)Heidi L.
The great thing is that there's no real rush at Andala -- you can stay there for a while among all the lovely decor. The downside is that I suspect part of this comes from the somewhat slow service. Note that even at 9am most of the pastries are gone, but the tea and coffee are pleasant and the food is unique (although it is a bit pricey a la Algiers). I'd come here to work or catch up with old friends, but not for the food.
(3)Yaka M.
Great Atmosphere. Spacious and lots of seating so you can spend a good amount of time here without getting angry look from the staff. Food: I had Chicken Khalili Sandwich. It was pretty spicy but very, very good. Goes very well with the hummus that came on the plate too. Drink: Lemon Mint Smoothie is great.
(4)Marilyn C.
Came here for lunch last weekend and relaxed outside under the grape vines. Iced coffee was good. During a previous trip I had one of their smoothies - lemon/mint and it was good. This place straddles the line between 3 and 4 stars. The food was pretty good - if it were cheaper (not that it is pricey) I would up this place to 4 stars. Service was up to snuff. They have hookahs if your into that.
(3)Anthony L.
I am really going against everyone's reviews, but I just don't love this place. I walk and bike ride by Andala almost every day on my way home from work. I've always been intrigued about this place (especially since I love coffee and tea). On the outside, this place is extremely adorable. There are plenty of outdoor seating areas, which is great in the summer. The inside is equally as adorable. I can tell the owners really put a lot of thought and effort into this place. I've never been to the downstairs, but it looks huge. I really enjoy how there are different sections of the house for various uses (board games, studying, group studying). When I went there my first time, I would have rated this place 5 stars. I love the free wifi and the tea was great! The second time was a total flop. - I was rather parched, as it was a scorching summer afternoon. I was craving an iced coffee, but didn't want to walk across the street to Starbucks or 1369, Andala it was! I ordered my beverage and the barista just looked extremely confused (maybe he was new, maybe he never works on the coffee bar, who knows). He pulled out a red solo cup (you know, the ones we all use to play beer pong with) and filled it with ice and coffee and handed it over. Confused, I asked "do you have a lid or something?" then he tossed one that hardly fit to me. Drinking the coffee, I was unimpressed. I could tell this was not double brewed, yet, it was brewed as hot coffee (so it was extremely watered down and had no taste). - My friend ordered a danish (they make the danishes look so delicious in the display case). Thinking it was made in house, the man bends over and pulls out a Stop and Shop plastic basket and pulls a danish out with his hands (without gloves or anything protecting his nasty paws with the store bought danish). I was extremely unimpressed with this! Even if you are going to buy your danishes from Stop and Shop, at least have them taken out of the box to make it look a little more authentic. I much rather go to 1369 for a perfectly brewed iced coffee and home made (or, at least, we think) dessert.
(2)Chip B.
I really liked this place when I moved into the neighborhood in summer 2011. I dined and studied there about 6 times per month on average. Somewhere between then and now (spring 2013) a clear decline in service and quality occurred. Wait staff often do not realize when I've settled and am ready to order. Entrees do not come out at the same time for multi-person parties. My food once arrived quite cold, and the coffee is good but nothing to write home about. The atmosphere is wonderful for studying or chatting, but that is not enough to make me want to visit as often as I used to. I really hope the owners take note of the decline and correct course.
(2)Lesley K.
Service isn't great. Food was just ok. Cute restaurant though, the patio seating is nice for a warm day.
(2)Jing Y.
This is a cute middle eastern coffee shop that has a living room vibe. They have the equivalent of a sun room towards the front of the shop. I can only imagine how great it would be to go on a sunny day!
(4)Nitya D.
Gah. I am so conflicted. Here's why: Andala is an adorable cafe with great food, lots of seating and free wifi. It's definitely an excellent spot to chill for a bit while reading or studying. The chairs are comfy, the tables are big enough. But gahhh the food. The portions do NOT match the prices. The prices are average at ~$10, but you do not get your money's worth at all. Which is so sad because the food really is delicious and as a result I always want so much more. It's definitely a great little cafe, and I do love it. But only after I've eaten a full meal elsewhere.
(3)Brian C.
This is a wonderful coffeehouse and restaurant featuring Palestinian-style Middle Eastern food and drink. The owner, Sami, is very welcoming, the food is delicious, and the portions are reasonable (I.e., not more than you can or should eat). A great addition to Central Square!
(5)Sam M.
Review on their coffee... No knowledge about their coffee, machine, nor does the employee care to even know how to do her job. Two thumbs down.
(1)Tanya S.
This place is amazing for brunch/lunch. The waiters are really relaxed, the coffee is great - mocha is tasty! And the dishes are so fresh and have a great mixture of tastes. The salads, sandwiches, hummus is all great. They also have tasty juices and a huge selection of teas. It's rarely busy and the atmosphere is really cozy - so rare in the Cambridge/Boston area. There is even outdoor seating when it's warm. A gem.
(5)Allison R.
There was no music. I thought that was odd. It was practically silent in there. I met a personal shopper for a consult and while they appear to offer full meals, we were meeting for coffee and tea, so I had a Lapsang Suchong. Love that tea. It was a little strange that I was given like a 3 ounce cup to pour my tea kettle into, but whatever. Maybe that's their thing. Totally average and okay. I'd have another meeting here if I needed to catch up with someone near Central. Now, onto the important stuff: do I hire the stylist?
(3)Mabel F.
The service here is SO BAD. Who doesn't take multiple credit cards anymore? And who takes 30 minutes to process a request to pay? Flip side, the Chicken Khalili sandwich was indeed spicy and delicious. What a nice surprise. I ate the entire thing after my workout. My friend didn't like one of the two specials. The name of the dish starts with an S and contains eggs and tomatoes. I had been here before, and the Arabic coffee was great. This time I tried the filtered coffee, which was good as well. Stick with the drinks and pay cash. And make sure you come when you are not rushed for time!
(3)Lisa Y.
I really tried to like this place, but I can't. The food is mediocre that basically it's like a ordinary cafe. They try to make it more like middle east food but there is nothing like that...seriously...The eggs and omelet is just like any brunch you have across the street. The tomatoes are just chopped up and put in a plate. The meet (chicken or beef) are just cooked so at least people are safe to eat them. I want to ask the owner/chef, where is your passion? Or do you simply hit up something in the microwave oven? Things taste not fresh at all. And they charge a price like a formal restaurant. Is it just me that feel like that? In addition to food, their service is equally bad. I waited for forty-five minutes to get a cup of water after begging three waitresses and failed. Then when the food is finally on the table, it was so disappointing and not even hot (kind of suspects it is leftovers from last night).
(1)Sharon L.
Highly recommended to everyone my favorite food there which is called shashokeh, it is a little bit spicy, topped with pouched eggs. Really tasty!
(5)Mikhail Z.
I felt in love with this place when I accidentally found it walking near Central sq. They have free WiFi, so I typically work from there. They also have projection screen downstairs, so I come there to watch soccer world cup games. Regarding the food, their turkish, and especially arabic, coffee are amazing! When I work, I also take either backlava or nammourrah for desert to accompany my coffee - both are also very-very good!. For more meaningful food, I like their kufta and lentil soup. Most important thing is that all these stuff, though on traditional turkish line, is somehow different compared to what I tried at other turkish places.
(5)Michelle L.
Cute little cafe in Central Square. The drinks are good, but the food is so-so. There are 2 levels, so no worries if the entrance level looks full! The entrance level has more of a bookstore vibe - little tables where people drink coffee and read. Downstairs has tables for meals as well as a large communal area for book clubs (?). I ordered the ground beef special, which was decent. I expected bits of ground beef but it really was just a beef patty topped with some stuff on rice. My 4 friends got their meals 10 minutes before mine came out, so they can definitely do a better job staging the service. We all shared the hummus plate, which had good presentation but was nothing to write home about. The chai latte I had, however, was divine. Unlike Starbucks where they make it too sweet, this had the perfect blend of spice and sugar. There was even foam on top! All in all, a great cafe. Not much more than that.
(3)Claudia L.
such wholesome authentic food, wonderful setting.
(5)Bonnie S.
I met up with my mother here for a tea date. When I inquired about a particular tea, the server could not describe it. When I settled on Jasmine tea, it came out in a teabag... One I know I can buy at any grocery store. I refuse to pay $3.50 for a teabag. When I asked to change it to loose leaf tea they said they were out of Jasmine tea. Fine, say you're out in the beginning, don't give me a teabag at a nice café. Another server gave me another loose leaf tea at my request which was quite a good tea. As we were leaving I noticed a sign promoting a political affiliation with the Palestinians. Personally, I don't find this appropriate for a café and my Jewish mother was quite uncomfortable. Not one server smiled through our whole visit.... I love my middle eastern food but because of this whole experience, I will not be returning.
(2)Zachary F.
Slow slow service, but it's because the chef is basically standing at a 2-3 burner stove and doing everything to order. The food that comes out is generally very flavorful and as spicy as you'd like it. You won't care about the wait though, because this place really shines in its home as a study/hang-out venue. Free wireless with good service, lots and lots of outlets, and plenty of nooks and crannies to get some work done. Location is also great right near the Central Square T Red line stop. Food-wise, I got the Foole Plate, which came in a very generous size and smacked of grandma-quality home cooking. Try it.
(4)Toni T.
The place is very cute (upstairs) and the food was rather decent. My only gripe is that the downstairs needs a lot of work. I appreciate the homey feel, but at least at home, there are trays I can eat my food on if I choose to eat on the couch. I'm looking forward to going back just to try the tea.
(3)Grace C.
Right off the central square T line but tucked away into a side street. Great tea. Lots of places to sit. Cozy and inviting atmosphere.
(5)Sandra S.
Lovely decor, great ambiance and friendly staff. Food is affordable and delicious. Too bad you can't smoke hookah inside. Otherwise one of the best places I've visited in Cambridge. Visited mainly because of the stunning inviting photos I had seen on their Facebook page: facebook.com/andalacafe - wasn't disappointed!
(5)Jenny S.
stopped in for some drinks on a rainy day!!! we wanted to sit in since this coffee house furniture & set-up was really cute, but it was STUFFY so we opted for TO-GO HOUSE TEA.. enjoyable w/ my addition of soymilk at no extra charge! nice & spicy yet sweet!.. although they did charge me for 2 regular "pots" although i only took 2 mini cups to-go =( BREWED TO ORDER, this was definitely a nice touch!!
(3)H R.
Thank you for so openly opposing Israel, because now I know not to frequent your establishment ever again. Added bonus is that I won't have to endure the horrible service.
(1)Karina Q.
My go-to cafe in Cambridge, for nearly anything: studying / writing emails / meeting up with people for coffee, brunch, dinner, etc... 1) Service is great. No rush, very pleasant and helpful in providing suggestions on what to order and little adjustments as necessary. Really go the extra mile. Smile, which is rare in Cambridge. Let you stay for hours to chat and work without batting an eye. 2) Food is wonderful, light, healthy and tastes great. From the foole to the hummous and combo plates to the chicken adina (fantastic stew!). Makes me full, but still feel great about what I ate. Which is also rare in this town. 3) Great ambiance. Good (but admittedly random) music selection, great lighting, comfortable chairs, good variety of seating areas for all sorts of groups (from large tables for discussion, to a cozy little corner for intimate chats, a patio area with tons of windows and natural light, a lounge-y hookah area downstairs, and tables near outlets for working. Oh, did I mention free, unlimited wifi? And at least 15+ outlets spread out around the cafe.
(5)Chrysanthe P.
Since I work in Central Square, love coffee, and have a decidedly Mediterranean palate, I had been wanting to go to Andala for quite some time. When an old friend wanted to meet up somewhere on a Tuesday evening, I decided that it was the perfect opportunity to try it out. My office is just a few blocks away, so I went immediately following work even though my friend wouldn't be able to meet up until a bit later. Upon entering, I was struck by the decor and layout of the place: so cozy and plenty of seating options. I ordered their house tea and chose a spot on the terrace to do some work while I waited. The tea was also quite good and I enjoyed getting to strain it myself! This will definitely be a study/reading spot for me from now on. When my friend arrived, we both ordered the lentil soup and he got a Turkish coffee as well. His coffee came out first and we were both struck by how thick it was! Luckily, he loves coffee and said it was unlike anything he'd had: definitely strong, but enjoyable. The lentil soup was very good, in my opinion. It wasn't super heavy like most bean soups. It was really quite delicate, but comforting all the same (which was nice, considering that it was pouring rain). All in all, Andala is a solid place to great a nice beverage, read a book, or meet a friend. I can't wait for the weather to get nice so that I can get the most out of that beautiful terrace seating!
(4)Tamara W.
This place is AWESOME!!! Good enough to make you Pro-Palestine if you were not before... Came here on a total whim because I run by this place ALL THE TIME. I came here with my mother and sister and the food was delicious! It is a lot of food so if you want a filling, hearty lunch I would order something like the shrimp/rice dish I got. But you can also get something smaller like the lentil soup which my mother had. The food is technically "Palestinian Cuisine" but it's very similar to Turkish, Greek, and Israeli food of course. It is delicious. When we told the waiter we were Turkish he hooked it up with a free hummus. They by accident made an extra meal we didn't truly order but they gave it to us for free anyway. The ginger drink is AWESOME-- it's fresh pressed ginger and lemon together. Yum! I don't know the price of the place really because my mother paid :-) but I think it is reasonable... Coming back for sure!
(5)Yi-Ling H.
I went this store twice, once I stayed outside, and it turned out their service is really slow. The other time that I stayed inside, it became much better. Coffee and foods are ok. The place is convenient for transportation.
(3)Ben J.
Sure, the service is slow, but don't be so uptight; smoke a hookah.
(5)Tahani R.
I like this little gem! I got the hummus plate, good tea selection, but servers need to give you napkins with your order.
(3)Mark R.
Great vibe and great coffee selection (Turkish, Arabic, and everything else)...
(4)Paris Q.
I have been to this coffee place many times to hang out with friends. I really like the cozy and comfortable atmosphere. You can enjoy a looong chat with friends while being served slooowly! That's true. Half an hour might easily pass without any waiter showing up at your table, and once you have ordered, you may have to wait for another half an hour for your order to be ready! even if it is only a dessert! The location gets (5/5), and the service (3/5) for their delay, but as long as the staff are friendly and I am there to "spend time" with friends, I do not mind the "wait"! I have mostly had desserts and drinks here, and rarely meals. I like their specialty tea and most of the desserts. My favorite desserts are Nammourah and rice pudding.
(4)Madhura S.
love their hookahs, the ambiance, the hummus sandwich, and the apple juice! Service is kind of slow but it's a nice little find so far!
(4)Megan C.
Coffee, Kabobs, Tea & Slothful French Service Hey where's my spoon?? Oh wait maybe I should order. Where is our waiter?? Five minutes later waiter enters. Water is now on table & waitress vanishes. Okay so living in NYC I'm spoiled we get the best of all possible worlds. We have excellent variety, great waitstaff (if they're not there are a bevy of actors/singers/artists to replace them) apparently Cambridge this isn't the case. It looks like you're either catering to the Students of the to Staff. This was a noisy, packed little cafe, where we sat ourselves, begged to order, enjoyed our conversation (no rush) chased down our waitress for the check and even though I'm only giving this spot three stars still had such a great time ( I guess my company distracted me). Date Rating: 5 Pick up Scale: 1 (definitely bring your own posse here if you're coming) Strong Suggestion: The lentil soup was good. Huge portions here choose a few and share.
(3)Nancy W.
I appreciate their large tea selection, the ridiculous amount of seating they have available, and their "no rush, take your time" attitude. My friends and I camped out there for a solid four hours just writing Christmas cards, and it was a comfortable place to focus or to chat. Their music selection is very ... random, though :P
(4)Anita L.
It might be called a "coffee house" but Andala certainly offers a lot more than that! Andala offers a great alternative to the traditional American brunch. I had the Shakshuka which was made of a bed of tasty rice with fried tomatoes and 2 poached eggs on top. It was filling and delicious. The eggs made it feel breakfast-y and the tomatoes and rice made it feel lunchy. Perfect for brunch! Service was on the slow side and the waiter had a very deliberate way of doing things, but since the food and atmosphere were great, I was willing to be patient and flexible.
(4)Dorise G.
Really, really enjoyed this place. Went here for dinner on the recommendation of a cool coworker, and walking up the steps already knew I was going to like it here. It felt like walking into someone's apartment - cozy with a coffee bar area and a quaint side room, my dining companion and I opted for the side room - nice ambiance and the room all to ourselves at prime dining time on a friday night! i didn't discover the downstairs area until using the ladies room at the end of the meal, but there's ample seating down there as well. we each ordered the lamb and a pot of peppermint tea to split. the lamb was stewed perfectly with carrots and potatoes, and the price was very right at just over $10 a pop. i'm surprised this place isn't teeming with hipsters yet, but it's a prime place for mediterranean dining. so why only 4 stars, you ask? ~minus 3/4 of a star for slooooow service. our waitress didn't come to ask us how we were doing until we had nearly finished our meal, it wasn't clear we were supposed to seat ourselves, and tho i don't really mind laid back service, it may have been slightly overly laid back. ~minus 1/4 of a star because my tomatoes weren't fresh. everything else about the meal was so delicious, having gotten clearly-refrigerated tomato slices (which totally ruins the flavor and texture of a tomato) detracted from the dining experience, but only a teeeeeeeny tiny bit. yes, it's picky, but i freakin love tomatoes, and it makes me sad when they're not good. if it weren't for the slow service, i'd've still given 5 stars.
(4)Shaina P.
with its abundance of tables, seating, and free wi-fi, andala is a prime locale for studying, reading, writing, or chatting. it's an ideal spot where they don't pressure you to leave, but i wish it held in heat better than it does... i usually hunker down with a mint tea, my computer, and later, the Kufta over pilaf ... but if i'm not drinking a freshly heated pot of tea, i'm colder than can be in under an hour.
(3)Jason H.
Super nice staff, amazing lunches (fresh fruit, hummus, meats, etc), and great coffees & teas. Also appreciate the comfy decor. Looking forward to coming here a bunch.
(5)Kelle S.
I have been going to Andala for a while now for several meetup groups that I run and attend. I have to say, that I like this place. The food is high quality and in large enough portions that I have yet to clear my plate. The coffees are a bit small in size (but then I tend to drink 1/3 pot cups of coffee at home, so I'm a little skewed on what I think is a reasonable size cup of coffee) but still high quality. (And I AM a coffee snob.) The servers are friendly, although my experience is that you get slower and less frequent service downstairs than you do upstairs, so take that into account when you choose where to sit. The owner/manager is always eager to please as well. He really wants you to be happy with your food and that shows in the overall experience. The atmosphere is really quite lovely as well. It is a soothing, Middle Eastern environment with comfortable seating. Try the fruit and cheese plate, the oatmeal with fruit, and the omelettes - you can't go wrong! All - I love it!
(5)Olivia v.
THE AVERAGE RATING REFLECTS THE "OLD" ANDALA, BEFORE THE ESTABLISHMENT WENT DOWNHILL. I HAVE BEEN DOZENS AND DOZENS OF TIMES OVER THE LAST 3 YEARS. I SHOULD KNOW. I used to love Andala. I live next door. They used to have lovely pastries (which they stopped buying from their supplier) and good coffee. No longer. The last 5 times I went, I was disgusted. I am now never, ever going back again. - I asked for a latte. I was given an espresso with water. When I meekly said that was not a latte, they looked at me like I was crazy. the manager came out. I had to explain that a latte has milk. They came back with the drink, having simply poured unbelievable amounts of cream in. - The avocado press sandwich is never twice the same, and it has miraculously gotten worse every time I, or a friend, has ordered it. This morning, it was a tasteless glop of salad with almost no avocado in a dried pita and disgusting fake-tasting "cheese". And it took them 50 minutes to bring it out. What are you DOING in the kitchen? - All of their pastries now taste like sugary cardboard. I miss the amazing supplier they once had! My ex-housemate and I nearly cry when we reminisce about their previous selection in the good old days. - I used to think the beef kufta was one of the only reliable menu items (yeah, I've learned not to order most other things), but this morning it came drenched in a cup of oil. I love oil way more than normal people do, but wow. Disgusting. - They charge $10 for a bowl of oatmeal. Are you kidding me? - The service is (notoriously) HORRIFIC, which is usually not something I care about at all... until it messes with the quality of my food. Easily a quarter of my orders have been completely wrong when brought to the table. - I had the worst coffee of my life here one morning before a hike. I really needed coffee. They gave me something that tasted worse than dishwater. We had to stop at another coffee shop before leaving town. Look, I used to love this place. This is my first bad review. They have really earned it. They do NOT deserve such a high Yelp rating. I really think the management has changed, or something. Ugh.
(1)Sara T.
This was my first visit to Andala, and I was really happy with the atmosphere (think: earth tones, interesting spaces, and plants) and free Wifi connection. My jasmine tea was very good, but I was disappointed by the chocolate croissant -- which was a plain croissant with chocolate syrup drizzled over, rather than chocolate baked inside.
(4)Espresso T.
I love the atmosphere in this place but the beverages here are just horrible! I've tried the chai latte, the regular coffee and the cappuccino. They are all subpar! It's a coffee house! Please do better on your drinks!! Their food, however, does small good though I yet to try it.
(2)Yue Z.
This is a gem. It's a small, unpretentious neighborhood café, that attracts the entrepreneurial, quiet, nerdy types. Whenever I go, I hear chatter of startups and world philosophy--an intriguing combination. Their coffees and teas are very well done, and the entire atmosphere is just very relaxed. Being from California, I've had a hard time finding such a café around Harvard square area, but this place is just perfect. The seating is not huge, but they do not seem to be extremely busy either. I can always find a seat when I visit, making it one of my favorite places to go.
(4)Chris T.
My first trip here was at the recommendation of a friend. We went just for the Turkish coffee (it's funny how the Greeks and Turks work out those names) and it was during that visit that I checked out the food menu and decided I would come back and try a few of their dishes. Well, LOW AND BEHOLD, the food was good! The dishes, because they are middle eastern in nature, tend to be a cuisine I don't partake in much. (primarily because I didn't desire much access to them) I totally recommend this place for first-time and frequent visitors to the area, but especially if you have used the mass transit system to get there because parking can be a bit of an annoyance. Atmosphere: Chill. Feels like a coffee house. Plenty of those who can be seen at this restaurant, are students, and will hang there countless hours using their laptops, or reading and studying. Food: I enjoy it a lot. It seems very home-cooked in nature. The menu isn't a blow-my-mind cacophony of complex dishes, it's more timid than that, but the flavor is crisp, clean, fresh, and leaves me happy. Service: Transactional. It's very much business when you in there. I wouldn't say they aren't friendly, but I would suggest that it's very, yes, as I said, transactional. "Hi, what would you like today? Ok, great. Thank you." and off they go. If that's the type of service you like, great. This place is for you. Overall: Love it. Would I change some things, perhaps, but I certainly appreciate it as-is and would continue going without changing a thing. So if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
(4)Jennifer N.
Things at Andala move at a slow pace -- to enjoyably eat (or drink) there, one has to pretend one is sitting outside at a cafe in, let's say, Barcelona. Then you'll understand that of course the waiter is in no hurry to give you the check -- because you're not supposed to be in a hurry. You're supposed to be slowly enjoying your food and drink. Of course, it's easier to entertain this Barcelona fantasy in summer when one is sitting outside under a beautiful cathedral of stars (ok, fine, we don't get that many stars here, but again, entertain the fantasy). The drinks at Andala are all great-- most spectacular are the fruit juices. Most recently, I had a delicious pear juice-- I'm pretty sure I had my serving of fruit for the next week in that glass, and it was absolutely delicious. All of the teas are terrific, especially the "special tea." I'm less familiar with the food, but the hummus is extraordinary. BTW, if anyone remembers the cafe that was here before the Andala, about three years ago, Andala has really followed in their footsteps- they've created a nice space where one can come and hang out for as long as one wants. That's what a cafe is all about. If you want speed, go to Dunkin' Donuts.
(5)Peter B.
This place is perfect if you need somewhere quiet to work, refuel (with caffeine), and chill. So much space, fantastic staff, and great coffee. Go a tad off the beaten path in Central Square and you'll find this gem.
(5)Gelsey B.
I love this place...! Its peaceful, cozy, artistically decorated and quite! If you are looking for a place to meet a friend, or have a small group meeting of just spending some time reading a book, this place would be a good choice. I always go downstairs, since its less crowded most often. There is mostly no music playing in the background, so it makes it comfortable if you want to chat or concentrate on you work. I love the style of having tea in the pot, with that little cup they bring with it, which is more middle eastern style.
(5)Cha Cha W.
I love the Middle Eastern theme and fare not to mention the cozy seating and casual atmosphere. When the weather gets hot, I escape to the lower level; when spring comes, I take my blunch outside and people watch from the patio. When I have work to get done, I slide open the doors of the sun room and settle in to the free wifi. Oh and that spot by outlet on the banquette, that's mine. My bottom has a claim on it and if it finds you there beware of my evil eye rays! Summers were made for smoking the hookah on the patio. The staff are super friendly if not always so expedient but that's okay by me. This isn't your run of the mill rush in rush out kind of place. A stone's throw from Central Square, parking could be a bit of a hassle if you plan to stay longer than 2 hours. Don't miss out on the Shakshuka (eggs cooked in a tomato sauce over rice) and Green Plate!
(4)H T.
Andala is _____________ - more relaxing than Starbucks (less foot traffic) - more spacious than Cafe Luna - more serene than Clear Conscience Cafe - less hippie than Toscanini's - less crowded/noisy than the overall shitty 1369 Coffee - less expensive than Mariposa So there- why not go to Andala? A great coffee house with good tea selection, sweet staff, free WiFi, and tasty almond croissants. Just choose a spot: the patio to soak in the sun, the hidden porch for some sweet talk, a small table for some nibbles, or head downstairs for even more space. There's no other coffee shop in the area where I'd want to linger around for hours, and you wouldn't be rushed out the door either.
(5)Ethan A.
I didn't expect to have such bad service, because I really enjoyed this place previously. I went late last night to get some work done, and ordered an iced coffee. Ended up with some weird iced tea. Whatever, doesn't matter, drank it. That was still in line with my previous good review score. Today I went back with a friend. He ordered a sandwich and iced coffee. Waiter guy asked if he wanted milk in it, friend said sure. Waited then forced, "So you want an iced latte then." Friend said "sure?" We were later charged for the more expensive drink. I ordered an iced tea, and saw they had bagels on the menu, for $.95, cream cheese extra. Perfect, I just want something to snack on and no cream cheese. He tells me they are out of bagels and asks curtly, "What else instead?" I said no thanks, I was fine with just tea. I'm sitting in the basement area, next to the kitchen. I watch the waiter go to the fridge, pull out a bag of six bagels, and comes back and says, "we have bagels now, do you want one?" I said sure. Our drinks arrive, my iced tea has a single cube of ice. It was cold enough, I suppose, but not an iced tea. A few minutes later my bagel comes - with cream cheese, tomato, and avocado. The waiter says, "here its the house special bagel". Not cool throwing cheese on my food - I don't eat it. I didn't touch it. After waiting forever for our check, the waiter says absolutely nothing in response to my entire bagel sandwich going untouched. I was charged $3 for my weak iced tea, $3 for the bagel I ordered which should have been ninety five cents, waited over a half hour for the check, and our waiter clearly was just trying to milk us for all the money we could and didn't care at all that I left an entire dish untouched. I could have forced them to eat the cost and serve me a new bagel, but you know what, I'm a nice guy. I will never return.
(1)Eric F.
For a place that has "coffee house" in its name, I had the worst latte in years here last night. The espresso was barely discernible and the drink was basically (over)heated skim milk. Oh and the waitress decided that it'd be okay to give me over a dozen nickels in change presumably b/c they ran outta quarters...really? If you wanna come for the food, have at it. But stay far, far away from anything that involves coffee beans.
(1)Audrey C.
Their food is ok, but nothing I couldn't make easily (and better) at home- and tiny portions. It's really sad how everyone I ate with recently (4 other people) all walked away hungry- and they ordered different dishes. Their portions are more like appetizer portions, and they only provide a couple slices of pita bread that comes with the dishes, so we even had to ask for more pita. It looked extremely stingy really. The hummus appetizers we ordered was spread so thinly across a small plate, it was probably under $1 worth of hummus that you could buy at the grocery store. Also, everything here just looks dirty and worn down. The many rugs are all gray- they look as if they have not been cleaned in years- and are fraying or there was even 1 with an enormous hole torn out right by the front desk.
(1)Jamaican B.
Awesome food (lamb!!!), so many tea selections, and great AMBIANCE!!! :)
(5)Sam M.
Review on their coffee... No knowledge about their coffee, machine, nor does the employee care to even know how to do her job. Two thumbs down.
(1)Tanya S.
This place is amazing for brunch/lunch. The waiters are really relaxed, the coffee is great - mocha is tasty! And the dishes are so fresh and have a great mixture of tastes. The salads, sandwiches, hummus is all great. They also have tasty juices and a huge selection of teas. It's rarely busy and the atmosphere is really cozy - so rare in the Cambridge/Boston area. There is even outdoor seating when it's warm. A gem.
(5)Allison R.
There was no music. I thought that was odd. It was practically silent in there. I met a personal shopper for a consult and while they appear to offer full meals, we were meeting for coffee and tea, so I had a Lapsang Suchong. Love that tea. It was a little strange that I was given like a 3 ounce cup to pour my tea kettle into, but whatever. Maybe that's their thing. Totally average and okay. I'd have another meeting here if I needed to catch up with someone near Central. Now, onto the important stuff: do I hire the stylist?
(3)Mabel F.
The service here is SO BAD. Who doesn't take multiple credit cards anymore? And who takes 30 minutes to process a request to pay? Flip side, the Chicken Khalili sandwich was indeed spicy and delicious. What a nice surprise. I ate the entire thing after my workout. My friend didn't like one of the two specials. The name of the dish starts with an S and contains eggs and tomatoes. I had been here before, and the Arabic coffee was great. This time I tried the filtered coffee, which was good as well. Stick with the drinks and pay cash. And make sure you come when you are not rushed for time!
(3)Lisa Y.
I really tried to like this place, but I can't. The food is mediocre that basically it's like a ordinary cafe. They try to make it more like middle east food but there is nothing like that...seriously...The eggs and omelet is just like any brunch you have across the street. The tomatoes are just chopped up and put in a plate. The meet (chicken or beef) are just cooked so at least people are safe to eat them. I want to ask the owner/chef, where is your passion? Or do you simply hit up something in the microwave oven? Things taste not fresh at all. And they charge a price like a formal restaurant. Is it just me that feel like that? In addition to food, their service is equally bad. I waited for forty-five minutes to get a cup of water after begging three waitresses and failed. Then when the food is finally on the table, it was so disappointing and not even hot (kind of suspects it is leftovers from last night).
(1)Sharon L.
Highly recommended to everyone my favorite food there which is called shashokeh, it is a little bit spicy, topped with pouched eggs. Really tasty!
(5)Mikhail Z.
I felt in love with this place when I accidentally found it walking near Central sq. They have free WiFi, so I typically work from there. They also have projection screen downstairs, so I come there to watch soccer world cup games. Regarding the food, their turkish, and especially arabic, coffee are amazing! When I work, I also take either backlava or nammourrah for desert to accompany my coffee - both are also very-very good!. For more meaningful food, I like their kufta and lentil soup. Most important thing is that all these stuff, though on traditional turkish line, is somehow different compared to what I tried at other turkish places.
(5)Michelle L.
Cute little cafe in Central Square. The drinks are good, but the food is so-so. There are 2 levels, so no worries if the entrance level looks full! The entrance level has more of a bookstore vibe - little tables where people drink coffee and read. Downstairs has tables for meals as well as a large communal area for book clubs (?). I ordered the ground beef special, which was decent. I expected bits of ground beef but it really was just a beef patty topped with some stuff on rice. My 4 friends got their meals 10 minutes before mine came out, so they can definitely do a better job staging the service. We all shared the hummus plate, which had good presentation but was nothing to write home about. The chai latte I had, however, was divine. Unlike Starbucks where they make it too sweet, this had the perfect blend of spice and sugar. There was even foam on top! All in all, a great cafe. Not much more than that.
(3)Claudia L.
such wholesome authentic food, wonderful setting.
(5)Nitya D.
Gah. I am so conflicted. Here's why: Andala is an adorable cafe with great food, lots of seating and free wifi. It's definitely an excellent spot to chill for a bit while reading or studying. The chairs are comfy, the tables are big enough. But gahhh the food. The portions do NOT match the prices. The prices are average at ~$10, but you do not get your money's worth at all. Which is so sad because the food really is delicious and as a result I always want so much more. It's definitely a great little cafe, and I do love it. But only after I've eaten a full meal elsewhere.
(3)Bonnie S.
I met up with my mother here for a tea date. When I inquired about a particular tea, the server could not describe it. When I settled on Jasmine tea, it came out in a teabag... One I know I can buy at any grocery store. I refuse to pay $3.50 for a teabag. When I asked to change it to loose leaf tea they said they were out of Jasmine tea. Fine, say you're out in the beginning, don't give me a teabag at a nice café. Another server gave me another loose leaf tea at my request which was quite a good tea. As we were leaving I noticed a sign promoting a political affiliation with the Palestinians. Personally, I don't find this appropriate for a café and my Jewish mother was quite uncomfortable. Not one server smiled through our whole visit.... I love my middle eastern food but because of this whole experience, I will not be returning.
(2)Zachary F.
Slow slow service, but it's because the chef is basically standing at a 2-3 burner stove and doing everything to order. The food that comes out is generally very flavorful and as spicy as you'd like it. You won't care about the wait though, because this place really shines in its home as a study/hang-out venue. Free wireless with good service, lots and lots of outlets, and plenty of nooks and crannies to get some work done. Location is also great right near the Central Square T Red line stop. Food-wise, I got the Foole Plate, which came in a very generous size and smacked of grandma-quality home cooking. Try it.
(4)Toni T.
The place is very cute (upstairs) and the food was rather decent. My only gripe is that the downstairs needs a lot of work. I appreciate the homey feel, but at least at home, there are trays I can eat my food on if I choose to eat on the couch. I'm looking forward to going back just to try the tea.
(3)Grace C.
Right off the central square T line but tucked away into a side street. Great tea. Lots of places to sit. Cozy and inviting atmosphere.
(5)Sandra S.
Lovely decor, great ambiance and friendly staff. Food is affordable and delicious. Too bad you can't smoke hookah inside. Otherwise one of the best places I've visited in Cambridge. Visited mainly because of the stunning inviting photos I had seen on their Facebook page: facebook.com/andalacafe - wasn't disappointed!
(5)Jenny S.
stopped in for some drinks on a rainy day!!! we wanted to sit in since this coffee house furniture & set-up was really cute, but it was STUFFY so we opted for TO-GO HOUSE TEA.. enjoyable w/ my addition of soymilk at no extra charge! nice & spicy yet sweet!.. although they did charge me for 2 regular "pots" although i only took 2 mini cups to-go =( BREWED TO ORDER, this was definitely a nice touch!!
(3)H R.
Thank you for so openly opposing Israel, because now I know not to frequent your establishment ever again. Added bonus is that I won't have to endure the horrible service.
(1)Brian C.
This is a wonderful coffeehouse and restaurant featuring Palestinian-style Middle Eastern food and drink. The owner, Sami, is very welcoming, the food is delicious, and the portions are reasonable (I.e., not more than you can or should eat). A great addition to Central Square!
(5)Karina Q.
My go-to cafe in Cambridge, for nearly anything: studying / writing emails / meeting up with people for coffee, brunch, dinner, etc... 1) Service is great. No rush, very pleasant and helpful in providing suggestions on what to order and little adjustments as necessary. Really go the extra mile. Smile, which is rare in Cambridge. Let you stay for hours to chat and work without batting an eye. 2) Food is wonderful, light, healthy and tastes great. From the foole to the hummous and combo plates to the chicken adina (fantastic stew!). Makes me full, but still feel great about what I ate. Which is also rare in this town. 3) Great ambiance. Good (but admittedly random) music selection, great lighting, comfortable chairs, good variety of seating areas for all sorts of groups (from large tables for discussion, to a cozy little corner for intimate chats, a patio area with tons of windows and natural light, a lounge-y hookah area downstairs, and tables near outlets for working. Oh, did I mention free, unlimited wifi? And at least 15+ outlets spread out around the cafe.
(5)Chrysanthe P.
Since I work in Central Square, love coffee, and have a decidedly Mediterranean palate, I had been wanting to go to Andala for quite some time. When an old friend wanted to meet up somewhere on a Tuesday evening, I decided that it was the perfect opportunity to try it out. My office is just a few blocks away, so I went immediately following work even though my friend wouldn't be able to meet up until a bit later. Upon entering, I was struck by the decor and layout of the place: so cozy and plenty of seating options. I ordered their house tea and chose a spot on the terrace to do some work while I waited. The tea was also quite good and I enjoyed getting to strain it myself! This will definitely be a study/reading spot for me from now on. When my friend arrived, we both ordered the lentil soup and he got a Turkish coffee as well. His coffee came out first and we were both struck by how thick it was! Luckily, he loves coffee and said it was unlike anything he'd had: definitely strong, but enjoyable. The lentil soup was very good, in my opinion. It wasn't super heavy like most bean soups. It was really quite delicate, but comforting all the same (which was nice, considering that it was pouring rain). All in all, Andala is a solid place to great a nice beverage, read a book, or meet a friend. I can't wait for the weather to get nice so that I can get the most out of that beautiful terrace seating!
(4)Tamara W.
This place is AWESOME!!! Good enough to make you Pro-Palestine if you were not before... Came here on a total whim because I run by this place ALL THE TIME. I came here with my mother and sister and the food was delicious! It is a lot of food so if you want a filling, hearty lunch I would order something like the shrimp/rice dish I got. But you can also get something smaller like the lentil soup which my mother had. The food is technically "Palestinian Cuisine" but it's very similar to Turkish, Greek, and Israeli food of course. It is delicious. When we told the waiter we were Turkish he hooked it up with a free hummus. They by accident made an extra meal we didn't truly order but they gave it to us for free anyway. The ginger drink is AWESOME-- it's fresh pressed ginger and lemon together. Yum! I don't know the price of the place really because my mother paid :-) but I think it is reasonable... Coming back for sure!
(5)Yi-Ling H.
I went this store twice, once I stayed outside, and it turned out their service is really slow. The other time that I stayed inside, it became much better. Coffee and foods are ok. The place is convenient for transportation.
(3)Ben J.
Sure, the service is slow, but don't be so uptight; smoke a hookah.
(5)Gustavo D.
Great food, coffee and tea. Horrible, horrible service. Takes forever to get anything in this place. I would not recommend this place if you're in a hurry.
(1)Adam W.
Went for brunch and ate outside. Not many people and very relaxing environment. Tried the shakshokeh and it was amazing! After clearing our food, the waitress even told us to take our time and ask for the check whenever we were ready. They need new booklets to deliver the checks, though, as they are the standard "We Welcome American Express" black booklets, but they don't actually accept American Express!
(4)Samantha G.
Food overload! There is so much to this place that it is completely unfair to characterize it as as coffee shop. In addition to the lots of comfy seating and free wifi, they have a great number of non-coffee options (get the hot cider!) and lots of breakfast and lunch options. The omelettes are delicious and quite sizable. They also have other basic breakfast options like toasted bagels. The lunch items include some good options like an interesting take on an egg salad sandwich. And then there are the desserts... It's primarily a Turkish-influenced place - both in decor and food. The service is great. There's no rushing you out (we spent about 6 hours here!) and the servers are always happy to help with whatever you need. It can get crowded at peak times, but yet, it still seems to be able to accommodate everyone. Overall, this is a great spot to chill out and get some work done.
(4)Josephine L.
Andala gets 19,000 stars for decor/atmosphere/ambiance, 5 stars for service, 4 stars for food and 2.5 stars for tea. I'll get the bad stuff out of the way first. I was super-excited to try the House Special tea with cardamon. Spiced tea is almost always a win. The pot came, the pretty, long, thin, glass cup and saucer with it. I poured. The fragrant smell of cardamon wafted up. I sipped....and.....bleh! The tea was so watered-down that it had absolutely no flavor! Now, I'm one of those people who will happily re-use tea bags/leaves over and over until they've lost all semblance of flavor. But tea should not be flavor-less on the first steep! Especially when I'm paying $2.50 for it! Tea fail. The food: I had the Andala omelette and it was delicious. It was also huge, especially with the accompanying salad. So much more filling than I was intending for a snack. My boyfriend had the Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich and it was toasted perfection. I detest egg salad, but this was more scrambled/fried egg than hard-boiled, so it was just awesome. The pear juice he got was so fresh and tasty. You know it's fresh when it turns slightly brown after 10 mins as the fruit oxidizes. The service is amazing. Friendliest staff ever. The atmosphere. This is the #1 spot in all of Boston/Cambridge that I would choose to set up shop for the day. I LOVE the mismatched furniture, LOVE the cozy rugs, LOVE the fireplace mantle covered in hookah paraphernalia, LOVE the framed pictures, LOVE everything that makes this cafe warm and inviting. Andala is the antithesis of the soulless corporate takeover that Central Sq (and much of Cambridge) has become. Do yourself a favor and make this your go-to spot for beverage, food and socializing needs.
(5)Giselle R.
Loved, loved, loved it! Deconstructed hummus...yum. Eggsalad sandwich,tasty. Space is homey and feels like my own brownstone. Staff is friendly and hands off. We spent some time here before our train home and it was very relaxing.If we lived in the neighborhood we'd be the several times a week.
(5)Dawn E.
Turkish coffee! ::jumping and joy ensues:: I had recently eaten before popping in here to pass some time so I did not partake of any food, BUT, my Turkish coffee was everything it should be. Additionally, the atmosphere in here is fantastic and the service was perfection. I will be back for food.
(4)Alyssa J.
If I could give this place a negative star rating I would. A black hole rating would be preferred. I was here for my first writer's group meeting. The location itself is nice, plenty of room for large groups. The menu seemed a little overpriced, but as an independent cafe that I believe serves free trade coffee, I can understand. There were about ten of us and about 50% of the group had ordered a drink, a muffin, a scone, whatever. A waiter came up to a group of four of us and said "If you don't order something you are going to have to leave right now" ....Wow. Keep in mind the cafe was 60% full and it was 8pm on a Wednesday night. Maybe they were expecting a rush? We all ordered something to appease our 'roided up server. I got a decaf coffee, because there was no way I was going to put any caffeine in my body this late in the evening. My decaf came out...No cream, no sugar. A companions tea came out in a shotglass. Yup. It was in shotglass with a handle. Oooookay. I sipped my decaf. Ahh yes. Freezing cold, just the way I like it. I went up to the waiter, as I was fairly confident that customer service was not his forte, and I didn't expect him to come check up on us; and said two things. #1 My coffee is cold and I wasn't given any cream or sugar; #2 It was a little rude for you to be so aggressive to us. He flipped. FLIPPED. "This isn't a public library! You and your little group can go somewhere else! RABBLE RABBLE RABBLE!" Instead of coming over to the table to give me a new coffee, he threw a check in my face and told me to leave! WHAT THE FUCK ANDALA???? I will never come back here again.
(1)Hyunu K.
Great service and an awesome place to come study or just lounge around with friends it seems like because of the open area and the ambiance is great. Awesome lattes and seems like they have some awesome food on the menu as well. Service was great and would come back if i was in the area again. Free WiFi too!
(4)Priyanka A.
The decor is gorgeous, by far the coziest coffee shop in the area (a lot of the other coffee shops in Cambridge feel too sterile/factory made for my taste). The decor is a cue for the mood of the place, though. This isn't an in-and-out caffeination stop; it's somewhere to spend the afternoon in conversation or reading when you don't have to rush anywhere else. They have a great selection of teas, so perhaps tea house would be a better name than coffee house. But is you love tea/coffee shops with good ambiance and unique character, Andala is great. I haven't tried their food, but have heard it's overpriced.
(4)ChristiAnn B.
Cute little place. Really nice ambiance and not too crowded. I don't think they have air conditioner, so it was a little warm inside on a hot day. The service was slow and our waitress disappeared after she brought out our food. But the food was pretty good- something different. My friend had the mushroom omelet which was yummy despite the overload of salt. I had the beef kufta (see photo) which was even tastier than the omelet. The prices here are a great value. I am going to come back here whenever I have a few hours to spare. The upside of unattentive servers is that one does not feel pressured to leave. Andala's is a great place to come if you want to relax or have a long conversation with a friend.
(4)Samuel F.
A remarkable spot in the heart of Central Square. The house tea is amazing, the food is great, the decor is nice, and there's plenty of space. Comfortable seating, especially the long benches on the inside porch. Free internet. Very relaxed. The next time you're passing the Central Square Starbucks, consider crossing the street and walking the extra block. You won't regret it.
(4)Deanna D.
Wonderful coffee house with friendly staff, healthy food, and free wi-fi!! The space is nicely decorated: bright, bold colors, & inviting on the first floor and dark & cozy in the downstairs area. The staff was very friendly and the service was fast. The cappuccinos (read: European style) and croissants were lovely. The Combo Plate with tabouli, salad, and hummus was fresh, filling, delicious, and reasonably priced! The ample seating, inviting ambiance, and good food makes this place a great addition to my coffee shop rotation.
(4)John S.
My first time here, but I was impressed. The staff was friendly and the atmosphere was cozy and comfortable. I went with the Jerusalem egg salad sandwich and Turkish coffee (which the waiter kindly described for me). Both were great. The sandwich came with a bit of potato salad and a nice slaw. A good meal for about $11. Recommended.
(4)Maria H.
I've been going here for years. I love the atmosphere and the different seating options in various rooms. However, the prices have more than doubled since I started coming here and it cost me $15 for a tea and a sandwich the other day. It was very tasty nevertheless..I love their avocado sandwiches. I know people who have worked here and they get paid very very low, without making a lot of tips. It's nice when the wi-fi works and when they don't blast pop music.
(3)Vlad V.
Ambiance 9:30-11pm: business-friendly, good for conversation. Large tables can accommodate groups. TIP: the basement area is quieter. Food: no idea.
(5)Betsy A.
I really like this place. It sells solid coffee, not to mention I love their warm apple cider. Delicious! I like the feel of stepping into someone's middle eastern house. It has little spaces here and there that you can claim as your own and study to your hearts content. =) Ooo! Don't forget to buy the baklava! And take one to go. ;-) All in all a cute place with some warmth to it. Good to have unique coffee houses around that don't follow the cookie cutter model.
(4)Rachel N.
Conflicted, I do love the simple Middle Eastern fare they have here, and the space is lovely (think warm, pseudo-bazaar feeling) for studying or meeting with friends; however, all that pro-Palestine, "freedom from the Israeli occupation" stuff on the walls makes me a taddddd uncomfortable -- so, if you're looking for some delicious hummus or a falafel wrap and able to keep your eyes on the food, not on the decor, then Andala is a win. Oh, plenty of seating (they have a downstairs too, with waiter service), unsure abt the wifi status. Coffee + snack/meal is usually around $10-12.
(4)Claude F.
Probably the most grotesquely false advertising in the Boston area (and that's SAYING something) is how Andala Coffee House advertises it self as Authentic Middle Eastern fare. The ONLY thing authentically Middle Eastern about this place is the wretchedly filthy bathroom (which the cashier acted like I was given a big special favor to use) which will indeed make you feel like you just walked into an Egyptian slum. If Truth in advertising was the national law of the land (I know...a guy can dream can't he?) Andala Coffee House would be forced to advertise it self as: "Coffee for college kids who don't know ANYTHING about coffee but keep giving us props since we make them feel sorry for the Palestinians. Thanks you Harvard Trustafarians!" This place had the worst Coffee I had ever had!!!! (and I have drank McDonald's Coffee ...at 3pm...in Kentucky!) I ordered the Arabic Coffee -over priced at $2.95 for not a whole lotta coffee- not that I was able to drink more then a third of it! Simply put: it was what EVIL must taste like. It was just a Terribadtastic combination of bitter, stale and pure disease ridden awful! To eat (if you can call it that) I ordered the "Goat Cheese & Honey Plate" which, for $7.95, was advertised as "Goat cheese slices sprinkled with honey, served with Arabic toast and fresh fruit of the season" The Goat cheese was rotten. The honey was bad super market quality. The Toast was stale and dry (I mean: How can you screw up toast???) And I they really need to consult the Webster's English dictionary for the definition of "Fresh" for the fruit. And now a point about the Service... Something else, even more Rotten then the Goat cheese, that I noticed while I was sitting there waaay too long (It took a while to scarf down that food with out puking) and watching the shockingly brisk traffic go in and out: The staff treated the African American patrons much worse then the non-African American patrons. Always seeming to demand with a pissy tone: "Are you going to order anything?" (And Just when I thought my experience at Andala could not get any more nausiating!) So a special message to the staff: We Bostonians are proud that we purged that vile stench from our fare city in the 1970's. So Please get with the 21st century! (though we all know you want to bring back the 13th) Though perhaps it is fitting: since the décor in your establishment kinda looks like the 1970's threw up everywhere. Note: My suspicions are definitely confirmed by other Yelper's reviews. Please read Alyssa J.'s excellent review dated 10/21/2010. Now, a friend of mine is very mad at me that I even went here at ALL because a newspaper reported that the owners of Andala Coffee House support Hamas (the Terrorist organization well known for their Rabid Anti-American, Anti-Israeli, Anti-Women, Anti-Christian, Generally Wacko activities) But after coming here, I don't thinks that story in the newspaper was true because this place is sooooooo bad EVEN Hamas would not want to be associated with Anadala. I think if all the Hamas terrorists came to Boston (the ones that are not already here going to BU that is) they would sooner eat at Zaftigs- the Jewish deli in Brookline- because judging by all the pictures of the Hamas Leaders- they really like good food and drink....which you will NOT find here. Negative stars if I could (a first for me) Foot note: "Trustafarians" are rich kids with trust funds who dress like Rastafarians and have a new annoying cause every week. Usually championing some poor, "oppressed" and suitably distant peoples.
(1)Georgina C.
I scheduled a relaxed Sunday meeting with someone I was planning a freelance project with. While I was waiting I ordered a carrot juice and brioche which were both so good I did not even mind when he finally showed up 40 minutes late. I love the location and how much outdoor seating there is. I definitely want to return to try something new, it is the perfect place to spend time with friends or relax on the weekend with a good book.
(4)Madeline N.
I came in with such high hopes! But was sadly disappointed. Why? 1. I walked in to buy a drink and they told me to go back outside to do table service. 2. I went outside and found one waiter, frazzled, trying to serve the full back porch. 3. I waited 4. Waited 5. Finally was served and asked for water in addition to my food 6. To receive water in a cup that still had lipstick marks on it from a previous user Let's just say I've been more impressed before.
(2)Heidi L.
The great thing is that there's no real rush at Andala -- you can stay there for a while among all the lovely decor. The downside is that I suspect part of this comes from the somewhat slow service. Note that even at 9am most of the pastries are gone, but the tea and coffee are pleasant and the food is unique (although it is a bit pricey a la Algiers). I'd come here to work or catch up with old friends, but not for the food.
(3)Yaka M.
Great Atmosphere. Spacious and lots of seating so you can spend a good amount of time here without getting angry look from the staff. Food: I had Chicken Khalili Sandwich. It was pretty spicy but very, very good. Goes very well with the hummus that came on the plate too. Drink: Lemon Mint Smoothie is great.
(4)Marilyn C.
Came here for lunch last weekend and relaxed outside under the grape vines. Iced coffee was good. During a previous trip I had one of their smoothies - lemon/mint and it was good. This place straddles the line between 3 and 4 stars. The food was pretty good - if it were cheaper (not that it is pricey) I would up this place to 4 stars. Service was up to snuff. They have hookahs if your into that.
(3)Anthony L.
I am really going against everyone's reviews, but I just don't love this place. I walk and bike ride by Andala almost every day on my way home from work. I've always been intrigued about this place (especially since I love coffee and tea). On the outside, this place is extremely adorable. There are plenty of outdoor seating areas, which is great in the summer. The inside is equally as adorable. I can tell the owners really put a lot of thought and effort into this place. I've never been to the downstairs, but it looks huge. I really enjoy how there are different sections of the house for various uses (board games, studying, group studying). When I went there my first time, I would have rated this place 5 stars. I love the free wifi and the tea was great! The second time was a total flop. - I was rather parched, as it was a scorching summer afternoon. I was craving an iced coffee, but didn't want to walk across the street to Starbucks or 1369, Andala it was! I ordered my beverage and the barista just looked extremely confused (maybe he was new, maybe he never works on the coffee bar, who knows). He pulled out a red solo cup (you know, the ones we all use to play beer pong with) and filled it with ice and coffee and handed it over. Confused, I asked "do you have a lid or something?" then he tossed one that hardly fit to me. Drinking the coffee, I was unimpressed. I could tell this was not double brewed, yet, it was brewed as hot coffee (so it was extremely watered down and had no taste). - My friend ordered a danish (they make the danishes look so delicious in the display case). Thinking it was made in house, the man bends over and pulls out a Stop and Shop plastic basket and pulls a danish out with his hands (without gloves or anything protecting his nasty paws with the store bought danish). I was extremely unimpressed with this! Even if you are going to buy your danishes from Stop and Shop, at least have them taken out of the box to make it look a little more authentic. I much rather go to 1369 for a perfectly brewed iced coffee and home made (or, at least, we think) dessert.
(2)Chip B.
I really liked this place when I moved into the neighborhood in summer 2011. I dined and studied there about 6 times per month on average. Somewhere between then and now (spring 2013) a clear decline in service and quality occurred. Wait staff often do not realize when I've settled and am ready to order. Entrees do not come out at the same time for multi-person parties. My food once arrived quite cold, and the coffee is good but nothing to write home about. The atmosphere is wonderful for studying or chatting, but that is not enough to make me want to visit as often as I used to. I really hope the owners take note of the decline and correct course.
(2)Lesley K.
Service isn't great. Food was just ok. Cute restaurant though, the patio seating is nice for a warm day.
(2)Jing Y.
This is a cute middle eastern coffee shop that has a living room vibe. They have the equivalent of a sun room towards the front of the shop. I can only imagine how great it would be to go on a sunny day!
(4)Alex N.
andala coffee house -new account 2014
(5)Erica C.
The service is the only reason I didn't give them a 5. Gluten free friendly I had an awesome chai latte from here. I also had the lunch special of tomatoes, onions, oregano, and. meat over a bed of rice. The food was great. Free WiFi
(4)Rafael O.
Amazing food! The atmosphere is also great and the location is great. I'm definitely coming back.
(5)Amanda G.
Came here Wednesday afternoon looking for place where I could have a decent lunch and a place with outlets and coffee to sit and study for a while. What a find! I've never been here, but I will definitely become a frequent customer. The ambiance and layout are amazing - cozy, open, lots of outlets, free-unlimited Wi-fi, pressure free (no rushed feeling...the staff doesn't make you feel like they want you to leave). It's reasonably priced and has *real* food. This is really about as good as it gets!! I typically frequency Espresso Royale, but have since been driven away because of so-so food quality, expensive coffee, lack of seating, and really strong coffee/burnt bread smell you acquire after sitting there for longer than 30 minutes. While I do like ERC, if you're a BU student, the 15 min bus ride is worth it to come to Andala.
(5)Juliana N.
We got our coffees to go and it was SO WATERED DOWN! sad... i had high expectations too. What went wrong? A majority of the people here had a good experience... ::sad::
(2)Bastian L.
And the search ends here. Ever since arriving in Boston last summer I have been looking for a coffee shop that truly is that "Third Place" that Starbucks marketing people describe their stores as. I am European, so by definition it is tough to satisfy my expectations of a coffee shop. Generally, paper cups and red EXIT signs suffice to never let me experience the cosiness of a Central European coffee house or cafe - the kind that really makes you want to linger. Andala nails it though. Every kind of seating arrangement you could want, carpets, high ceilings, lots of light and great lighting, fantastic wait staff, great cappuccino and chai. I havent tried the food, but that's not what I am going to a coffee shop for. Oh, free wifi, power outlets, so you can actually get work done here, too. Now if they could just open a branch in Beacon Hill...
(5)Ash T.
Great place for coffee and to chill out Pros: Very cozy place and has a unique ambiance to it. The downstairs is the place to chill out. Free wifi is an added bonus. I had the honey and goat cheese plate which was ok. The Arabic coffee was amazing. The copper vessel with the titled handle accompanied the small cup and plate...the coffee was brewed with cardamom and had a sweet hint to it. Espresso has now a contender for packing the most calorie free caffeine punches. Somehow the atmosphere downstairs has a charm to make you forget time, dabble in some great conversations or even pull on your creative hat and take a shot at some poetry. It's places like Andala that offer what a true coffee shop should...(are you taking notes Starbucks?) Cons: There is some tension among the wait staff and you can hear it if you're sitting upstairs. I first ordered a Rooibos Tea and the lady behind the counter didn't bother asking me if I wanted it to go or to stay. So the tea made it to my table in the boring drab of a paper cup smitten with advertisements and a black plastic top (minus 1 star for that) But the downstairs ambiance and the arabic coffee made up for it. WIll be back for sure. Highly recommended
(4)Alan Y.
I stopped by this cafe one Friday night to get some work done. I was rather pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness of the cafe and the decor; I definitely felt that I was in someone's house instead of a generic coffeehouse. The bathroom was also quite nice and tidy. The servers were also quite nice and efficient. Despite these positive attributes, I felt that the food (at least what I ordered) was somewhat lacking. I ordered the vegetarian chili, which left me completely disappointed. The soup was served luke-warm, had very little flavor, and lacked much to compensate for its hefty ($5+) cost. However, the soup did come with 3 flatbreads, which were not anything special. However, their cappuccino is decent, as is their banana-walnut muffin. I'll try to stop by some other day to sample items from their menu, which hopefully will be more appetizing than the food I had.
(3)Ahmed J.
The location was the best thing about this restaurant. The restaurant was supposed to be serving arabic ( middle eastern), however, the menu had only couple of arabic dishes and few deserts. We ordered a humos platter which was average and kind of over garnished, chicken and rice platter, rice and veggies were decent and the grilled chicken was quit good. As for the service, its the main thing that made me rate this place low. I am talking about a whole hour waiting for our main dish and another 30 minutes to get the bill in a small restaurant. A place that I would not recommend to someone.
(2)Kacie M.
I've been here at least a few times now, and I'm always pretty happy with everything. If I want a meal, I get the Jersulam Egg Salad Sandwich. It's hard boiled eggs and cheese in a wrap and it's very tasty. A word of warning, though: It comes with onions, which they do not mention on the menu. The first time I got it, I had to send it back and have them remake it without the onions. The girl working there looked kind of annoyed, but I didn't have any problems sending it back and my new sandwich came out quickly. My friends have always been happy with what they've gotten there, and one said the hummus was the best he'd ever had. I haven't tried many drinks, but the hot chocolate is good. Service is usually so-so, but never that bad. The decor is charming and, overall, it's a nice little cafe to spend your afternoon in if you happen to be in Central Square.
(4)Nan A.
Andala has it all - the wifi, satisfying Mediterranean food, rich coffees, with many different rooms and seating arrangements for socializing, studying or getting some work done.
(5)Juston P.
Trip #1: "... and an ice water." Trip #2: "... and an ice water." Trip #3: "... and can you please put ice in my water?" What do these 3 have in common? All three times my water arrived nice and warm, without ice. This isn't a big deal. I'm a big boy. I can drink warm water. However, it's representative of the service at Andala. To paraphrase the prophet Eminem, they just don't give a ffff. It's seriously awful. To wit: Trip #1: 15 minutes elapsed between sitting and being given a menu. Trip #2. 7 minutes elapsed, so I approached a waitress and ordered directly. Trip #3: 3 minutes elapsed before I got up. I learn. I'm a smart boy. "Dude, why do you keep going back if all you're gonna do is whine about the service?" Because, my bodacious friend, the food is awesome! Such tasty, spicy sandwiches! Such rich and fresh hummus! And the atmosphere is awesome, too! Look at that cute, outdoor patio! Check out that cool greenhouse room that overlooks the street! Listen to the intricate vocals of the middle eastern music! Partake in the free WiFi! My advice: carve out an hour to eat your food. That way, you won't flip out when 20 minutes passes between your being given the check and the waitress' picking up your money.
(3)Matt S.
Six stars for the best lentil soup in the Boston area and for a fantastic white chocolate mocha (as well as the one particular cute girl behind the counter who makes the latter). Minus one for the fuckin' every time hassle to get someone to come over and take your order, let alone to get the check when you're in a rush.
(5)Gabriela F.
When I lived in Central Square, Andala was one of my GO TO cafes. I would often grade papers there while munching on one of their DELICIOUS Jerusalem Egg sandwiches and a mocha. Though their other sandwiches are yummy too, I always order the egg sandwich. The wait staff was always really sweet and I could always find a spot to relax or work while I was there. Now that I'm back in NY, I really wish there was a spot near me as chill and as lovely as Andala. Definitely GO!
(5)H. A.
Come here for the hookah and nice environment, but not for the food. I'm Middle Eastern and their food doesn't cut it.
(3)Neeraj D.
2.5 stars The prices seem good, the downstairs is nice and large (and mostly unknown so there is place to sit). This would be good for a group to sit and meet also. The outdoor seating, wi-fi, available power strips make it a good place to camp out for a bit. The service is indeed slow as others commented. The tea was undrinkable because it was over seeped while waiting to be delivered to us (it took more than 10 minutes for the tea to make it downstairs). The Arabian coffee had a smooth and creamy mouth feel with the spice of cardamon a nice compliment to the coffee. I do wish there was a filter though because the end of the coffee is very sludgy with the contents. I will next time try some different drinks or just bring a filter for the Arabian coffee. (-2.0 stars) Street parking (~ spots) with the typical Cambridge meters (25 cents = 15 minutes). I think we will try it again and hope for better service because the locale has potential but it can definitely improve by getting rid of the credit card minimum and better music (-0.5 stars)
(2)Sushmita M.
How many times have you ordered a mocha from Starbucks or Peet's Coffee and felt a little piece of you die as you realize that you just paid an exorbitant price (again) for subpar chocolate-flavored syrup instead of the real thing? Andala Coffee House is authentic cocoa goodness! These are the best white chocolate mochas I've had in Boston by far -- it's a blessing for me that I don't live in Central Square, or I'd burn a hole through my wallet in mocha consumption. The cafe itself is ideal for a Sunday afternoon of studying or general lazying around. The staff are lovely, they have free wifi, and everything is generally chill.
(4)Lauren E.
I have been looking for some new coffee shops to add to my circuit, and this one fortuitously came to my attention last week. Immediately upon walking in I could tell that it would be good. (Perhaps sadly,) everyone else and his brother seemed to already know about it, and it was super crowded! Fortunately, we were able to grab the only table in the place after walking downstairs and back up again. In terms of the food/drinks---The Turkish coffee was good, but I wish they had brought me real cream instead of the little tiny packaged thing. I also had chai, which was pretty good and tasted original. I guess the mocha was good, too, but I didn't drink any. I had a pretty mediocre cookie as well. Didn't try any of the food, though it sounded good. At least half of the crowd there was studying. It wasn't too loud, though there were several audible conversations at all times. I had a little trouble with the wireless network, but it worked for most of the time. Despite the numerous imperfections, I give them the 4 stars for the decor and environment. In addition to the tables, there were couches and other forms of cushioned seating. The walls were prettily decorated, and nice to look at while spacing out and needing a break from my reading. All in all, I'm looking forward to going back again, though perhaps next time with my ipod to help with the noise, and at lunch time so I can try the falafel and hummus.
(4)Jenny V.
Andala is a cute coffeehouse with outdoor seating, free wifi, creative drinks, a Middle Eastern menu, and the cutest waitstaff. I stayed down the street during my visit and stopped by three times during my week long visit. Try the goat cheese and honey fruit plate for a light breakfast or dinner. Who knew that would make a good combination? Delicious. Definitely worth a visit if around the area.
(4)John S.
I'm the 102nd review? And here I thought this place was out of the way. I've been living within a 15 minute walk of Andala for over three years and only recently learned its name (a friend told me to meet him there). So I went, happy from the get-go to be finally entering the place I passed all the time on the drive home from the Pike. The first thing I noticed was how much light was coming through the floor to ceiling windows. Because Andala faces the very wide Central Square/River Street intersection, it's very bright, even on a cloudy day. I then noticed the menu, which I picked up off a music stand. I perused the Israeli offerings and opted for a pear juice ($2 too expensive) and an omelette ($2 cheaper than expected). Both were delicious. Over the half hour or so I was there, I noticed people taking advantage of the free wi-fi on their laptops, reading books, and calmly sipping tea. Because it's within shouting distance of the Central Square Starbucks, it made me even happier to go to Andala and support local business.
(4)Stephanie F.
I agree their service is kind of slow, but their food is pretty good. I come here when I want free wifi and would like to work for a long time on my computer, while consuming very flavorful caffeinated drinks and "real" food (other than scones and muffins). At first I thought this place was really small, but the thing that I admire about this place is how homey it is! There is a surprisingly large amount of spaces to hang out and do work in. It's almost like you're at someone's big house which is very nicely decorated with Middle Eastern flair. Yay for it providing a different experience than the usual cafes in Cambridge.
(4)May N.
The closest coffee house to my apt. It is super cute and the staff seem really nice! Stopped by for coffee on a Saturday morning before running errands. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a handful of staff ready to serve. They had yummy pastries and breakfast foods and their menu included Arabic meals and hookahs (I'm pretty sure they're still bad for you). Prices looked inexpensive. I'll have to return to try more stuff. Only con: they charged an extra 50 cents for iced coffee. On a day that kicked off the hot and muggy weather here.
(4)Tiffany Z.
Another great café in the Central Square area with lighter, Mediterranean fare (as compared to the sandwiches and pizzas of La Luna Café). While there is no live entertainment here, there is plenty of seating in a tastefully yet eclectically decorated environment with an enormous amount of natural light flooding through the windows during the daylight hours. Brightly colored walls, oriental rugs, interesting lanterns, and an assortment of different styles of tables and seating arrangements is what greets you when you step into what looks like it could be a large house. It manages to have a cozy, home-like feel while still being so spacious. This is a wonderful place to leisurely sit for hours over a cup of reasonably priced tea (they have a very nice tea selection here!) or coffee (I like the Turkish coffee) and to read or converse.
(5)Erin B.
Atmosphere, ambiance, stellar coffees & teas, and great specialty food all make Andala one of the best places around to grab a coffee, have a bite, and relax. With free (if intermittent) WiFi and many outlets, it's a great study locale as well. Don't expect to be alone, however. The only thing lacking is the staff. If it's busy, expect slow service. I'm not sure if it's understaffed or what but that's my only complaint. On a recent outing, I tried the hummus plate and could not have been happier. It boasted great flavor and the proper authentic consistency you would expect from this sort of cafe while somehow surpassing the expectation all around. I've had the Arabic coffee as well as a few teas (all very good) but decided to try the Turkish coffee this time. I was not disappointed. The flavor was very balanced and it was ground to perfection. Something great about the coffee selection is that they serve it in the proper cups and with the right serving implements. Far too few places do that. That is what makes Andala's coffee fit perfectly into the atmosphere of the cafe thereby completing the Andala experience.
(4)Sofia B.
Great Turkish coffee at a very nice price. What's better? The lentil soup. Next time I'll try the hookah that's available on the patio in the Summer.
(5)Marcelo C.
Terrible service and the wifi never works. If you have two hours to spare while you wait to get service, then this is the place for you. Food makes up for it.
(2)Andrew C.
Your local coffee shop. With an Turkish/Arabic menu for lunch and dinner. Go downstairs to get the semi-authentic feel.
(3)Joel M.
Ate here for lunch during a hot day... the place wasn't terribly well conditioned, the staff was indeed pretty slack, but the food was excellent and a good value. I'll be back, but getting in and out during a 1 hour lunch break isn't really an option. 5 stars for food/value, 4 stars for ambiance, 2 for service.
(4)Haley T.
I love this place. It's quiet, beautifully furnished and sunny. The waitstaff is nice and just attentive enough. There are plenty of vegetarian options and their turkish coffee is delicious. A perfect place for a quiet coffee date or a lunch alone with a book.
(4)Roni E.
If only Central was closer to me and parking isn't a b*tch... I would love to come back for more. Andala is located right on the corner, so it's perfect for people watching along the street. It's got a very cozy, warm feeling. They make a mean Vanilla Chai in a large mug. Perfecto! Came here for the Yelp N00bs Event, and they were great at fitting us all in a large section of their place. The tables are small, but we also had a bunch of Yelp schwag laying all over the place. The hummus was great! The meat pies were great! The chicken m-something I can't remember the name was most excellent. (It's the one on the right hand side of the menu, written on the very top!). Alright to conclude, their food was awesome! Definitely on my list of awesome coffeehouses and must returns.
(4)Tanaya P.
My boyfriend and I decided to venture out to Central Square for lunch today. Before I delve into the review, let me set the scene: I had not eaten a thing all day and was a starving monster. Thus, as soon as we spotted a place that didn't gross me out from the outside, I ran across the street and plopped myself at a table. Within 3 minutes, we had ordered the egg salad sandwich, lentil soup, veggie chili, hummus plate and the house specialty tea (the name escapes me). The food was fantastic! Albeit, my eyes were larger than my stomach and I couldn't finish everything, but I was stuffed. What's better is that it wasn't gross stuffed where you feel sick... instead all the food is fresh and delicious. After we stuffed our faces in silence, we ended up ordering a Turkish and Arabic coffee, which was a great way to cap our meal. I highly recommend checking out Andala for a quick coffee, meal or new spot to study.
(5)Krystal T.
This place is good, not awesome. The ambiance is nice, but the staff sucks with the exception of a few. The food is good, and yes, they are constantly changing the staff. I live across the street from this place and do recommend their breakfast omelets and their coffee bar, but if you like you drinks hot, make sure you ask for extra hot.
(3)Lucy S.
I discovered this restaurant about a year ago, when I came for an internship interview. I didn't get the position, but I did get an AAAMMAAAZZING cup of coffee. This is one of the few independent cafes in Boston, I believe, and I come here at least once a month. Like I said, the coffee is great and the foods good too, free wifi, outdoor patio, but most of all, I LOOVVEEE the staff! They're all friendly and chill which helps the all-around laid back feel of the place. I feel like I could be BFFs with all of them, the service keeps me coming back for more. Sometimes, I take an hour long commute to central square just to go there. For the love of coffee, or something more?
(5)Jazzie F.
This is a cute coffee shop. I have been here several times w/ a good friend of mine. When I first came here, I thought it was so amazing and fell in love with it instantly. Having said all of that, the service here down-right sucks. Especially if you sit downstairs. I feel like this place is a classic case of they'll hire anyone off the street as long as they're a pretty girl. I have almost always been served by young women, and they are all for lack of a better term: retards. (I apologize if this term offends people but this is how I talk). The women care more about getting off their shift and you settling your bill than actual service. They are sometimes rude, very very very very slow, forgetful, and truly, completely, utterly, incompetent. Did I mention rude? I love the coffee, and the food is pretty amazing but I absolutely despise the service.
(3)Kar M.
Awesome awesome awesome The menu selection is great! The location is better...but the food is the best part. Bring a large group and this place will accommodate...(why its called a coffee house...im not sure) o_O This is a great find and is really close to the Central Square T stop... Delightful :)
(5)Betty M.
I had shakshokeh for breakfast. It was amazing. The coffee is different but good. They do not refill cup but the waitress was very sweet and brought me another cup on the house.
(5)Ebru A.
Nice place If you like to wait an hour for a coffee. They offered a free baklava to 4 people as an apology.
(2)Nicholas S.
I really liked the vibe this place has. It's laid back and there are tons of couches and chairs around. Some parts are more private than others, such as the downstairs area, so if you need a place for a meeting or just to get some work done, Andala is great. I had a "Chocolate Snail" pastry, which was fantastic, and a nice big cup of Chai Tea. I will definitely be going back to taste some of the other delectable-sounding treats on their menu. The free wi-fi wasn't bad, either!
(4)Mike M.
When you are in dire need of a chill coffeehouse experience, I think Andala is a great option. Whereas most of your Starbucks and DDs and even like 1369 Coffee House can seem kind of chaotic and hectic, Andala just has a really chill vibe. From the table service by a really nice waistaff to the great outdoor seating you can enjoy once the weather gets nice, this place is pretty legit. The overall vibe in the store is just very chill with plenty of seating and free wifi to sit with your laptop and casually enjoy your day. I also think they have some pretty good food - I had a vanilla scone today that tasted totally fresh and delicious. They also ask for a $5 miniumum on your credit card so if you are cash strapped and just needing a cup of coffee, maybe you should go to Starbucks. My only complaint about Andala is that their coffee station for takeout is pretty inadequate. They only have generic pink packet sugar substitute instead of Splenda or real sugar. Also, they have salt and pepper on the counter right next to the sugar and cocoa powder - that would be a nasty mistake to pick up the salt by accident!
(4)Aboud Y.
Love, love this place. Great Arabic food / drink in a comfortable atmosphere. Great for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or just a snack. Also a good place to chill and talk with friends or even read / study. The place does have its quirks (service and food are a bit inconsistent) but its all easily forgiven.
(5)Ina C.
A tenth of a mile from my church, I have now found a new place to get my mid-food-coma, pre-church caffeine! I can only comment on the atmosphere and iced tea, but I still think it's reviewing because this place really has the most seating I've ever seen in a place with the words "coffee house" in the name. Seriously, tons of seating, especially in warm weather with the outdoor patio. It's got a warm feel with maroon-colored walls, high ceilings (on the main floor) and it's spacious. A great place to grab a meal, a coffee, to study, whatever! I'll definitely be back. Oh, my iced tea was delicious, by the way. Unsweetened, very herb-y. :) Love it.
(4)Hiroki M.
This is my new favorite cafe. One of a kind ambiance, the food and tea is terrific as well. Great place for either just sitting down for some tea/coffee or taking a group of friends for some food.
(5)Doris T.
Such a cute little cafe! I would totally go there with someonhe special for a relaxing afternoon/brunch excursion. The decor is nothing special other than a collection of mismatched middle-eastern trinkets and paintings but somehow everything comes together to give a wonderfully homey and relaxing atmosphere. I did not try any of their food this time around because of time constraints but I did try a pot of tea from their quite large collection. I had the honeybush and it was just I had expected, perfect on a cold day like today. They have cozy little corners if you want to be on your own or a basement dedicated for a larger group. I also tried a sip of chai from my friend's cup and it was quite delicious. Last of all, the staff there are incredibly sweet. The service is quite efficient and the staff are extremely friendly. Try this cafe Boston dwellers, you will like it :) PS Their online menu has a lot of typos but their collection is quite impressive regardless.
(4)Liz M.
With Cambridge creepin' w/ cafes, Andala comes up a cut above the rest. Why? ....because it has all the ingredients of a great cafe! But why 4 stars and not 5? Well....it has all the ingredients except student friendly prices. (1) cozy atmosphere and different types of seating. one day you may want a couch, another day a huge table, another, in the basement (though its kinda spooky to me) (2) AWESOME HUMMUS. OMG. AWESOME. GET IT, even if you dont like chick peas. (3) GREAT COFFEE. aint cheap, but great. maybe it'll be a treat for all that studying. (4) CLEAN BATHROOMS! with all the studying and drinking and eating, you need a good can! (5) GREAT SERVICE. people are nice, not snooty. that goes a long way. (6) things to get: the hummus plate, the ground beef special, the latte with an extra espresso shot and coffee. best bets and best eats!
(4)Steven P.
This place is quite cozy. I friend told me about it and I had to visit. While the coffee is slightly expensive considering how much they give you, the atmosphere is really nice. When I went into the basement I felt like I was walking into a friend's house. It was very inviting. I will definitely have to come back some time, it seems like a good place to sit around for hours working/reading while being supplied with a constant stream of tasty pastries and caffeinated beverages.
(4)Nadia A.
I love the ambiance and decor of Andala...I have to say I really like their tea selection and coffee as well. I really like the side room with all the windows and the large tables make this a great venue for meetings. I've had just a few dishes here...all very tasty. My only complaint is that the service is ridiculously slow...very courteous, but SLOW. I'm not actually sure it's the waitstaff's fault...i have been to this place and been served by so many different waiters and waitresses that I don't think it's them. I actually think they need more organization or coordination to their waitstaffing system. Maybe they need to hire more people for busier times? The free wi-fi is definitely a bonus. Andala is a great addition to the Cambridge coffee houses. Another plus is that they are open late if you need to get work done. Overall, Andala = awesome.
(4)Daniel P.
I don't want to say too much because, really, this place speaks for itself. This is where I take anyone who appreciates quality coffee in a stylish cafe. If I lived in Central Square, I'd be here every day for their Turkish or Arabic coffee. During one of my visits, the barista nearly yelled at the waitress for mixing up the two. This speaks to the caliber. It's a perfect spot for Sunday brunch or an afternoon snack while you study. When it's warm, the patio is quite lovely, providing a view of the square we all wish we could live in.
(5)Cat M.
Like going to a Middle Eastern-Mediterranean friend's house and it turns out they're having a family reunion. Cozy, spacious, excellent for studying -- free wifi, yes, but also the staff won't bother you if you're just hanging out with your book. Delicious chai latte, expansive tea selection, and the goat cheese and honey plate is a treat to share with someone lovely.
(5)Adam C.
This is my go-to spot, whether I'm stopping by for a laidback conversation with a friend or spending the whole evening working on projects on my laptop. No other Central Square coffeeshop has everything that I'm looking for. More specifically... -Late hours (open until 11 p.m. on weekdays) -Free and generally consistent wifi -Decent, reasonably-priced food and baked goods (I'm a sucker for the baklava, in particular) and, perhaps most importantly, -CHARACTER. The owner is always sitting downstairs at the big, black table with a couple of friends, shooting the breeze. He's an extremely friendly guy, and on more than one occasion has seen me and a friend sipping our teas and given us a pastry on the house! I'm not a tea connoisseur such that I'd be able to speak on the quality of the product, but I've always been satisfied with the variety of herbal and fruit teas, and you can never go wrong with the Arabic Coffee or the house tea. Bottom line: skip all the chains and crunchy-granola spots in the area - not to mention the pair of personality-less 1369s - and check out Andala!
(5)Allie L.
Went to the Andala with a close friend of mine and my mom because we were looking for a quieter tea house so we could talk and hear ourselves think. All three of us really liked the Andala. I highly recommend the downstairs because it's got a fantastic vib. There are huge benches that form a square and a lot of instruments that you can play including bongo drums, a guitar, and many wonderful Indian instruments. It looks like an ideal place for a music jam or poetry readings. The food as others have said was very simple but very good. Sometimes, I think simple is best. A great little inexpensive place to go with friends and loved ones with good food and a nice quiet atmosphere.
(4)Sam S.
Just away from the hustle and bustle of Mass Ave in Central Square is a little gem of a coffee shop called the Andala Coffee House. I searched Yelp for a good free wifi cambridge area option to do some work for a few hours. The second I walked in I knew I'd love it here. Such a peaceful atmosphere and charming middle eastern music, great table service, and a nice selection of food. I tried a goat cheese honey plate that came with 5 different kinds of fruit, and huge chunck of delicious goat cheese...well worth the $7.95 cost. The chai tea was delicious. As someone who loves working at coffee shops to get out of the house, I also have a love/hate relationship with them. The busiest ones are great for people watching, and often interesting but also loud, over crowded (fighting for seats/space/outlets sucks!) and very distracting. I recently sat next to someone in JP who held a sales conference meeting over their phone for an hour. However, I should go to the library if I want extreme peace and quiet. So on those days I'm in cambridge where I DO need to focus really well, this little coffee house will be my first choice. Next time I want to try the avocado pressed sandwich...yum!
(5)Sheila S.
Yes, five stars. This place is good. The mint tea is REALLY refreshing and culturally accurate. All the Lebanese dishes are tasty. The hostesses are nice and willing to refill over the hours that you are there. Most importantly, it has comfy seats and big windows for watching the rest of the world go by as you study.
(5)Jamay L.
FINALLY! I've found a cafe in Boston that rivals the cafes I used to frequent in Manhattan. Andala Coffee House is a gem. Just a 5-minute walk away from the Central Square T stop, it is a warm, welcoming, spacious place where you can hang out for hours, scribbling in your journal, typing away at your laptop, or chatting over tea and pastries with friends. With two floors that offer a range of seating options, from small tables to cushioned corner booths to large dining tables, you can come by yourself or host a meeting for your new startup. The wifi is fast, the staff is friendly, and the food is good, with plenty of snack and meal options..... I can see myself becoming a regular here!!
(5)Ana R.
I met a group at Andala last night around 6:30pm for dinner & knitting. I ordered the Avocado Press Sandwich, which was delicious and big enough to satisfy, but a little pricy at $7.95. I also had a Chai, which was also very good. For desert, I opted for the rice pudding, which was super-cold and bland, unfortunately. Like eating wet white rice straight out of the fridge. I was told by a friend who frequents here that the oatmeal and fruit plate is very good. The space was very nice. The atmosphere was great and the owner was very kind. We were outside at the beginning of the evening, but it got a little chilly and windy (actually, their outdoor umbrella nearly collapsed on us, probably because it was being kept up by a chair). We moved inside, into one of three rooms with seating. There was a long, low couch which accomodated us well, but it was difficult to pass by other guests. The decor reminded us all of Algiers. There are many tapestries, rugs, etc to make the space feel cozy. The grill outside exhuded lovely smells of chicken and lamb kabobs. The waitress was a bit flighty and overwhelmed by our group of 6. We were there 3 hours and didn't see her after for the last 1 and a half. She brought us a pitcher of water and only 3 glasses and didn't come back to bring more. Parking is impossible. Walk if you can or take the T. I would come back here alone for breakfast or lunch, to read the paper or knit. Great atmosphere, bad for big groups or those looking to eat cheap. Probably really good for a date, as it's cozy and a little luxurious and different.
(3)Kristine A.
This place is simply adorable. They have a wide array of teas which hits the spot on cold winter nights. They have good vegetarian options on their menu which are simply tasty. I had no idea they even had a downstairs since I have only been here once before. There is really neat artwork around the place which gives it character.
(4)Meghan F.
I have been coming to Andala every so often for several years, and it is consistently pretty great. The chai lattes are delicious, the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, and the wifi is free. The service isn't always great, and the food can be overpriced, but the food that I have tried (hummus plate, vegetarian chili, some pastries) is generally good. There is a lot of seating and comfortable chairs and couches. In short, I would definitely recommend Andala: service can be hit or miss, but the location is great and I can't get enough of their chai!
(4)Angelique A.
This is my all time favorite middle eastern cafe on decor and ambiance alone, especially on a warm sunny day when you can sit outside and just contemplate life. Taking off two stars because 1. The food, rice in particular, is super oily. The oil does does add any flavor so it's hard to understand why it's added. 2. The service is suuuuuuppperrrrr slooowwwwww, especially if you happen to sit outside. Need to leave in an hour? Better ask for the check now coz that's how long it will take. Also, why so stingy with the paper napkins? I dropped some oily rice on my dress and had to wait for half an hour before I could get hold of a paper napkin to dab on it...
(3)Mika S.
The atmosphere at Andala is one of the best i've ever experienced. The patio is enclosed by a small fence, and tucked underneath a leafy canopy, with twinkling patio lights lighting the area up at night. The seating area in the basement is equally as cosy, with a number of couches and beautiful decorations. The set-up on the patio and in the basement are very casual and intimate, making them great places to go on a date, or hanging out with friends. My friends and I had such a great time here that we spent almost 3 hours eating, and doing hookah while we caught up. The food is simple, and very delicious! I ordered the Meat Pie plate, which came with 2 small meat pies and a salad. The salad was small and lightly dressed in one of the tastiest vinaigrette dressings i've ever had - the exotic blend of spices gave it such a wonderful taste. I would love to know what the dressing is called, and whether it is homemade. The meat pies were even better and so so fresh! I would love to come back here for brunch and coffee.
(4)Tiffany C.
I'm giving a three because this was my first time here, but I ordered, sat for 2 hours and never got my order. Ambiance: 5 super cute outside patio, enclosed by a small fence. There is seating next to a window facing the balcony (always taken!) & extra seating area in the basement with couches and beautiful decorations, really giving you that middle eastern flavor & culture. It's a great place for a group of friends to just hangout and have coffee, tea, light lunch. Service: I NEVER GOT MY ORDER. The lady came in took our orders. My friend and I chatted a storm long enough that in 2 hours we realized she never came with our orders. I'm giving this a three because I didn't even get to taste the food or coffee, so I'm hoping the next time I go, they can change my mind.
(3)Isaac E.
I had the goat cheese and fruit platter- big and full of juicy fruit! However, everything else was too spicy!! To be fair tho, I did eat my meals and if I had that kind of palate this would be my place. Additionally, the atmosphere is laid back and it has the true air of a coffee house.
(3)Tracey L.
Andala is great if you're looking for a quiet place to have a conversation, read a book, or otherwise not use the Internet. Or maybe their internet is just perpetually incompatible with my laptop. In any event, the food here is fresh and definitely feels homemade. I am not a fan at all of their lemon mint smoothie - it's more like a slushie that is impossible to drink, but the foole plate and banana smoothies are delicious.
(3)John Z.
Was not impressed with the food. My first order of meat pie was not available. Omelet and egg sandwich was basically egg with scallions and salt, something easily prepared at home. Not worth the $9 price tag. The mint smoothie looked promising from previous reviews, but when I got it, the ice to juice ratio was way off. It was a mountain of ice. Did not have a very good impression from this establishment.
(2)Wanwipa P.
Love the mushroom omelet and orange juice here.
(5)Richard H.
Definitely hit-or-miss. I've had wonderful experiences - especially on the food side - but most often the service comes up short. The waitress disappears, fails to bring the check, or is very distracted during order-taking. I love the interior and homey feeling of the cafe and basement, which does well to make up for bad service. Water arrived quickly on this visit. However, Andala's filter coffee is much to be desired, cookies seem store bought, and service during my last visit left us in a huff. Among the cafe options in Central Square that can accommodate a long, comfortable conversation, Andala tops my list and bad service won't prevent me from returning to chat with a friend over espresso or tea. However, be prepared to confront hit or miss service, and bring along a good deal of patience. Just a side note, the menus are filthy - the two that we received looked like coffee had been spilled on it for the last two years, several cascading shades of brown. Most of the teas listed in the menu were unavailable. Not really sure what is going on behind the counter.
(2)Esther J.
Food is amazing. I had rice over beef. A little hot/humid inside. It's like going into a house in a humid, foreign (Arabic) country. Free Wifi. Definitely a place to go with friends or to study on a cooler day.
(4)Katie L.
Everything about this place is perfect. It is filled with light, it feels like your house with couches and little tables not too close together, but only if your house were a little Middle Eastern cafe. It is clean, not too rushed nor too quiet. The walls are a cheerful yellow, and the whole space has just the nicest details. There's also a blue colored downstairs, with more couches and tables. Tons of space. The tea comes in little teapots, and it is fresh tasting and piping hot, served with a clear glass like the tea I've had in Morocco (though to make their fresh mint tea a true Moroccan tea, you'll need to add several heaping spoons of sugar). I also had rice pudding and a croissant, both of which were solid, especially the rice pudding. Otherwise, I was left in peace to write on my laptop. It seemed like everyone at this cafe was either a student doing homework, or an expat from some middle eastern country out to meet other expats for a Sunday afternoon tea. There were plenty of outlets, the wifi was solid if not lightning fast, and the service was very nice. If I lived closer to Central Square, I'd be here all the time -- it's open till 11, after all! What a rarity for a little cafe! I'd dock a star for the prices ($3.75 for a tiny tea), but this place just makes me feel so nostalgic. Gotta give five.
(5)Rob C.
This place sucks. I came in at 830am (30 minutes after they had opened) and sat down to order. I ordered the avocado press sandwich that everyone on yelp recommended and a coffee - the server told me the cook was not here yet and didn't know when he would be. The server ended up running into the kitchen to make the sandwich and asking the other employee to get my coffee. The woman responded "no" and sat there folding silverware. I waiting until my sandwich came out to get my coffee (20 minutes later) Save the time and money and go somewhere else.
(1)Xue L.
This place is great. It's a cute cafe with lots of space. No tight tables squished next to each other. Perfect for sitting and working. It's very relaxed with a lot of natural light. Service was prompt and friendly. Not rude at all! The food is delicious. flavorful and authentic. Awesome selection of teas.
(5)Alan J.
I love how the roof of their patio is covered with vines. I was a big fan of getting a hooka and some tea and reading a book for a while. Also, call me crazy but like the past three times I've been there at closing, I noticed that the place wasn't emptying but was in fact filling up. Except, the waiters were telling a subset of people (ie non-middle-easterners) they had to leave. I guess it's their prerogative to let whoever they want to stay past closing time, but it creates a weird dynamic when you're the only one they're asking to leave.
(4)Hai N.
I would only ever come back for the seating/ambience of this cafe. Otherwise, service is super slow -- I had to remind the server twice that I want to have a cup of coffee, and both times she replied saying someone will make it and in the end no one ever did. They werent even busy or crowded. Also, their internet is inaccessible, as in something is wrong because I could connect to wifi but could do nothing, even a simple search.
(2)Christine P.
This is one of my favorite cafés in all of boston. This small family owned two-floor establishment is a hidden gem, behind the large church near central square. It's a very very brief walk from the red line. The classic suggestions I would pose for your dining experience includes the avocado press sandwich which I almost always get. As for a beverage I recommend either the house tea or the lime mint smoothie depending on the season or weather. Enjoy!!
(5)Susanna L.
This cafe has a lot of really great seating options inside and outside, and feels very cozy, with tables, couches, and benches available. The atmosphere is very laid back, they play a lot of old 90s songs and Sara bareilles. I liked studying here because it's relatively quiet, a low traffic area, and you don't feel rushed. But the major downside is that the SERVICE IS TERRIBLE. It takes forever for servers to clean the table, take your order, it once took 45 min for a simple latte to come out when my friends tea came out immediately. It's crazy how slow they are even when they aren't busy..
(2)Brad M.
Been here a few times with a group. Food is decent if a bit expensive, but the service has always been poor. I've often had to ask for things several times before they show up, having the wrong things come out, slow service, etc. None of that compares to my experience today though. We had made a reservation for this group, which Andala had evidently accepted. Once the group arrived, the manager came over to us and made a big stink about how he doesn't think our group spends enough money at his place (we regularly have $120+ checks), and kicks us all out right then. Keep in mind we have never seen this place crowded, so it's not like we're taking up space other patrons could be using. Some of us had already purchased some coffee and food, so we moved our group meeting immediately outside the place, bringing our cups and dishes with us. The server actually has the gall to come out after us and harass us about the dishware we've taken all of about 20 feet. Well buddy, we wouldn't have had to take it outside if you hadn't kicked us out. I will not be going back here.
(1)Emily G.
Andala is a decent place to get authentic Middle Eastern food in Central Square. Two-stars seems harsh, but I think there are better places to spend your money. I am no expert in cooking this type of food but I think even I could have thrown something together that would have been more tasty. I went for lunch on a weekday recently with a coworker. My mujaddara was disappointingly flavorless. Her foul plate was just okay. I have heard from many people that the service is exceptionally slow, although we had no issue with that. The space is pretty as well, if you can eat outside, the grapevines covering the whole outdoor area are absolutely beautiful. Two-stars seems harsh, but I think there are better places to spend your money.
(2)Lily T.
This is a solid 4 star place. Cosy, homey, never a wait, decent-to-good food and coffee. Great off-Central location. Free wifi. Excellent brunch place with zero wait means this is my go to (vs some other places in central sq... My rule is that I never wait more than 10 min for brunch. No brunch is worth that....) 1 star docked because of the following 1. The menu is super vague, when you ask the servers they are often just as vague. But I've never had anything bad here. 2. The chai is weird, it's just black tea without milk Overall this place is a win
(4)Audra Jamai W.
If you're fond of working in coffee shops for hours, this is a great place to get work done during the week days. This is not the place to go if you're in a rush. Other than the staff working on a more European or Middle Eastern time schedule the servers are very friendly and helpful. The tea selection is vast and the menu has something for whatever mood you're in.
(4)Ahmed A.
I rushed herefrom downtown to get here at 10;30 pm. It turns out they stop serving food at 10 pm :( FAIL!
(1)Kristen C.
My favorite things about Andala are the avocado press, the tuna melt press, and the outdoor patio covered in leafy greens. Probably in that order. The ambiance is nice for working or having convos, but I've never found it to feel very cozy. There are usually enough people around, but it never feels crowded or bustling. Staff are generally polite, neither overly friendly or unfriendly. Bottom line: Andala is nice in moderation.
(4)Mark S.
I used to love this place. I really did. When I first moved to Boston, Andala was a haven. The nicest wait staff, great food, a good vibe, awesome coffee, free wifi. Now? Almost none of the above are true. The vibe is still great, but every single person working there seems to hate their lives--and, by extension, you. The turnover in the waitstaff is so rapid, it makes you wonder whether they're even getting paid. The wifi? Nonexistent. I mean, it's existent, technically. But you can never, ever, ever get on the internet with it, so don't expect to. At this point, I only go here if I know I won't need the internet. The food? Totally gone downhill. A "chocolate croissant" now is a stale croissant, sliced in half, and drizzled halfheartedly with Hershey's chocolate syrup. All those lovely teas you see? Yeah, they don't have them. Oh, and apparently the owner no longer believes in heat during the winter or AC during the summer. It's still true that they won't ever rush you, but going here has become a frustrating experience.
(2)Anna K.
This is such a great spot for a coffee or delicious snacks. It's lovely and decorated with a unique and very cozy style. The baristas are very friendly, and take coffee orders from your table, so you don't have to run to the bar every time you need something. Great for meetings, study sessions, and coffee-dates. Wish I lived in Boston to frequent this place more often.
(5)Ana S.
I keep going to Andala for the same reason I keep answering booty calls from my ex: I have poor judgment. The reviews about the service are spot-on. I've never seen a more confused operation. Last time I was there I ordered a salad WITHOUT two of the ingredients listed. When the bill came I noticed it was more expensive than I expected. I asked the server about it and she said there was an extra charge for the change. I told her I wasn't going to pay more for eating less and, if indeed that insane policy was in place, she should have told me before filling the order. All available servers then coalesced next to my table to consider the matter. I felt like I took crazy pills. Come here if you want nothing more than a single cup of straight coffee. Set your expectations to low.
(2)Robert C.
Go for the Turkish (Arab?) coffee. The desserts are good with it - baklava, etc. Have not tried the restaurant food. The staff is very friendly, but a bit slow. It is a go-to place for a great coffee or Turkish tea break. Parking is not bad either.
(4)Rafay A.
What good food. The Fooul I ha was the best I've tasted since I are it first in Jerusalem years ago. The owner, Sami, is passionate about his food and the care his customers get. Definitely recommended as solid middle eastern fare.
(5)Dave M.
The worst service ever! Waited hours for a chicken kabob and a side if rice. Unacceptable!
(1)Vivian C.
Context: Monday afternoon around 2 PM. Ambiance: There are flies flying everywhere. HUGE BLACK HOUSEFLIES. Yuck. But, they have board games like chess and checkers, which is a huge plus for me. They also have power outlets and a cute additional room that overlooks the street. I happily sat down and then an older gentleman started to talk to me about 9/11 and Harvard conspiracy theories. He's the problem...he talked to me for TWO HOURS. Apparently, this dude is a regular customer there, who often ropes people into these long conversations. He was a nice guy...I just didn't know how to tell him to stop without offending him. Considering that he was deep into these conspiracy theories, I didn't want to set him off or anger him. Service: The service was nice, I think I had at least three different servers though. All three servers KNEW that this man was talking to me and didn't say anything or try to save me from the pain. I was in desperate need of SAVING. Even a customer next to me apologized to me and felt bad that this was happening to me. DEAR GOD. SAVE ME. Lemonade: A bit too sour for my tastes...it was also extremely pricey. $5. My review haiku: Comfortable seats Sour lemonade, black flies and power outlets! Unfortunately, this is may not be a unique experience. There's a resident conspiracy theorist here and be prepared to run away QUICKLY if an older heavier gentleman starts chatting you up. RUN, RUN, RUN. This is not the fault of Andala, but they need to REGULATE or at least say something to him...I just want two hours of my life back.
(1)Christopher C.
So, I like this place. The coffee/drinks are good, and the food isn't bad for a coffee shop. As with a lot of places in the area, it gets really crowded and there's not a lot of table seating. I've had issues with the wifi as well, which kind of stops it from being a go-to study spot at all times. Also, while the staff is nice, it takes quite a while to be served, and many times I've just gone to the front to place an order. Still, though, I recommend it, especially if you live in the area and are looking for a good meeting spot with friends.
(3)Amy M.
Went here for the first time today and loved it. Beautiful surroundings, lots of interesting space, wifi. The best chai I've ever had. I look forward to going back to try the food because it looks amazing.
(4)Malkah F.
As always, a great dinner. I love this place as the ambiance is incredible, the wait staff friendly and caring, and the food yummy. The prices are low if you compare it to other places serving home-cooked middle-eastern fare. Another very special thing about this place is that for those of us involved in social justice work -- this is HOME. There is no other restaurant where we can find support and the owner is always willing to share support for our work. As a Palestinian he understands human rights -- and he also understands women's issues, LGBT issues, and anti-racism work. Enjoy the best food in and around Boston at reasonable prices, feel completely at home, and know that you are supporting a business that is on the side of human rights and dignity for ALL of us.
(5)Tianyi Z.
Love their coffee and omelet, and the sandwiches are pretty good. Cosy environment, great place for brunch or to have a cup of coffee by the street.
(5)Ana B.
The best place to get a coffee or a a tea around Central Square and meet a friend, read a book, or work a bit. I love to sit there and just enjoy the space- feels like a large middle eastern living room. The large windows overlook the street, there is an outside patio in the summer, and a cozy downstairs. The crew is very nice and will not rush you up. The service is a bit slow and unpredictable but they are so welcoming and casual that it really does not matter. The food is just ok but pricey. But the teas, coffees, pastries and desserts are all wonderful. I love to get a cardamom tea or an arabic coffee and a croissant. They serve it properly, with plates, silverware and napkins. Quite charming. One of my all time favourite secret places.
(4)Fatos B.
I will try to be fair. I went there for hookah. So I'm not going to comment on coffee or anything else. When I first entered the store, the lady could not for the life of her tell me what the hookah choices were. I had to ask if they have what I was looking for. They said they did so I ordered. First the wait was too long, and once it came it was terrible. It wasnt working. They had no idea how to set it up. The waitresses were not particularly interested to make it work. Everything was confusing and a mess. Seeing that there was nothing I could do anymore I asked if they could puton the soccer match for me to watch. One of the guys said yeah we do if you pay 400 dollars. They were literraly looking at me weirdly until I left. It appeared that they didnt want me in there. There was a waitress who was nice and one of the younger owners. That was the only positive.
(1)Julie B.
Service takes too long and the orders were not correct the last few times we came here as a group.
(2)Ama N.
I've been coming here for a while, just for the teas (the tea is heaven)and coffees alone ....but one thing that sucks about here is that their customer service is horrible! So the waitress brings you a menu, which by the way has a bunch of food stains on it... you seriously lose your appetite. Then she literally will never come back! I went there this past week and had to leave the room I was sitting in and walk to the register and ask the guy behind the counter if he could kindly tell our waitress we are ready to order. He looks at me like I have leprosy and says "ya she'll be around". Like why am I being treated like I have no right to ask but as a customer im waiting for 30 min for you to come so i can order a latte! I dont get it but everytime it is the case here and its getting old. Oh and I only had lentil soup here once....just bring some seasoning with you if you want it -_-
(3)Adam M.
+++++ -Great location in central square -Great place to study, no pressure to leave at all -Amazing Arabic music -Very chill place -Nice interesting crowd of people -Tea!! ------- -Bad service (The staff keeps changing) -Mediocre food
(3)Nancy Y.
Best hang out place in Cambridge. Somewhat crowded on weekends but my closest friends and I loved hangin out there. Best teas, coffees, and cappuccino's around. Also they had a great chicken sandwich. I miss the grape vines in the summers there. Very laid back and very warm place to be.
(5)Francisco M.
The rice had no flavor and the service took too long. The chicken was decent but the 35 minute wait for the plate wasn't worth the bill especially since the portions were small. The iced chai was OK but didn't come out until after we ate and the waiter never checked on us so we had to pay the bill up front. I would not eat there again.
(1)Kasem W.
Great food, great service, great price, great choices. I first discovered this place at a meetup.com event, then I got hooked. Their chicken and beef dishes are all fantastic, and their choices of tea is superb.
(5)Mar M.
I used to be a regular here, as I live right around the corner. As other people mentioned, service is really horrible here, but I put up with it - I need a place to work and I don't mind waiting for a cup of coffee. However, today is the last day I come here. We went over to order at the counter, as I knew they would take an awfully long time to service us at the table. But the waiter insisted we sit down... we've been waiting for her ever since... it's been an hour. We gave up - but hey, at least we have a free place to work.
(1)Matthew B.
I've been in central for a year and avoided this spot under the impression foods came second to the college charm of offering hookah. I'm glad to announce today how wrong my conclusion was. The music is as authentic as the culinary delights that span the gambit of Middle Eastern delights. I wish I had headphones as I write this up on the free wifi, but I sure appreciate the latter. Rich, flavorful and plentiful - I could spend every meal here today and be satisfied with the diversity of taste. I rocked a doughy, flavorful set of meat pies that make my mouth water to imagine again while my lady enjoyed the traditional plate of the usual suspects, all of which were incredible. We gave the house tea a shot with its cardamom warning duly noted and I must say, it was the right choice. It's a tasty delight you're not going to find down the street at Starbucks. On a similar trajectory, rock the mint lemon smoothy for the most refreshing drink this side of the Mississippi. Overall, I'm pumped to be a just a stone's throw away. In a word, this spot is flavorful. Enjoy.
(4)Maria G.
Cute coffee house that is just steps away from central square. They offer a variety of selections of coffee and food. Price is reasonable. Coffee/tea is around $3 - 4. Service is okay. The place is not big but has plenty of tables inside the shop. I ordered hot cider and it was alright. Nothing much to "complain" about.
(4)George H.
Stopped by around 4 pm for a really late lunch, so we ordered the soup. I had the lentil. It came out quickly enough but it was Luke warm and not really that great, however, the Decor and the quirky charm of the cafe, decorated by genuine grapes hanging from the vines above, stole our heart! Plus the server was a very kind and despite being very busy because he seemed to be the only person serving outdoors, indoors and on the floor below, he was efficient and not at all cranky as other servers are wont to be when they are overwhelmed! So, that rates a 4 stars in my book! Would definitely be back, if I was living close by! And I would definitely recommend it!
(4)Anpan W.
The ambience was interesting, but food was underwhelming and overpriced, and it was hard to find both a place to sit (laptop squatters took over big tables) and that was quiet (bromance start-up date and awkward MIT students on a date). I ordered the fruit, goat cheese, honey, and pita item. There was not enough honey nor enough pita.
(2)Alon R.
I had high hopes for this place due to the high stars and recommendations. I am sad to say this was the most foul meal I have ever eaten in Cambridge. I ordered the meat and spinach pies which were literally microwaved out of a box. They were literally inedible. We literally just left the money on the table and walked out because it was so poorly managed and poor in taste.
(1)Rebecca D.
Love this place! Very cute, quiet, good wifi. Came here while working remotely for the week in Boston. Hunkered down for the afternoon. Staff was super kind and helpful and the food was amazing! Fresh, tasty and healthy. I had the tuna sandwich and it was awesome. Some of the best hummus I've ever had, fresh and homemade. Wonderful tea selection too, I highly recommend this spot to anyone. I'll definitely be back!
(5)Michelle J.
I was a bit hesitant about meeting my study group here after reading a few of the other reviews on Yelp. However, it was too late to change venues and well sometimes you just have to see things for yourself. When I got here I ordered an apple cider at the counter and then found my group. We were actually at the comfy table setup right in front of the register. The barista brought over my cider and suggested that the lower level had additional seating if we needed more space. We declined and she left us alone. And didn't bother us at all during our time there. A bunch of folks had ordered and got their food and we just enjoyed the ambiance and our conversation, and of course studying. The food I heard from those who ate was average. I liked the cider. It wasn't too sweet and was just what I needed on a cold winter night. The menu was a bit on the pricey side to me but the drinks were average price of most coffeehouses in the area. When we left we paid and there was no fuss. I'd come here to study again. This is a chill place and has more room than most other coffee houses which tend to be kind of cramped hole in the walls.
(3)Cassandra F.
I love Andala. I unfortunately relocated and no longer live down the street! However, I did come back digitally to return the gratitude and still take the T two stops to go. Their tables are great for study and their tea comes in a pot with little glasses which is charming and practical. I would strongly recommend the Oatmeal topped with coconut shaving and milk with raisin surrounded by a medley of delicious fruit. As a Grad Student, I gained a lot from the positive atmosphere and waitstaff. It's a great location and a special place to me since I have had some life changing conversation their. In a way, it remind me of a charming little spot in the West Village, yet in Cambridge.
(5)Nina D.
Service here is really bad and the food is sort of bad and overpriced. But overall, the staff is super friendly and the space is unparalleled in its convenience and ambience. In spite of its very strong limitations - Andala remains one of my regular neighborhood spots.
(2)Alexander P.
This was a very cool, authentic Arab cafe experience. I ordered Turkish coffee and a foole plate. The Turkish coffee was simple but good. It was served with an empty espresso cup and the copper pot that it had been prepared in so you could pour it yourself, which was kind of cool. The Foole Plate was excellent. The pile of fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers and onions mostly) atop a warm bowl of a heavenly combination of mashed fava beans, chick peas garlic and olive oil, served with warm pita made for a really good light breakfast. The Arabic-speaking staff, carpet-covered floors, and walls adorned with various excerpts from the Qur'an reminded me of my days abroad. They have a lot of authentic dishes I look forward to trying in the future.
(4)Xenia A.
If you want a quick dash in and out, this place is not for you. If you want a place to work, or read, or catch up with a friend, this place is perfect! There is tons of seating and natural light. Food is delicious, there is a huge variety of teas to choose from (that come in pots) and coffee and amazing, divine desserts. In the warm weather, their seating outside under the trellis is so nice - especially when paired with the mint smoothie!
(5)Miriam A.
Is it bad that the first word that comes to my mind about this restaurant is RATS? I came here twice with my friend to smoke hookah outside on the patio and I couldn't help but feel like we were intruding on a rats night out taking place on Andala's property. I'm not stating that the rats came from inside the restaurant but they run around freely and its safe to say they probably make their way inside as well. Can't they have some sort of exterminator come on a regular basis to prevent this? Okay enough about that...I have to admit the food is yummy here. I've had the foole plate, chicken kabob special, and some sort of chicken sandwich. All delicious and reasonably priced. Hookah is great. Service is uber slow...its okay though no need to rush, hookah time= relaxing time (sans rats).
(3)Olivia J.
Great tea selection + they give it to you in a big steel pot so it doesn't get cold for a long time. You can also ask for more hot water without extra pay. A very fitting place to get work done!
(5)Edward S.
a really chill, place... I enjoyed a quietly momentous hour or so under this amazing grape trellis, sipping the best coffee and and chatting with arbitrary, interesting strangers...
(5)Stefan K.
The location is nice. Grapevines as roofing of the terrace. I've been here twice. Loved the avocado sandwich the first time I ate here. Tea is good too. Went back another day to get the avocado sandwich again. Unfortunately they were out of avocado at 11 am. Waiters we're terribly slow that day. It took 20 minutes to pay.
(3)Raül R.
So I'd seen lots of people at their patio and wanted to try. We ordered tabule salad, chicken kabab and beef with rice and some vegetables. Because the service is extremely SLOW, they brought the salad first and then took more than 15 minutes to bring the other food, so the person who ordered it had to wait with her food on the table for the rest of us. There wasn't so many people at the restaurant and we were just 3. We had to ask for our food because they hadn't told us anything about the delay... Food is good (tabule just ok) although not very generous quantities. And I think it's a little pricey too. Good location though.
(2)Shisham K.
I have been to this place couple of times & I genuinely like the place. The staff here are very friendly. The decor is very Arabic & ethnic...the food is good. Vegetarian have a lot of variety. I also enjoyed their masala chai...The outside seating in the summers with the hookah is the highlight for me. Only one recommendation, they should introduce more hookah flavours. Also, I should mention their baklava are really delicious!!!
(4)Pavel R.
Very cozy and cute space with a great outdoor patio. Unfortunately every time I've been there have been somewhat disappointed with my meals. They always lack something, don't feel well balanced or thought through. My experience with service has been very disappointing as well. It is always extremely slow and not super friendly. This place has a lot of potential if people that are running it can get their act together.
(3)Jen B.
The service here is atrocious. Don't be fooled by the quirky decor. This place is awful. We went here for a tea/coffee break and were appalled from start to finish. Our waitress dropped my husband's croissant, then brought out the bill before our beverages arrived. The "waitress" (sorry, but she obviously isn't qualified for the job title) then had to consult the check to remember what my husband had even ordered. When the drinks came, my fruit smoothie tasted tasteless (and odorless) and the mint tea had no flavor. THREE PEOPLE came to see if we'd paid our bill within 4 minutes of us getting our items. When the second server came around, my husband said we hadn't paid yet, as he didn't want them to see that I'd left no tip. Within 32 seconds (I am not exaggerating, unfortunately), the third server came around and just took the bill holder. Oh well, the secret's out. They didn't get tipped and I'm now writing this review to spare others the terrible experience of going to the Andala. If there's karma on the cafe scene, this place will be under new ownership sooner than later.
(1)Ellie W.
Props to Andala for its cozy-warm ambiance and intimate coffee joint feel, but if I wanted service so slow I could almost feel arthritis and osteoporosis coming on, I would've asked a 90 year old to take my order. I was in a rush, so ordered the bagel of the day and a bottle of water, to go. The bagel of the day consisted of cream cheese, tomato slices, and avocado. I kid you not, this order took 25 minutes. In 25 minutes, I could've gone to purchase my own toaster oven, some bagels, tomato, avocado, and found some random electrical outlet in a train station to make my own BAGEL OF THE DAY. It was quickly becoming the BAGEL OF TOMORROW, seeing how slow service was. There was approximately...no, there was ONE other person in this place, so I don't know how it could've possibly taken so long to slice up some goods and shove it in an oven. The staff wasn't remotely apologetic when I asked several times how much longer my bagel would take, which only added to my annoyance. As most men should know, you don't mess with a hungry woman, unless you are prepared to experience the wrath of the raging woman. Yes, I hold hunger grudges.
(1)Thunderwoman R.
This cafe is a hidden gem in Central Square. I feel like I am in another part of the world. The atmosphere is comfortable with that old world feel. Great wall art & photographs. Great service. I enjoy the coffee & pastries! Delicious! When my son comes to visit from NY we go to do Hookah there. You can bring your own wine! This is the best time of year to sit outdoors at the lovely patio. Looking forward to my next visit!
(5)Alexandra M.
I don't know how many times we asked for water and never got it, but it was A LOT. They weren't busy (3 tables outside, 2 inside), so I'm not sure the problem. We also felt like we waited a long time for the food. I had the special hummus which was fantastic. Could have used more things to dip in it, but the hummus was so good I didn't feel bad using my fork at the end.
(3)Giselle E.
Came here on a Sunday afternoon in late September with my boyfriend. The upstairs was pretty packed but with warm weather we decided to sit outside which was aesthetically pleasing. Let me just say that everything LOOKS good - ambiance, environment, food and beverage. What made me disappointed in my experience was the wait time and food itself. After seating ourselves, we waited about 10 minutes before anyone came to our table, another 30 to get our food, and another 10 minutes into eating our food to get our drinks (we also never got any water in that 50 minute time frame). The food looked beautiful but everything was bland. The rice had no flavor and there wasn't any salt on the tables to sprinkle on my plate. The beef dish I had ordered tested like straight up ground beef that has been pan fried or baked with no seasoning. My boyfriend's chicken dish also had flavorless chicken and sadly his rice had no flavor either. Our iced chais weren't that cold and the flavor was....off. I had asked to replace my chai with a house coffee and even then the coffee was no bueno T_T I'm so sad to write this review because everything looked beautiful. Maybe this was just a bad day and their other dishes are much more stronger. Just a WARNING -- DINE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
(1)Bilge Zeren A.
The place is really cozy and well decorated. They also have a nice patio. Great place to hang out at. However, I think the food isn't good. Also, they have very few options in the menu.
(3)E. L.
Today I went with 3 friends to have lunch at Andala. I've had meals here a half dozen or so times before (but that was 2 years ago). Our waitress was very friendly and the food was good, but the wait was LONG. One member of our party didn't even receive his lunch. We asked where it was and they said it was on its way. That was about 35 minutes after waiting already (for an omelette...cooking eggs?). At about 45-50 minutes we got up and told the woman behind the counter that we needed to pay as we had a meeting shortly thereafter. We left two people behind to get the omelette once it came out and bring it back with us. It took another 20 minutes of them waiting and there was no apology. In fact the woman behind the counter seemed perturbed that we were bothering her with something so trivial.
(2)Annie S.
The food is good, but just a tip-- don't come here during the summer, there is no AC and it gets sooo hot. They have a lot of fans around but they mostly just blow around hot air. Makes for quite an unpleasant experience. That being said, I do enjoy this place. Though the smoothies are overpriced, they are quite good. Banana anything is pretty much my favorite, and the banana smoothie NAILS it. Also the waitress gave me a free second smoothie.. still unclear if she was flirting with me or just bringing me extra. (Let's go with flirting ;)). Foodwise- I recommend the Chicken Khalili Sandwich- if you like spicy!- the jalapenos are strong.
(3)Ange H.
Stopped in on a snowy night for a Turkish coffee and a quiet place to read. The ladies running the shop were really nice. The coffee was delicious. It's a bit out of my way, but if I ever find myself bored near Central again, I'll be back!
(4)Ahmad M.
I love this place. I go there at least 3 times a week to study or meet a friend. this is not your typical full service restourant, it's a laid back place where it really feels like home. we stay for a long time and we never feel the pressure that we should leave (like full service restourants). you can tell the waiters what to order and if u dont see them u can just tell them at the counter. thats what i love about it. i also love there food, their tea pots, and THEY HAVE TURKISH COFFEE. i would recommend the musakhan chicken (a Palestinian dish) and their hummas.
(5)Ben I.
Definitely the best cafe in Central Square. I generally frequent coffee shops quite a bit and I enjoy the unique environment each has to offer. Andala has both excellent food, and a great atmosphere where you can have lunch, dinner, or simply a cup of coffee while studying or working on something via your (Free)wifi connected laptop. The downstairs is a more comfy, and generally quieter place to be. Their is also an area for groups to meet in a living room comfortable setting with couches and tables. Generally, the coffee and tea are excellent, including the Arabic coffee. Currently my favorite dish is the Coq au vin, which is a dinner special running right now. Also the Rice pudding is very very delicious.
(4)Leighann F.
Though I am not in Andala as much as I'd like, today's visit was delightful. A large glass of Mint Iced Tea, followed by a warmed wheat bagel with tomatoes and avocaods. A simple and perfect way to start the day.
(4)E K.
Walked into this cool little cafe off Central Square. Didn't know it was middle eastern from the outside, but it was a pleasant surprise. The waiter was cute and funny, and we had a good time. Thumbs up, will be back!
(4)Nicole P.
I live around the corner from this place and am so sad I haven't ventured over before! The food is awesome- from deconstructed hummus to tasty sandwiches this is a great breakfast/lunch place. I hear that they have some dinner specials and live music on Saturdays which I plan to check out. They also have bagels, pasteries, many different kinds of coffees and teas. The atmosphere is warm and cozy with tables and also couches and little nooks. I can't wait to go there for coffee and scrabble sometime soon! You must check this place out - especially if you live near by!
(5)Gabriel B.
I'm all for local businesses, but Andala has a few kinks, despite the cool motif. Wi-fi works sometimes, and the drinks are pricey. I wouldn't get anything but a basic coffee to go here.
(2)lisa v.
A beautiful coffee shop, replete with marble bar and shining brass or something shiny, from what I can recall. The decor is really sumptuous. The free WiFi is great, as is the ease of signing on, and it was a cinch to find a free table near an outlet. It's such a revelation for me to leave Jamaica Plain and JP Licks with its customers' voracious appetite for outlets and tables! If you're looking to come to a neighborhood where the ratio of itinerant worker/sWiFi gypsies to free WiFi squats/outlets is pretty low, then this is a darn good choice. The menu looked interesting on my visit, but my consumption was limited to bandwidth and coffee, so I can't write up any thoughts regarding food. The setting is so airy, light and pleasant, with such beautiful furnishings, I'm sure I'll be back to sample food in the near future. The only downside--and perhaps this is only a downside to cranky middle-aged squatters such as myself--was the waitress' eagerness to interrupt my work so as to ask me, quite repeatedly, how everything was and if I needed anything else. Of course, Andala deserve to squeeze as much payola out of squatters as possible. Just bear in mind that your space will be intruded upon far more frequently than if you were to WiFi squat in a counter-service shop like JP Licks or Peet's or the like.
(4)Lauren D.
I am a huge fan of tea and this is a wonderful place to drink tea and coffee. It is a relaxed atmosphere where you can either sit back with a book, do work, or hang with a friend. There food is also delicious! I will definitely be back many times to come!
(4)Barney B.
This seems an odd place for a first date, especially when the guy is talking about what he does for work, while the girl sucks on the tube of a hookah. maybe he found it seductive - but I just thought it strange. but I do like this place. the food was good, the vibe is nice and relaxed, and the waitress was super friendly and attentive (and I overheard someone mentioning it was her first day). and the 'open until 11 with free wifi' sitch made it an enjoyable 1st half of my evening out trying to hang and do some work. I shall return, but doubtful for dinner - this seems like a great place to just grab a coffee in a small part of a whole evening out wandering Central Sqaure and there ain't nothing wrong with that.
(3)Kathy C.
It's my first time at Andala, and I love it here already. The ambience is great, the food is fantastic, and the servers are polite and the tea is great. I just wish the food was a shade less expensive, but other than that, no complaints. Great if you're a vegetarian, and great if you want to get some work done!
(4)Bob S.
Indy coffee/cafe.Very cozy atmosphere, Persian rugs. Great mushroom omelet!
(5)Kristina D.
Real-time Yelping and 5-star reviews are quite highly correlated for me. In fact, they might have an r-squared value of 1. I should do some data analysis on my Yelp reviews to verify that. Anyway. I'm in Andala on free wifi and yelping the incredible soy latte that is sitting next to me--ooh, my pie plate (1 meat, 1 spinach) just arrived. :: post pie and salad-chomping :: Meat pie, spinach pie, and accompanying salad were yummalicious. The delectable soy latte, as my roommate described, had foam so thick that you could eat it with a spoon. The atmosphere is peaceful--I could sit here and work all day amid eclectic decorations and soothing music. There is a cute nook that seems perfect for groups as well as a porch with tiny tables that are perfect for laptopping. I am taking away an invisible star and providing a warning: If you come here with a laptop, make sure the battery is fully charged. I had to wander around like a madwoman to try to find seating near an outlet because I did not charge my battery before coming here. I am sticking around for a while to write lesson plans and portfolio, so I also ordered an Arabic coffee and baklava. Both are also awesome. I might just spend the entire day here ordering new stuff to Yelp! EDIT (5/7/08): Knocked off a star for terrible service tonight and unsolicited drum playing. The star may come back eventually... The tabouli, hummus, and salad plate is good.
(4)Jacey B.
Iced Lattes are fantastic. The Turkish coffee is yummy. Cinnamon Brioche Twist was buttery and tasty. The Avocado press sandwich is absolutely delicious with generous amount of avocado, olive tapenade, & veggies. The meat pie plate is a good deal and is very tasty. Some of the prices might seem high but you are also paying for fabulous service, FREE WI-FI, and just a great atmosphere. Theres no pretense from the staff - they are great and pleasant. They don't rush you out (it probably helps that every time I have a meeting there we order a ton of food and over tip because the service is fantastic). Andala has become a new favorite for me - particularly in Spring & Summer!
(4)Corry B.
Oh Waitress- you so pretty that I don't care that it took me several trips to the front counter to get your attention. Oh Central Square- your cafes are so crowded but now I don't care because this place is big and sunny and look! there is a table to fit me and three friends! and decorations too! Oh Cook- maybe you are so slow because of pretty waitress but that's okay because, damn! your food is good! Egg salad is not what I thought, it's so much more: salty hot friend eggs with veggies and cheese, and tuna sandwich is warm, and fool salad is lemony fava goodness- who needs a garnish, it's okay, it still tastes so good. And you can make oh-so-many clever jokes with the salad's name.. clever clever hahaha-
(4)David M.
Rude service. Now I remember why I don't come here very often.
(1)Dave L.
I just got back from here. We had the honey/goat-cheese plate, which was excellent. I also ordered a latte: decent but not spectacular. The cuisine is what brings this place up to four stars; plenty of options that you could never find in a "standard" cafe. I unfortunately couldn't try the hookah because it was raining, but I will be back in the future.
(4)Najat K.
I have initially wrote a raving review about this place until I started going there on a regular basis. I had the most unpleasant experience with one of the waitresses and her friend the expresso bar tender (a guy who wears his hair in a pony tale). Though the place is cute and has a quiet unique set up, the minuses are: - Poor customer service: slow service, rude waitress and rude espresso bar tender, they will give you blank stars and talk and laugh among themselves instead of smiling and greeting you. - Coffee drinks and teas are served cold and watered down - Menu is not so clear as to what the food is about - Food is way overpriced and sometimes completely off in taste and texture I won't go back.
(1)Sarah R.
It might seem odd to give 4 stars to a place where, upon my first time there, I found a hair in my tabbouli salad (true story). However, I've decided that Andala has redeemed itself in my eyes. Here's why: -Uh, patio? Yeah, this patio rocks. I ran into some friends randomly one day on the way to the hardware store (see Tarah H's review) and spent a lazy simmering hot afternoon sipping lemon water and smoking shisha in the shade of one of the giant umbrellas. Ahhhh, hedonism. -Free wi-fi. w00t. For the price of a cup of tea you can surf teh interwebs in relative peace and quiet. -Cute decor, and the porch is great for people-watching. -The hair in my tabbouli salad was kinda hank, but the hummus plate made up for it. Plus the waitress felt pretty badly about it, so guilt always adds points to a review (in my opinion). This is in my new hood (that's right, I moved to Cambridge) so I have a feeling that it's going to soon grace one of those "Cool Places In My Neighborhood" type lists. You know, if I ever get around to actually making one.
(4)Amanda Z.
I kind of want to give this place 3.5 stars, but I'll be kind and round up. It's not that the hookah was bad, it was pretty good. It's not that the ambiance is bad, it's wonderful, the entire place is beautiful and the patio was great considering what a beautiful night it was. Probably what is making me give this 4 stars. However, after waiting almost 45 minutes for service, then getting rushed through our entire night, and forced to leave after only being able to smoke for about a half hour, and then getting charged full price. Hmmmm....not a great experience for me. They could have at least told us that we were going to be forced out. I don't blame the waitress at all, she was incredibly overworked. But I think next time, I'll just walk up the street to Nile instead of treking over to Cambridge.
(4)Alena D.
If you have not made your way to Andala, I would highly recommend the visit. I have yet to have any drink, meal, or experience that I did not love and recommend to others. Example: Shisha: outdoor hookah on patio is very nice during the spring and summer, lots of variety in hookahs and shisha's (ex. nectarine apricot) Juice: fresh juice squeezed to order, they taste very natural and pulpy (favorite is lemon or pear) Teas: around 30 kinds to choose from, buy by cup or pot Food: Foole Plate is wonderful, for new people I always order the Zeit un Zaatar en Labneh (sic) a thick yogurt and seasoning dip for pitas and vegetables, the hummus and tabouli are also wonderful staples. Coffee: they serve a mean Arabic coffee, my friend has been badgering the chef for a couple of weeks now for the recipe (the chef always demurs) Waitstaff can be flighty and spaced out looking, but five stars! Really a place to visit frequently, read a book and chill out.
(5)S R.
Their hummus is very watery and there are full chickpeas in it. Maybe it's the traditional way to serve it but I was caught off guard. Free wifi and a good study place. Arabic and Turkish coffee are pluses - I also like their chamomile tea.
(3)Courtney R.
This is by far one of my favorite cafes in the world. It has great ambiance, excellent Middle Eastern food, great coffee, AND a diversity of seating arrangements. They have relaxed, comfy seating perfect for a date or intimate conversation, and they have plenty of seating great for studying. I highly recommend any of their teas, their smoothies, and of course, the falafel plate. The music is diverse and the staff is always friendly.
(5)greta C.
Never been disappointed with anything I've ordered from here. The coffee isn't the greatest, but you can't have everything, now can you? The lentil soup, salads, pastries and other baked goods kick ass. Their house tea is pretty damned good. Their specialty seems to be their humus. It is the best that I've ever tasted. I mean the best. It is always fresh and creamy and not too garlicy. The waitresses are always slamming hotties. Just don't go their if you are in a hurry. My brother was right: less good looking women make the best waitresses. They really make up in service what they lack in looks. I find the converse to be true in this situation...
(4)Kate M.
I guess the word of the day is "mediocre." There aren't a lot of outlets to be had here, and the food is a bit pricey. But they do have free wifi. And the service is generally pretty friendly. Also, the patio is neat during the warmer summer months. I'd take 1369 over Andala any day, but if 1369 isn't your style, I guess Andala might be a good substitute in the Central area.
(3)Iris M.
Staff is really rude and obnoxious. They're not attentive at all, so even if the coffee was better than average, it's not worth going back.
(1)Derek B.
Quiet location and off the beaten path, Andala boasts great service, strong coffee and really good baclava. It's a nice and relaxing cafe choice that stands out amongst the 1369/Clear Conscience Cafe crowd for its chill "come as you are" vibe.
(4)Jasmine K.
This place is wonderful. So wonderful I couldn't stop my urge to right a positive comment on yelp! Reading the comments up here, I had high expectations to the atmosphere and food, mixed expectations about the services. I found out, this place is wonderful!!!!!!!!!! I went to have a nice dinner during work. The furniture and atmosphere was amazing. Maybe they don't have air-conditioning but it didn't bother me because as long as you sit near the window its nice and breezy. I had a combo plate and a house-blend tea The hummus was amazing like everybody else is writing; the parsley salad and mint-leaf-wrap-thing, toasted pita bread was all wonderful, and the tea was a mixture of spices that was really good (if you're hoping for ceylon tea, it may be different than what you expect, but I really liked it). They even had putin lemon for my regular ice water. It made me full and I still felt healthy. The next time I would like to try the desserts too. About the services, they were fast, very caring and polite. I met 3 staff and they were all nice. The man who is probably the owner was REALLY nice (he probably came around 3 times and asked if everything was OK). I think I noticed the waitress everybody is complaining about, but I think she was trying, and it didn't make me have any negative feelings. I really hope they can keep it up. I understand food business is tough, but I don't want to lose my favorite place in Cambridge.
(5)Cahaya S.
Upstairs or downstairs -- I practically live in this place!! it's my hang out away from home and my second office space -- oh, for just sooo many reasons :) cafe's are the places i go to for inspiration to get down to writing and for some peace of mind. Deliciousness, ambiance, calmness..... Andala offers all of the above -- plus beautiful, detailed aesthetics -- that's warm, plush and inviting. I believe the owner is Palestinian and gets much of what adorns this lovely nook from her travels home or in the region. Ever so often, new additions are introduced to the space, be it a tiny piece of artwork, or woodwork or beautiful sandalwood looking furniture - that continues to add to the homey atmosphere of the place. their little sun room ~ covered sunny porch ~ is just gorgeous, with their deep red velvety seats and complimentary red brick walls. The basement level is a little quieter with larger tables for groups to come for conversation or meetings. And there are comfy sofa sections too, in the corner, where one can hide out and work or read quietly. andala serves fresh, delicately flavored food -- my absolute favorite is their Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich -- it's been consistently delicious everytime! I like the way the eggs are scrambled, wet and perfectly salted, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with the freshest of fresh herbs - parsley, i think, with a side of herb potato salad or steamed veggies. They have a heartwarming oatmeal and fruit plate as well -- that is always pure and clean and simple and fresh. Coffees of all kind that look delectable and I'm sure taste so (if I could only drink coffee :(, every variety of loose teas and a satisfactory hot chocolate as well. Baked goods are also always quite well done -- lemon scones, muffins and biscotti. Oh, and aside from the good food .....the cafe has free wi-fi as well - which completely seals the deal for me :). And service so far has been friendly and courteous .....
(5)Willow G.
I love Andala and go there when (and only when) I have time for a slow, relaxing meal because the service is so so so SLOW. I went in today and had a late lunch. I was sitting at a table right in front of the manager (owner?) and there was only one server on; however, there were at most a handful of people in the restaurant. After I helped myself to a menu, the manager came over and took my order. After my dirty plate sat for a while, I went up to the bar and ordered coffee and dessert. Meanwhile, two other servers came on as they were changing shifts. My coffee came up and sat there, and continued to sit there, while the manager counted the drawer, one server ate, and the other two chatted. I finally stood up and tried to get it myself, at which point the manager said something and a server came over and told me to sit down and brought it over. After it was finished and plates were pushed aside, I waited again for some kind of service. Finally needing to leave, I got up and paid at the bar. ANDALA - PLEASE IMPROVE YOUR SERVICE SO THAT I CAN CONTINUE TO BE A PATRON AT YOUR RESTAURANT. I would really appreciate it. 4 stars for food, atmosphere. 2 stars for service.
(3)arete j.
Lovely place. It's charming, quite, and spacious. The food is not expensive, and is tasty. The Arabic coffee is so yummy with hints of cardamom...yum. It's a great place to study and be alone. The staff seem friendly. I was just in there today, and will continue to go there more often. During the summer they have a nice patio seating area. I won't forget the day when i was with a friend who is Korean--Annie P.. We were sitting outside enjoying our tea and reading when this random dude started talking to us and assumed that Annie P and I were sisters and Chinese. ????? (As some of you may not know, I'm not Asian, but from Latin America) It was really funny, and then he started to relate "our country" with Kung fu movies. He was telling us about Bruce Lee films, and was doing the kung fu "kicks"--or rather imitating them in a poorly manner as he was a bit old and probably a drunk... All and all, during the winter and summer times, Andala is pleasant place. It's not so often that weirdos come by there. Although it was a bit comical when the Bruce Lee wannabe was talking to us but whatever. Its central sq. The food and beverages are great, and I think eventually they'll get a wine license... YEAH! ps free wi-fi !!! THat's hot!
(5)J R.
I want to love Andala, I really do. So close to my house, funky decor and alluring menu, but... my GOD does the service here suck! No, that's not fair. I should say the service is erratic, as are a few other elements of Andala: - The coffee: sometimes it's weak, and I can't believe I dropped $2 for it, and other times it's intriguing ("ooh, did they accidentally spill cardamom in this?") - The food: the pastries often taste stale, but their little meat pies are addictive, and I've had some very interesting soups - all a bit overpriced, though. - The setting: *Beautiful*. Airy and light, and the world music isn't obtrusive (WTF, 1369 - Gwar?! Are you kidding me?!). Several nooks you can find if you want to study quietly, but it can be a fight to the death over the outlets (as in most coffeeshops). No A/C makes it a stifling deathtrap in the middle of August, however. But the service is what really blows this for me.... I've had consistently apathetic service from ALL* the waiters I've had in the past three years, and that's quite a few. The turnover in staff is remarkable - I'm not sure if that's because of bad management or whatever, but all waitstaff should be able to bring your change within 20 minutes in a little coffeeshop. Oh, how I wish I could just buy a to-go cup at the counter and then hide in a corner... *OK, I lied - the waitress in the headscarf who is currently serving me is totally on her game. Thank you for taking my order, bringing me coffee, and fixing the internet within ten minutes!
(3)Nay M.
I tried to live here once, alas was refused. But really, Andala has (almost) everything you could ever ask for in a cafe. I think of it as a coffeehouse 2.0. Don't be fooled by the weathered menus -- the food is surprisingly good for a coffee joint. Fresh pear juice - delicious. Khalili sandwich - delicious (if you like spicy things). Goat cheese and honey - uh, yes please. Turkish coffee - strong. Regular coffee - good. Tabouli - could be better, but I'll let that one slide. Avocado melt - SO GOOD (and the side potato salad that comes with it is awesome, but they skimp on it a bit, which makes me sad =*( because it's so good) I love the atmosphere - particularly the side den with the open windows. Seriously, my most brilliant yelp reviews have been conjured there. It's a room that truly fosters genius. Alright, maybe not...but the space is great - there is a downstairs that is ideal for larger groups. It is a favorite among students, entrepreneurs, and revolutionaries alike because it's a place to get work done -- it's comfortable and you never feel rushed.
(5)Irene R.
This is a nice little coffee/tea house. There isn't too much space upstairs, but they have a small room downstairs as well. The food was decent as well. I had an avocado sandwich (which was more of a wrap) but still very good. You don't just get a cup of tea, you get your own little pot which beats paying $4 for just a cup at Starbucks.
(4)Blair H.
Most comfortable/quiet coffee place I've been to in Boston/Cambridge. The place is huge and good for large groups. I'll be back.
(5)Alexandra G.
Incredible. By far the coziest, loveliest, friendliest cafe I've found in Boston so far (lived here since the summer). So glad to have found it! The sunroom is absolutely gorgeous -- large windows, charming cafe tables, long couches... a pot of loose-leaf tea followed by delicious lentil soup -- this is the perfect spot for a rainy winter day. Free wifi means I can sit and nosh with a friend, enjoying hot tea and getting work done. I really want to come back here at night; the beautiful lanterns and hanging lights, copper accents, wood, reddish walls, and soft carpets would make this a cozy, romantic spot, I'm sure. :) Friendly service too. Highly recommended.
(5)Allison C.
I think things at Andala move a little too slowly for me. Albeit, I came on a friday night around 9, primarily for the hookah, but my friends and I weren't seated until 10. As friendly as the waitstaff may be, an hour is a long time to wait for hookah, especially when it comes with a semi-broken hose and no tongs. The hookah is relatively inexpensive here- but I've experienced better service at the Nile Lounge. Hookah is only served outside at Andala (so I'm guessing this is only a seasonal thing). Had the waitstaff not forgotten about us, I probably wouldve enjoyed the hookah experience better. I'm sure Andala is great in terms of food and such, I'll have to come back another time. But for now, the Nile Lounge is the way to go, if you want a good hookah experience.
(3)Logan J.
this place is awesome. i went here to meet with someone and had a great coffee and a great meeting thanks to the staff and atmosphere. the place feels like youre sitting in the dining room in a friends home, and i loved that about it. the coffee and food were unremarkable, but ill give this place a huge rating just for the atmosphere and service. a fun place to try at least once.
(5)Danielle S.
Let me just say that I LOVE ANDALA. Yes, those caps were needed. This little cafe has been my savior in the past few months due to the massive amount of studying I've been doing in preparation for the LSAT. A quiet, sunny little cafe, Andala has a wonderful, laid back atmosphere. Initially I had thought that it was just another (boring) cafe, and would serve the usual- coffee and croissants, etc., but I was delightfully surprised to find that Andala not only has an extensive range of coffees and teas, but delicious food as well. For those of you who like really strong coffee with a bit of spice, try the Arabic coffee. It's rich, thick, and is spiced with cardamom. I usually tend to get some Moroccan mint tea (I'm on a no-caffeine kick), which is also good. As for the food, I have a horrible habit of only ordering two things from the menu. One is the Goat Cheese and Honey Plate, which, of course is a giant block of goat cheese, and fruits drizzled with honey. Really, I order it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The second thing I order is the Lentil Soup. Yes, boring I know, but the soup tastes just like a homemade soup. Nice, thick and delicious. I do have it on good authority that their other dishes are good too. Service is kind of lackadaisical, but all of the waitresses I've met are very sweet.. One day you might get an overly attentive waitress, the next, you'll have a hard time finding someone to take your order (even if you go up to the register!). However, because the cafe is so laid back, most of its patrons are as well. It's a great little place to go for an afternoon, or an evening, alone, or with friends.
(4)Cleopatra P.
Andala is one of the best study spots ever. Evar. The establishment is what looks to have once been a large old house that's been reworked into a Middle Eastern restaurant and cafe. This setup works incredibly well as there are several distinct zones to Andala to choose from: the very front and middle "main" areas which are the most busy and restaurant-like, the sun porch area, which is cozy and wonderfully conducive to studying, and the basement, which, while comfy-looking, smells kind of like kitchen (I would avoid). The spaces themselves are sunny, colorful and beautifully decorated. The food is not mind-blowing, but it is very good, and reasonably priced for what you receive. I would especially recommend the meat pies, baklava, and any of the many teas on offer (these aren't listed separately on the menu, but your waiter will come around with a large box filled with a variety of loose teas for you to choose from at your request). The service is friendly, but not overattentive or smothering. Not that you should need any further inducement to drop by Andala at this point, but there's also free WiFi. Go, bring your laptop, study a little, loaf a little, eat baklava, drink hot cocoa, sip tea, go home feeling immensely satisfied about the amount of work you managed to get done, lather, rinse, repeat.
(4)Shelley S.
Lovely little coffee shop/cafe in Central Square. Great place to hang and work/study. Always plenty of tables and FREE, reliable wifi connection. The atmosphere definitely has way more character than your typical Starbucks. What they say about the waiters bugging you is true... but you know what? I kind of like it. Because at other coffee shops, when I'm there alone with my laptop and all my other stuff, it always sucks to go up and order food and have to either pack up all my stuff or worry about things getting knicked. To have the service come to you is fantastic. The menu is pretty decent. Lots of great Mediterranean fare, hummus, tabouli, stuffed grape leaves, falafel, etc. I got a combo platter for $7.95 and thought it was okay. Everything was pretty fresh and delicious (green salad, hummus, olives, one stuffed grape leaf, and some tabouli) but I could have used bigger portions overall. Next time I come I want to try some of their sandwiches (the pressed avocado sandwich caught my eye) and their coffee but overall, a nice quiet place to hang out.
(4)Cambridge Y.
Anadala's one of my favorite restaurants in cambridgeport. Staff is friendly and laid back, and they have free wifi. They also have a huge downstairs that's good to hold big meetings, and an awesome patio.
(5)Erik S.
Where Andala gets off calling itself a coffee house I'm not quite sure. The staff was friendly and efficient, neither woman working there was a barista. They serve Lavazza espresso and it doesn't go up from there. There was no latte art, the milk was way too frothy and the taste is about what i expected (read not good) from Lavazza espresso. I'm not sure about any of the other stuff here, but I wouldn't come back here for the coffee.
(3)Cecilia L.
OK yelpers, I came to Andala like you told me to, and I ordered Turkish coffee like you told me to. My friend and I were naive of Turkish coffee, so if you are too it's like an espresso with sludge in the bottom. Lotta kick and it tasted great until we got three quarters through and simultaneously choked. I had brown teeth when I went to the bathroom. Are you supposed to drink the bottom part?? I still don't know. But yeah, this place is adorable and the servers are super nice. We moved to regular coffee after that and man was it good. We also had some delicious lunch: a divine chicken dish cooked with spices and onions rolled up in pita whose name I memorized for yelp and then forgot; and the Jerusalem egg sandwich with yummy potato salad. Chicken came with fresh veggies and wonderful zesty hummus. The one demerit is for tables too small for Scrabble, but no else cares about that. Oh yeah, and for the oppressively bourgeois convo: on one side two oldish ladies strategizing to use their ancient Wellesley connections for fundraising; on the other an insufferable authority on how the U.S. exploits third world people. Not that I disagree, but he fancied himself one of the coffeehouse intelligentsia, so brilliant the rest of the place must want to hear what he's saying. Come on now folks, I'm trying to play Scrabble here.
(4)Kelly K.
I'm a little surprised by all of the positive reviews. I have been frequenting Andala since they opened. I've never written a review, but I would like to mention a few things. 1. The revolving door of staff there is intriguing. Their service is meh for takeout (I've had to wait a while at the counter - the only one in the restaurant - to wait for two of the servers to finish their conversation & get off their phones to take my order). The two times that I have eaten in the restaurant it took a LOOOONG time for ordering/getting food/getting check. If you're looking for a laid back lunch and have absolutely no where to go that's fine, but otherwise I'd think twice. 2. My coworker ,who eats there far more often than I, has noticed on a few occasions that $1-$1.50 was added to her tip amount on her credit card bill. That's pretty shady because most people would likely not notice something like that, but it adds up. 3. And last but not least - my biggest pet peeve. The pastries USED to be awesome. Fresh-baked tasting, varied, delicious, the whole nine yards. They would wrap leftovers in saran wrap and sell them for half price the next day. Now almost all of the pastries are saran wrapped. So pastries are mushy instead of flaky and pretty unappetizing. I have to wonder if they're just now selling day (two day?) old pastries for full price. The croissant that I got today was abysmal, and I don't have very high standards. The muffins come in a cardboard box a la Sams Club before being put out on the platter. Don't piss on my leg and tell me it's raining and don't charge me $2.50 for an old, store-bought muffin that is "supposedly" freshly baked with organic ingredients.
(2)J. A.
This place is pretty damn near perfect--beautiful atmosphere, nifty decor, natural light, fresh breezes, and cool local owner---except for the the coffee. It's decent, but could be better. The staff are super friendly, but I do wonder why the owner doesn't just cut out the service altogether. The cafe with service thing seems to confuse many a customer. Just let us buy coffee and food at the counter and go sit undisturbed with our laptop. Regardless, if you are lucky enough to live nearby, there's no excuse not be a regular. It's places like this that make Cambridge a livable city.
(5)Cira B.
Lemon juice by the glass. Not lemonade - lemon juice. Oh man. So good. I'm going to butcher the name, but I've had the shakohsheh here as well - it's listed as one of the specials, and consists of rice with a lightly-spiced tomato sauce and an over-easy egg. Pretty simple dish, and overpriced at $10, but very good nonetheless. Coffee is also quite good - the espresso isn't particularly complex, but it has a rich bold flavor that is difficult to find in other coffeeshops. It's the type of coffee that you sip and enjoy slowly. Mmm. The real standout for me, however, is the atmosphere at Andala. Love the outdoor seating area, and I love the unique couches and tables. I've stayed here all day doing homework and talking to friends, and I've never felt rushed.
(5)Kenny L.
Thanks to Jessika for treating me to lunch after not killing me driving to Coolidge Corner to pick up her cupcake stand from Party Favors. The lunch that we both got was the egg salad toasted falafel wrap. Good tasting, but for $8, I felt it was a bit expensive for something I can definitely prepare at home. The decor inside was nice and comfortable for me to return for their coffees.
(3)Kabir H.
Do we really need another coffee shop in Central? Yes, if Andala is any indication. If you're looking for takeout, there are faster options, but Andala wins for its style. It doesn't hurt that they've got a patio either, perfect for lounging outside with a laptop while the wait staff tend to your needs. For what it's worth, the smoothies, while not amazing, are the best I've found in Central. The coffee is no slouch either, and the food options are more than passable. On a side note, if you're prudish, be careful when ordering the meat pie. They're sort of traditional middle eastern fare, baked like a pastry with the sides folded in so it looks like a square, with a diamond in the center. I'm not sure if it was intentional, but mine.. had more than a passing resemblance to another kind of "pie", if you catch my drift. I ate the whole thing. It was delicious. ;)
(4)Anna F.
What an excellent place to start a sunny Tuesday! I and my lovelies,in the shade of their grape arbor patio sipping a strawberry smoothie with my new pup in tow. They were kind enough to bring her some water in a little takeaway container. The service was swift and pleasant and what limited food I ordered was inexpensive and tasty (the smoothie was pleasantly simple- just juice, strawberries and banana). Will have to return to sample more of the menu.
(4)Ms. P S.
This is a great place to stumble upon. I've been there late at night for delightful tea and scone (close to 11pm I think) and in the morning for a yummy breakfast of oatmeal with milk and honey and fruits. Their menu is truly varied and the service is excellent--the servers are incredibly nice and accommodating. I think that's what gives the place such a homey feel, like you've just walked into a warm and cozy house. Especially when you come in from the cold this is really the place where you can relax and enjoy tea or a warm meal at your own pace. Highly Recommended! ps: Of course having free wifi is an added plus! Oh and I found this video about the grand opening of the place earlier this year (?) on Cambridge community tv-- cctvcambridge.org/node/1…
(4)Stephanie H.
went here tonight on somewhat of a whim when matthew c. and i realized we could care less about the first band at the middle east downstairs and had a bunch of time to kill. matthew had been wanting to check it out and we'd both been in search of a satisfying hot beverage. as others have mentioned, the inside is very cozy and warm, and yet it doesn't seem cramped either. the staff was really nice and um, yes, nice to look at. there is however definitely some confusion on how to go about coming and going in this place. we weren't sure if we should order at the front counter, if we should seat ourselves or wait, etc. the guy behind the counter told us we could have a seat and he would send someone over. i picked up the menus myself. [note for later: you'l also have to find your own napkins.] we took a seat at one of the counters along the windows - which actually open, hooray. good for people watching, though either the chairs or the counter seemed at kind of an awkward height for eating. also, to anyone picky about second hand smoke [not me], beware the people on the patio below you. the menu is pretty sparse but everything sounded good, and it's not exactly a place you'd go for a five course meal anyway. the waiter came over and matthew and i both ordered the chai, and a bowl of vegetarian chili. everything came pretty quickly and was delicious. the chai was excellent. spicy, creamy, but not in the dunkin donuts liquified pumpkin pie kind of way. real chai. plus the cup and saucer were really neat and i'm a nerd who likes those kinds of things. the "chili" however...was another story. don't get me wrong, i finished the whole bowl and enjoyed every bite, but it wasn't chili. it was a spicy vegetable stock with carrots, onions, celery, and kidney beans. also be warned it comes with a big dollop of sour cream in it. i like sour cream, but since it wasn't actually a hearty thick chili, i thought it cooled down the soup way too fast and seemed a bit out of place. anyway long story short i'd like it better if it was called soup. paying our bill and leaving proved to be just as confusing as sitting down in the first place. the waiter came back after a bit to take our plates and bowls away, and asked if we needed anything else. we told him that was it, we were all set. normally, these are the things you say when you want the check to appear soon. only it didn't. since we weren't in any hurry it wasn't a huge deal, just kind of confusing. we sat there quietly wondering, do we wait? do we pay at the front and not at the table? turns out they do bring a check to your table, but i ended up paying at the front anyway because i didn't feel like sitting around anymore. i really liked this place, and i'd also like to drink that chai every day this fall. it's just their system for getting from point a to point b that needs a little help, and maybe their chili recipe too. i have one if you want it.
(3)Dragony F.
A potentially great spot to people watch the characters of Central Sq. VS. a pretty trellis overhanging the patio Who makes my lunch that less interesting? the trellis blocking my view of the people in the street and outdoor seating area Chicken wrap = B+ = Syrian bread generously stuffed with cuts of chicken marinated and spiced in a wonderful sauce (nutmeg, cinnamon, cumin, etc.), comes with a side of hummus Agree with other Yelpers - great atmosphere, cool staff, good food but WAY overpriced ($10 for my sandwich)
(3)Gracie B.
Is it okay to review a place before you actually leave? The thing is, I'm still here. I have a table, a laptop, a cup of tea, and not a whole lot more to do. So it seems okay. Maybe more experienced yelpers can let me know if I'm supposed to wait till I get home. Anyway! I like it here. My very very first impression was......"very cute, bright, and clean looking" Then, though, I had a kind of strange interaction with my waitress. I thought - maybe - she wasn't very friendly. (I won't go into details) It turns out she was just pretty eccentric. I thought she might be kinda rude - but she was just quirky. I appreciate that. In the end, I felt that I got good service. I did notice all the other servers seemed a little less odd and a little more friendly and customer service oriented. But my waitress made me laugh. Actually, I had another waitress after mine left. (cashed out with me. Asked me to use a credit card for a nine dollar purchase because last time she had to change a twenty dollar bill, it "...took like an hour") My second waitress was super sweet. (I think she noticed I was on Yelp when she brought me my tea. I noticed a little knowing grin) I got a regular salad and a latte. I was impressed with the salad. I had to debate spending six or seven bucks on a salad, only because I was afraid I would get one of those super small four dollar side salad type things. But not at all. The salad was plentiful. Not complicated. Just full of lots of crunchy green lettuce, some tender red pepper, just the right amount of small wedges of feta, and some delicious and fresh carrot sticks. The dressing was perfect. Not overwhelming, but spiced just right to compliment all the veggies. The latte was good. No complaints. They definitely got the foam right, but the strength of the brew - in my opinion - could have been a little stronger. Later, after finishing up my salad, I had a tea. They have a very nice assortment and the way they display your choices is lovely. Makes you feel like you are making a very informed tea selection. I chose chocolate mint. Yummm. They offered me a little pitcher of milk of my choice (skim or whole. Don't know if they have soy. Soy milk is not my cup of tea. Pardon the pun) I did feel kind of cold in the middle of the main dining area. I ended up putting on my scarf and vest to warm up. I don't know if I imagined it or not, but it seemed to me that after I did that I felt more heat streaming in. I wonder if they noticed me looking cold and actually turned up the heat. If so.....very nice touch. I look forward to trying the baked goods. I think I'll buy a muffin to go to take home for later. I like the feel in here. Not pretentious. There is a calm but busy vibe. It is bright and cheery. I will definitely be back. Oh yeah, and the free wifi is a great bonus. It's actually what brought me here after reading that on yelp.
(4)Colin N.
Andala is right around the corner from my work. I usually just go there to grab coffee a couple of times a week. The coffee is usually better than *$ , but can be a little inconsistent. In the words of Jacobim Mugatu "Todd, are you not aware that I get farty and bloated with a foamy latte? " That's usually how the Soy Lattes are. To eat I've only had their almond croissant which is not bad. 1/2 the time the almond croissant is better at carberrys. The best thing about Andala is that it is usually quite easy to find a table.
(3)Mikell T.
I'm so torn about this. On one hand, I love the food here. I could die happy eating nothing but the Jerusalem Egg Salad sandwich -- it's less egg salad and more hard boiled egg with cheese, olive oil, and tomato -- and I love the "house special" cardamom tea. The other sandwiches and hummous plates I've tried have also been excellent. But the service is, in a word, abysmal. I know it's a coffee shop, and I know it's a laid-back coffee shop, but there are some simple things I think can be expected even of a laid-back place like this. For example, once while out for lunch with coworkers, two of my group ordered one of the specials. Apparently, for whatever reason, those dishes took forever to make, and as a result, those two got their food a full 20 minutes after the rest of us did. It would have been appropriate to have warned us early on that this dish took much longer to make, thus allowing them to order something else and avoid making us all late for our after-lunch meetings. Today, after waiting a good ten minutes without ever seeing a waitress so I could get more bread for my hummous -- the large bowl was served with three small triangular slices of the Syrian bread -- I realized I needed to get back to work for a meeting. So I had to go upstairs, find the waitress, inform her I needed my check *specifically because I was in a hurry*, and on her way down to give it to me, she veered off to chat with one of the cooks for a couple of minutes. So while I'm not expecting 5-star-restaurant service, it seems simple respect for your customers when they are in a hurry would be appropriate.
(3)Dana L.
So I will start by saying that I'm a coffee snob. The coffee is quite good here, although I have had better in Boston. However, this is the best coffee shop that I've been to in Central Square. It's big enough that you aren't bumping elbows with the people next to you, but not too large as to feel impersonal. They have a pretty good selection of coffees and teas, and will make custom juices from a variety of ingredients. We also got a bit of the food, including the pita and hummus and some wraps. Thumbs up, although this isn't exactly fine dining. I hear that it is great during the summer, because you can sit outside on the patio.
(4)T I.
The best Coffee shop in Cambridge. It's really cozy to study. It might be a little dark to read at night. The food is good but what makes here amazing is the teas and the decoration. Most costumers are students. I'd prefer upstairs but downstairs is also fine. I can't remember if I used internet there or not. It's a little hard to find. I think I found it through yelp.
(5)Erika R.
Went here yesterday, and what a treat it was. The kind waitstaff were patient with patrons there to chat. My friend and I sit and chatted and enjoyed our tea and coffee! I also had the avocado press sandwich, which was flavorful, but not overwhelming. The Chai tea was humongous! + es for the WIFI and for the late hours! Kudos to Andala! Yeah I said it. Kudos.
(5)barbaric y.
Let's be frank: I like this place. I like this place but as it stands, that 4th star is remaining in the Temporary Autonomous Zone until I can start to feel better about it. The last few times I've been here were great- Andala is tucked back a little bit from Central Square proper, right behind the Church, which probably explains why it (thankfully) appears less crowded than the neighboring 1369 or Clear Conscience, who've been blessed with their situation along the cacophonous, foot-trafficked causeway that is Massachusetts Ave. I'd actually been eyeing this place for some time; my rationale for taking so long to actually go back probably had something to do with the fact that I never quite knew which bus stop to disembark at (taking the 70/A) unless I wanted to double back from Central. Having rediscovered it, I was able to finally find a cozy spot in this café, which has a nice little side room with a full-sized settee and little tables along the window. The café's decor is charming- somewhat of a Middle Eastern flair to compliment the food, with a sort of worn-out, broken in appeal that I've come to associate with warm atmospheres and long stays. Their egg salad sandwiches are wonderful- the egg salad itself is different from what you'd typically expect, as the eggs had been cooked in a pan with the resulting texture that was not quite scrambled, but more like a delicate fritatta. It was served in a lavash-type flatbread, making it more of a wrap than a sandwich. The coleslaw on the side was tasty but unfortunately looked limp enough to be confused with something you'd draw out of the washing machine. I ate it just the same. Again, I'll definitely be swinging by here from time to time, if only for the large mugs of chai tea and the occasional hummus plate. Maybe I'll even bring a friend or two. Last time I was there, my waitress gave me my tea for free for having complimented her jewelry- a very gracious gesture indeed! On the other hand, after a few of my friends arrived to study, the second waitress to serve us kept opening the window, which drove more than a few people from the room (it was a chilly day). When asked why she was doing so, she complained that the room smelled, which drove even more people away (as they were probably insulted by the implications). One woman finally got up to close the window, telling us that if she came back to politely remind her that the customer is always right. When a man entered the room to look for seating, the same waitress told him that my friends had been there "all day" (they had been there for two hours) and that he should look elsewhere for seating. My friends got fed up with her attitude and finally left, leaving me to feel awkward for having recommended the establishment in the first place. Again, dangling star for now- egg salad in the future for me, which might just seal the deal on a proper review.
(3)Vanilla P.
Ooh the men who work here are eye candy, but in a European / Armenian sort of fancy-walking-shoe-and-tight-jean sort of way. The men are all prettier than me, which is why they get 4 stars. Food's good, lots of tables, cute interior. Makes me want to own my own pad so I can paint the walls orange, but then I realize that I look better in pastels. Had some sort of salad, some coffee, and a dessert. All were good but I can't remember what they were....
(4)Josephine P.
I was really drawn to this place when I first rode by it. It looks so inviting from the outside and the word Cafe screamed out at me- amiably of course. I finally planned a day to go with my boyfriend and it was pretty disappointing. When we walked in the first thing we did was obviously walk up to the counter where all the waitresses and Batista's were and they all gave us awkward blank stares, then we saw the sign that said to seat ourselves. That wasn't a big deal but we would have appreciated a gesture or something indicating this fact. The service was OK once we sat down. When we sat down and looked over the menu, I noticed that there wasn't very much variety. I was going to settle for a Tuna sandwich, but I wanted to try a signature dish seeing as though this place was so unique. I eventually ordered a caramel latte and the Jerusalem Hummus Plate (Msabaha). (When I ordered it and asked for a caramel latte, the waitress said she didn't think they had caramel, and I thought it was strange that a cafe of all places didn't have caramel...) The latte is was ok and though the hummus special was really like 'no hummus I have ever had' (according to the menu), but it was more like an appetizer than a meal. I had about 5 slices of thin pita bread and a whole cup of hummus to eat. It's not really what I expected and the description is vague. My boyfriend ordered a chai latte and the Chicken Khalili Sandwich. I must say that sandwich was quite tasty! That chai however tasted like watered down cinnamon seasoning. I don't think I have ever had a worse chai tea in my life. This place is really pricey as well. At the end of the meal the total came to about $30 for the two of us. This place is not the worse place I have ever been to, but I don't think I'll be going back.
(2)Annette N.
Coffee with cardamom. Scrumptious vegetarian chili. Marcel Khalife, Amr Diab, Umm Kulthoum on the stereo system. Free wireless. Narghile under the pergola. Totally relaxed atmosphere. A very cute waiter with curls like the black grapes of Paradise. What more do you want?
(5)Jocelyn C.
Came here for lunch the other day, and was pleasantly surprised. I honestly don't know why I never came in here before, but I'm glad that the situation has now been rectified. The spinach pie I had was amazing and could easily become a new addiction for me (as if I need more of those). My friend's tuna sandwich was also really good (I took a bite, I couldn't resist). Very chill atmosphere and far enough away from the crazies of Central that you'll forget you're even still in Cambridge. I just hope business starts picking up a little more so I won't have to worry about it closing anytime soon. I will definitely come back, and often.
(4)kwala t.
Since coffee shops are basically the equivalent of my office cubicle, I can be pretty picky. But I've been finding more and more little gems around Boston and Cambridge, and I really like Andala. However, if it weren't in my general neck o' the woods, I'm not sure I'd insist on going there - so to be fair, I'm giving it three stars (I was tempted to give four, but realized the fourth would be for proximity to my house, which is not a valid factor). On to the nitty gritty of the review. I've only been during the day, thus missing out on some of the hookah action mentioned in other reviews. But it's a cute and comfortable space - good light, ample seating, and an enclosed terrace with big windows. The downstairs is a little claustrophobic. If you're staying in, it's full-service - as in there are incredibly attentive servers eagerly refilling your water cup and checking in to ask how you're doing. There's a bit of a 'first table-waiting job' vibe to it, and the staff behind the counter, in contrast, are consistently non-plussed (borderline sullen...). The teas are great! I'd personally go back just for the teas - especially the pot of black house tea with cardamon, and a decent selection of many others. The coffee was so-so, and I haven't had any espresso drinks or smoothies. Lentil soup pretty good, and spinach pies are decent - a little too doughy for my taste, but I like the tangy Syrian/Lebanese style filling (ie no feta/egg like the Greek style). The rest of the menu looks really good - every time I've been someone gets one of the massive chicken sandwiches, and it's a positive sign that they always eat every last bite of it. Others have commented on the unreasonably high prices, and I just don't agree. It's not dirt cheap, but I haven't found a coffee shop in the area with food for much less than $8 per sandwich/salad. Andala's falls in the same range. It does lose points for not having enough power outlets - what is up, just buy a few power strips! I guess it's to deter people like me who camp out with laptop for hours, but still...I've encountered the same lack of powerage in a lot of other places and it's starting to make me sad.
(3)Julian H.
I went there last night after contemplating between Legal Seafood which was walking distance from where we were at Kendall Square or taking the T to Central Square. I finally decided to take my wife there after reading about it so much lately. Andala is a coffee house. Laid-back ambiance, not too crowded and varieties of coffee and tea to choose from. On the food side, there were not much you can choose from. I didn't see any real food in the menu. However, when walking through the door, I saw the "Tonite's Specials" signage where Lamb Kebab was on the list. The lamb kebab was surprisingly good. Served with cous-cous, salads and pitta. My wife had a couple of pies, which were also served with salad. Overall, it was a nice experience for us to spend some quality time together.
(4)Ashley G.
Yay, I am a fan. This place has the coziness of your eccentric aunt's library/living room. Their Iced Tea with cardamom is fantastic, their Iced Coffee is super strong (+) and their pressed avocado sandwich is yum. Super fresh and healthy ingredients. I only wish it weren't on such a busy road, otherwise I might make the tables outside under the vines my regular work spot!
(4)Keith A.
I've had a hard time settling on a favorite coffeehouse in Cambridge, because every place I try seems to be missing a certain . . . something. Some indefinable quality, some je ne sais quoi, some essential integrity that makes a place thoroughly one with itself, a perfect fit for its neighborhood and its clientele. And I've been putting off writing a review of Andala, because my ultimate assessment of it is that it also lacks this je-ne-sais-quoility, and I can't figure out why. At the same time, it seems to lack it just a tiny bit less than its nearest competitors. Does this make it my favorite? Maybe. I don't know. I'm a perfectionist. I will say, in its favor, that it's a much more relaxing place than the packed-to-the-rafters 1369, Algiers and Diesel, all of which can get intense at peak times (which is to say between 10 AM and 9 PM). Free wi-fi is also a nice plus -- and, interestingly, at any given time, only a small number of customers are using it. How weird and cool is that? It's a decent dining deal, and the decor is charmingly funky. The caffe mocha is unsweetened, made with actual cocoa powder instead of Hershey's syrup; I appreciate this difference. Finally, the cinnamon almond brioche is made with either pure love or crack. Possibly both. It's unfortunate, though, that the one place in town that sells sensibly sized desserts has so few of them to choose from. Also, there is no such thing as decaf at Andala, so if you're coming by after 4 PM, watch yourself.
(4)Tom E.
A possible rival for Carberry's in the Central Square coffee cafe stakes. Perhaps even edging slightly ahead as they have free wifi at Andala's. It's a pretty cafe with good reasonably priced coffee and some appealing-looking baked goods, although the eating options are not as wide as at Carberry's. The decor is french/islamic perhaps? Turkish is another possibility. Either way, it's the most pleasant decor of any of the cafes around, with some elegant furniture, a hidden area and lovely big windows to look out onto the world at. I'll definitely frequent this place from now on and try to work my way through the choices. You can't beat a place that FEELS good to be in. The staff were friendly and had no problems with me ordering a little coffee and then working for several hours with their freebie wifi. Actually, it's a good place for a bit of reading/work - it's not crowded like Sbucks and 1369, there's plenty of light and some nice background music (Massive Attack). There are no big tables for groups though, so don't come with your study group and ruin it for everyone else. Interestingly in my 2 hours at Andala's there were 2 different customers wearing black leather pants. That's surely an above average leather pant-wearing clientele than usual for a cafe. Anyone have any ideas why?
(4)Alex S.
Being a non-coffee drinker (heretic, I know) I have a somewhat different approach to cafes, asking questions like "do they have Diet Coke on tap?" as opposed to...well, I don't actually know what any of those coffee questions are, because I don't drink coffee. Anyway, they don't have Diet Coke on tap, but it is a whopping $1.50 for a can of it. Even though I get raped with respect to the soda, this place is pretty much the best place to study in Central Square. It's big, bright, friendly and plays good music to study by. Today's selection was Nat King Cole, which was exactly the perfect sort of music to make me feel guilty when I was slacking off and people watching out of their gigantic windows. The food is great here - it's a combination of standard cafe baked goods (bagels & croissants) and delicious Mediterranean items. The meat pies are delicious, and come with a very passable salad. The kitchen is downstairs, and apparently most of the menu items are made on the premises. The only downside for studying is that so many other people are doing it, you might get distracted by your neighbors. You'd think that chilling out in a cafe you wouldn't have the two people next to you talking about applied statistics while you were studying it, but you would apparently be mistaken. I guess that's what you get in the city of higher learning. Lame. If this cafe goes out of business, I will cry.
(4)Ali L.
This place was excellent, it was big and the layout with all the persian rugs and such reminded me of my parents house. The waitress was very nice and attentive (AND donning a Yelp! tshirt), she would come by every few minutes to make sure we didn't need anything and promptly brought our food and drinks. My lentil soup was the best I ever had and my cousins hummus plate was among the best I ever had - especially her toasted pita bread which wasn't too crunchy or too flaky. The place itself seemed very much like a hangout spot for locals to use the free WiFi, have some coffee, and on a nice day smoke some hookah outside -- all in all it was awesome.
(5)S K.
Great coffee, food and middle-eastern fare, the minuses are a less-than-desirable service , although all the servers are very friendly they seem to move at a glacial place. However, a great place to relax and unwind (especially if you are not in a big rush)
(3)Kelly W.
The food was delicious, the outside seating was really nice, and I really enjoyed the mint tea.
(4)Nabeel H.
One of the only coffee houses in Cambridge with a healthy amount of space. There is seating upstairs and down in this middle-eastern style coffee house. A combination of that warm arabic hospitality and the fact that is is a converted home makes it feel like you are at a friends' house where he is serving you excellent pastries and arabic coffee. And like any good friends house, the free wifi is welcome. My new favorite Cambridge coffee spot.
(5)Meaghan S.
EDIT: 9/18/07 Went here again this weekend. This place can be so weird. The servers seem perpetually confused. There's not a great system for cashing out. I still like it.. but there are kinks. ------------- EDIT: 8/31/07 So I finally got around to going to Andala again. My experience was far better this time around. The waiter (a teenage boy) was very attentive and helpful. I ordered the iced Chai and a muffin (I think it was almond-apple) both were very good. I hung out with my food and laptop and chilled there for an hour or so. It was very relaxing. And it looks like they have shisha now - in 9 flavors apparently. I will have to try it out! I'm glad this place is down the street, and based on many of these other reviews it seems that my bad experience was a rare occurrence. ------ I live very near Andala and often drive by and see people sitting there at all times of day. I always wanted to check it out and never had the opportunity until yesterday. I must say, that I was extremely disappointed. The decor inside was very cool, but since it was such a nice day we opted to sit outside. The cafe wasn't particularly busy, but we asked the man at the counter if we should order there. He asked if we were taking food to go or eating in. We told him we would be eating there but we would like to eat outside on the patio and he told us he would send a waitress out with menus. So we sat on the patio and sat... and sat... and sat... Now mind you this was the middle of the day on a Monday, the cafe was not crowded and there were three staff members on duty. After about 15 minutes of waiting my boyfriend went back inside and asked, "Can we have some menus while we wait for our menus?" Kind of sarcastic, but we still hadn't been acknowledged by any wait staff for 15 minutes. The man at the counter, the one who told us he would send someone outside said, "Well isn't that ironic that you want menus while you wait for your menus," and gave my boyfriend menus and he came back outside. We looked at the menus, not a huge selection but the food and coffee seemed interesting. We were ready to order after about 5 minutes of deciding, but were made to wait another 20 minutes. No one came out to take out order AGAIN. At this point we had already wasted enough time and decided to get some food at Falafel Palace or The Middle East. We eventually went with the Mid East. I REALLY wanted to like Andala - but based on their total lack of customer service I must give them one star. Since they are so close I am prepared to give them another chance sometime soon. But I was extremely disappointed in my first try. I want to give props to the Middle East, our waiter was also the host and bartender tending to 6 or 7 tables of people and we were taken care of far more quickly there than at Andala.
(4)Michael C.
A hit-or-miss menu combined with less-than-minimal service make this place a complete mixed bag. On the plus side, it's the ideal place to meet friends or hang out.
(3)Aimee P.
Andala is a wonderful place to go to hang out with a friend or to get some work done. The interior is warm and inviting, polished wood floors gleam beneath rich oriental carpets. The atmosphere created by the vibrant wall colorings and marble topped tables will keep me coming back time and time again. Nearly everything on the menu is scrumptious, however the coffee/espresso drinks seem to vary in quality from day to day. Aside from this, my only other (minor) complaint is that the seating could be more comfortable. There is one rather hard sofa and a number of small (but beautiful) tables. These complaints are so minor that they are hardly worth noting. I love this place and will make it a regular haunt. Edit: This has been posted for several days, and I have since realized that I forgot to mention the FREE INTERNET- how silly of me.
(4)Sean E.
I've recently gotten back into coffee after about a five year hiatus. So on my way to the Central Sq. T stop in the mornings I've been alternating between Starbucks and 1369 -- not really enjoying either of the places. On one hand you have your over-the-top bordering on grating cheerfulness at Starbucks and the cooler-than-thou stuck-up-ness of 1369. Can there not be a comfortable median? Then Andala opened up. At first I didn't know what was going on with this place. For months I watched as they worked on the inside and outside of this little corner store. At one point I couldn't tell -- are they open? What are they serving? Why haven't they gotten rid of the sign for the old place that says they sell wraps and smoothies? What's it called? They have hookahs in the windows -- what does this mean? Well a few weeks back they finally had a grand opening and put a couple small signs in their window saying Andala Coffee House. Tired of the Starbucks vs. 1369 routine I went in and have been stopping in on the way to and from the T ever since. For me, they have a few big pluses going for them -- they're cheaper than both those places, the people working there act like regular human beings, and (this one's just for me) its location is much more convenient. Also, the pastries and "gargantuan muffins" are pretty damn fine. Even the half-off day olds are good. I take a star off because the quality of the coffee can vary a little (though the hot-chocolate is excellent). A welcome addition to Central Square.
(4)Gabor Z.
Best breakfast place in Central Square. I've only been there for brunch and breakfast on the weekend. The food is tasty and healthy and the place is super cosy. It is Middle Eastern so don't expect bacon and eggs. They have outdoor seating and the wait staff I experienced is always very friendly.
(4)Alison P.
Let's hear it for Cafe Andala: tons of natural light, two rooms that feel spacious even when packed, great music at a reasonable volume, free wifi, baked goods AND soups/salads, friendly staff, rugs and lanterns (!), and it's even bright enough inside that you can read without straining your not-hip-enough eyes. On top of that, it's open late, unlike several of the other awesome cafes north of the Charles. The espresso is so-so, which breaks my heart a little because I love my espresso. For that, I took off a star. But for a dangerous raspberry-almond muffin, a beautiful salad, and several hours to finish my *@#&@^ thesis, I'll love this place with all my heart. Oh yeah, and they have about 30 teas. Amazing!
(4)Kathryn D.
Andala has tons of different kinds of teas, fresh juices and lots of coffees and espresso. You can even choose between Turkish and Arabic coffee (which is Turkish coffee brewed with spices and sugar). The prices are really reasonable. They also have baked goods like bagels, croissants and baklava - the lemon poppyseed croissant is the best one I've ever tasted. There's talk of having sandwiches too, at some point in the future. The latte ($2.50) that I had there was pretty standard, but it was also the first day for the guy who made it, so if it's that good the first day I bet they'll be great in a week. The ambiance in this place is awesome - really warm and inviting. Big oriental rugs on the floor, brass tables and brass on the exposed brick walls - I would live in a place like this. They have free wireless and a printer, and in the warmer months they will have outdoor seating. I don't know the exact address of this place, but it's right near the corner of River & Western. -------- Edit: I've been back here a few times now, and they have added soups and salads. This will push my rating up one more star, since now I can get a coffee AND a snack.
(5)Michael B.
Great place to catch up with a friend. Despite the coffee house name, this place actually has a decent menu of Mediterranean food as well. I ate outside with a friend for lunch on a Saturday. The food was good. Above average Mediterranean cuisine for a cafe. Great selection of fruit juices. The goat cheese and fruit tray was delicious. The kafta was good, although not the best I've ever had. The outdoor ambiance is nice, slightly off the main part of Central Sq, where it isn't quite as noisy.
(4)kimberly l.
the ambiance at this place is great, but the food isn't that spectacular. If you want a quiet place to do some work, with free internet and caffiene this place is great though!
(3)Ryuji S.
This unique local coffee house is friendly environment I enjoy meeting friends or just read books... or just listen to others talk. They have better coffee than 1369 and friendlier people than C3 cafe. My favorite is their smoothie.
(5)Aaron B.
I still haven't given in and tried the Turkish coffee yet, but I did go for the house tea. Infused with cardamom, it was all that was promised. Outstanding. Didn't get a chance to have much more than a bagel (I was there for a quick breakfast meeting) but I took a look over the menu and was pleased to find a good selection of traditional Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern fare. Definitely going back soon, as it also seems like a great place to get some work done (lots of space).
(4)Toodles K.
On 2/7, I enjoyed an awesome espresso and my 22 year-old nephew had French press coffee and loved it. We split a German Chocolate cupcake that was small but very rich and filling. Absolutely delicious! The service was a little slow but they were VERY busy and our waitress was a sweetheart so I forgive.
(5)Janelle M.
I liked this place a lot. In fact, had I known they offered a full menu, I would have eaten dinner here instead of the Indian restaurant down the street. I believe this restaurant and café offers Israeli specialties, as well as al fresco dining and hookah. I was able to enjoy their coffee and pastry the following morning.
(4)Al A.
Extremely poor service (forgot things, slow, and slower). Great food. Decent prices. Very chill atmosphere. I love the interior decor.
(4)Arjun K.
I like this place but there menu is a little limited they always seem to give me really poor service which is a little frustrating. there food options are good though and I especially like the Turkish coffee
(2)Jordan L.
well, i went with my favorite boston female to this cute little cafe in cambridge and was actually surprised by the selection of good food they had. not at all what i expected. i had the pressed avocado and it was delicious. my gorgeous accomplice has the fruit and oatmeal plate which also looked pretty tasty. it is really hard to find vegetarian places that offer more than the usual veg cuisine but this place mas a nice mix of cafe and mediterranean food for all tastes. that in combination with their selection of fresh fruit juices and smoothies which rounded out the menu nicely may make this little place a regular stop in when i am in cambridge...just to try everything they offer including a hookah. i really like the outside seating too, it is nice when the weather permits. if you haven't checked out andala yet, do it...'tis all.
(4)M L.
Quiet, sunny, with delicious small plates of food -- Andala is the perfect place to catch up with friends or read a novel on Sunday. Their foole plate is warm and drenched in olive oil with lots of spices...try it with some fresh mint tea. The service is generally great but can be a little hit-or-miss, depending on who's behind the bar. The only possible minus is that they don't have AC in the summer or heat the little front room much in the winter. It's really a lovely place, though, and the owner seems to have put a lot of care into the details.
(4)leon p.
Great place to work and coffee, lots of light, some music but not too loud, good simple food and a reasonable price.
(4)Ligaya T.
Bwaaaaaah! How have I been remiss to have not written a review for one of my favorite laptop hangouts?! I could click the day away sipping their tasty juices or teas on their bright sun porch, outdoors smoking shisha, or munching on their Middle Eastern eats. If you're looking for a relaxed spot with free wifi, your search ends here.
(5)Rob R.
I've been to boston three times this year and every time I've been frustrated with the choice of cafes in the area. On my third visit, after spending way too much time yelping for a decent cafe and nearly giving up because it seemed most cafes in Boston are stingy with their wifi, I found Andala. First, the atmosphere of the place is great. The seating options range from outside to a sun room where you can open all of the sliding glass doors for fresh air and an inside area. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of food too. I would definitely suggest getting the hummus. Oh, and free wifi!
(5)Maria Z.
Wonderful! I went here for brunch a few weeks ago and wondered why on earth I hadn't found Andala sooner? My platter of goat cheese, pita and fresh fruit was delicious and copious. Service and ambience were both very nice.
(4)Alyssa H.
The best spinach pie I've ever had, and I'm Greek so I should know ;) Andala is brand new and the owners have renovated the space into a beautiful, fresh and serene spot to have lunch. I usually do take out but had lunch there a few weeks ago with a friend. The staff is friendly, the food is great but limited. The pastries look amazing, but I have not tried them yet - mostly out of fear that I will try one and be hooked and not fit into any of my clothes anymore. Also the fresh juices are great - try the lemon, apple ginger..
(4)Juju W.
cozy atmosphere. free wifi. plenty of seat. delicious food. It's a nice place if you want to hang out with friends, bring your laptop and have coffee, or eat there.
(5)mickey l.
How many of us watched it as we walked by, it's "opening soon" sign up for a year or so? They're very attentive. You order. Dip into lemony hummus. Drink turkish coffee. Pay when you're done eating, not ordering--who does that? I can't believe they put their plush hand made (persian?) numbers under our feet. If I had these carpets I would ask you to take your shoes off. I'd lay down on them and nap. If they only had hash at the bar to go with those hookahs they proudly display.
(4)Diane I.
i love this place. everything here is delicious - the people are super friendly and they don't get annoyed that you are staying forever. this was last weeks stop on our quest for the perfect cafe. they add some spice to the coffee that is delicious. too bad there were no free refills. i spent quite a lot because i just couldn't get enough.
(4)John W.
I cant believe that i havent written a review of this place before. I've been coming here since they opened a few years ago and have nothing but great experiences here. The vibe is utterly laid back, the tea and coffee is excellent, and their menu of Middle Eastern food is yummy and affordable. A great place to meet up with a friend or to bring a laptop and get some work done.
(4)Yuko I.
Good atmosphere and good tea/coffee. I never tried their food but the menu looks good. I would love to go back for more. It's a bit slow service so this is not for a busy grab and go cafe.
(4)Muckenfuss V.
Far and away the best cafe I've visited in the Boston area. The pot of house tea with cardamom pods is original and exquisite, and though there could be a larger selection of baked goods they are all tasty nibbles. Stay for lunch, though: the avocado press sandwich is wonderful, and comes generously dabbed in a divine olive oil. And what other cafe brings you tall glasses of ice water? The only downside may be that this is not a drink-and-dash establishment. Though you can get items to go, you're encouraged to sit down and order from the waiter. That's not a problem, though -- the staff is friendly, attentive, and attractive, and there's ample and variegated places to sit, and even a downstairs where the kitchen is. The music is a subtle global selection, relatively unobtrusive (in contrast, say, to the hipster backbeat at 1369) when you need to get work done.
(5)Trish F.
I've been here twice so far and I really dig the atmosphere. It's so close to my old place, I have no idea why I never came here when I was in Central! It must be a converted apartment building just by looking at where it's situated and the way the inside is laid out. I think that helps it give off a homier less pretentious vibe than other places of its kind.. methinks. heh I also really dig the couch on the balcony-esque addition. I'm assuming they open the windows in the spring.. it must be lovely! Passing by the counter, I got excited looking their tea collection. Right now I can only drink decaf and they had about 6+ choices. Sadly, they were out of my top two choices (loose teas).. but then I remembered this drink Ligaya and I got at the n00bs event.. carrot, ginger, and apple juice! YUM! Tea.. I'll get you next time. Glancing at the menu I couldn't choose between the meat pie and the spinach pie. Both dishes are the same price and they give you two portions, so I asked if I could get one 'slice' of each and the waitress was happy to oblige. The spinach pie is a little different that I'm used to. It had more onion and a bit of a vinegary taste to it. I still liked it though. The meat pie reminded me of chao pau (Chinese pork bun).. a LEETLE bit.. haha. Both came baked in this doughy bread that I really enjoyed. At the n00bs event we had a variety of food, but I'm not gonna lie I don't remember it all. Plus Amanda kind of fed me. haha Hummus? The service was a bit slow.. which in this case didn't rub me the wrong way. I think the waitress thought Allix and I were deep in talk so she didn't come over right away to take our order. I realized we stayed for awhile well after we were done eating (I think we were there for like 3 hours actually) and our waitress didn't rush us at all. In fact she made sure our glasses of water were full after our dinner plates had been taken away. When we were there for the n00bs event, I remember the waitresses being very attentive as well. Everyone there is super friendly. They also have free WiFi.. which is always a plus. I'll definitely be back soon! OH and last time I was in they were trying to get a liquor license.. so if you see a petition at the front counter.. sign it! :)
(4)Kate L.
I went here to study over the weekend and thought it was the perfect place. Various rooms and settings to choose from and nice service. I got the goat cheese, fruit, and honey plate as a snack -- it was delicious! The only drawback is that their AC unit is not too strong so the restaurant was a bit too warm. Still, my friend and I stayed for 4.5 hours and enjoyed the atmosphere a lot. Sigh...I went back two days later to continue studying and it was SO HOT inside that I had to leave. It's an 80-degree day and they had the door open (but not the windows) and no AC on. I'm all about conserving energy but I would have been sweating profusely had I sat and stayed (there's no breeze running through the place and the few fans they've set up aren't adequate).
(2)micah f.
wifi is nice, but the 17 yr old baristas at this dingy overrated coffee shop have confused "handmade" with "messy." drinks are sub-par, bad top 40 on the radio, and sweaty pastries under cellophane is what many people awarded 5 stars. really? i understand the need or solid alternatives to starbucks, but central square is hurting if this is considered good.
(2)peggy c.
Free wifi, cute AND comfy decor, away from the traffic of Mass Ave, friendly servers, good tea selection and most importantly for me... I could veg out undisturbed during the day :)
(4)Jamie S.
This place is extremely chill. Service reflects this atmosphere -- friendly, but hands-off without being inattentive. Great espresso (and inexpensive). Extremely accessible location that's just far enough off Mass Ave so that this place stays relatively quiet, even when it's relatively busy. I've been here for breakfast (good croissants) and Sunday afternoon snacking (try the Goat Cheese and Fruit plate for something light). Thumbs up.
(4)molly f.
Friendly staff, tasty food, sem-reasonable prices...and honestly, I will basically eat anything if I get to sit outside. Looking forward to exploring more of their menu (the goat cheese & honey plate sounds divine!) but can vouch for the tea & scone I carried out...just what i wanted to hold me over until dinner. Love that this place is right around the corner, too!
(4)Philippe K.
Good food, pretty good coffee (espresso, Turkish, Arabian), very slow service
(3)Ruvi P.
terrible service. They didn't event bring me my drink and after an hour of waiting told them so and they didn't event apologize, then handed us a check. TERRIBLE
(1)sara h.
I love the vibe of this coffee house that's literally in a house, partially hidden behind Central Square. I sought it out on a Saturday and found a comfy spot on the couch in the sunroom. I tried the strong Turkish coffee, just the jolt I needed to dig in to the work I brought along. The free wifi was a definite perk. I tried a few things from the menu over the course of my visit, including the vegetable chili. The couple next to me ordered meat pies, and they looked tasty. I wasn't thoroughly impressed with my food but it wasn't really the reason for my visit, and it was actually just nice to have the option of ordering food and coffee from my spot on the couch without having to find a stopping place in my project to run up to the counter. I loved the ambience of the space and the friendly staff who let you sit for hours.
(4)Christina B.
I should mention now that the weather is nice that they have a small section of outdoor seating and there are umbrellas which is a nice touch to avoid getting crispy while you eat. I'd recommend it on a Sunday morning when the traffic is light since it's right on the corner of River Street which is a busy road.
(4)Deepa C.
due to all the recent rave reviews, this place has been on my list for a while. so while the freelance work was piling up, i found myself in a clean house, with no laundry to do, nothing good on tv and no excuse not to get out of the house and venture to someplace new (with wifi of course) . it is indeed a very cute coffee place, great atmosphere, staff and decor. my waitress (a dead ringer for the first person to get kicked off ANTM this season) was perfect, anticipating my needs with water or another cup of coffee. as the place filled up, they became very accommodating with seating, expanding tables for a group of students or setting up a lone patron at an accent bench in the corner. ' i love that there is a lot of light coming in through the windows. none of the furnishings seem planned, and that hodgepodge design works well here. the only reason it has 4 stars and not 5 is the coffee. even though i am on my third cup (i am typing VERY FAST right now) it is a little strong/burnt for me. i like my turkish coffee a wee bit lighter (see cafe algiers). also, the "scone" was so dry you could sand paint off the walls. the food food looks great, but stay away from the baked goods.
(4)Annie P.
EDIT: I usually don't give two shits about my old reviews but since a fellow yelper laughed about the newb who called me out on this one.. I'm going to respond. I don't do inside jobs for anybody. I'm from Queens. No just kidding but seriously.. I love getting fingers pointed at me for reviewing a place that ALREADY has 5 billion stars just because the Yelp headquarter people gave me a random ROTD. I must be crazy and must work there to like it. Hey what are you BLIND? It says the price right next to the words, don;t order the tuna wrap for $9 then. Believe it or not you have a choice before ordering the damn thing you don;t want to shell out for. Also if you note the date on my review.. it's been awhile. Sorry dude but I don;t keep tabs on how good looking the staff is on a daily basis.. so chill out. Summer is over and now the kids are back. Truth. com. Places are busier than a few months ago.. so things are bound to change when it comes down to the pace of things. Yeah and if you want self service where you read off the menu above the counter.. go to DD or Starbucks. ------------------------------------------------ Everyone who works here is beautiful. They float around in pretty dresses and plain t-shirts. They are all soft spoken too. Sit inside, outside or downstairs! Don't expect chippy loud baristas... Tuna sandwich was nice and fresh without the overpowering mayo everywhere else gives. I like walking over and getting the Strawberry Banana Orange smoothie in between loads at Pearl Laundry. $4 treat. It's by where that fork is to split Magazine, River and Western Ave. You are a douche if you get lost. The colors in here are amazing. Never get sick and tired of looking around.. cellophane wrapped bagels in a silver bowl in the middle of the room. If you like pastry looks only rating.. this is the place to go. To make me even more happier... they started playing Leonard Cohen and when Dance Me To The End of Love came on.. I was like OMG OMG swoon. Also saw the loose tea they sell. Now this is what a cafe is. This house is the best house on the block. That's because it;'s the only house I think. No but I would like to rent out the little room with the top to bottom window seating and live there but I wouldn;t wear a skirt and sit by the window because the people on the sidewalk can look up and HELLO. Thanks.
(5)James L.
Besides the ambience, what can you get here that you can't get at Moody's Falafel Palace (or Falafel Corner in Harvard Square)?
(2)Eli G.
A breath of fresh, Muhammara and espresso-laden air. Sit at a large oak table in the main dining room, eat your labne, pretend that you are the late, great Richard Holbrooke.
(5)Ben C.
Andala is what a coffee house should be. Atmosphere is laid back and comfortable. Decor is stylish with a bit of middle-eastern flair. Big windows and sun-porch lend a sense of openness and provide a great view of all that is going on outside. Service is friendly and attentive. Quality of lattes has improved tremendously since I first started going. Espresso beverages are pretty solid now. Andala also offers a small menu of generally yummy and very reasonably priced food too. If you need a snack to get you through to dinner, I recommend the hummus plate. Outside seating (weather permitting), free wi-fi, clean restrooms ... what more do you want?! Hookah perhaps? Well they have that too!
(4)Hyerun K.
The older man behind the register (the owner?) who took my order was the jolliest man I had met, so we were off to a good start! The cafe was cute with it's ethnic decor, and it seemed spacious and clean enough. I asked for a pot of green tea and the jolly man boldly claimed that he had "the best green tea in the world!" I chuckled and found a seat, and the tea was served to me a few minutes later. However, I use the word "served" very loosely here -- a younger man basically dropped it in front of me with a clatter, and abruptly walked off without a smile. Not a huge deal -- I can put up with subpar service so long as the food/drinks are good. I figured "best green tea in the world" was a slightly exaggerated claim, but I was still expecting something decent since green tea is pretty hard to mess up. My green tea was SALTY and BITTER. I took a couple sips and couldn't drink anymore. Aside from visiting the jolly old man, I won't be coming back here again.
(2)Melinda M.
I had given up on my quest to find a relaxing coffee place within city limits a few months back after ripping out a page in the phone book and hiking all over the place only to stare into claustrophobia-inducing crowds, random sandwich shops, and vacant buildings (ironically, using the yellow pages as a guidebook wasn't enough of a reminder for me to call ahead). Fortunately, the other day I decided to go for a walk across the river and I spotted a tiny window sign that said Andala Coffee House, and despite the warm weather, an empty patio. This is the first coffee house I've been to in Boston where I didn't have to stand around awkwardly waiting for others to leave, or start running once I caught a glimpse of an open table through a window. Although I spent my visit at a table outside (sipping a yummy banana, milk and honey smoothie and staring into space bc I was not prepared with my usual coffee shop materials) I will definitely be heading back soon to hang out inside the next time the weather isn't so great. The inside of the shop has my ideal coffee house feel, nice decor, random furnishings, a scattering of polite patrons typing away on laptops (free wi-fi) or with books open, and music at just the right volume. And they have food! Not just standard muffin fare but cafe-like middle eastern selections. For such a very hard to find five star setting such as this, I am willing to ignore the fact that the staff didn't have it together...at all. For some reason they weren't using the cash register, and the guys behind the counter had to track down my server who took a few minutes to write out a check, a few minutes to figure out the tax, a few minutes to go find the originial guys I asked for help to get some money, etc, etc, very weird, but it was all done with a smile so who cares. Besides, who goes to hang out in an awesome coffee house like this when they are in a hurry? That's what Dunkin Donuts is for...
(4)Kevin G.
I really can't think of a better cafe for both location, sunlight, ease/cheapness of parking, layout, coffee, food - my one wish is that one could get a glass of wine there, but if the ownership is observant religious (turkish) that ain't gonna happen - don't know. They do have quite an assemblage of huccha's.
(5)Heidi S.
A great find located off the bustle of MA Ave. It has some wonderful nooks to escape into and with the free wifi, it's possible to get lost all afternoon. With the weather warming up, the porch is a terrific place to spend the day as it gets direct sun in the afternoon. The food is homemade and fresh, so it's a good place to rest when time is not of the essence. It can get very crowded and busy, so if you are looking for a chill place to relax, have some tea and enjoy some wonderful food, come by on a weekday afternoon.
(4)Sabrina P.
I LOVE this place! What Andala is: -A great place to work with your laptop: free wireless, not crowded, quiet but with enough noise to keep you focused (at least for me, since I need a bit of distraction to work!), open late (until 10:30 or 11pm, I think, maybe even later?) -A great place to not work with your laptop: chill atmosphere, nice decor, friendly servers, cool music (Beatles and others) -A great place to grab a snack/meal and/or some coffee: tasty wraps, I had a good soy latte with lots of foam (I like foam) What Andala isn't: -Somewhere to go when you're in a hurry: stay and relax for a while! It makes doing work almost enjoyable, and that's saying a lot.
(5)Kelly L.
This place is fantastic. I love to go on the weekend mornings for a Bagel and Cappuccino. The man who I think is the owner, is always there and is always friendly. The seating is comfy and the ambiance is calm and relaxed, open and airy.
(5)Cody W.
I'm not sure what more anyone could ask for in a coffee shop. This place has it all, plus the servers are exceedingly friendly and good at their job. I have no idea how they cover rent in that place, but I'm really glad they do. I count Andala as one of the biggest assets Central Square has.
(5)Heather H.
This is a really cute and comfortable-looking coffee shop just off Central Square. I stopped in one cold night after dinner for some hot chocolate that was just delicious. Also of note is how friendly and laid back the staff was- I think they were actually disappointed that we were taking our hot chocolates to go! The pastries purchased for the next morning were excellent- I ate two instead of my allotted one pastry! I look forward to coming back to try their savory treats.
(4)Alexis S.
Oh Andala, I had such high hopes. You had such promise. I read your lovely reviews. I saw your lovely exterior. I visited once, with a group, for food and conversation and was pleasantly surprised. I visited a second time and sat on your gorgeous patio on an equally gorgeous day. I had no internet (which was a draw for this grad student) but I figured it was down for the day (it was). I delighted in your iced tea. You had such promise. I had such hope. I was on the verge of making you my *place*. Sick after weeks of C3's subpar food and limited internet, I decided to make my switch. So tonight, study buddy is in tow, I headed over for what I thought would be my first night of many. Your electrical plugs were sparse but I am willing to sacrifice. I ordered a tea. Fantastic. But my study buddy ordered rice pudding. And there was none. He ordered cake. And there was none. Fear not! He ordered baklava- we were saved! But when it came it was a mere one inch by one inch piece, so small that I did not even feel right sneaking a corner. And for almost $3! I expected heaven for that price. But heaven I did not find and instead was left with a half soggy, half stale corner in my mouth. My tea came and was clearly the bottom of the bin- for the tea leaves were indeed tiny- not the usual for Harney and Sons product. I know because I have met the Harneys and attended their tea conferences and tastings. I was served the scraps. So now I am left with no plugs, little food, and subpar tea. If this was what I wanted, I would have gone to Starbucks. In true, I am perhaps being hard on this albeit charming cafe. But, as I said, I had such high hopes. I will return. But this is not my *place* yet.
(3)Abigail D.
Great food at a reasonable price (and excellent portions). A nice tea selection, and the setup is great.
(4)Alli J.
I just moved here and found this coffeehouse, it looks upscale on the inside, but its really quite homey. Like everyone says, the pies are great, very comfort-food like. They also sell discounted day-old pastries if you live beyond your means and need to scrimp a little, like moi. Please keep the convos quite so we can maintain this excellent study and relaxing atmosphere -- remember there is no white noise to cancel you out like at 1369, yr neighbors can hear all. ;)
(5)Ethan C.
helpful staff, free wifi, great food (don't stop at the pastries). coffee can be irregular. some of the best lattes i've had as well as some really mediocre ones.
(5)Susie Q.
I went here last night for the first time and it was great. I got there about 6pm and there was a helpful sign telling me to a take a menu and sit wherever, and a server would come to the table. I was totally hot and sweaty after walking a long way, and was planning to order a glass of ice water first thing. Lo and behold, the waitress showed up with....a big glass of ice water! Thanks, Andala. I had the hummus sandwich, which is a hot pressed sandwich although the menu doesn't say that. It was incredibly delicious, and came with a yummy and unusual potato salad, which there wasn't very much of, unfortunately. My friend got an avocado sandwich which she said was also yummy. She also got fresh-squeezed juice, which I had shied away from myself because of the price ($4.50). She couldn't choose between apple and orange, so the waitress recommended she get a blend of both. It was essentially heaven in a glass, and so incredibly fresh. The service was leisurely--possibly annoyingly so if you're in a hurry, but just right for catching up with a friend, or for hanging out/studying. The vibe in the place was just perfect--warm, cozy, relaxed, and truly friendly. How often do you get service with a smile in a Cambridge coffeeshop?
(4)Kristin M.
a warm, but well-lit (which i really appreciate, b/c i find it hard to read in dark coffeeshops) cafe. i went here on recommendation of yelpers to have an informal meeting with a few people. there's a lot of space, broken up into a couple rooms, which makes it feel cozy. i had the soup & salad (lentil soup and a simple salad)- it was fresh, simple, and healthy. a good little spot to gather- we all enjoyed it. p.s. free wifi!
(4)Srikanth S.
Liked it. The spinach pie w/ salad was smartly presented. Flavors were clean. The coffee was tasty. I was caught off guard a bit by the fact that this is a 'sit-down' coffee shop, at which you order with a waitress. I'm not sure that that's the best model for a place like this. My only other complaint is that I found the window seating a bit cramped. Those tables sure like good, though.
(3)Monika S.
This coffee house has an impressive interior design and feel, a decent tea selection, however, their desserts don't taste well. I ordered rice pudding and it tasted like it was a week old ...Overall, their tea selection is better than Au Bon Pain but still limited ( yes, there are few coffeehouses that can impress me with their tea selection.)
(3)Emily S.
Delightful. Puts Algiers in Harvard Square to shame. This joint in Central Square is light and airy and bright with tons of space to move around and scattered furniture. The owner is Palestinian so it's authentic and I loooove the gorgeous carpets strewn over hardwood floors. Didn't have a pastry but they looked incredible, and had a hard time picking from the 30ish teas they have to chose from. Basically, it's the same thing as Algiers- down to the decor and brightly painted walls- only less crowded, with more space, less pretentious clients, nicer waitstaff who actually, like, smile and check on you and don't act like they're being abused when you ask them questions, and reasonable prices.
(4)Bird B.
we went for an iced coffee this weekend and it was warm and watered down. we couldn't order at the register and take our coffee to the tables outside. we had to wait for a waitress (we weren't ordering food) and when she brought out the coffee, we had to go back inside to add cream/sugar. its a wacky system but a nice atmosphere. we're sad the iced coffee was so 'meh.'
(3)Lenny T.
Andala proximity is one of the best things about living next to Central. The traditional breakfast with zatar is wonderful. Their Jerusalem omelet is surprisingly delicious. The Andala tea has a perfect sprinkling of cardamom.
(5)Bulba S.
I love Andala. I love being able to sit on the porch and smoke hookah and drink some of the best vanilla chai tea I've ever had. Like seriously, something is in that chai that makes it way better than chai I've had elsewhere. I am guessing liquid crack cocaine. I haven't tried a ton of the food, but what I've had was really good. Also, the servers are quite friendly and funny.
(5)Bruno L.
A true culture mix, middleastern food, French music, people from all around the globe and social background. And on top of it the food is original and very good. Highly recommended if you are looking for something different and original.
(5)S K.
andala is a place that i find myself really wanting to like. they ambiance is great, but the chairs are uncomfortable. their teas are good, but their coffee is not so good - and for being a coffee house, that's not good. i haven't tried their food, which is why i'm giving this 3 stars and not 2. staff is very friendly and attentive and the wifi is great. outdoor seating is nice too. i hear they have hooka, so that's cool, but i've never tried it here.
(3)Melody V.
Andala Coffee House is such a chill place, whether if you're here to do some work on the laptop, getting together with a few friends over tea and coffee, and enjoying some hookah. The atmosphere is perfect for such a great cafe. They don't care how long you stay to hang out. The staff was incredibly friendly, especially the first time I went with a group when we had no idea how to order. They have a decent choice of teas to choose from and it's all pretty flavorful. Their lattes are good. They offer free wi-fi.
(5)Maya M.
After 2 years of wondering if I would ever find the kind of cafe I wished for in Cambridge/Boston, I finally happened upon Andala. I'm not sure I can adequately express how much I like this place. Great espresso, delicious muffins, very clean, FREE Internet, cozy space, lots of seating, great music playing, and it's not crowded (yet)! I fear it will become too popular and over-crowded eventually (which I guess wouldn't be totally horrible - I really want it to succeed!), but for now it is the perfect spot to write, read, and hang out. I'm so glad I found it...
(5)Scott L.
Gotta echo what everyone else here has said -- Andala is a gem and a perfect study spot! Usually less crowded than 1369 Coffeehouse down the street, and with an airier, fresher vibe.
(4)Caleb M.
I absolutely love this place. Whenever I need a cafe to work at, or if I want to enjoy a nice lunch with a friend, or whatever, I always come here. The reason why? It's amazing!! The decor/atmosphere/decorations/etc are lovely. All the random pieces of Middle Eastern art add to the general feel of the place, but not as much as the Middle Eastern utensils and tables and serving platters. I especially love the little silver teapots. The service is attentive and friendly (though I waited a little too long for food-and coming from me, that's saying a lot-last time I came) and otherwise very helpful. Now to the food- SPECTACULAR. I can't come here without eating the Jerusalem salad. The zeit u zatar labneh thing is very nice and the hummus plate is absolutely essential, even if you don't like hummus. Then there's the chicken musakhan sandwich, which is very nicely done. Even if you don't like desserts, get the delicious baklava. And-I almost forgot-to drink you must order the house special tea with cardamom. I usually get 2 pots which I refill (for free) once each, which makes for 4 pots of this amazing tea. To sum up- COME HERE NOW
(5)Anonymous P.
I like the free wifi and spacious seating. I've found the baked goods just acceptable and the espresso woody.
(2)sage f.
I want to like this place more. The food and coffee are delicious. Table service at a coffee shop. It's right in Central. There's free wi-fi. But the seating options are bad. The radio plays on speakers (I mean, you can hear the DJs and the commercials.) There aren't enough accessible outlets for my computer plug. And the people who work there are kind of scowl-ly. Maybe it's better for talking with a friend than working. And it could be nice to sit outside when it's warm.
(3)Sara C.
I love this place! The perfect little cafe, warm, sunny and calm in the middle of crazy central square. I loved the food as well. The Foole plate was really nice with just the right amount of garlic...lots.
(5)Huan z.
One of my favorite Tea/Coffee House. Well designed rooms with very relaxing atmosphere. also like the porch with Moroccan wall lamps. Hot collocate is awesome, not too sweet like other coffee shop has. Breakfast is just delicious. Lunch with chicken sanwich is excellent. Two thumbs up!
(5)Emily C.
I keep meaning to write a review of this place, and since I'm currently sitting in Andala Coffee House, enjoying their excellent (free!) wi-fi and a cardamon iced tea, I figured this was as good a time as any! The omelettes are delicious and the hummus platter always fills me up! If you're looking for a place to hangoout with your friends for the afternoon and enjoy a coffee or tea, or for a light, healthier meal, this is a great place. I personally like it most because I can come here and study and the waitresses are attentive, refilling tea/water, without bothering me too much as I work on my laptop.
(5)David L.
I'm only an occasional coffee drinker so I don't know my espresso's from my latte's, but I do like a good coffee house to hang out sometimes. Andala's has a nice atmosphere and location, but the service and food there are not that great. Food is just kinda overpriced for what you get and the service can be horribly slow. I've waited for over an hour for food on multiple occasions and have gone 30 minutes without seeing any servers around or anything. Way over rated if you ask me.
(2)Andrew M.
I went here. It seemed ok.
(3)Jennie W.
I love, love love this place! I'm always impressed by how friendly the staff are, for a coffee shop they definitely go above and beyond. The lentil soup rocks, and they have some of the best hummus in town!
(5)Daniel F.
I found this place because I take the 70 bus by here everyday and saw they had shisha. We went in later that night around 930pm on a Friday and found the outside completely full, so we told the guy we would wait. He later told us they closed at 11pm and if we wanted a hookah we should stay around for a while. He was very friendly and moved one of the inside tables outside for us! The staff was very attentive and nice and the coffee was quite good/european style. The cafe has a nice feel to it and the inside decor is quite nice.
(4)Diana C.
I've been coming to this place with my friend a couple of times so far, and loved everything I've tried here! The first time I came - I was blown away by the antique decor and the at-home feel that it gives off. It's so cozy and warm inside, perfect for winter. I always get the chai, because it's the closest to what I fell in love with in San Diego. Ironically, the best chai I've had to date was served at a coffee cart located on UCSD's campus - Art of Espresso. When I first came to Boston, I searched frantically to satisfy my chai cravings, and was very pleased when I came here... :) Yesterday, I tried the Turkish Coffee - it was served in a cute little antique-ish pot. Just delish~and you can request extra strong (more coffee beans) or less beans - they cater to your taste buds! Dinner time came and we were so hungry. We looked around and saw all the delicious foods and aroma, couldnt resist and asked for a menu, haha. I got the Adama Chicken with Wine Sauce. It was so good! Light tasting, feels healthy, and stewy. I loved it so much that I had to order one to go. My friend got the Chicken Kebab with a salad, she loved it too. Definitely do the food some justice and get your chompers going already! NOTE: I'm not sure why so many are saying the staff is rude. I had experienced the complete opposite. Both the young women and the male barista were incredibly attentive. They asked if we needed anything else/took away our dishes and cups/smiled/helped think of ways to find me a seat with an outlet and were very courteous. Either I was darn lucky or yelp reviewers are incredibly picky.
(5)Christopher R.
I work in a coffee shop, and frequent many others, so when I try somewhere new, I have very high expectations. That said, Andala is quite possibly THE coziest coffee shop in the Boston/Cambridge area. If you're looking for a nice, quiet, chill-vibed place to grab a sandwich and a fresh cup of coffee (french press preferred), you'd do well by giving Andala a try. It's not the absolute best coffee in town, but it's a cut above most, and the ambience is perfect. You even have your choice of lighting/setting, as there are several different areas in which you can sit, and even be waited on. It's a good thing for them that I don't live too close by, otherwise I'd most definitely be perched there for hours on a nightly basis!
(5)Yasmin E.
very cute place to lounge around with a group of friends after dinner. the desserts weren't superb (they were ok...waaaay too sweet for my taste) and (while i don't smoke it) the company i was with complained about the arguila since it was relatively expensive and had very little taste. all in all however, on a crisp summer's evening, it is nice to sit under the grapevine (with REAL grapes mind you) louvered awning while sipping mint tea and nibbling on dessert. sounds cute huh....it is :) bon apetite!!
(3)George S.
Very nice atmosphere. Very good coffee. Solid food. Big windows with a nice view. The tables are a bit crammed, so if you go to coffeehouses with your laptop in tow, things might get messy. It's nice to hang out with friends though. (And they have free Wi-Fi!)
(4)J K.
Variety of choices for any meal. Great place to sit and chill. Staff were nice/helpfull and the prices were good too.
(4)Liz P.
This place gets so much natural light and fresh air - it's a great place to go as Spring begins her descent on New England. The goldenrod color of the walls welcomes you in and invites you to stay for as long as you like. I love the rugs and wide array of seating from single seats along the window, to cafe tables for two, to homey couches on which I would love to laze with a hookah. The waitress was attentive enough, while still leaving me to the book I had brought. Even when she brought me my check because she was clocking out, I was invited to stay longer and assured that she was not rushing me out. I had the Jerusalem Egg Salad Sandwich and it was great! The tomato and onions tasted crisp and not at all soggy from meeting the hot egg and melted cheese. The bread was divine and wholly unique. The potato salad alongside was as good as the sandwich: very well seasoned with fresh herbs and perhaps the most delicious olive oil I've ever tasted. It's probably my own fault that I ordered a Darjeeling tea and not something more adventurous. It was fine, but I'm not going to rave about it the way that people seem to be about the specialty teas. I'll keep this in mind and order a different tea when I return to Andala, which I hope will be very soon!
(4)Brett W.
Maybe it was my lucky day. Maybe it was the right morning. Or maybe this place is just wonderful. I suppose at 11am on a Thursday I wouldn't run into the long waits that the other reviewers ran into - in fact, our server was quite speedy with our food and tea. Once again I had the honey-cheese, pita bread, and fruit plate. I just can't get over how good the honey drizzled cheese and fresh fruit is. My friend had the egg salad sandwich which was soft and warm and scrumptious. The pot of Chai that we ordered brought the meal full circle. Yay!
(5)Lauren G.
The hummus at this place is amazing, though I found the portion sizes to be a little on the small side. if you are really hungry and need to eat a lot of food you should probably not eat here because you will end up spending a lot of $$ for a decent sized portion. Service was a little slow but very friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is nice and a little funky. I would definitely go back (when I'm not so hungry) especially to try the coffee.
(4)Amanda L.
If I lived in Central, I would probably come here all the time. It really spacious, but cozy as the same time. The only problem, it's a bitch to find. If you don't know where it is, you'll never find it. Since I go to Central about once every few months, I ended up going in every direction but the right one. Oh well, I guess I can't knock on anyone except myself. The food that we had was pretty tasty. I really enjoyed the spinach and meat pies the most. They were very moist and doughy, and delicious. This place is also really good for groups, there's a big open area where you can shlep a bunch of tables together, and its away from the other seats so it doesn't get too annoying for everyone else.
(4)J R.
$9 for a tuna wrap? You've got to be kidding me. Don't get me wrong, it tasted very good, but after waiting 25 min what wouldn't? The problem with this place is its ambiguity. Which is fine if your name is Pat. But, Andala is a cafe trying to be a restaurant. When I enter a cafe I expect good coffee, snacks and self service. I don't expect to be seated, handed a copy-shop menu (with only a handful of items on it), written a check and expected to tip. I'll give it another shot but its nothing to write home about.
(3)Calli C.
A little tricky to find, Andala is an oasis in the middle of Central Square. Warm, cozy, free wi-fi, where can you go wrong? I was meeting someone there, and the wait staff definitely didn't put any pressure on me to order up while I was waiting. They didn't put any pressure on us at all - didn't ask if we wanted anything else, if we wanted the bill, or anything. In this situation that was great because we just wanted to talk and be left alone, but I could see how it could be a problem in the service industry. Great tea. Mmmmm.
(4)Te R.
when i was there i felt like i was at a friend's house. there are dining tables. the kind that you would imagine having at home. there are some comfy couches and coffee tables. so it looks like a dining room and a living room. i really like the ambiance here. plus, there's free wifi! i was here just for a coffee in the afternoon and worked on my laptop. there's power outlet and stuff. the servers were cute and polite. but as other reviews say things here move really slow, which i kinda appreciated. you order a coffee at the table like a restaurant. so i saw some confused people who walked in and ordered a coffee at the counter, and the server told him to have a seat and she gave him the menu. i ordered iced white chocolate mocha and an espresso. the mocha was little too sweet for me. and the espresso wasn't spectacular. if the drinks were better, i would give this place 4 stars.
(3)Sandy M.
This is my all time favorite cafe in Cambridge. Absolutely fav in Central Square. It's one block from busy Central Sq. The interior is decorated beautifully, with lovely colors, middle eastern decor and touches, an interesting tin ceiling, a fabulous downstairs that comes in handy now that the cafe is being discovered (yesterday, it was full at lunchtime - almost couldn't find a table - both happy for them and a little sad for me!) The coffees and teas are excellent and the food is perfect for lunch or breakfast (haven't tried dinner yet). You can eat light and healthy, or have something more substantial. You can have a smoothie, or an omelet or a sandwich. But my favorites are the Jerusalem Egg Sandwich and the Hummus Plate - as they say, hummus like you've never had before, warm and delicious. Served with fresh veges and crisp pita. There are so many things I haven't tried yet... so many reasons to go back again and again... did I say that it has a great outdoor space? Can't wait for the warm weather.
(5)Molly M.
I agree with Katrina L. This place is an Oasis in the middle of the Sahara. After just moving here, and searching for any place to work other than my apartment, because Harvard won't let me into it's libraries (because I'm just an auditor), I searched high and low for any coffee shop that was even tolerable. Harvard Square's establishments generally are overrated. Crema Cafe is always crowded, and Algiers Cafe is cold and it feels disorganized (although those are my favorites at Harvard Square). But Andala is warm. It's spacious. The wi-fi works very well. The servers are punctual and they even smile! There is always seating at Andala, though it is never empty. The coffee and pastries are great. Maybe it is because it is slightly off Central Square that it isn't insanely crowded. They have an upstairs and downstairs, it's spacious and has lots of natural light, and it has a good, organized vibe. Definitely five stars!
(5)Nisrine E.
This is a great little jem of a cafe. Very cozy, well lit (for doing work) and comfortable atmosphere. I love the big tables for groups and the beautiful background Arabic music. The service was friendly. Oh, and free WiFi :D The raspberry cookies are delicious!!! But I was disappointed at the limited selection they had of baked goods and treats. I would go back often :)
(4)Sox G.
I went here for lunch with a group of 12. I was pleasantly surprised by the place (considering I went here for an iced coffee this past summer and felt as though it was a huge rip off.). I had the Mjaddarah plate special, which left me so full, that by dinner time, I was still full! We also split the hummus plate which was amazing! Homemade hummus is the best. I would go here again-the portions are a good size, depending on what you get, and the prices are decent. Try the chai latte. It's pretty amazing.
(4)Alex K.
Horrible. I just wanted a cup of tea to go and had to wait 5 minutes just to order. They don't have tea bags! Only brewed tea, so I had to wait another 5 minutes for the tea to brew. And the price was twice as much as any place I have ever been. Also while standing right next to the counter/blender the scummy looking employee started the blender and it wasn't locked in place. So I was subjected to a VERY loud jarring screech 12 inches away from my ear. Never going back.
(1)Charlotte E.
Hmmm, a mixed bag here. The ambiance is incredible. 5 stars for sure. But if you're looking for a nice little date with your husband before work, you'd better move along. We thought we'd try Andala this morning. We arrived and looked around, we saw the scones and decided we'd have those and coffee but the girl behind the counter told us that if we wanted to stay we should sit down and they'd provide table service. We took a lovely seat on the grape arbor covered patio and waited, and waited, and waited. People came and left with take-out and I was finally about to go in when she remembered us and came out to take our order. Turns out those scones we saw were the only ones they had and my husband's had been purchased by one of those subsequent take-out orders. We adjusted and placed our order. And waited and waited and waited and waited. Finally I went inside to tell her we had to go, we couldn't wait anymore. Turns out our breakfast had been sitting there the whole time, she just hadn't brought it out yet. I brought it out myself. Our coffee was ambient temperature at this point but I didn't care, I just wanted to eat and get out of there. The mystery of the limited scones was solved - they don't make their own, I am sure these are being re-sold from 1369 down the block, so that's why they only possess 3. She was very prompt in bringing us the bill. I'll give her that! If you have a laptop and want to spend hours here, perfect. If you have anything to do somewhere else in the morning you're better off getting your scone at the source (1369), or the new Flour just down the street. You might also get those to go and eat them on the lovely patio here - you'll have at least half an hour before they'll even notice you're there!
(2)Melissa C.
If I didn't spend so much money on their goat cheese and honey plate (apple, banana, mango, pear, grapes, goat cheese, honey and pita -- what's not to love?) so regularly, I would encourage the good people at Andala to charge me rent. Seriously. I used to come here frequently about two years ago, and recently rediscovered my love for this legit coffee house now that my exams are nearing. Between the free wifi, the gracious service (but not of the overly-attentive/hovering variety), awesome sunlight, and the fact that they let me sit at the same table for 8 hours at a time, this is my favorite study spot in all of Bos/Camb. (Docked one star because lately, the temperature has been a little strange in there -- I go from sweating to reaching for my jacket pretty frequently.)
(4)Amit G.
I love this place. It feels like home. Free wifi, friendly staff, great decor. The Sami Tea is quite tasty. They have this dessert called Nammourah which was amazing if you want to be especially indulgent. I'm working my way through the menu but in general have never been disappointed. I really must say, the atmosphere is something else. It's a shining light in central square. The place is unbelievably spacious - so it's great for small one on one chats and larger group chats. And the music, decorations, etc. etc. make you feel like you aren't visiting a business but instead walking into a portion of someone's house. Negatives? Hmmm. Having a hard time finding them. It might be slightly, just slightly, above market in terms of pricing. But that's not enough to take a star off.
(5)S W.
This place concentrates a lot of things I love: free wifi, middle eastern food and interior design, interesting people and best Turkish coffee ever! I can stay there all day.
(5)Erin M.
I am giving this a high three stars--- if I found out they had really good food, I might bump it up, but I've only had coffee here. Coffee was very good and atmosphere was relaxed. There was a boom box blaring top-40 hits behind my head the whole time, which seemed out of place in a funky little middle-eastern coffeehouse (although actually, I've had that kind of experience in many funky middle-eastern places). Met here for an informational interview, and it was a nice setting for that because we weren't rushed by the waitstaff and (besides the music) it was quiet and nice. There was nothing that made this coffee shop spectacular, but it was quiet enjoyable.
(3)Dan C.
I love this place, this has become my official neighborhood cafe. It is spacious and beautifully decorated with big windows upstairs, the service is excellent and really friendly, and the food seems reasonably priced, although i've only eaten something of substance once (an avocado sandwich, which was very good). I've had their house tea several times now and it's always terrific and only a couple of bucks for a pot. They also have an amazing selection of things to sit on. Seriously. They have regular chairs upstairs and downstairs, as well as the funky couch inset in the wall next to the entrance, couches on the indoor porch, giant pillows in the basement, and then outdoor patio seating. I'm pretty sure your butt will never feel uncomfortable.
(5)Rosie Z.
Nice ambiance, a great place to study or read. The downstairs area is good for conversations and group meetings. When it is not sub-30 degrees outside, you can usually find me smoking hookah in the outdoor garden. Food is very good and reasonably priced. Although they do have very slow service, but then you just need to ask for things, which I have gotten used to in Andala. Overall, it is a great place to have a laid back Sunday afternoon.
(4)Sophi K.
One of the best coffee shops here in Cambridge. I like the atmosphere, coffee (white chocolate mocha is the best!), friendly waiters/waitresses, and food. Plus, free internet. Two thumbs up!
(5)Mariya G.
Yes, the service here is slow, but that's one of the reasons I love the place! You can sit here all day, munching tasty platters (try the meat pies and then, when you've digested, order the fruit/goat cheese!) at your leisure and never feel rushed or pressured to leave. The only time they'll bother you at all is during waitress shift changes and even then you're free to close out your tab with your original waitress and continue to hang around. I can't think of an area coffee shop better suited for studying or long conversations.
(5)Ploy K.
A cute, spacious coffee house with free wifi? Sign me up! I spent an incredibly pleasant afternoon doing schoolwork at Andala. I can't really comment on the food or drinks, however, because I really didn't like the Turkish coffee I ordered (I had never had one before, and had no idea what to expect - I don't like coffee that strong, so just because I didn't like it doesn't mean it wasn't of good quality). My friend got an iced peppermint tea and said it was really good. The waitress who helped us was very friendly and attentive, but the real kicker for me was the atmosphere. It's so open and colorfully decorated, it really is a perfect place to just sit and sip some coffee while working or reading a book. I'll definitely be back to try another coffee drink more to my taste!
(4)Julie L.
I live right down the street from this pleasant coffee shop. I love the food and the variety of coffee and tea drinks. BUT the past few times I have been here, the service has been AWFUL! The last time I went there, just a few days ago, it was around 8:00pm when my friend and I arrived to work on homework and sip some tea. It was a bit slow in service on a Tuesday evening, however, it is still not acceptable for the waitresses to invite several of their friends and have a fun social hour while their on the job. Also, they were just plain rude we actually did ask for something. This isn't even half as bad a having the worst waitress EVER a few months ago. Among many things, like rolling her eyes at all of her customers and getting our order wrong multiple times and then arguing with us that we were the ones at fault - all I have to say is, I hope she got fired. She was horrible. Andala, I really love your charm, but please, let's work on the service.
(3)Denise W.
I think my review has already been stated by some of the people below, but here goes: Food I'm inclined to think that some of the food is over-priced and some of it is just right. I've been to Andala twice and the first time had a plate that had a bowl of oatmeal and tons of fresh fruit; the oatmeal was kind of dull, but the fresh fruit was so .. fresh. So good. The second time I had some kind of spiced chicken and onions on Arabic bread, which was INCREDIBLE (but I was famished, so you know how that always sort of skews your taste buds). I was also fortunate to grab some pastries during a visit - they were excellent. Service: This is such a relaxed atmosphere that the waitresses watch to see if you come in then eventually come to greet you .. trust me, there is no rushing in this place. I've never found the servers to be mean or idiotic, but severely lacking in their presence or returning to your table, yes. On a completely different note, Andala has the most beautiful servers you have ever seen in your life. I noticed a "Help Wanted" ad in the window and despite several years of serving experience and the need for a PT job, I was intimidated as hell to apply cuz these women are bananas hot. Just sayin. Atmostphere I remember sitting at a table with my friend and noting that someone had created the funniest, most eclectic playlist to rock over the speakers. There is SO MUCH SPACE in Andala and gorgeous, just beautiful decor. People are scattered about drinking coffee, eating food/pastries, or just using their computers on the free wifi. I have to give Andala props for that, along with their long hours. I think this was incredibly disjointed .. idiocy. It was a great introduction to middle eastern fare.
(3)Molly F.
Great way to wake up! Initially caught my attention with their pleasant string lights outside t night, and decided to go in for brunch this morning. Very laid back and welcoming ambiance. Decor is very homey. Nice oriental rugs with a variety of seating options from low couches to study tables to large bay window benches. Nice, genuine servers and an interesting menu. Between the two of us, we got one omelet and the Foole Plate, one small French press and turkish espresso. The presentation was nice and the food came out quickly. I did, however, notify the, of my celiac disease and they brought my omelet out with a big honkin wheat pita slapped across the top. I think a bit of a language barrier caused this between the native server and me. The food was really tasty though (I took a risk and ate the half of the omelet that the pita did not touch). Overall, great experience and I look forward to returning!
(4)Lahnna E.
My friends and I were interested in finding an affordable hookah bar in the area. Someone suggested Andala so we figured we'd try it out for the afternoon. Some afternoon we picked! It was bright, sunny, and warm and Cambridge was buzzing with people. We managed to find parking pretty close on Mass Ave (although maybe we should've just taken the T *shrugs*). Anyway, we went inside, the decor was nice and easy-going. Not dark and stuffy like some coffee shops can be. The woman behind the counter was friendly and offered us to sit where we liked, but that if we wanted to smoke it would have to be outside. I remember a bit of waiting, which we were all right with for the most part. We mainly wanted to just drink coffee, smoke, and talk. As she was preparing our hookah and our coffees, I noted the variety on the menu and was impressed. Prep time took a bit longer than I'm used to, but our server was just so pleasant that I really have no complaints. And besides, I don't think people who come to a cafe to sit down should be in any rush. Go to the Starbucks across the street in that case. Peach shisha was delectable, and there were several kinds available. It was how I envision a lengthy cafe visit to be. Relaxed, little bother from the server, and good coffee.
(4)Barry B.
Sometimes you're a stranger in a strange town and you need a good cup of coffee to put things right. That's how I ended up at Andala two days ago. Someone told me that Andala served an excellent cup of coffee. Well, that's not true, by a long shot. But it was a decent cup of coffee, nicely brewed (two shots in an 8 ounce 2% latte). The espresso was one dimensional, with a nutty quality. The milk was properly foamed. Andala uses Lavazza coffee from Italy, a reputable brand of "standard" espresso. But the best places either roast their own beans in small batches or toss any roasted beans over one week old. Lavazza beans, of course, are neither roasted in small batches nor fresh. I think this accounts for the single flavor note. I'd go back to Andala for coffee, given what I've heard about some of Cambridge's other places. The atmosphere was quite wonderful - big windows, high ceilings, bright and cheery. The table service was a little slow, which puzzled me since the cafe was not busy. I didn't eat anything so can't comment on the food. ====== 2013 Update: I've been back to Andala a couple of times in the last 10 days, first for coffee and then for food. The coffee (in the form of a small latte) is pretty terrible - worse than Starbucks - although very nicely presented. And the server brings your coffee to your table. You pay when you're ready to leave. Nice touch. But not nice coffee. A few days later, I went for lunch and ordered the "egg salad sandwich," which it's not. Not salad, that is. Just a lightly scrambled egg in a wheat tortilla. Not actually very tasty, given the possibilities. So, although I really like the interior design of Andala, and appreciate the attentive service, the fare just doesn't deserve more than a couple of stars. I really wish it were otherwise.
(2)Morgan F.
Egg sandwich on the indoor/outdoor dealio, surrounded by writers typing on their computers, like woah! Grab a seat upstairs, downstairs or enjoy the patio, friendly servers and even nicer cafe comp-anions! Come alone for hours, they won't try to make you go, Show up with your possie and and make the shisha blow! Why you waitin' -- just go!
(4)Danny D.
Awesome Turkish coffee with cardamom !! Pretty good food, nice open space, lots of light, different decor, friendly/passionate service. A great place to chill, eat, drink, chat.
(5)Shaina S.
I took my English conversation group here and treated them to a royally awesome hummus plate. (They had never even heard of hummus.) I also got the banana, milk, and honey smoothie. Have I mooned yet over how much I adore honey in my smoothies? Cause I do. This place has style. It's got a friendly and authentic theme and the porch is a delight, especially now that the weather is just a little brisk. The prices aren't as cheap as some Central Square fare, but I think it's worth it for the mood. Just don't try ordering at the counter. Easily my favorite cafe in Central and it barely had to try.
(5)Alex H.
Love and love this place. Boston needs more places like it. The atmosphere is great, I love the decor. It is centrally located. Service is slow nevertheless, and I am giving it 5-star for overall experience and food. I LOVE the $2.95 Avocado Bagel Special! We certainly need more places like these.
(5)Adam L.
This place is more cozy than the food is good, but it's an interesting change of pace and has a nice atmosphere. I'll probably be back here on a nice day to hang out under their ivy-covered outdoor-seating terrace and get some work done.
(3)Tarah H.
What would it take to entice two twenty-something young professionals, firmly entrenched in Boston proper out to Central? A breezy patio, fresh juice, wonderful teas, aromatic coffees, delicious middle eastern food, free wifi and shisha. The humus plate, as stated by many others is great - although the heat had me wanting nothing more than a slew of cucumber and bell peppers, not pita for dipping. The lemon juice was light and flavorful - not overly tart and no sugar needed. (for me, anyway) I would have tried a smoothie, but my aversion to bananas and their presence in both smoothies deterred me from doing so. I like the table service, it allows me to keep working while remaining hydrated and nourished without interrupting my work (I have friends and other distractions for that) Our waitress was lovely and sweet. She even popped her head out the window a few times to check on us. I was tempted to stand on my tippy toes and ask for a Screwball ( happytimeicecream.com/IM… ) We've been here for hours, slowly sipping on water, juice and tea, smoking our hooka with no pushiness from the waitress. She didn't bat an eye as our group grew and we eventually combined tables. Thanks Andala for the lovely time on a very hot June afternoon.
(5)Shang S.
One tiny piece of baklava is all it takes to have me as a fan. In addition, i like the variety in the decor of the place - different nooks and crannies to meet with one person or multiple. Great late night place to hang out as well - as long as you don't expect fast service, because everything is so laid back
(4)Courtney H.
I went here for the first time today -- I was expecting an average coffee shop. This place is anything but average! I had the lentil soup and salad combo. The lentil soup was outstanding, nice and light, and the salad was also delicious, full of crunchy veggies. My husband liked his chicken sandwich, and we both split the goat cheese and fruit platter. The decor is very pretty, and the free wi-fi is fantastic. There are places to sit outside, and a huge downstairs area, too. I thought the service was fine -- the waitress brought us more water when we needed it, and checked on us a couple of times. I can't wait to go again!
(5)