I frequently end up here because it is a convenient meeting point. Often there is a wait, which baffles me every single time. I suppose it is because Porter Square has so few dining options. FOOD Yeah, Okay--reliable. Their seafood linguine is actually pretty good. The chicken potpie is also fine. SERVICE Friendly DRINKS Standard Christopher's is a safe bet.
(3)
Jeff D.
This is a great little spot in Porter Square. Nothing fancy, but you don't want anything fancy when you come into a place like Christopher's. You want a good beer selection. Check. You want some pub food available to soak up said beer. Check. You want a few TVs and a bar staff willing to change the channel based on what the clientele wants. Check. If I lived closer they'd probably know me by name.
(4)
Amrutha R.
Food was great! I loved the beet salad.
(4)
Jake H.
Totally mediocre. Came for the burger and it was about as average as it could get. I heard good things about the burger but this wasn't the tastiest and it was over cooked. Ordered medium it was closer to well done... The fries are like fat potatoes which I hate in my fries. Very disappointing experience, bartender was very friendly and good beer selection so it gets a 3 instead of a 2.
(3)
Damien S.
Christopher's veggie burger is still my favorite (see original review for a full rundown). But I've noticed that in the off hour, Christopher's other range of patties - from the house-ground turkey burg to stuffed chicken breast delights - bring the savory pain like the champs they are. The latter is a rotating special, stuffed with roasted red peppers and mushrooms, with a slice of Swiss and chipotle mayo. Not entirely unhealthy and the juice saturated my shirt sleeves. Hey, that's where my arms live! Go sweet potato fries (spoiler alert: they're prepped like rippled chips) and dip 'em in a side of the spicy cranberry you'd find on the turkey burger. Not entirely healthy, making the mandatory paired beer (or $3 can o' Moxie) practically guilt-free! Again, go during the off-hours. After more than a dozen recent trips, the food quality and general madness is like night and day.
(4)
Kim E.
Phenomenal service. Great atmosphere. The food is well-flavored (which is rare). Went on a Monday night and it was extremely busy. Would suggest booking ahead of time! Even with all the hustle-and-bustle, the servers remained friendly and the patrons were more than excited. The Cajun-flavored grilled chicken was the dish I ordered and I love the spicy taste! Their guacamole mix is to die for! Must try. Very affordable as well. Will be coming back for sure.
(5)
Laura B.
I love this place. I came here during a time that I had a lot of dietary restrictions (no gluten, sugar, carbs). The waitress helped me find something I could eat and nicely asked the chefs to make sure there was no sugar in the spices/marinades. She made it really convenient and I really appreciated it, it's hard to go out to eat with friends when you have dietary restrictions. The Sirloin Salad was delicious and the service was great!
(5)
Traci K.
I hadn't been to Christopher's in a long while - so a few of us decided to hit it up for dinner the other night. You know what I love? Consistency. The food and drinks here are just as good as ever. The burgers are great - always cooked perfectly. The fries are wedgie-potatoey heaven. Side of chipotle mayo, pls and thx. Amazing. The menu has changed a little bit, but there are still lots of great options. We noticed a few different sandwiches. My friend had a chicken BLT on this delicious looking thick toasty bread. Yum. Service was fast, friendly and attentive. Food and drink were tops. The fireplace was going so we were all comfy and cozy. Really can't ask for more.
(4)
Jared S.
Great neighborhood bar. Food is decent and the beer list is great. Though their cocktails are usually pretty mediocre.
(4)
P C.
The food comes out ok but takes forever. The service is slow and it is not even the kitchen's fault. The food will be in transit for so long that it is cold and unpalatable. If you order something to go, the problem will be even worse. The few times when things are ok is not enough to compensate for the high likelihood that you will have this unpleasant experience. Tip for restaurant: Improve your service execution.
(1)
Alyson S.
This place is across the street from my gym and is completely the type of place I like to go from the looks of the outside so I was longing to check it out. A friend and I were out for the day and what do you know we stopped in for lunch. Great atmosphere with outdoor seating (an amazing feature as we turn the corner into spring). My friend and I ordered a sandwich, salad, and soup combined. It wasn't spectacular except those French fries. Those were probably the best wedge style fries but my chicken on the sandwich was super peppery. Otherwise it was a great meal! I would recommend the stop to check it out. They also had some amazing looking brunch options so I will be sure to stop in again and check it out.
(4)
Wen-fai F.
I've been to Christopher's a number of times over the years and I am a fan. Basically, the food is much better than Cambridge Common, with a more limited beer selection. The atmosphere is similar, albeit a bit cleaner and a bit more yuppie. I would recommend the chicken pot pie which is heavenly, any of the burgers (including the veggie!), or salads. Or the chicken tenders appetizer for 6-year-olds, or adults who occasionally have the palette of a 6-year-old, i.e., me! The one thing that consistently excels here is the service. Tonight was the first game in the World Series and the place was packed. There were a number of people waiting for tables and the hostess handled everybody with grace and the waiting time estimates were basically all spot on. When we got a table, my mother ordered the parmesan crusted cod, which was a little over-cooked. When we told the waitress (Kathryn), she didn't hesitate to take it off our bill AND offer us another dish on the menu. We definitely didn't need that but were very grateful for the way things were handled. Instead of being frustrated with the customer, she just apologized profusely and said it was the restaurant's duty to take it off our bill. As my dad said, these are things that make customers want to go back.
(4)
Heidi L.
Every time I go to Christopher's, I try hard to really like it, but end up comparing it to Cambridge Common (and they're obviously practically the same, given the same owner) and end up thinking that I'll go to CC next time. So what is it? They've got the fried pickles, sweet potato chips and nachos we always get at CC...okay, it might be the lack of the BLT (but that's so subjective). And they do have a pretty good beer selection (although can you post the specials sheet online?). And friendly service. Maybe it's all sentimental...but without the sentiment, the food is good, not great.
(3)
Christine J.
okay place, not bad, not great. there are better places around.
(3)
Julia K.
I've been a patron of Christopher's for nearly 10 years, but after several great experiences there with my toddler, I can't help but write a review. It's hard to find the right mix of good food and family-friendly, and Christopher's is right on the mark. We've never had a wait for brunch, the bloody marys are excellent, and the food, while nothing extraordinary, is consistent and yummy at a reasonable price.
(5)
Maria D.
Christopher's is my go-to spot in the neighborhood. They have a solid beer menu, good food (try their nachos, French onion soup or burgers) and don't be too quick to look past the specials, they are usually pretty interesting and yummy. The waitstaff and bartenders are always super friendly and I never have a hard time finding a seat at the bar or a table.
(4)
Melanie W.
Christopher's is a solid place for lunch or dinner, but, unfortunately, was a huge disappointment for brunch. The dimly lit restaurant is always clean and service friendly. The outdoor patio is really pretty in warmer weather. The first time I came here, I ordered the southwestern chicken salad, which came with pico de gallo, black beans, tortilla strips, cheddar cheese, and avocado-lime dressing. It was OK, but I thought that the black beans and pico de gallo had little flavor. The blackened sirloin steak salad was absolutely delicious blue cheese, crispy onions, and balsamic vinaigrette. The salad was perfect and one of the best I have ever had. Some people in my party got it with goat cheese instead of blue cheese and also raved about it. The chocolate chip bread pudding leaves a lot to be desired. It was dry and tasted a lot like just slightly sweetened plain bread. It could use more of a custard to sit in. Brunch was a big disappointment. My companion and I wanted a seat outside and were told it would be about a 30 minute wait. We waited about 35 minutes and the people on the patio were JUST getting their food. We then decided to just eat inside. I ordered the huevos rancheros and then we sat and waited for a long time. Everything just seemed to be moving very slow. When I got my food, I was really disappointed. It didn't taste very good at all. I think they need to season their black beans more, as I had the same problem as with my salad - they had no taste. It also came with eggs scrambled with onions, peppers, and chorizo, plain, tasteless, tortillas, sour cream, homefries (which were initially forgotten, but tasted pretty good once they got there), and melon that had seen much better days. Overall, I would go back to Christopher's for lunch or dinner without too much hesitation, but I think last week was the first and last time I will be for brunch.
(3)
Katelyn P.
I really want to love Christopher's. It has a good, cozy, tavern atmosphere, especially if you're lucky enough to get seated by the fireplace. They have a decent beer selection and the specials usually look good. Overall, the food is about average. Nothing amazing, but about what you'd expect. Good burgers. Yummy salads. The highlight of my recent visits has been the nachos, they pair great with a beer and group of friends. The lowlight though was dessert. I had the apple crisp... it was bland and just tasted off, like they made it a week ago and forgot to add sugar and butter. My friend got the lava cake and it tasted like something I could've gotten at Star Market for half the price. Overall, it's hit or miss depending on what you get.
(3)
Lisa D.
Christopher's is one of my go-to places for a drink, apps or dinner. It's easy to find parking with the Porter Sq. parking lot right across the street. Yes, the restaurant is often packed when I get inside, but I consider that to be a good thing! I am a huge fan of the Assorted Nachos, I'm never disappointed. I had one of the best dining experiences I've had in a long time the first time I went to Christopher's. Our waitress, Christine, was unbelievable. Attentive without being obtrusive, she checked in at all the right times and seemed to know what we needed without us having to ask. It was the type of experience that reminded me what good service is really all about!!
(4)
Kayla D.
The staff is so friendly and the food is amazing. Great beer selection. The burgers are delicious but they have Good vegetarian options too. Oh and the yuppie nachos have goat cheese and are the best thing on the menu!
(5)
John S.
Christopher's is precisely the kind of three star place I like. They're not revolutionizing the burger or the nacho. Rather, they're embracing tasty, pleasantly boring tradition. The service was friendly without being effusive. The ambiance was dark without being clubby. The prices were reasonable, but not so cheap that you question the quality of the food. I plan on coming here whenever I want comfort food done comfortably.
(3)
Patricia J.
I ate the best veggie burger in the world today and I'm no vegetarian. It was an amazing creation. The wedge fries went well with it but I didn't have enough room to eat the salad. I took one star away because the service was really slow. Best burger ever!
(4)
Jason B.
I now live down the street from Christopher's and come here on the semi-regular. On Brunch days, if you're famished and looking for a big ol' dose of RED MEAT HANGOVER CURE, their upsized 12-oz patty with steak fries is a can't-fail option. Choose your own adventure toppings (I go with boursin, sauteed mushrooms and caramelized onions) and prepare to burn through four to six napkins. They're experimenting with cocktails behind the bar, and they might have just hit honey-flavored gold with their "Honey Badger Smash" - Jack Daniels' Honey Whiskey, simple syrup, a dash of bitters and a lemon wedge. Very sweet but refreshing. The large-sized bloody mary will cure the hell out of whatever ails you - 1,237 ounces of tomatomix and booze served in a hollowed-out engine block. (OK, not really but look at the picture and you'll get the idea!) They're friendly, and there's a fireplace. I like it.
(4)
Susan K.
I went to Christopher's for my birthday, with a group of friends. I hadn't been in awhile and choose this place because they take reservations, accommodating to food allergies, price and consistency of food. It met all of my expectations, except one. They used to do a great stir-fry but it's no longer on the menu, even though it's listed online. They may bring it back as a special. They recently redid their menu. The salmon with quinoa was ok. My sangria was great. All my other friends enjoyed their meals. The service was top-notch. I didn't feel rushed to leave. We hung out and stayed without desert for a little bit.
(4)
Davy G.
Christopher's is the best place in Porter Square for drinks and/or a fresh meal. The ingredients are fresh and high quality (local, organic, free-range, etc.) and the vegetarian options are stupendous. All of Christopher's nachos and burgers are to die for! I'm always impressed by the draft list as well, which highlights local beers and fresh offerings galore (usually more than a few IPAs to choose from). Great place to watch the game, with a handful of big screen TVs. Beautiful, professional young women compose the vast majority of Christopher's staff, and people are always smiling and having fun here. My favorite dish is the pulled pork mac and cheese.
(5)
Jessica S.
One of my favorites! Sunday brunch is good and in general! They have a surprising number of option for those who want to eat healthy or are vegetarian. Haven't been disappointed yet!
(5)
Deanna D.
Our brunch experience at Christopher's in one word: Mediocre While the ambiance here is warm and welcoming, the food leaves much to be desired. We came here for a ladies brunch on Saturday and were promptly seated by the fireplace (love siting by fireplaces ;) Our server was friendly and attentive. But the trouble started when we opened the menu. Their website features a pretty extensive brunch menu but they do a limited brunch menu on Saturdays--like 6 brunch dishes that are not very exciting. Why don't they state this on their website?! We wouldn't have come there if we knew the menu was so limited ahead of time! Since we already had drinks we figured that we should give the brunch a try. We ordered the the Crab Benedict, Breakfast Burrito, and Frittata. It turns out that the Crab Benedict does not come with any eggs and was missing the sauteed spinach and tomato that was suppose to come on the dish. Seriously, why put a "Benedict" on a brunch menu and not include eggs---it has to the be one of the stupidest thing I've ever seen on a brunch menu! My bad for not catching that when ordering but when you see the word Benedict on a brunch menu, you assume that it comes with eggs! The crab cakes were good but 2 tiny crab cakes topped with hollandaise served with a tiny salad (my substitution) for $11 was definitely not worth it. The Breakfast Burrito and Firttata were both flavorless and lackluster. The coffee was fine and the blood mary was good. In conclusion 3 of the 6 items they serve on the limited brunch menu were all terrible. Needless to say it was a mediocre dining experience, at best, and I definitely won't be back unless it just for drinks.
(2)
J C.
Great beer selection. I got the green burger, which was a burger with some bacon and a fried egg, and some other things. The burger was pedestrian and I had no complaints. Thes fries were good but there were too few of them. They also included a salad which was nice and healthful. It's a good basic neighborhood pub. It won't knock your socks off, but it's friendly and nice.
(3)
Victor D.
The bartender, Sarah D, is the most authentic, charming server I've ever met in Boston. That alone made it excellent. I had only soup and salad, which was delicious, and the menu looked tasty with lots of options too. I was only visiting, and would definitely go back to Christopher's should I return to Boston.
(5)
Ana R.
I've only heard good things about Christopher's, so when my friend wanted to meet up there last night, I didn't object. We waited 10 minutes for a table on a surprisingly busy Tuesday night. I had the turkey burger which was delicious and came with a spicy cranberry sauce. I didn't care for the sweet potato medallions, but they were an interesting alternative to fries. My friend had the burger special, which was a bean burger. It was messy to eat, but she said it was really good. Her potato wedges were yummy. Her special was more expensive than my burger, which doesn't make sense to me. In my mind, specials are items that are better priced because the restaurant wants to move higher quantities, no? Anyway, the waitress was lovely and the atmos was great for conversation. Will definitely go back again. And major points for the parking lot across the street!
(4)
D G.
I've been coming here forever( 25 yrs?). Service can be iffy , especially in September when they are training new people. But food with lots of healthy choices always brings me back.
(4)
Mark L.
We had an enjoyable family experience at this location. Staffing was attentive and accommodating. Atmosphere was loud but festive. Brussel sprout appetizer was an unexpected find. Fish tacos were a good pick too. Would return again.
(3)
Katie K.
BEST neighborhood place for beers on draught, healthy salads or delicious burgers- Great atmosphere with fireplaces and dark wood- Also quite affordable. The bartenders knew us and would bring us out tropically drinks on our arrival- Very special!
(5)
Io S.
Delicious food, interesting drinks, attractive staff, fun and local atmosphere. I've only had appetizers there and, except for the pulled-chicken nachos (which were just OK, though the portion is huge) they have been top-notch. Excellent calimari -- even a companion who's not a big fan of deep-fried squid dug them. Good, though not overly strong, margaritas and a couple of remarkable gin drinks (one mixed with cider and champagne -- a real hit). Beautiful waitresses, if that's your thing. Think slightly tattooed girls-next-door and you've got it. Friendly vibe. Prices not as good as at the nearby Cambridge Common, but service and food a bit better. There's a reason this is a Porter Square mainstay.
(4)
Lauren M.
This place was very unpretentious and a solidly good pub. It was packed on a Saturday night, but we were able to secure a table near the stairs. The beer selection was adequate and the food menu was quite extensive. The steak tips were good, although the portion was a bit small (although about what you'd expect for the price). The sandwich I ordered was very flavorful and the fries were pretty addicting. Service was good, especially given how busy the place was that night. Really nothing special about this place, but really nothing bad either. Christopher's has decent prices for being in the Boston area. Finding parking was a bit of a challenge, but not terrible.
(3)
Fancypants X.
3.5 stars rounded up Damnit, Christopher's! Why must your clam chowder be so buttery & creamy, yet be overflowing with huge chunks of potatoes? I hate that you use that as a filler, but aside from that, it's the best clam chowder I've tried in boston/cambridge this far. The rest of your grub is deplorable. Molten chocolate cake--2 stars. Wasted my $6 on 2 bites. Nachos, which are supposedly y'all's thang, not so much, no. 2.75 stars. Too sour & acidic from either the jalapeños or the pico. Guac--no. Chips--no. I wish it was good. But, 4 stars for your clam chowder. STOP throwing them huge chunks of potato in! You're better than that. Actually, no, no you're not, & that's ok...
(4)
Anne S.
We ate at Christopher's on Thursday night. It was warm outside, so we decided to sit on the patio. I'm glad we did, because it was freezing inside! We split an appetizer basket of sweet potato fries. They were not as good as I was expecting. They were round instead of being cut like normal fries. It made them taste different than normal sweet potato fries, and not different in a good way. I ordered a Southwest Chicken salad. It was good, but a little on the small side. I wish I'd got a burger, they looked really good. (The veggie burger sounded amazing). I got to try some of the fries that came with the burgers, and those potato wedges were awesome. I wish we'd had a basket of those instead of sweet potato fries. I think I would have had a much different idea of this place if my order had been different. Overall though, it was a fine experience. It was reasonably priced and it was a good location.
(3)
Corey L.
Had the Turkey burger and the English Burger. Both were fine, nothing that great. Regular fries were good, but the sweet potato fries weren't.
(3)
Amy S.
I'm a huge fan of the outdoor seating, nachos, and beer/cocktail selection (the huge bloody mary could use some more spice, but I'll let that slide due to the sheer volume - nothing better than needing to lift your breakfast cocktail with two hands). I'm not such a fan of the undercooked english muffin and bacon that tasted like soap in my eggs benne this weekend - possibly something about being the first people in the restaurant.... not sure, but it kind of ruined the brunch. I'll be back but maybe I'll just drink my brunch next time.
(3)
Claire N.
Burger was VERY delicious- best I've had on this side of the river. Cobb salad was mediocre. Wait staff was nice, quick, place wasn't too loud.
(5)
Kim K.
Christopher's is average in exactly the right way. Sometimes you just want nachos or a sandwich with fries without overthinking it and not worrying about the price or how long you can sit and chat without getting the hairy eyeball. I love this place and can't wait to come back.
(3)
Eric F.
Exceptionally well-executed traditional American food with great selections including a regular rotating handmade ravioli and great paella. My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed our meal along with a couple of good brews from the great draft list. On the note of the paella, it came chock full of seafood (mussels, fish, calamari, etc.) and sausage. And at $14, a great value as well.
(4)
Chrysanthe P.
I used to be rather indifferent about Christopher's. If a friend suggested it, I was cool with it, but it wasn't a place that I would actively seek out. Prior to recent experiences my opinion was as follows: The food is alright, the cocktails aren't worth it, and I can find just as good a beer selection in Davis, so there's not much point in me skipping over to Porter to grab a beer here. Still sort of, kind of true. What made me change my mind? Three things (in order of increasing importance): 1. Delicious Israeli cous cous in their Middle Eastern Platter 2. Bloody Mary 3. TOMATO SOUP Seriously, that tomato soup is crazy good. Also, the fact that I'm allowed to order 23 oz. of vodka mixed with tomato juice and some other yummy things at 10:30am on a Sunday is so awesome that it should probably be illegal. As for the cous cous, I'm Greek-American, so I've had a foolish amount of cous cous and tabbouleh and the like in my day. That said, the fact that this Israeli cous cous stood out to me is pretty impressive, if I do say so myself. On a final note: something I've always liked about this place is the atmosphere. It's definitely the sort of place that is easy to hang out in. Really casual, but not divey either. It's certainly a nice place to go with family or with friends after a particularly long week (or during the week - I don't judge).
(4)
Bridget F.
Convenient location to walk to if you live near Porter Square. Don't bother coming if you need to park. I have gone here twice. Service is slow, especially drinks. We ordered drinks before apps and the apps came out first!?! It loud, which is typical for a pub. But the food blah! Ordered Spinach and Artichok dip as an app, no idea what we actually got. Wide selection of beers. But when you ask the server about them, seems like they are guessing that's if they even know they carry it. Once your whole order is taken, good luck if your server checks back in. We never got to order a second round of drinks. Food is nothing great. A waste of $$
(2)
Dave R.
This place is really great. Lively scene, well above average food, great beer selection. I've had various items here but nothing has hit the spot like the chicken avacado sandwich with aoili. If I remember correctly it comes on grilled ciabatta. Nice.
(4)
Dinara E.
I ordered my TOAD burger medium, but it was well done. Which is why this place gets the 4 stars. They have lots of brews on tap and I absolutely loved the home made fries. They were delicious! My friends got the veggie burger and they said it's just beans, no tofu. Which sounded great! I cannot rave enough about the fries.
(4)
Christine C.
Christopher's offers excellent service and delicious food to suit all tastes. My friend has to follow a special diet, and they prepared a creative vegetable mix to go with her salmon.
(5)
Josephine L.
Yuppie nachos. YUM! Cheap drinks. SCORE! Close proximity to T. YAY! My $0.02.
(4)
J T.
"Didn't we just eat?" I wondered silently as we made our way into Christopher's in Cambridge. It had been over 7 hours since my companion Dr. Moonchild and I had devoured large plates of mexican food, yet I couldn't shake the feeling that I had just eaten, or perhaps had never quite finished eating and was now expected to eat again. When in Rome, however... And what of Rome? What was it like at the end of the good days? How quickly did things descend into dark madness and how did the people take it? I imagine they might have felt as we do now, each of us chasing our own thoughts and desires while barbarian hordes close in, just beyond the city lights. But this was no time for history, we had come to eat, and Christopher's did not disappoint. The ambience was warm and lively, the meal straightforward and satisfying. We ordered too much food and could not eat it all. "If only there were a way to purge our aching stomachs and start the meal over!" We laughed. Such gluttonous logic led to thoughts of the Roman 'vomitoriums' and I wondered when we might observe the re-emergence of such a fad among the American upper classes... Outside a car horn blared and angry voices mingled with the noisy chaos of the restaurant. Our check arrived and the total for the meal was less than we had expected, and we were happy.
(5)
Zack M.
I was stuck waiting for a friend and decided to come in. There is a rich beer selection. The food is good too. I had the spinach dip and the special--a mushroom-ricotta burger. Good if you just need a stop over. Also, they have lots of bathroom space because with beer you don't own it, you just rent it.
(4)
Bob L.
Do I love Christopher's? Absolutely. Is 5 stars a tad bit generous? You betcha. Here's why I'm opting for 5 instead of 4: I've never had a bad experience here. The wait staff are kind and helpful, the beer list is on constant rotation, and the food is exactly what I want it to be. When I come to Christopher's I have two things in mind: beer and nachos. As mentioned, they have a great beer list (there's more on the downstair's menu vs upstairs, just ask nicely and they'll grab another menu for you) and the assorted nachos are probably the best I've ever had. Also, let's talk about the buffalo tofu! That stuff is incredible. The portions are huge, the decor is great (rotating art), the prices are reasonable... what more could you ask for?
(5)
Jessica J.
I was surprised to find such a vegetarian friendly menu here. Looks like any other dark wood and brick bar, very cool atmosphere, but also has quite a few great options for those who don't eat meat. The buffalo tofu sandwich was super delicious!
(5)
Ann G.
My first time here. Plantain fritters very delicious. Came with my man friend. I'm a vegetarian and he's not. We were both satisfied. This was one of the best veggie burgers I've had in a very long time. He was very pleased with the toad burger. Both plates were under $10 each and with an appetizer our total bill was under $30. It's rare to find a casual friendly environment that's relatively low in cost. If your looking for a great place with great food, this place is wonderful!
(5)
Dan C.
So there was Christopher's 5 years ago and Christopher's now just like there was Dan C. 5 years ago and Dan C. now. After a 5 year exile I have returned. Let me briefly explain, In a fit of joy (after a night of Trivia at Newtowne) I dropped my scotch, and in an attempt to catch it with my foot as it fell to earth, I rocketed it across the bar and into the face of some unsuspecting female patron. I still feel bad about this. Obviously I decided that I really didn't need to spend any more time here, and frankly I wasn't too upset by that since this place seemed a little pretentious for my taste. Fast forward to present day, I found myself living in Porter and decided it was worth a look since I needed a nearby spot that was classier than Newtowne Grill. I am happy to say I really enjoyed my experience(s) here. Sure my tastes in what constitutes a good bar have changed between 22 and 27. 5 years ago I was pitchers of PBR at Newtowne to glasses of brown liquor here because someone suggested it; now I'm pitchers of PBR at Newtowne to Cucumber Gimlets here because I suggest it. Okay, maybe my tastes haven't changed that much, maybe its just the bar has become a little less serious. So, getting down to brass tacks, the food here is decent enough for a date, outing with a bunch of friends, dinner with the folks, pretty much anything where the food is not the main focus (since like I said, it's decent, not great). They have more varieties of nacho than should comfortably exist in this dimension. The yuppie nachos have the addition of goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and guac, which I have to say gave me a novel nacho experience. The burger doesn't have too much going for it, everything is average and the blue cheese burger doesn't nearly have enough blue cheese to earn it such a title. The paella, on the other hand, is packed with mussels, salmon, calamari, chicken, and chorizo--great if you love paella since you're not going to find many other places that serve it in porter square, especially at this price and portion size (one person for $14). Oh, can't forget about the drinks. This place has some serious bartenders who are more than capable of mixing the liquors you need to satisfy your thirst, so don't worry if you can't find your drink of choice in the menu. Personally I like gimlets, and I can say, every bartender there has given me an above average gimlet. Now they're no Green Street, but they're close. Bottom line: Decent food, they can manage a pretty decent Cucumber Gimlet, and it's 5 minutes from home. Yeah, 4 stars sounds about right.
(4)
Shannon M.
Where Cambridge Common's artichoke dip is on one end of the spectrum, Christopher's is on the other...and it is NOT the delicious end. The quesadilla appetizer is decent, but the artichoke dip was pretty terrible. The ratio of spinach, the kind of cheese that is used (goat cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella), is just wrong. I recommend getting SUPER drunk before ordering...or just go to Cambridge Common if you are seeking a pub that serves above average food to go with your beer.
(2)
Stacie R.
We had the Brussels sprouts with bacon, blue cheese and truffle oil for an appetizer which were delicious though I picked out the bacon. The menu has a variety of vegetarian options which is refreshing. I wanted to try several of the appetizers like the buffalo tofu, the spring rolls, and the yuppy nachos, along with chips and mango salsa. I had the buffalo tofu sandwich which came with fries, but I was allowed to substitute asparagus and could have had broccoli or a side salad. My date had the fish tacos which I will have to order in the future with the spring rolls as an appetizer!
(4)
Dani H.
It is funny that in all the years I've lived in the area I never went to Christopher's, but decided on Friday August 23rd to check it out with my wife. It was a gorgeous summer afternoon so we sat in the little patio area in front of the restaurant (so I never actually went inside) which has about 7-9 tables. I loved the flowers around the area keeping it slightly separated from the people walking by you to and from work on the sidewalk. They had a GREAT list of local beers so I had to have the Slumbrew (Somerville Brewing Company) Porter Square Porter. How could I not since I was sitting in Porter Square at the time. I love when restaurants support local craft brewers. My wife and I enjoyed a lovely lunch. I had a delicious turkey club, while she actually had the "English Burger," which was a burger marinated in english ale with cheddar and bacon on an english muffin. It was outside her normal choice, but the gamble paid off. The service was attentive, but not overly pushy. The prices were reasonable.
(4)
Amber B.
I've been coming to Christopher's for at least 5 or 6 years now, and I'm a huge fan. The ambiance is casual, the staff are SUPER welcoming, and the food is delicious. The menu is simple, mostly bar food, with some more dinner-y entree options. It's a great place to go grab a burger and a beer and sit at the bar, or even bring a bigger group (VERY kid-friendly) and share entrees. Their house-made veggie burger is phenomenal, as is their wide array of regular burgers. Both come with your choice of sweet potato fries or steak fries and a small salad. The fried pickles and buffalo tofu are also amazing and the nachos are served right out of the oven, perfectly stacked and evenly distributed with toppings. The best part is: I'm always pleasantly sated, often times with some leftovers to take home, and I never get that food-coma grease hangover that is common when ordering bar food. The beer selection is fantastic, and always changing. The only small part of constructive feedback that I have is that sometimes I feel like the rotating beer list changes TOO frequently. I'll get attached to a new belgian triple and try to order it two weeks later and it's gone. That being said, the staff are wonderful and knowledgable and can always recommend a perfectly lovely alternative. The range and variety of the beer list is impressive. The bartenders, in particular, are suburb: friendly, funny, warm. It does get quite busy at times weeknights and weekends, I usually go in during off-hours so I never really have a problem finding a seat at the bar. When there is a wait, it's short and it's well worth it. In 6 years, there was only one time that my order came out incorrectly, and the manager quickly sent over a large order of fries on the house. Overall, definitely worthy of 5 stars. Christopher's keeps it simple, and does everything right. Oh, and you can sit outside in the spring and summer time!!! Definitely a plus in the Porter Square area!!
(5)
Aleksandr C.
Went here last night with a group of friends. This was my first time going here. I have to say that I was impressed with this place. It is an American bar and burgers type place but on a nice level. The setup is nice with a bar and plenty of tables for people. We were seated by the fire place which was a nice touch. The menu is extensive for food and drinks. I ordered the South West Burger which comes with potato wedges. The burger was delicious and so were the fries. My friends enjoyed their dishes as well. The bill ended up being $110 for 5 of us which wasn't bad at all including food and drinks. Will definitely be back!!!
(5)
Jiyea C.
Nice neighborhood watering hole! BEST VEGGIE BURGER EVER. Ok, I guess this doesn't mean much coming from me, who has only had 2 or 3 other veggie burgers...but I heard this from a vegetarian who has had dozens of them...he said it was one of the best. One that he'd consider getting on the T to eat, which is saying a lot for him because he rarely comes north of Harvard Sq. I've tried other burgers here, but i think the veggie burger is still my favorite. I think this has to do with the consistency. The meat on the other burgers are not always cooked properly to order. Nachos here are also delish! Bar layout is kind of awkward. It's this weird U shape in the middle of the restaurant and there are tables on either side of it. Idk how I felt about the dining room being split in half like that...and the venue isn't even that big to begin with. Speaking of the small restaurant, I would not recommend coming here in groups of more than 4. I did see a few 6-tops, but there are not very many tables so either make a reservation or come before 7 if you're planning to visit on a weekday. My last visit was on a Friday at 6 and there were people waiting when my friend and I left around 8:30.
(4)
Patrick A.
Service was nice and I enjoyed their half roasted chicken with broccoli and mashed potatoes.
(4)
laura W.
Toad was jamming a little too hard for our catch up chat, so we meandered over to Christopher's. The beer list was great (extra points for always having a Pretty Things beer on tap) so we decided to have a seat. The hostess was MIA. We waited at least 5 minutes before a girl told us to just have a seat somewhere....even though signs say, "CHECK IN WITH THE HOSTESS!!!!!!" everywhere. So we walk around, sit at one of the many empty tables and wait for a server. Surely someone will come get our order. Nope. No one. After 15 minutes we go to the bar and get some beers which are fairly priced at $5. The televisions were playing the news... I've never seen that at a bar. Plus, a waitress was drinking a beer on a break... hmm... With so many bars to drink at, I won't be coming back.
(2)
Tyler T.
This is my favorite restaurant in Boston. The perfect, handmade veggie burger, an extensive rotating beer selection, ideal mix of bar and upper-scale restaurant vibe, very reasonably priced for the quality and location, and they have Toad attached--a no-cover nightly music venue/bar. I struggle with veggie burgers as a vegetarian. The worst? Morning Star Patties... Think Burger King...that's what they serve. 2/5 stars are black bean burgers. It's just not a good taste... Some restaurants attempt a homemade patty, but end up with these frozen blocks of...something. Christopher's hits it out of the park. You can actually SEE the vegetable pieces in the patty. The patty falls apart...which is a good thing! It's real, handmade, fresh, and absolutely delicious. The spinach and artichoke dip is also delicious as an appetizer or late-night snack.
(5)
Shawn L.
This review will be very short and sweet: Loved the Turkey Burger with roasted red peppers and fresh baby spinach. Loved the circular cut "waffly" Sweet Potato fries. The beer was cold...the service was right on...the vibe was casual and relaxing. Would I return...absolutely. The best part of my meal...sharing it with my incredibly handsome Son.
(4)
Erin B.
If there's nothing else. I used to appreciate Christopher's, and I use to love their nachos and long islands, but a recent experience here was pretty disappointing. First of all it was very cold in there. Secondly, the long island was gross. Waaaayyy too much sour mix. It had enough alcohol but it tasted so sour. They took the chili nachos off the menu and the chicken ones were just so-so. I'd go back if other people wanted to, but it's not my first choice. Service was friendly. It's always packed here.
(3)
Lisa I.
You have to have your expectations set when you come to Christopher's. This is pub food, nothing more. The burgers are good, and they even do decent salads, but it's still pub food so go elsewhere if you're in the mood for quality food. I'm knocking them a star because the service can be pretty terrible. I've had several waiters here who are really spacey/forgetful and just forget to bring your drinks/refills/etc., even when the restaurant is virtually empty.
(2)
Carrie P.
I have had two very different experiences here. The first one, I sat down to eat dinner. The food took a while to make, but it was AWESOME. I have absolutely zero negative to say about the wide variety of delicious food. Everyone that I was with loved the food (from sliders, to tacos, to salmon, it is all great). It was a quiet night, and not too busy. However, I also had the experience of trying to order a drink here on a busy night. It is not very often that I will sit at a bar waiting to order something as simple as a draft beer. It took between 5 to 10 minutes for me to get a bartender's attention to grab a beer. This being said, it seems that it would be more of dinner restaurant OR a "stake out a table for the game" kind of restaurant. Trying to get to the bar on a Saturday night is too difficult to make it fun. Pick your good time to go, and head in!
(4)
Shieun M.
Got a pretty awesome veggie burger. But it's pretty loud for a conversation.
(4)
Leila A.
I have always had a good meal at Christopher's. I love the ravioli especially! My guy friends all love the burgers. So consistent, so delicious. (Veggie burger is good too!) Beers are also fantastic. Love it.
(5)
David R.
This is a great neighborhood bar and restaurant. It's reliably crowded Thursday through Sunday after 6pm, so you'll want to get there early to avoid the crowd. I also recommend requesting seating downstairs on the main floor since the upstairs can get extremely noisy when full. The food is well prepared with great variety. I am a particular fan of the "monstah burgers," which they claim to be the best in Cambridge. They also make home-made margarita mix which is outstanding. I recommend for any casual get-together with friends, or for the random night when you don't feel like cooking.
(4)
Kelly B.
Saved this draft from when I was delirious from hunger, but I'm pretty sure this restaurant was actually good. At leas the mussels were. ___________________________ Mussels are amazing. White wine sauce with capers, leeks, and roast tomato. Homemade chips and salsa also great. Note that I am starving. Burgers too large. Service good. Fried good. Prices reasonable.
(4)
Brian Omar A.
As denizens of the North Shore, we are rarely in Porter Square let alone Cambridge/Somerville. It was a pleasant surprise then to have found Christopher's. We randomly choose it while on a Thursday date night. It seemed busy, but we were briskly seated upstairs. We ordered beers and an appetizer off the specials, crab cakes. The crab cakes sat on the bed of spinach and tomatoes. Unfortunately the crab cakes were not good at all, and definitely not worth the $9 we paid for them. Admittedly crab cakes are difficult to get "right". Our entrees, on the other hand, were heavenly. My husband had the Parmesan seared cod, which sat on mashed potatoes with asparagus on the side. Everything melted in your mouth. I ordered the buffalo tofu sandwich, which came with fries. It was definitely satisfying to those of us who don't eat meat but love spicy flavors and sauces. I highly recommend Christopher's: food and service were great with a casual, friendly atmosphere that'll have you keep coming back---even if you don't live right around the corner.
(4)
Melissa M.
I wasn't wowed by this burger. No, ma'am, I wasn't wowed at all. Thought that this would be my GO TO burger place. Instead it is my NOT GO TO burger place. Didn't care for the charring, didn't care for the fries. Didn't care for the huge bun it's served on. Didn't care for the dark lighting. Did not care for the table they stuck me at. This table literally allowed my gaze to look into the unisex bathroom. I mean, the door to the bathroom was kept open during the whole time I ate there (with the exception of the time it was closed for good 15 minutes only to see some lady emerge). I wanted to die. I am sure this place has better stuff to offer, I just don't think I'll go back to find out.
(2)
Lovan C.
Neighborhood stable. Good food, fairly priced and a reasonable drink selection, at least as it relates to beers. Add to that the kid friendly atmosphere and this is a hit for us as well as our kids. The chickpea burger that they sometimes have as a special is awesome. Their regular meat based burgers are good as well.
(4)
Rana J.
I had the most wonderful time this past Saturday - a baby shower brunch at Christophers in honor of our baby girl due to arrive in February. The upstairs was reserved for our event of approx. 25 adults and 6 children. Everything was flawlessly executed, the food was delicious, the staff were attentive, and the space was large enough to accommodate many more than we had but at the same time was a cozy atmosphere for our size. I highly recommend Christophers for a private event space. It was just perfect.
(5)
Mike B.
Fried pickles. Creative beer list. Delicious menu at a GREAT price. How can't it be five stars? I've gone here a handful of times -- group dinners, intimate (ooh!) dinners, and brunches -- and I've always left full and satisfied. The burger is one of the best around and is an excellent choice day or night. The servers are wonderful, too. Quick, smiling, and attentive. And the ambiance is warm and inviting. Go tomorrow. You'll be happy with your choice.
(5)
Mike F.
I live in the area and go here often. Great beer selection, friendly staff and have never been disappointed in the food. Wings and buffalo tofu burger are among my favorites.
(5)
Danielle W.
Christopher's is my all-time favorite default date night foodery. If you want a good burger and a good plate of nachos, this is your place. Things I like: Their menu is not extravagant but everything on it is good. You got your classy burgers, a mean veggie burger, some knife and fork burritos, sandwiches, stir-fry, salad and pasta (your average American food). They have a good array of vegetarian options both in entrees and appetizers. If you are familiar with Cambridge Common's, the menus and quality are similar (pretty sure owned by the same people but don't hold me that). Great beer selection. A lot of hearty beers from local and not-so-local microbreweries. Every time I go they have something different on their beer menu. Comfy seating. Though a little dimly lit, they have great seating both upstairs, downstairs and outside. It is deceptively big. Wait time for two people on a warm Friday or Saturday date night is usually 0 to 5 minutes. I do not kid. This is a default because whenever the boyfriend and I are hungry, we know we will be seated and fed quickly. In the winter and on colder days they have a great roaring fireplace in the back left corner of the restaurant. It is great for some downtime (pre-dinner) with a winter ale and a good friend. Things I don't like: Huge groups of families and birthday party groups love coming here which, for a date night, can be annoying. It is a pet peeve of mine but the fact that Christopher's is great for groups means that some nights you get the younger children screaming and running around while you are trying to ask your significant other how his or her day was. It can get pretty loud which is a little frustrating but on no fault of the restaurant for being group friendly.
(4)
Lucy B.
Every time I go here I am sort of underwhelmed (but it's convenient so I have still been several times). I didn't realize until seeing these reviews that it has the same owner as Cambridge Common, but it makes sense because they are practically the same restaurant. For some reason I like Cambridge Common a little more - I think they have some cheaper options on the menu - and I don't love the upstairs section of Christopher's, where I am usually seated. The food is ok but it is in general a pretty mediocre place.
(3)
Anshita S.
To escape the depression that a Sunday night brings along (read: end of the weekend) we decided to have dinner here. The ambiance was good and to my surprise the place was almost full. Our server was nice. Although the food took less than average time to get to our table, it was not warm. It did not taste fresh and we figured most of it would have been pre-made or frozen. Well, me and my friend did not complain as we had our eyes on the dessert. So we get the bread pudding and molten lava cake and the bread pudding is again not warm. Really !? Not only was the temperature wasn't right, but it tasted old. I don't think we will be going back again !!
(2)
Tamara W.
Not a huge fan: a little over-priced, not the nicest staff, menu is nothing special AT ALL, parking is sort of a bitch around the area (who wants to risk getting towed in the Porter Sq. shopping center?!). I'd say you have a better chance getting a good meal in Harvard Square just down Mass Ave...
(1)
Derek W.
First off let me just applaude this place for serving food after 11 p.m. on tuesday. thank you!! This is the 2nd time I visited this fine establishment, and having had a delicious burger the first time around I opted for a turkey rueben. This thing did not dissapoint It was quite good actually. My eating partners ha some healthy caesar salad or some shit and some fried pickles! Hey it happens when you eat past 10 oclock you order really greasy whacky foods... They have a huge selection of beer, and a handful of microbrews available. They switch em up throughout the seasons and also offer outdoor seating. Couple all of this with the fact that it is in Porter square and you really can't go wrong....
(4)
Drew D.
Christopher's is an amazing restaurant! It is a regular staple for myself and my girlfriend in town. She loves the ample vegetarian options (esp the soup of the day or grilled tofu on salads by request), I appreciate their great burgers(including turkey and veggie) and really liked the fish on the menu as well as the pastas. Besides all that there is also a great beer list with many rotating local brews in tap and a great selection of cocktails and mixed drinks. It is a perfect place for many-a-date, has also been great for a large group of friends, and when my folks visit. It has something on the menu for everyone!
(5)
Marnie S.
Everything about Christopher's is average. The two stars seem harsh, but I've chosen my ranking purely for the overwhelming average-ness of the Christopher's experience. I might've bumped it to three if I changed "average" to "reliable," but in fact they're not even that; sometimes the toppings on a given burger fluctuate, or the drinks shift in sweetness, etc. The burgers taste like burgers. The salads taste like salads. The sandwiches are sandwichey. The atmosphere is forgettable. The outside seating seems obligatory. The service is fine. The prices aren't bad, and there are lots of menu options, but there are so many other better places to spend 15 dollars. Go to those places instead.
(2)
Bailey Z.
We ended up at Christopher's for a late dinner since most other restaurants in the area were closed. The menu looked like they served typical bar food in addition to having some pasta dishes and an assortment of different types of burgers. Their homemade burger of the day was too good of a value to pass up so I ended up getting that. It was a ground chicken burger with chipotle aioli. The burger was really good and the ground chicken was very juicy. I loved the dinner roll-type French roll bun that sandwiched the chicken. My favorite component of the meal was the salad dressing. It tasted like it was a honey-mustard and I dipped everything in it from the salad to the fries to even the end of my burger. I washed it all down with a special sarsaparilla type soda, which was grossly overpriced. Christopher's seems like a great local restaurant bar to hit up with a large selection of beers and a great atmosphere for both dinner and also catching the big game. Edit: I'm taking away two stars because I got food poisoning from the chicken and realized it was the burger when Kevin T. also got sick the next day. Undercooked chicken is inexcusable. It's too bad because I liked this place and the food up until I had a date with the bathroom.
(2)
Tamarleigh G.
This place is a total crap shoot. I've had really tasty food in here, and I've had very good drinks, and I've had GREAT service. I've also had disgusting, poorly cooked, nearly inedible food, awful, nasty drinks, and truly ABYSMAL service in here. And you just never really know, when you walk in the door, whether the fates will smile upon you. So I don't go here very often. In a pinch, though, it's nice to have a place like this. The SURE WIN on the menu is the ravioli, which they get from Dave's Fresh Pasta in Davis Square. Dave's really knows how to make good ravioli. [Note: I have since been told by a different server at Christopher's that they make their own ravioli and don't get it from Dave's. I don't know what to believe, now, having been told two different things. Maybe they used to get it from Dave's? Maybe one of these people is misinformed? I have no idea.] They do better with beer than other drinks. So if I go here, I usually just order ravioli and beer, and so far that has worked.
(2)
Rouzhna N.
This is a nice neighborhood spot, very close to the train and everything. The portions are huge, but the price is reasonable. I would suggest asking for the Burger of the Day, because mine was delicious, with bacon and everything. Grilled chicken sandwich is also pretty good (not too health....). But the fries are nothing to talk about. The staff is friendly, and a bonus they have full glutton-free menu (with lots of options)!
(4)
Liz G.
Christoper's is great, because you'll find lots of traditional pub, comfort food, but with a delectable, pretentious twist. I.E. They actually have a dish called Yuppie Nachos (Sundried Tomatoes, artichokes, cheese, and other yummy, toppings). But, the best part about this place is that you won't pay your standard she-she prices! This has been my neighborhood joint for years!
(4)
Hannah M.
There's nothing quite like Christopher's fries when a craving hits! Crispy potato wedges, fried to perfection but not greasy. Yum! The burgers never disappoint and the drinks are good too. Sometimes the salad is a bit wilty, but I don't go for the salad :-) Good, solid food at good, solid prices.
(4)
Hailey B.
I've had many plates of nachos in my day, and Christopher's places in the top three all-time best nachos! Bonus points for the multiple types of nacho platters available (Yuppie nachos, anyone?). Also, really good veggie burger (but note that it's NOT vegan). Really great beer selection. Nice outdoor seating - in the shade and perfect for people watching. And our fav waitress, Melissa.
(4)
Camille R.
I never thought I would enjoy food from a pub, but Christopher's is really good. And most pubs I've been to in Boston/Cambridge are good, too. Try their nachos and buffalo tofu!! they have specials each night and always have handmade raviolis. Yum!
(5)
The Dude L.
As an old friend once said, sometimes you have to draw a line in the sand. Christopher's seemed worth the hassle for a while. Sometimes some amazing dinners, sometimes some mediocre. The Dude loves his oat sodas, and this place has a very nice selection of craft stuff that any beer geek could abide, but the prices make it hard to take it easy. Eight dollars for a 13oz pour is unreasonable, even if the stuff isn't for lightweights. This greed will not stand, man. The waitstaff are always great, and they've never been a problem. It's the kitchen that's the problem. Me and my special lady friend waited an HOUR for our food to come out. I understand that sh|t happens, and you know, for the sake of brevity, food service is a tough industry. But the place wasn't that busy, man. It wasn't that crowded, and then all the poor waitress was allowed to do was take half off of a dinner that we had wrapped and ate at home at 9:30 at night. Not cool. Other places in the city would have at least, you know, taken the food off the bill. But not here, man. With this new sh|t coming to light, I'm officially done with this place. It gets two stars for the oat soda selection.
(2)
Dorothy W.
Well, when I return home after eating at Christopher's, I appreciate my own cooking skills more than ever. I am a modest chef, but I promise you, I make absolutely everything better than the folks at Christopher's, even their famous veggie burger. Where are the spices? Where is the spark? Where is the flavor? Serving rubbery tasteless tofu only adds to that poor bean curd's reputation. Canned beans and bland salad dressings do not help. And the prices are not cheap. I get a much better deal at so many other places nearby. We always feel rushed here. And neglected. There's a detached and remote feeling when we come in. With one exception, we have always been given our bill before ordering dessert and coffee. The first time, you chalk it up to inexperience, but when it becomes a pattern, you wonder. Come on over to my friendly house next time instead of going to Christopher's. I will show you how it should be done. My French fries are fresh and warm, I use lots of fresh herbs and spices, I always smile, I don't overcharge, won't rush you out, will always ask if you want dessert and I will always have the Sox on for you. Oh, plenty of ketchup, too.
(2)
Bjoern S.
Really delicious burgers, probably the best burger that I ve had in boston so far. Very recommendable!
(5)
John C.
TOAD burger is amazing! Good beer selection as well. Great place to go for a burger and beer!
(5)
Quinn B.
I've lived in the Porter Square neighborhood for 6 years, and Christopher's has been the best restaurant the whole time. This place is very good in a neighborhood that lacks a truly excellent, standout restaurant. Nice but not fancy, always busy but not excessively loud, food on the menu is good across the board but falls short of great. Prices are reasonable. Beer selection is huge
(4)
Dana S.
I don't travel beyond the South Shore very often so I was looking forward to a new restaurant. Went here for dinner last night and it definitely hit the spot! Started with the "Yuppie" nachos- avacado, GOAT CHEESE (are you kidding?!), melted jack and sundried tomatoes....so good! nachos were crispy and the toppings were unique and fresh. I ordered the Portabella Pasta for my entree and my coworker got a chicken burger that was a special. My pasta tasted super fresh and al dente and was topped w/ sundried tomatoes, portabellos, and provolone in a wine sauce. It also had spinach which I could have done without--too wilted in the sauce. Everything was flavorful and garlic was definitely a primary ingredient. My coworker liked her meal as well and the fact that it was served w/ wedge fries- a nice altervative to a traditional french fry. the menu here is so cheap that it's definitely worth checking out if you're in the Porter Sq. area.
(3)
Bruce B.
It was just not our night at Christophers. Loud wild crowd and poor service. We've had some good nights there. I like the diversity and changing of the tap selection, but that's not enough to get quality night. Our calamari was all bodies and pretty chewy, and we never got our ravioli. It was a communication problem. Come on, it was not that busy. Time to find another go to place for a while.
(2)
Alecia D.
I've been coming to Christopher's for at least 5 or 6 years now, and I'm a huge fan. The ambiance is casual, the staff are SUPER welcoming, and the food is delicious. The menu is simple, mostly bar food, with some more dinner-y entree options. It's a great place to go grab a burger and a beer and sit at the bar, or even bring a bigger group (VERY kid-friendly) and share entrees. Their house-made veggie burger is phenomenal, as is their wide array of regular burgers. Both come with your choice of sweet potato fries or steak fries and a small salad. The fried pickles and buffalo tofu are also amazing and the nachos are served right out of the oven, perfectly stacked and evenly distributed with toppings. The best part is: I'm always pleasantly sated, often times with some leftovers to take home, and I never get that food-coma grease hangover that is common when ordering bar food. The beer selection is fantastic, and always changing. The only small part of constructive feedback that I have is that sometimes I feel like the rotating beer list changes TOO frequently. I'll get attached to a new belgian triple and try to order it two weeks later and it's gone. That being said, the staff are wonderful and knowledgable and can always recommend a perfectly lovely alternative. The range and variety of the beer list is impressive. The bartenders, in particular, are suburb: friendly, funny, warm. In 6 years, there was only one time that my order came out incorrectly, and the manager quickly sent over a large order of fries on the house. Overall, definitely worthy of 5 stars. Christopher's keeps it simple, and does everything right. Oh, and you can sit outside in the spring and summer time!!! Definitely a plus in the Porter Square area!!
(5)
Amy L.
Christopher's is a great neighborhood restaurant with a good beer list and consistently tasty food. The staff are friendly and courteous. The only mark against the place is the upstairs dining room - it's a little lacking in character; I prefer seating on the first floor.
(4)
erin n.
I'm surprised that the overall rating for Christopher's is only 3.5 stars because I adore this place. I just finished my master's at Lesley which is just across the street, and I've eaten there more times with classmates that I care to admit! Not to mention the many times I've been there with my husband... I have tried so many dishes there, but as silly as it sounds, the chicken burrito is so dang good it's mouth watering! Love the fish and chips and fish tacos also. Most of the the time their specials are actually very special indeed...not too long ago i ordered a parm encrusted cod fillet atop creamy asparagus risotto...yowzah! The Seinfeld episode comes to mind: "was it [sex] good as the risotto?" Not only is the food fresh and all natural, it is consistent. And, above all, the wait/host staff is very kind yet not fake in the least. Other amazing perks are the massive local beer selections, cozy fire place, and local art displaying. This may sound tots cheese, but Christopher's has personal sentiment because so many hours of celebrating birthdays, thesis completion, and friendship were spent with some amazing friends and colleagues over delicious food and drink. Definitely a schmoozy-type place.
(4)
Jeremy K.
Took my roommate there for his birthday on a completely improvised trip to Porter Square. We were both hungry and had both talked about going there at some point so I said "Sure, my treat". We got seated and I immediately noticed the awesome artwork on the walls. After grabbing a couple of beers we ordered our food: we decided to split their artichoke dip appetizer and then I ordered chicken piccata, one of my all-time favorite dishes. The food arrived fairly quickly and I even lied about going to the bathroom and instead caught our waiter and asked him if there was a way for us to have a slice of cake with a candle brought to our table once we are done. It was no problem and instants later Erick H. was sitting across from me with a slice of cake. He wanted to kill me but I'm sure will admit that he was happy. The food was pretty good, portion sized good, the prices are good, the beer selection and the staff is prompt and attentive. I'd definitely return there sometime in the future.
(4)
Jayda S.
I enjoyed everything I had here. The nachos were DELICIOUS, not just because I was hungry, but because they really were delicious. I also tried the fried pickles, which I had never tried before, and they were also amazing. The salt from the pickle and the crunch from the batter made a great taste/texture combo. The pickle didn't even make the exterior soggy which I was expecting. For my entree I had the Greek Salad with Chicken. It was one of the best salads I've had in a while. I love greek salad in general, but this salad was turned up a notch because of the lemon vinaigrette dressing. A lot of people at my table had burgers and described them as "everything". Next time I visit, I must get a burger.
(4)
Courtney H.
We finally went to Christopher's after a trip to porter square to go Michael's. I thought it would be good but it was awesome! My husband now wants to move to Porter Square just to go here on a regular basis. The beer selection is great and it was some of the best burgers we've ever had. I had the burger with the fried jalapeños and fired onions and pepperjack and chipotle BBQ sauce. It literally has all my favorite things! It was so so delicious! I am super excited to go back, just wish it was closer!
(5)
Ross D.
Christophers has a great beer list, and a ton of good food for both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. I liked this place so much that I came back the next day! I've had their pulled chicken burrito, the nachos, the vegetarian chili, and the buffalo tofu. The nachos, the burrito, and the chili were all really good, and the buffalo tofu was a good effort. It is breaded and fried, then covered in buffalo sauce. It ended up being too much tofu, and not enough flavor. Their brunch menu is a little bit more egg and meat heavy, but there are choices for everyone on there. My one complaint is that they were playing music quite loudly during dinner while a sox game was on AND people were cheering on top of that. I'm all for a sports bar, or a sit down dinner place with music, but not both.
(4)
Katie H.
There are better options. Not a lot in Porter, unfortunately, but just go to Davis. The Pros: - outside seating - extensive beer list The Cons: - pretty much all the food - last salad I got there was actually 50% rotten lettuce. Sent it back. They were really nice about it, but that's totally unacceptable in my book. Go to Christophers if you must eat outside, and be in Porter Square. Or if you're only drinking.
(2)
Tiff D.
Maybe I hyped it up? I could not wait to try it. Once I did, I was very disappointed. The service was SO slow. Worst I ever had. We waited 30minutes for our spinach/artichoke dip appetizer!! The food was bland. We left half a pizza on the table. Did even take it home. That's how unappealing it was. And the spinach/artichoke dip lacked some serious seasoning. Garlic and salt would have been nice. The decor was odd. The outside looks classy, nice gold letters, table cloths, then you go inside and it looks old and dingy like a typical Boston pub. And the art on the walls is ridiculous. Like museum of bad art. Overall I had a bad experience here. So bad, I'm not sure I'd come back....unfortunately.
(2)
Jim S.
Nice pub-bar place. Fireplace, brick walls, decent atmosphere. Been here 3 or 4 times -always stick to the burger menu. Good selection of not-beef burgers (veggie, chicken, etc). All were pretty good. Sweet potato and regular fries were fine. Good beer selection as you might expect. Service has always been very good. One caveat - might want to take public transportation. Street parking is pretty dicey in Porter Square. There is the lot for the Porter Sq shopping ctr across the street. Technically you're not supposed to park there unless you're patronizing one of the shopping ctr places (max 2 hrs), but I'm not sure how they can effectively enforce this. B ut this may also be moot since everybody has the same idea and it's not unusual for the lot to be full.
(4)
Brittany B.
I'm surprised this place only has 3.5 stars! I absolutely love their burgers; my dad (who lives in VT) won't stop talking about the one he had. Their fries are pretty good, too, and they have some pretty imaginative cocktails. Their regular entrees vary in quality slightly. Their chicken piccatta was not the best I've had, but their take on chicken parmesan is amazing!
(4)
Rob M.
Went once. Nothing particularly remarkable or memorable about it. I like that it exists but I wish they would try harder to be an English pub as you can see that's what they are doing, just half heartedly.
(3)
Megan E.
Omg BURGERS!!! mmmm. so a group of us decided to go to Christophers because we heard that they had amazing burgers. no really. They do. There were four of us and we all offered a different burger, one even ventured to make their burger the larger verizon of they one they selected. Holy meat! I can't even imagine needing that much beef in one sitting. The regular sized burgers are delicious and filling enough not to mention they all come with fries. The burgers were incredible, each one was delicious. I ordered the Andouille burger which was a mix of sausage and beef. The texture of the burger was incredible. The bun was absolutely amazing, and the roasted red pepper on top, I can't believe I've been eating burgers with out it. My Boyfriend got the peperjack burger and I of course snagged a bite of it. Oh my god. It like was an explosion in my mouth of peperjack and sauces. Mmmm. But I still prefered my burger. The fries on the other hand...were pretty subpar. I mean I just douched them in ketchup...but they were pretty average, I've made more steller fries in my kitchen. if I'm in Mass again craving a burger this is absolutely my first stop.
(4)
Joseph D.
I go to Christophers every couple of weeks. They always have big portions for moderate prices - it's such a good value. Last night, they had a special: "Chicken Poutine" It is probably the best thing I have eaten in the past 5 years. This place is unbelievable yummy.
(5)
EricaLynn J.
Christopher's reminds me of a little more upscale version of Mount Vernon - but not too much more. Which is exactly as I'd like it. The food is more on the pub side of the ledger, but the atmosphere is eerily similar: no real identity except for a little from one column, a little from another, that sort of thing. The food and service have always been excellent every time I have gone, and my friends trust Christopher's enough to have it be the go-to for when parents are in town or when a date night is in order. Though I have never gone there just to drink, the aforementioned friends have - often - and I am not too far behind them.
(3)
Lauren A.
Either I've lost my taste for Mexican food, or Christopher's has a chef who knows how to make a real enchilada. Last night at Christopher's I had the best enchilada I've had in the northeast since I moved to Boston. It wasn't completely faithful in texture (too crispy), but the flavors were right on. Puckery-spicy verde sauce, tomato-cheesy chicken pieces...yum. Overall I prefer Cambridge Common to Christopher's, but they get three stars for a delicious vegetarian selection and overall good food. It's just too crowded to hang around for a pint, and I'd rather pay less for bar food.
(3)
Mister Chub S.
Recently went to Christopher's and got the fish tacos with mango slaw and an aioli ($13). They were tasty but didn't make it to the table fast enough and the fish was just warm and the tortillas were kind of chewy. It was served with a really tasty mango slaw and pretty standard black beans and rice. I also pretty recently had their spicy pulled chicken burrito ($8) served with mango slaw and fresh crispy tortilla chips. Again, it was tasty but there was just a bit too much liquid in the burrito which made it difficult to eat. Bonus points for great staff!
(3)
jim b.
Overpriced mediocre drinks. Food is slightly above average for a corporate bar type place (even if it isn't very corporate, it's run like it) but you pay for it, no bargains. The crowd is really the drawback, mostly post grad school late 20 year olds of the "enlightened" liberal sect, you know what I'm talking about: the "I traveled for a few years after college to figure out what I wanted to do, now I know I want to help people by __________" that fail to mention this lifestyle is made possible by the wealth of the parents (which they see as standard middle class income) who still get their cell phone bills.
(2)
Kaitlyn L.
one of the better chowder's i've had in MA. i always get the steak tips and green beans.
(4)
Nicole P.
This is a great brunch place. Their home fries are so good, more like potato wedges with lots of yummy spices. Usually only have to wait for a few minutes for a table. Each time I've been there, the wall decor (paintings, weavings...) were so interesting and beautiful. Would recommend!
(4)
Laura A.
christopher's food is just okay, not very flavorful or interesting. and the bar area kind of has the 30-something, having a drink before going home to pay the babysitter feel -- yawn. update 6/06: i've tried it a couple more times. i still don't feel anything about it. basically it's the same food as cambridge common but more expensive. i ordered the tofu fajitas, and it was totally weird because the "fajitas" were almost like two different meals -- the guacamole/salsa/pico etc were part of a mexican meal, while the grilled tofu had an almost asian kind of flavor to it and had all kinds of vegetables that just didn't jive with the salsa/tortilla thing. i feel like the best word to describe christopher's would be "nice"...like, it's good enough to eat when there's nothing else around. but i certainly wouldn't go out of my way to eat there. it depresses the hell out of me.
(3)
Brian M.
Decent mid-range restaurant. The menu is broad, ranging from Tex-mex to burgers to pizza. I got sirloin tips with mash potato and snowpeas, all of which were great,esp the mash. Also tasted their fries which were divine - big crunchy-on-the-outside-fluffy-on-the-inside steak fries. They also have a great beer selection. Atmosphere-wise I would describe it as being like a nice pub; the sort you could take your parents to. They also seem to cope well with larger numbers. Service was v good.
(4)
R. T.
One of our stand-bys in Porter Sq, Christopher's is casual and reliable for good burgers and drinks. We had brunch here a few months ago and were pleasantly surprised that the food was equally good for breakfast. The beer selection is also great.
(4)
Erica E.
Buffalo Tofu...need I say more? No, really the menu is great! It's definitely very vegetarian friendly with quite a few options. I hear the meat options are great too. The buffalo tofu is tasty and a rare find. I have never been disappointed. Their brunch menu on Sundays is great too..try the fruit stuffed french toast!
(4)
Jim K.
Terrible food. Had a turkey burger that tasted like it came from Costco freezer, and tomato soup that was glorified Heinz ketchup. No.
(1)
m b.
not a full review here, but just a snapshot of our recent experience at christophers; i think youll get the idea.......... we ordered a plate of buffalo wings- which came out cold, a measly portion, and WITHOUT any sauce or coating of any kind- just a sorry 5 or 6 small, withered chicken wings completely "nude". we pointed it out to the waitress, who then returned within a minute with the exact same plate of wings (even tho 1 or two had been eaten/partially eaten) with some sauce poured on top- didnt even seem heated up! if this is what youre looking for, youll be fine; if not- go elsewhere!!! we also ordered some kind of squash soup- which seemed & tasted more like a cup of applesauce. this experience was so bad- wed never go back, even tho some of the brunch dishes looked good. dont bother going here, as there are so many better alternatives out there.
(1)
Jared S.
Stopped in for a couple drinks on Sunday around 3:30. Did not complete my mission. It shouldn't be difficult to order a drink on a Sunday afternoon in a dead bar. But for some reason, the bartender at Christopher's couldn't handle life. The place was basically dead, and the wifey and I chose to post up at the bar as per our M.O. The bar kind of wraps around a wall and we sat at the end near the bathrooms, almost on the other side of the wall just barely in view of the bartender (only because a large party of 6 was wrapping up and leaving so we gave them some space). The bartender did greet us when we sat down and gave us menus, so she definitely knew we were there. She was basically dressed in workout clothes - yoga pants and a cotton tank - which should have indicated her level of commitment to her job right away. We had our drink choices selected in seconds, but unfortunately the bartender had wandered back to the other side of the bar and proceeded to ignore us while she made drinks and gabbed with her friends at the other end of the bar. A number of EXCUSE ME's and hand waving didn't work at getting her attention. 9 minutes had passed since we sat down and were greeted, and I had to use the restroom really badly, so I told my wife to order my beer for me if the bartender came by. I got back to the bar and my wife miraculously had her "cocktail" in front of her (more about that later), but I had no beer. I sat down and watched the bartender continue to ignore us, still gabbing and making drinks for her friends at the other end of the bar. Another 5 minutes had passed, for a total of 15 minutes in Christopher's with 0 service - so I literally got out of my seat, walked to the other end of the bar, stood behind her friends, jumped up and down waving my hands. The bartender then acknowledged my presence - another miracle - and said "Oh, you wanted the Peak Organic, right?" No, I don't want a beer from you anymore. I want you to come over to our end of the bar. My wife had ordered a mimosa and got a flute filled with oj and a splash of sparkling wine. It was opaque orange and no indication of effervescence. I don't understand a bartender that makes a shitty mimosa. A toddler could make a proper mimosa. "Oops, sorry mommy, I spilled some of my oj into your champagne!" So I showed the bartender her ridiculous excuse for a drink, and she had the gonads to argue with me! "I DEFINITELY put champagne in that!" Oh really? Where do you see champagne in that glass? If there were champagne, would I be able to do this? I then took down the whole glass of oj in one big gulp, threw $3 down on the bar for the glass of oj, and left for Tavern in the Square across the street, which had a more upbeat atmosphere with people watching the Sox game and talking, where the bartender made proper drinks and gave us great service, and where we proceeded to spend the next 2 hours and $60.
(1)
Down P.
We've been going to Christopher's for 20+ years, so there are some ups and downs, but I think they can all be expressed in the Steak Frite. I've had it 6 times in the last year. Every time has been completely different. Sometimes the meat is succulent, sometimes it's 4 ounces of leather. Sometimes the fries are crisp, lately they've been soggy. And the sauce? Anything from a bit of greens to a massive red sauce. The veggie burger is consistently good. The fact that I go with a veggie-burger eater tells you why I keep playing Steak Frite roulette.
(4)
Lauren E.
I woke up this morning craving a veggie burger. Not just any veggie burger, but one with cheese, caramelized onions, and sauteed mushrooms. Kind of a strange way to start the day, but that's what happened. At lunch, I decided I'd just ignore the craving since I had no veggie ingredients. Then dinner got delayed, and at 10pm, I was about to keel over, for hunger and for want of veggie burger. I searched on yelp for veggie burgers in Cambridge, and this place came up. So around 10:30, off we went to Christopher's. It amazed me that I could (almost literally) get the veggie burger of my dreams. I got the home-made veggie burger with caramelized onions, grilled mushrooms, and cheddar cheese (instead of the peppers and pesto that were supposed to come with it). The lovely waitress asked if I wanted a multi-grain or French roll. Multi-grain please. Wow. As I said--veggie burger of my dreams. And it was as delicious as I had hoped, so good that I almost gave the place 5 stars. I'll have to try more things first, though. The nachos were okay. Cheese was good, but the chips were insansely oily, and the salsa was kind of blah. The salad was way better than another yelper had described--romaine with onions, cucumbers, and olives, with a good dressing on the side. The fries were incredible, too. Also, on the back of their menu they describe their high-quality, responsible food deal. It makes me happy to know that they are conscious of this stuff. And now I can go to bed happy, because I had the veggie burger I woke up dreaming of.
(4)
Sanjay K.
Love the beers on draft, the drinks and the atmosphere. Good local boozer.
(4)
Diva T.
It always breaks my heart a little bit to leave a negative review as I *hate* being that person, but sometimes spending my hard-earned money on mediocrity warrants it. My friend and I decided to try brunch at Christopher's after reading some of the more positive reviews, which leaves me scratching my head in confusion. Our experience there was not pleasant at all, and completely not worth the money we spent splitting a meal. Positive: when we walked in, we were instantly greeted and seated at a booth per our request. When I let her know the sun was in my eyes, she let us select our own table with no problems at all. The staff was friendly and accomodating. Cons: the entire meal. We decided to get a couple things and split them. We started with the corn chowder, which came lukewarm and fairly tasteless to our table. We had requested two spoons, but got only one. Not a huge deal until we realized we had NO utensils at all to use. We decided to split the "Breakfast of Champions" because we liked the idea of sweet french toast filled with fruit complimented by buffalo spicy tenders. Except, we didn't get the tenders we received, or the blue cheese we requested, or syrup. These were finally brought around by the end of the meal, when we had given up on the lackluster food. We order a side of toast which was one piece of scali cut in half, and I'm pretty sure we were charged several dollars for that. I ordered coffee, my friend had water. So for one cup of coffee, one cup of lukewarm chowder, and one sub-par french toast breakfast (not even a little powdered sugar to try and dress it up a little bit!), we paid $25. We were unimpressed to say the least. The staff was friendly and accomodating, but the food was pretty horrible and way overpriced. We will never do brunch there again, unfortunately.
(1)
Jessica W.
Lots of places have veggie burgers on their menus nowadays. Chances are, though, that what you'll get is a heated Gardenburger or Boca or some other pre-made frozen patty. But don't pass up the veggie burger at Christopher's--it's house-made, and is one of the best, if not the best, ones I've ever had. Even if you're a vegetarian and not feeling a veggie burger during your visit, there are still other options. If you felt left out back when sliders were all the rage, you can take consolation in the tofu sliders here. They're also good for the commitment-phobe, as each of the three sliders is fixed differently: one has buffalo sauce, another BBQ sauce and asiago, and another with roasted pepper and pesto. Between the tofu sliders and the veggie burger, though, the veggie burger ranks higher in my book. (My non-veggie friends like the regular burgers, too.) The nachos? I can never turn down sharing a small order of nachos as an appetizer. It's practically a JW Friendship Litmus Test. As for the cocktails, they're delicious but dangerous because they go down easy. Dark and Stormy? It's hard for me to maintain a slow and steady pace. The Lakeside, which has gin and St. Germaine, tastes like juice but will hit you if you drink it too quickly. All in all, I've usually walked out of Christopher's full and happy-tipsy. What more can I ask?
(4)
Chris D.
Terrific spot right off the T. Excellent food, the servers have always been great, and the bar always had what I wanted on tap.
(5)
Victoria T.
I always have a good meal at christophers washed down with a beer or cocktail. Id recommend trying one of their specials because they are always tasty and original. their Cuban chicken stew is always my go to because its a great spin on a Cuban classic. They always have rotating beers on tap so there's always something to test and you never get bored of their rotating beer/cocktail menus. service is always great and friendly.
(4)
Markey-Mark M.
Hmmm, had heard great things about this place, but wasn't that impressed. The service was slow, the waitress kept forgetting about our drinks and then brought them right at the end of the meal when we were all finished and would be leaving soon, so that we felt obliged to pay for them since we had ordered them (about 20 minutes earlier). The food was not great either - the veggie burger was only warm, not hot, the ravioli was nowhere near enough to feed a fully grown man and the steak mac'n'cheese had only 2 small bits of steak in it. Sangrias were good, but as noted, they took forever to arrive. Nice atmosphere, though they had the AC up to high, but doubt I'll be going back or recommending this place to others.
(2)
Erin M.
It's a 3 star menu but 5 star service. Great beers, great burgers that are thick and cooked right. I love the environment and service I get every time. English burger tonight...delish!
(4)
Marie S.
Nice drinks and food, reasonable prices and great service! I'm only not giving them five stars because I've had the service be lackluster at times (not rude, just forgetful), but this place has a really nice "hang out in a pub" ambiance and so I don't usually mind if things take a while.
(4)
Abbey L.
I love Christopher's. It has many things I look for in a restaurant/bar and for that reason I return again and again: Consistently GOOD food with a lot of variety on the menu, great beer selection, low key but good service and a nice bar scene as well. Their veggie burger is really great and so are their regular burgers, cobb salad, nachos, and all of the sandwiches.
(4)
Ali C V.
Not bad at all. I'd go again. Of note: Their Sangria (red) is mmmm-mmmm. Ambiance: Casual. Sidewalk tables are great in warm weather. Service: Pleasant and diligent. They know their menu. Menu: Something for everyone. Food: Fresh and cooked to order. Pricing: Very reasonable for the offerings. Location: Excellent as it's across from the Porter T station. If you're driving, park across the street at the plaza.
(3)
Cherie C.
I was craving a good pub burger, and we found this place via Yelp. My burger was just what I was looking for: thick, juicy, homemade beef patty with pickles, lettuce, onions, and cheese. It fit the bill perfectly. I'd considered the yummy-sounding English burger (which is made with Sam Adams lager), but I don't like English muffins. Just a few days later, I learn that Food Network (specifically Bobby Flay) named this the best burger in Massachusetts. Hmm...considering the fact that Flay is a jerk and voted a fast-food burger best in California, I'd be quick to dismiss that. But my burger was good, so I think Christopher's still was a respectable choice for best in state. The beer menu is varied and interesting. The appetizers come in ridiculous portions (the large nachos are easily a meal for two). Christopher's is definitely a place to come when you are very hungry and want some serious comfort food.
(4)
Jon S.
Randomly stumbled into here late at night after playing ultimate frisbee (so was very hungry). Left thinking this was a great pub and wished I stopped by more often. I ordered the English burger (with bacon, cheddar, and on an English muffin). It was fantastic and definitely hit the spot. I know it is just a burger but people definitely mess them up. The dark, wood paneled decor was nice. All in all, a very solid establishment.
(4)
Chris M.
Christopher's is my multi-purpose, go-to restaurant for any and all occasions. It's pub like enough to meet a friend for a beer yet the wallart from local artists and creativity with the menu make it a great place to bring a date. I've been there with groups of friends, family members and occasionally alone to have dinner at the bar on a random weeknight -- it all works! If you focus on one element of this place you may consider it 3 or 4 star worthy but when the take in the sum of all it's parts it's definitely a 5. A few specifics: Great burgers (i.e. "burgahs"), friendly wait staff and bartenders, dark pub-like feel, standard American menu, close to Redline.
(5)
Barbara A.
I have not been here in almost 15 years and it was ok, but I would not go out of my way to go here again. We asked to be seated outside and although we enjoyed it, it was hard to hear because of the traffic on that corner. We started with drinks and they were very refreshing. My partner got lemonade and I got a Swedish Summer drink (basically an alcoholic lemonade). My companion had a hamburger which had some andouille sausage mixed in and he said it was different but in a good way - spicy. The fries were good but I tend to like potato wedges (and the pickle was just dilly enough). I asked for a regular steak tips - what I got was the steak tips over a salad. Now, normally I would have sent it back, but I thought this was a cosmic decision for me to have more veggies. I have to say it was a good karmic choice - the greens were a nice mix (no iceberg - yay) with a balsamic dressing. The tips were a little overcooked for my taste, but all-in-all it was very tasty. I seem to recall the burgers in general are a good choice, but unless I am meeting people in the area, I would not make the effort.
(3)
Jason M.
Beer. Yes. Christopher's has a great selection of beer. Patio. Yes. Christopher's has a patio where you can sit and watch traffic on Mass Ave. Bad Food. Yes. Christopher's has bad food. My first time there, I tried the chicken fingers. Fingers seems to be an appropriate word for the meat. Here is a list of other words to describe the chicken: Scraps Scrapple Bits Shreds Gristle Needless to say, the quality was not there but I appreciate their desire to use every scrap of chicken... or their desire to use skinny, underweight chickens. Being a forgiving person, we tried it again. This time, I gave another appetizer a whirl: The Spinach and Artichoke Dip. H1orrid. I think their fatal flaw is they forget to squeeze the water out of the spinach... which makes the dip soggy and wet. The excess water really robs the dip of any flavor... Stick to the bar. Grab a beer. You're better off walking across the street to the Shaw's and cooking your own food.
(2)
Natalia M.
I arrived hungry as a hippo and unfortunately had to wait awhile to receive my food. The waitress was kind enough to comp our drinks but once the food arrived I had a half egg shell in my food (I ordered an eggs Benedict) which was unacceptable. The manager came over and apologized in which he comped the whole meal. The waitress was outstanding and I enjoyed the environment as I was with a bff. Overall, I would say it's a nice place for bar food with great service.
(4)
Emily W.
A few friends and I came here late one night for a quick bite. I made the mistake of ordering the calamari. It was dry and tough and flavorless. Everyone else seemed impressed and enjoyed their meals... so I give it 3 stars instead of 2. I must try this place again and update my opinion. The sweet potato fry I stole from my friend was delicious! But the service was slow and not friendly. I'll get back there eventually... and try a burger - I've heard that's the way to go at Christopher's.
(3)
Kenneth M.
My wife and I came in for a quick bite to eat, looked ok from the outside and based on the number of stars. The food was ok, Chicken fingers tasted like Fish and Chips and Diet Coke was on the menu and bill, but was informed by the server it was not Coke, but that the establishment serves a local brand. Service was not the best, considering it was not packed felt like service could have been better. I am in the area a lot and don't think I will be back.
(2)
Amanda H.
I like this place a lot. You might be wondering why, so let me back up my opinion with some data. -For those with gluten sensitivities: The staff here is knowledgeable and flexible. I talked to Kim, a manager, and she knew about cross-contamination through shared fryer oil. She also was able to tell me which sauces/sides/foods contained gluten. She told me that corn tortillas can be requested in place of flour tortillas -- all you have to do is ask. When I explained to her that I am not only gluten intolerant, but also a hungry Catholic on a Lenten Friday, she didn't even flinch. She quickly offered to work with me to find a vegetarian, gluten-free meal that would be satisfying. I love that the staff here is so willing to work with me to find me not just a meal, but a meal that I will enjoy. -For everyone: 1. Good drinks -- a wide selection of things to make you intoxicated and relatively reasonable prices 2. Brunch -- mmmm... mimosas! And solid egg dishes. And I have a weakness for good homefries. Oh, and you can have brunch outside on warm mornings 3. Burgers -- their andouille burger is a divine mix of andouille and beef and has a roasted red pepper on top of it. If you prefer your burgers sans-sausage, their beef burgers are delicious and they have a wide variety of toppings to choose from 4. They're really close to the Porter Square T stop, so you don't have to waddle far to get home
(5)
Dan C.
Its hardly fair for a place to serve delicious pitchers of sangria that are the size of fish bowls. FISH BOWLS ARE NOT NORMAL SERVING SIZES! That said, it WAS damn tasty. Split it with a friend and have a refreshingly buzzed summer afternoon! Or have it solo and make some bad decisions... Your call.
(4)
Dee D.
Hubby and I had hamburgers, the house burgah. Not bad food, not bad service, but I do wish they had yellow mustard. Not a Dijon fan.
(3)
Ted B.
Nope. Never again. Meals are overpriced and made with subpar ingredients. The waitstaff is down right rude at one point refusing to serve me drinks or food. When the drinks do come the drinks come out too slow. My friends like this place because they "serve beer" and have "hamburgers". I hate this place because they don't know how to make a proper cocktail or make anything in the kitchen that I couldn't make in my own kitchen while hammered and blinded using only half of the needed ingredients. If I am dragged here again I will only get whiskey in a glass since I know they will not mess this up.
(2)
Jenn S.
After a not-so-great brunch experience a few weeks ago, I was looking forward to my "lunch date" with friends the next day. Despite having just been to Christopher's in November (and not realizing my fiance had been there 2 weeks previously), we met my friend and her boyfriend there. There are several great things about Christopher's. 1) It's conveniently located - It's RIGHT across the street from the Porter Square T stop, so it's easy to get to and there is parking in the area. 2) They have a large regular menu and an even bigger brunch menu - with more than just breakfast options. My fiance & I went lunch-y, my friend and her boyfriend went brunch-y. Perfect for everyone! 3) It's family owned and environmentally friendly! 4) The food is good! I got the same thing that I got when I was there a few months ago - the Southwestern Grilled Chicken Salad: Tossed greens, corn, black beans, scallions, cilantro, and grilled chicken with a creamy avocado lime dressing. My friend had gotten the vegetarian chili when I was there last time, and I loved it, so I got that as well (it's COLD here in Boston!). At one point I looked down at my soup & salad and realized "that's quite a lot of beans," but they were both awesome! Healthy, filling, warm... YUM! My fiance got the Club Christopher: A triple-decker made with real turkey breast, Applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo. Served on toasted scallion bread. And the huge steak fries that came with it? YUM! (His $4 hot chocolate? Not worth the price, but apparently still good. If you want a drink, get the Bloody Mary - we ran into one of his friends who had it in front of him. It's HUGE and apparently great.) My friend got a special omelet that sounded amazing and looked quite tasty. Her boyfriend got the Belgian Waffles: With whipped cream and raspberry sauce, served with maple syrup and fresh fruit. We all cleared our plates and it was a really decent price. Although it's not super close to us, we will most likely be back to Christopher's. This is the 3rd time I'd been there (the 1st was years ago) and I have been significantly impressed and happy every time. A+!
(4)
Elizabeth K.
I think I would give it a 3.5 if given the option but I've feeling generous today and rounding up. I've been here like 5ish times. I've never had good service. However, the people are usually very very friendly, just not so good at the whole serving in a timely manner thing or getting your order right part. The food is pretty tasty (though I pretty much stick to their burgers - which they actually cook medium rare - yay!) and their beer selection is pretty great. The prices are totally reasonable too. My mom is also (inexplicably) a huge fan of this place so if you're looking for a place to take your parents when they visit, this may work for a suitable brunch/lunch spot!
(4)
Sean B.
Every now and then, people find a favorite thing to do - check out a Yoga Class that offers free mats, go to a karaoke bar with Ke$ha songs, have a brownie-sundae eating contest at the Cheesecake Facotry (note: do not do this, or at least, don't try to win). Going to Sunday brunch at Christopher's is one of my new favorite things to do. From the stuffed french toast to the omelets, it's hard to go wrong. My one comment is that many dishes are served with fruit, but they dont' really separate the fruit from the rest of the dish. I had an omelet that was served OVER the fruit, so the fruit wasn't too appetizing, but everything else tasted good. Overall a great find.
(4)
Amanda G.
I live within walking distance to here, so I must admit I had brunch and dinner here in the course of one week. I'd say brunch is 3 stars, dinner is 4 stars. Brunch is definitely good here - and they're known for their GIGANTIC Bloody Marys - but I'm a bit of a brunch snob and it's not necessarily my favorite. I do think it's great for a big group, because there's always seating on Sunday, and the prices are really reasonable for the amount of food served. Also, the servers here are always friendly. Now for the good part - I had dinner here a million years ago and didn't love it (can't totally remember why) but more recently am singing a different tune. Food is really good, the atmosphere is fun and there's always people at the bar. I prefer to sit at the bar, actually, because you get face time with the bartenders, and because it's a livelier vibe. If you have a choice, sit downstairs, because upstairs is too quiet. I've had the spinach and artichoke burrito here (SO good, very filling though) and most recently, the salmon fettuccine, which I loved. I also love that my pasta cost under $15 and I could have a giant Cosmo with it, for only $25 total. To me, that's a perfect cheap date. Christopher's is also known for their nachos... for good reason. In short, I definitely do recommend going here for brunch or dinner, especially if you're looking for a straightforward, casual atmosphere with a solid menu and kind-to-the-wallet prices.
(4)
Purvi R.
Relatively safe place in that most people coming here will find something acceptable to eat. The first time I was here, it was after yet another subpar Michigan football game at Tavern (that caused us to down a few SoCo limes before gracing Christopher's with our presence, so I don't recall many details from that visit). On that night, I sampled the Yuppie Nachos (OK), Veggie Chili (pretty good), and the Buffalo Tofu burger (very memorable). So memorable was the buffalo tofu that I finally convinced the bf to return here (it's not his fave place) last night, and I promptly ordered the buffalo tofu appetizer. It. Did. Not. Disappoint. In fact, it's 9am and I seriously considered how buffalo tofu would taste with my eggs this morning, that's how much I'm still thinking about it. To help wash down the spicy soy strips (say that 3x fast), I had a Lavender Lemon Tea - a nicely balanced array of flavors that was a great compliment to the hot sauce. For an entree, the bf had a chicken sandwich (he thought it was "good") and fries (high potato-to-fry ratio; thicker fries aren't really my thing). I had the blackened tofu fajitas. These were kind of....what's the word....awkward. The "fajita" filling was your typical assortment of Mexican veggies -- onion, pepper, etc. -- but this blend came with....Asian vegetables as well (pea pods, cabbage, broccoli). And the tofu was decidedly not blackened, and not seasoned much at all. The accouterments were OK, but nothing special. I brought home the leftovers with the intention of putting them over rice and drizzling with soy sauce...really how this should be prepared. All in all - reasonably priced, good selection including many veg options, decent drink/beer list, average service. I'll be back for the buffalo tofu, if nothing else.
(3)
Brittany T.
Great bar with a ton of food choices. It is nice that the bar wraps all the way around so you can find seats on either side. This place is great for a date or a big group and is right by the porter T. Nothing fancy, very simple, but a nice dinner or drinks spot!
(4)
Wendy K.
I've enjoyed Christopher's on many occasions, so I suppose it's time to review it. The burgers are always great (try the Andouille and Beef Burgah), and the beer/wine selection is good. The atmosphere is comfy, and I have had good experiences the last several times I went there. This last time, I decided on the Blackened Sirloin Salad instead of a sandwich (I'm on a blue cheese kick lately). The salad was good, but my sirloin tips were super underdone. I like my meat medium rare, and that's often a risky choice, but my beef was blue (raw). I sent it back (the waitress was very apologetic and understanding) and it was back on my plate in less than five minutes, cooked to my standards. We also had a water spillage issue, and without even blinking, another waitress had a towel and sopped everything up in the blink of an eye. Try it, and it might become your new favorite haunt!
(4)
Dana G.
I loved this place! Five huge reasons warrants five huge stars: ---Tried it last Friday night, approximately 8:30 pm and was seated with my date right away, no wait. That's a huge turn on for me. By the time we left, the bar area was full and so were tables, but it didn't seem like the wait would have been very long.... ---Fire in the Ham...any eatery with this beer gets my love ---They play KILLER music! With no indie radio here in Boston, I was shocked to hear some hometown Minneapolis music while dining ---Ambiance: you can sit fireside at a table, contemporarily intimate at a booth, or casually at the bar. I'd be comfortable here doing any. Wait staff is attentive and not annoying =) ---FOOD! I ordered a burger blue, and they did this, no questions! Toppings were fresh, delish, and the meat was also FABULOUS. Their meats are ground just for them (so it says on the menu) and maybe that is the key to the deliciousness. I couldn't stop eating the fries. They're thick like steak fries and not those tiny crispy crap fries. I saw the table next to me eating pasta which smelled awesome, and they scarfed it down, so that's probably good too... I look forward to returning!
(5)
Elizabeth C.
Christopher's is a delight. We had brunch there over the summer and enjoyed the outside seating, a very friendly and professional waitress and amazing food. This is by far our favorite place to brunch in the Porter/Davis area.
(5)
Elena E.
Christopher's is a good place if you're in Porter Square and want to grab a casual lunch or dinner or just drinks and some apps, especially if the weather's nice and you can sit outside. They have a nice beer list, but nothing in comparison to Five Horses down the street in Davis. They also have good cocktails and very reasonably priced. I had the Del Maguey Sunrise and loved it. For bar food, it's pretty good. Definitely better than Tavern across the street but again, not as good as Five Horses. I've had the nachos (pretty standard) and fried pickles (not a fan - breading too thick). But what I'd come back for was the bread pudding. My husband wanted to share but it was so good I made him order his own. My friend had the chicken pot pie and liked it as well. So nothing to go out of your way for but if you're in the area and want to sit outside for a drink or casual meal and not have to spend too much for it, Christopher's is a good option.
(4)
Christopher B.
A solid choice.very nice beer selection, many local brews giving a chance to try some things I can't get at home. Nice nachos, a decent but small burger. I was even able to find street parking- much to my surprise.
(3)
Lisa K.
For general dining I'd give this place 3-4 stars - safe, solid, nothing particularly exceptional. BUT we were here with a group of 16 for brunch on a Sunday, and I was really impressed with the level of service we received. We were given the whole top floor, which was perfect, and our waitress was quite attentive despite the fact that we spent the first half hour or so milling around rather than figuring out what we wanted. She happily took our drink orders, and once we sat down, our brunch orders. As far as I can tell, everyone's meal came out correctly, which is quite a feat with such a large group. I was totally happy with my hamburger and huge wedge fries.
(5)
Tom K.
3.5 stars, rounded up. I'm not sure what it is about this place. I don't remember ever actually loving this place while I'm there, but I also want to go back. In fact, I don't think any single aspect of the experience was fantastic or perhaps even very-good but its an overall experience I wouldn't mind having again. I've been here a number of times for drinks or food or a combination of both, in groups as small as two and as large as 6 or 7. The foods always satisfies and the drink menu seems to have something for everyone. The beer list is definitely a refreshing change of pace from many establishments similar to Christopher's. I think the main draw for me here is the atmosphere. Its nearly a perfect combination of sophistication and comfort. Its classy without getting angry at you for showing up in jeans and a t-shirt. Definitely on my short list of places to go out around Porter- both for dinner or drinks.
(4)
Peter W.
Really a 3.5 stars. This place has been around a while. It has a good location in Porter Square, but parking can be really tough. Service was very good. I had a hamburger (good), the buffalo tofu (very good), and a margarita (ok). I recommend people try the buffalo tofu.
(3)
L K.
Decent usual patio-restaurant fare with late food service, though we were a big group so the lateness was understandable. The salmon dish was not particularly well done--or rather, it was cooked *very* well done, which is bad on most accounts of what's valuable about eating salmon at a restaurant.
(3)
Roman K.
I really like the location. It's sometimes pretty crowed (thus too noisy) - food is delicious (try the huge burger). We where a little surprised to get some extremely (!) spicy sides; of course they where not supposed to be THAT flavored.
(4)
Joanna F.
A short 7 minute walk from my apartment, I've been to Christopher's several times over the past 3 years. I've gone for breakfast, lunch, dinner and just to hang out at the bar at night. I have never had a bad experience. The restaurant is welcoming and homey. Dark wood paneling, a fireplace and a beautiful bar right in the middle make a charming atmosphere. All of the food is really good. I recommend the turkey reuben and any type of burger I've had here has been awesome. Their beer selection is surprisingly good and they have a sampler for 6 bucks that includes tastes of 4 beers. It's a pretty good deal in my opinion. The bar scene isn't exciting, but it's a great place to go to have a few beers and talk to your friends. If you're looking for a wild time, this is not the place. But if you're looking for a quiet place to grab a few drinks, there's not a better bar in the area.
(5)
Amanda H.
I went to the place on a Sunday, and it wasn't very busy, so I expected my server to be on top of us the whole time, needless to say that didn't happen. I met a few people there and sat for about 15 minutes before someone came over. The beer list is good, however my food tasted burnt and my friend ordered sweet potato fries and got regular. All and all, I doubt ill be going back, just didn't live up to standards.
(2)
Mickey M.
It's a restaurant that has lots of people that hang out around the bar. That was my first thought about this place. I didn't eat here, but the food looked like typical bar food. I believe they have a late last call, opposed to the bar restaurant across the square. It's not bad, it's an all-right option among an area where there are plenty of places to grab a drink. I'd stop by again, but probably not go out of my way. Decent selection of beer.
(3)
Amy R.
I LOVE Christopher's... love love love! It has such a chill vibe and I always stop in whenever I visit one of my besties in Porter Square! They have a really great, rotating beer selection for starters. The last time I went w/ my friend, we split a pitcher of sangria. We were expecting to get maybe a glass and a half to 2 glasses each. No, wrong. We both ended up consuming 3 glasses a piece. I haven't really been that adventurous with the menu, but have a few go-to's. The assorted nachos are heaven... guacamole, jalapenos, melted cheese, and black olives. I could eat pounds of these nachos. Also, I really like their "healthy" Caesar salad w/ chicken. The chicken always has been blackened enough for me and their housemade Caesar dressing (made from egg whites) is really tasty and not to overpowering. And a surprise favorite is the buffalo tofu. My roommate had it once and it was really, really tasty. Christopher's has a cozy/friendly vibe. I haven't really found many bars in the Porter area that have made me feel as comfortable as I do here!
(4)
Michelle K.
Great place to come and chill with friends, drink beer, and order some pretty decent cheap foods. I love the ambiance!
(3)
K B.
I was torn on how many stars, as I like Christopher's for a night out that's not too far from home. A rotating specials list usually has some tasty treats and new beers to try. Great cocktail ideas, too. Service is usually good and the staff are very friendly. My only beef really is about the takeout. Being so close to home it's nice to order something that isn't from a sandwich or pizza joint. They usually give you a 15 minute wait, which is perfect timing for me to walk down. Most of the time the food is OK, if a little cold by the time we get it home and unwrapped. Twice now I've ordered something, only to come home with the item and surprised once) it wasn't what I ordered and second) ingredients were missing. The first time I ordered a Caesar w/steak tips, only to get a blue cheese garden salad w/tips. I wrote an email to management letting them know of the snafu, since my receipt and the kitchen ticket said Caesar w/tips. They were very generous and apologized for the mistake, also offering a gift card, which wasn't expected but very much appreciated, and we enjoyed a great meal there a few weeks later. The second time was just last night. I called to order the special Guinness stew, which sounded great. When I called I was told it wasn't on the menu, which I found odd as their website said the specials were just updated the afternoon before. If it was a case of just not having the containers for stew, I would have completely understood. So I ordered the special Black Bean Burger. Arrive home, unwrap, and there's items missing! No fried onions, no avocado. Granted, I probably didn't need the onions in my diet, but the missing avocado was really disappointing. So I'd say feel free to order for pickup (they don't deliver), but w/reservations.
(3)
Naomi B.
Loveeeee their yuppie nachos. I crave them often. Waiters are always friendly and attentive and they are open late. Veggie burger is also super delicious.
(5)
Scott B.
What's better than a romantic candlight dinner? A romantic fireside dinner. In the winter, the ambiance is perfect for first dates and 50th anniversaries alike. The service has been superb each time I've gone... I went on a date there last night, and the bartender actually brought our drinks right over. One vodka tonic and one gin and tonic. They looked exactly the same. As he got to the table he shouted, "OMG." He's probably in his 40's, tall, very masculine looking... and he shouted an online acronym at us. Ha ha... provided great laughter to break the ice. The food is good... not AMAZING... and the prices are reasonable. Christopher's actually has a sister restaurant someplace in Boston... I'll have to check that out too... I hear they have sweet potato fries. If it's as good as Christopher's AND has SPF then we'll be granting a 5 star review.
(4)
Daniel S.
This is my go-to restaurant in Cambridge. The food is fresh and reasonably priced. The service is attentive and fun. The drinks are good, with plenty of beer on tap. And the atmosphere is a step up from Cambridge Common. Give it a try.
(5)
Rachel M.
Great craft beers and micro-brews (on tap and by the bottle), good food, and happy people... Christopher's is the perfect place to go when you can't decide what you want but you know you want to enjoy it. Buffalo Tofu meets big-beefy-burgers and not so beefy veggie patties at this eclectic joint masquerading as a pub. Pub or not, it's yummy-tastic. Extra tip: Christopher's has a "healthy" Caesar Salad. I am quite certain it is not low fat, but holy cow is it good. And why not eat something you can feel good about (even if the greens are barely visible under the thick blanket of fresh shaved asiago and parmesan)?
(4)
Kate F.
VEGGIE BURGER VEGGIE BURGER VEGGIE BURGER Why oh why don't more places make homemade patties? Christopher's makes a spectacular one - sometimes the peas in them can be a little chewy but hey I like that. I have been to Christopher's half a dozen times and I've ordered the veggie burger each and every visit. $8.99 I think, AND they throw in some awesome steak fries and a side salad (homemade Caesar dressing please). Such a good deal! Not to mention the amazing draught options. Other restaurants and grills, take note. Boca/Garden burgers? Blegh. There should be a law against serving frozen convenience foods to vegetarians. Where's the effort? Where's the innovation? I come to a restaurant to have someone cook for me, not to use a microwave. I KNOW how to use a microwave... Christopher's, thank you for respecting my veggie wishes. You rock.
(5)
Lia M.
I loved the feel and ambience - the dark wood, the music, but the food just wasn't great. The fries were good, but the chicken sandwich was lacking in flavor. My sis had the black bean burger, which she liked. It was around 1pm on a Friday, and there were a few others inside, but not many. And the service was slow! It took a 1/2 hour for our meals. Our server was friendly, though. I would not come back for food - not worth the hassle of trying to find parking in the 'bridge.
(2)
Griffin J.
Dependably good food at VERY reasonable prices. Christopher's is a go-to for my wife and I when I don't have the energy to cook at the end of the day, and we don't want to spend an arm-and-a-leg dining out. You'll never be disappointed by their burgers, but the specials are usually pretty good, too.
(4)
Crystal S.
Christopher's Restaurant's secret weapon that keeps me coming back for more = Young's Chocolate Stout Float. Oh yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh The food and atmosphere are pretty good too. There can be long waits on weekend evenings, as happens in most decent places on weekends...
(4)
Kristin C.
I've been here a few times, mostly for brunch. Service is OK, can be hit or miss, but the Wait staff is not all to blame, the host/ess must not triple load. The menu has enough variety. Food has been tasty and the portions are plentiful. Side note, I had my first veggie burger here and it was very, very good. If you want to try one, I suggest you order the Christopher's homemade patty platter -- you won't be disappointed.
(3)
Anna P.
This is my "big group" place. They can seat parties of 8-12 quite comfortably upstairs, and the waiters are all very friendly and attentive, even to large parties. The food is healthy and has enough variety to please highly picky eaters (there are as many salad choices as burger choices). The beer selection is outstanding, and their mixed drinks are damn tasty. The biggest draw for me is outstanding service. From the hostess stand to the bar to the table, these are really nice people. Once a friend and I were having trouble getting a cab late at night in Porter. We walked into the restaurant and asked if they had the number for a cab company. They called for us, and let us wait inside. It might be a small gesture, but it makes a huge difference.
(5)
Kara S.
I could punch myself in the face for not having gone to Christopher's sooner. I have walked by it a million times, but never ventured in until last night, when I was starving after going to the gym. It was so completely not what I expected, from the way it looks on the outside. It has exposed brick and colorful art on the walls, and my friend pointed out the fireplace in the back, which she says makes it a super cozy place for a meal in the winter. Since we had just gone to the gym and were feeling light and healthy, we both opted for salads, sharing the buffalo tofu appetizer. Everything was incredibly tasty, and all the less healthy food I saw around us (pizzas and burgers and appetizers) looked and smelled delectable. One thing I really liked too was that the left side of the restaurant feels like a cozy restaurant, whereas the right side feels like a bustling bar. It's nice to have the option of what kind of mood you want.
(4)
Valeria A.
I'm not a "regular" by any means, but Christopher's is one of my favorite places in the area. The food is delicious (and consistent), the menu has a nice variety for a great price, and the staff is really nice and attentive. Although I'm not a vegetarian, some of my favorite dishes there are the veggie burger and the portabella reuben.
(4)
Laura M.
I like Christopher's and here's why: the atmosphere is warm and cozy and inviting (I especially like sitting near the fireplace in the back on a cold night). The food is truly really good. They claim to have the best veggie burger in town...and they might be right. As a vegetarian, I really love a good veggie burger and this one is so good, I have a hard time ordering anything else. But, on my last visit, I meandered away from the burger (or 'burgah') section of the menu and ordered a vegetable gnocchi dish off the specials page. It was delicious. I mean, really really good. So good I ate wayyyy to much and didn't have room for dessert. The boyfriend got steak tips and fries. He reported that the steak tips were cooked perfectly and the fries were quite yummy. They were thick cut - more like wedges really. Another reason I like Christopher's: the beer menu. Their taps offering is always changing, and they usually offer a good selection. Usually on the darker side, though, which is my thing, so I don't mind. Service has always been really good when I've gone, even on busy nights. Overall, a good place for a nice casual dinner and a beer.
(4)
Julie B.
This is a great place to come during the week. They have plenty of local and unique brews on tap. There's even a sampler that comes with four different types, which I love. The bartenders are nice and attentive and there's plenty of seating at the bar and all around. It does get a little packed around 7/730, but that's a clear sign it's good. While I haven't had a meal here (yet), I have tried the nachos - which by the way come in two sizes! Perfect little sharable plates that solves the whole sogginess issue towards the end. Fantastic! I've been here twice now and I'll be back for sure.
(5)
Anna W.
It was good. Not spectacular, but not piss-poor. Somewhere right smack dab in the middle! I went here with a large party of about 18 people. They took a reservation for us and sat us right away. Everything was really efficient -- we got our drinks right away, and were able to order in a respectable amount of time. The menu is pretty extensive -- we had vegetarians and vegans in our group and everyone was able to find something on the menu that suited them. Our food came out pretty quickly and it was good. Nothing to write home to Mom about, but it saved me from the fast-food drive-thru or having to cook for myself! I would definitely go here again to try out more stuff on their menu that caught my eye!
(3)
Jane C.
Christopher's is for people who like beer but don't really give a crap about food, and it's too dark in there.
(2)
D C.
Christopher's is my favorite restaurant in Boston. I love the exposed brick on the interior and the local art on the walls. The lighting is soft and relaxing. Great atmosphere. The food is very reasonably priced. I love their hamburgers, which taste excellent and start at $6. Make sure to get a table on the main floor. It's just not the same upstairs.
(5)
Courtney B.
Ugh. My love hate relationship with this place lives on. Sometimes the food is really good. Sometimes it sucks. Sometimes you get great service, sometimes you don't. Sometimes the hosts are efficient and friendly, other times they chat to eachother and totally ignore you. There is one bartender woman there who is just SO rude consistently and just seems generally pissed off. That's always a downer if she is serving you in any way. I would call this place inconsistent. Moderately good pub food. It's a meh.
(3)
Kelsey W.
the sangria here rocks - get the pitcher. its an awesome deal. they have darling outdoor seating, which is worth the wait. the inside is nice too, though i prefer sitting downstairs to upstairs. the vast beer selection is awesome. i love knowing that they use local ingredients whenever possible and reduce consumption where possible, like only giving water to customers that request it. the english burger is delicious, as is the spinach & artichoke dip. and the brownie sundae is an awesome topper to an already-filling meal. a great staple in our neighborhood.
(4)
Erica S.
Christopher's was the first restaurant I ever went to when I moved to Somerville from Oregon, and it was a great first impression of what was to come. I was immediately impressed by the beer menu-- there's an extensive regular beer list, as well as a long list of beer specials that change weekly. I recommend the beer sampler as an affordable way to try multiple beers, and still save room for dinner. The food is really, really good, and there is something for everyone. I'm almost embarrassed to say that at this point I've tried almost everything on the menu. Their burgers are awesome, and they have the BEST fries (little crispy potato wedges), their homemade veggie burger is one of the best I've had, the salads and soups are always gourmet quality, and even their Mexican-inspired menu options hit the spot. Oh, and veggies, try the buffalo tofu! Yum. Only at Christopher's can you order a pizza, a stir fry, a burger, or a fajita plate all the in same place. I mean, artichoke chimichangas at a bar? Word. They serve a full menu every day of the week until close (1am Sun-Wed, 2am Thurs-Sat.). It's a great spot to grab some dinner and then head next door for some live music at Toad.
(4)
Tim F.
Fun pub. Good pub grub. Outdoor seating in nice weather, and a fireplace inside for cold nights. It's not near the bar sadly, so your ambiance comes in passing.
(5)
Mike S.
Worst service I've ever received. For lunch today 30 minutes for someone to take our drink orders, 30 more minutes for food to arrive. Over an hour lunch for 3 burgers. The hostess was clearing tables, seating others, and refilling drinks. The one waitress was working the bar, taking orders, and appeared to be either high or just didn't care one bit. There was some "dude" hanging out in the back stretching, manager? I don't even know, it was that bad. Clearly a management issue. Will never go back.
(1)
Lauren L.
Frankly, we live here so I am a little biased. This place is right around the corner and it is such a nice atmosphere and a menu where anyone can find something they like. The veggie burger is amazing. I recommend it with avocado and caramelized onions. They will make you a salad with tofu instead of chicken or tofu fajitas or really anything you ask for. Brunch rocks and the bloody mary kicks butt! If you like beer and burgers or wine and salad you should go here for a relaxing cool night out!
(4)
Anne R.
Hoping to grab a quick dinner in Cambridge while trying to find a parking spot- we rolled into Porter Square where we had no problem parking at 6:30 pm on Thrusday evening and then ventured to find a place to eat from there. Talk about prime real estate for Christopher's! It was practically the first thing we saw! Right off of a major intersection with high visibility, plenty of parking and right off the T. No wonder this place has so many reviews! If you can't find it, it's because your leader dog is lying to you about his reading abilities. Once we stepped inside we were greeted by a hostess who took us upstairs before we even had a chance to check the place out. I got the sense that she was fed up with people requesting where they wanted to sit and was determined to put us where she wanted us to sit. I gotta give the girl props for getting down to business. Upstairs was pretty quiet- a regular dining room with carpeted floors, wood accents, and small moveable wooden tables and chairs. There were only two other tables with guests in the room, so there wasn't much competition for the server's attention. We opened the menu to find a fairly standard American menu with plenty of options for different tastes. Within minutes our server was at the table with waters ready to take our drink order. For a starter, I couldn't decide between starting with the Spinach Artichoke Dip or the Veggie Chili Nachos and the server suggested that if I wanted the appetizer to come out sooner rather than later, the Veggie Chili Nachos would be the quicker choice, as the Spin Art dip was going to take about 20 minutes. 20 minutes for dip? Are they milking the cows and cutting the greens from the garden!?! Obviously I couldn't wait that long so I went with the veggie chili nachos. Bonus points to the server for mentioning the wait time and now my curiosity is piqued to go back and try this Spin Art dip that takes so long to prepare. After a few sips of my lemonade, I notice this isn't just any lemonade that gets pumped out of a soda gun, it's like fresh lemonade, with maybe even a touch of grapefruit or lime in it? Whatever it was, it was some of the best damn lemonade I've had from a restaurant in a long time! The veggie chili nachos were great. Don't let the name scare you- you won't be scarfing down tofu, just hearty vegetables in a rich chili sauce over homemade chips. The chips were a little too done for my tastes, but it didn't stop me from devouring them to get every last bit of the tasty chili off the plate. When the burger section of the menu is labeled "Burgahs"- you know they aren't messin' around. (Of course, this only makes sense if you know the deep Boston accent.) The homemade veggie burger was highlighted on the menu as one of the best veggie burgers in Boston, so I decided to give it a try... to which my husband asked, "what's up with ordering vegetarian today?" Can't a girl order something that's vegetarian friendly without actually BEING a vegetarian?! *GOSH!* Our food arrived pretty quickly and after a few bites of my veggie burger, I kinda wish I hadn't trusted those reviewers. I was expecting a veggie burgers that had the same juicy texture as a regular burger, just made with something other than meat... ala Bocca burgers. What I got was a squashed ball of veggies and beans with no distinct flavor other than the pesto and roasted red pepper on top. The patty itself kept falling apart and into my lap, making me feel like a three year old who can't keep a burger together, and the large french roll bun just added to the dry texture and lack of overall flavor. I determined that no amount of ketchup was going to make up for the overall texture and lack of taste. I looked over at my husband's Roquefort Burger which he was devouring like it was his last meal and kept my jealousy to myself to avoid the mocking I would have suffered for my vegetarian choice in "Burgah". Perhaps a true vegetarian would have appreciated the culinary mastery of the items that were combined into this veggie filled patty, but Anne-the-Omnivore craved something more, well.. meat-like. Shame on me. Overall, this is a great place. Its large menu, full bar, and proximity to shopping and transportation make it a great destination for an afternoon lunch or evening out. I wouldn't mind going back... and I really want to know what they put in the lemonade!
(4)
Michael L.
Great place to go for some food and a couple of beers. Their food is very good, relatively healthy, and moderately priced. Their beer list is great. Not the most lively of scenes if you are looking for a crazy night, but if you want to sit down with friends you can't lose.
(4)
ana l.
Co-workers raved about the buffalo tofu and they were right in doing so. They were delicious! Fall means pumpkins to me..so I went for one of their special's: Pumpkin Ravioli. It was sweet and fulfilling. My sister went for the andouille burger, but substituted the red peppers and asiago cheese for mushrooms and pepperjack-she said the burger was "OK" but I think she defeated the purpose by changing up their burger. Our friend went for the veggie burger. The burgers were HUGE and came with a side of very tasty fries (of which I ate half my sister's). Our waitress was very friendly and attentive. Space is a little tight, but we got there around 6:30 (on a Friday night) and didn't have to wait for a table.
(4)
Jennifer A.
This place is seriously amazing. Great bar food at an affordable price which, as we all know, is rare to find. This place is also super veggie friendly, with more then just a choice of a burger or a salad. The nachoes are killer. The beer is cold. And te mixed drinks actually contain alcohol. There is an outdoor patio as well for those warm nights; just be ware of Cambridge drinking laws. You have to order food.
(5)
Julia W.
I've got to say, I was pretty surprised to read many of the reviews of Christopher's. This place has been my favorite for years. I moved away for 3 years, and I couldn't get their nachos off my mind. I think the simple explanation for why so many people have mediocre reviews to this place is that they don't know when to go. Don't go on a weekend night. It is too crowded and does not allow you to enjoy the relaxing time that Christopher's should be. Reasons I like this place: 1. The atmosphere. Who doesn't love dark wood and a fireplace? Cozy but not tight. Upstairs not as great-- that is one reason to avoid the weekend night. 2. Decent pricing. Not too expensive, good food. Not as cheap as it's sister Cambridge Common, but much better nachos. (See #3). 3. The nachos. My favorite is the assorted. A small is a perfect size for a starter. Anything bigger and you are in meal territory. You need to ask for a side of sour cream. (can't remember if they come with gauc.) 4. Beer. I love it; they got it. Good ones, too. Not as good a selection as Cambridge Common, but not as loud either. 5. The veggie burger/veggie options. As a lifer-veg, I must say this is one of my favorite "vegetarian" restaurants. I like it because they have excellent vegetarian food (and choices! and not just one or two!) but also good (so I'm told) meat choices. Two veggie burgers- one fancy with fries and a salad, one cheaper (but good) with fries. 6. Daily specials. I almost always get a special. Their butternut squash soup with walnuts and cranberry sauce rocks. Their pesto veggie burger is also a hit. 7. Service. I see your complaints below, but I've always had good experiences (again, I credit the non-busy nights). Overall, I recommend Christopher's for a beer, for a nice dinner out with a loved one, a date, a place to bring relatives. There is little I wouldn't recommend it for.
(4)
D H.
I'm so mad I could spit. My family and I have been coming to Christopher's for dinner for years, and we love the food, it's a great place, etc. But today Christopher's really screwed us, and that is just not right. Not too long ago, we noticed that Christopher's was now open for lunch, so my husband and I went there for lunch, thinking we could get a quick burger and have time to get back to work. The place was practically empty, so we were quickly seated, each ordered a burger, got some water and chatted for a while. The waitress brought over a bottle of ketchup and some mustard, and we waited some more. There were two other parties in the place, and we watched them get their food, eat it, and pay. We got hungrier and hungrier, and more and more worried, as our precious lunch break ticked away, with no sign of our burgers. Finally, after 40 minutes of staring down the increasingly nervous wait staff, who were continually wandering in and out of the bar and the kitchen but scrupulously avoiding our table, I called one of them over and asked if our food was coming out any time soon. She went and chatted with our original waitress; the two of them went behind the bar, where we couldn't see them. I looked at my watch for the fiftieth time; 1:15pm, and just about out of time. Finally our original waitress emerged from behind the bar and admitted that she had punched in our order, but didn't press "Send" on her order machine thingy. Our food was not coming out, really sorry. Would that be a problem for us? ??? Yes, it is a problem. Having no lunch after a 40 minute wait, with nothing but water - not even a goddam roll!?! - IS A PROBLEM. We had no choice but to leave, hungry and empty-handed. My husband ran to work on an empty stomach, while I went to the grocery store for some fig newtons, and returned to my work. What I don't get is, our waitress was in and out of the kitchen throughout the entire 40 minutes that we waited. There were only two other parties in the restaurant, and they had already gotten their food. How could she have failed to notice that the cook wasn't making our burgers? Christopher's, your food may be good, but you really let us down today, and that's no way to treat your customers. They handle dinner just fine, but the lunch wait staff are incompetent, and ruined what should have been a really nice, easy lunch. Worst was the failure to even attempt to make amends. Now I understand why the place was virtually empty. Either do lunch right - with proper wait staff - or don't.
(1)
Kristen F.
I've been for dinner and most recently, Sunday brunch. Dinner was decent, brunch was amazing. Had the belgian waffle with raspberry sauce and whipped cream. Yum! Didn't have time for a morning cocktail but there Bloody Mary sounds delightful. I'll be back.
(4)
Chris W.
They do great burgers and their fries are awesome, like crispy crunchy outside into mashpotato magic on the inside. They don't do such a great brunch
(4)
Shelter T.
Christopher's is a favorite restaurant of a co-worker, and i decided to try for myself. I have to say that it was "all-that" and more. The service was great, the atmosphere was a little more audible than i would have liked, and the prices were good. My main selling point with Christopher's is the burgers...you gotta have the burgers. Whether its veggie or beef, the burgers are very well done, and they have a great taste to them. I was surprised that for a place such as this that one of the best things on the menu was their burgers. I had a great time, and the location in Porter Square is very accessible. Didnt do the beer, but i saw that there was a lot of people that were happy about the selection. Definitely a new spot for me.
(4)
Kate S.
Tastes kind of like a chain restaurant. The food is fine, the wait staff boring. Good location though!!!
(3)
Molly N.
I came here again, a year later, now as a legal drinker, with the purpose of having a little to eat and plenty of good beer to go around. I was disappointed to learn that they don't do pitchers, but I found their prices fairly reasonable considering how incredible the selection is. I recommend the Bad Apple! This is a great place to get beer and the food isn't bad at all :) I like the homey feeling. Also, our server was fantastic, helping us decide what to eat and drink. She really knew her stuff.
(4)
Kim L.
They had me at the Lime-Ricky! Christopher's has a nice selection of fun drinks. I chose the Lime-Ricky, a delightful concoction of raspberry vodka, chambord, sprite and some limey stuff - and it came in a pint glass. Horray for big CHEAP drinks! They have nice vegan and veggie choices. Like the Buffalo to-fu. Me, a meat-eating wing fanatic actually enjoyed these too. I had the turkey club, and my friend had the homemade black bean burger. We both had leftovers. It was pretty crowded, so service was pretty slow. But it was still a good atmosphere with surprisingly decent prices.
(4)
Amy C.
I'll start w/ the good -- Christopher's had a GREAT atmosphere, and a number of delicious beers on tap. Cocktail menu was also extensive, and many drinks sounded delish. The fries ...potato wedges...were also quite good! The bad -- The food was sub par. The crustini appetizer was kind of eh. The dipping sauce was good, but whatever was slathered all over it (resembled cream cheese), had NO taste. I had the turkey club, and it came on onion & scallion bread. Now, I usually prefer wheat, but this bread sounded SO GOOD, I had to try it. Again, it had NO taste. The turkey seemed just semi-fresh. It was in no way bad...just sub-par. My friend had the ravioli special of the day. The portion size was small, I thought, but he enjoyed it. I didn't taste it so I have no clue, but the sauce did look yummy. Prices were good for burgers/sandwiches...but the entrees were a bit pricey for what they were, I thought. Our waiter seemed kind of spacey..he was very unmemorable, in general, but service was good. Overall, I might give this place another try..but doubtful b/c I don't live near it.
(2)
KitKat J.
I have yet to have a bad meal there. I love love love this place. They have great appetizers and dinners. I love going here after work for some great Sangria. Very conveniently located right across from the red line Porter!
(5)
Raj B.
Don't let the vegetarian tags on Yelp fool you. Christopher's was sub-par at best when we had brunch there recently. Nothing exciting. Not even well-done boring fare. Nothing to see here. Keep moving folks. Two stars because because they were nice.
(2)
Mariko W.
I first fell in love with a steak salad here. Their steak has great flavor and melds nicely with the blue cheese... *drool* To be fair, I also was really really hungry and anything could have been served to me and I would have thought it was all amazing. But, I have enjoyed the salad on subsequent occasions as well, so I think it was more than me just being hungry. Their burgers are pretty decent, and I've had a really really good plate of gnocci here (it was a special), that I really enjoyed. And they have good beer. Overall, a fan.
(4)
Jessica P.
I really enjoyed my meal here. I am a vegetarian, and I went with my non-vegetarian boyfriend. We went for dinner on a Saturday night, and both loved it. The food was excellent- I got the tofu fajitas, a very large portion...couldn't finish it. He got the stuffed turkey burger. The atmosphere was fun, pretty lively. We got there around 7 and got a table right away, but when we left it was packed, so if you want dinner I wouldn't wait until much later than 7 on a weekend. Beer was good too. Overall, a nice local pub, with some vegetarian and environmentally friendly options, reasonable prices, and great location across from the Porter Square T.
(5)
Amy O.
This is a great place to go when you have no idea what you want. They have Italian, Mexican and traditional American fare. Their salads are good too. The location couldn't be better (right across the street from Porter Square T station) if you are a lazy broad like me and the weather is hazy, hot and humid and you want to take your Mom somewhere that's easy to get to and not too pricey. Not my fave by a long shot, but it doesn't suck either. Also, their waiters are always very pleasant and the place is full-staffed.
(3)
Katy D.
I've been here a few times, and it hasn't disappointed, The Yuppie Nachos are AMAZING- some of the best nachos I've ever had. I also tried the Portabella Reuben...wasn't the most amazing sandwich I've ever had, but I enjoyed it and it came with thick delicious fries. There were a lot of other delicious-looking vegetarian options that I'm looking forward to trying. I've been here with a group of people for drinks at night, and also for a dinner with my boyfriend and his parents. The atmosphere was perfect for both occasions.
(4)
Hope R.
Two years before I moved in, my friends in Boston took me for a beer at Christopher's. Convenient location, right across from Porter Square Shopping Mall, and nice chill atmosphere. Gets really crowded on Friday and Saturday nights, but was perfect for a weekday lunch, which I went there for today. I highly recommend the quesadilla (thick, spicy, substantial) as well as the house salad (only $3.99 for a pretty full plate). Waitress was funny and nice.
(4)
Socal C.
This place deserves 3 stars for food and 4 stars for beer. Service is closer to a 3 than a 4. The waiters who walk around the dining room are a bit pushy about customers getting another drink but they are polite. Of course, we want attentive service, but a good pub/restaurant allows customers to relax, sip their beverages and chat--at least for a bit. I avoid the dining room and sit at the bar where it's better for me. I've only had the burgers--they're decent fare and well-priced. The best part at Christophers: the choices in tap beer. Outstanding and well poured. You can "up" a pint from 16 oz. to 22 oz. I like that. All in all, I recommend it---oh, it's far superior to Tavern on The Square---go to Christopher's instead--that's an easy decision.
(3)
JeNnIfEr S.
I definitely am a fan of Christopher's Restaurant. I find the food to be really good, and the prices are reasonable. I also like the atmoshpere, especially if you get to sit next to the fireplace in the winter. However, I give Christophers 4 out of 5 stars because the service is consistently slow! Do not come here unless you have some time to spare. Overall it is a great find. I love the blackened chicken sandwich!
(4)
Matt H.
I'm not a Boston native, and this was the first meal I had had since setting out for Boston from Maryland the previous night. So please read this review taking into account the fact that I was cold, tired, and VERY hungry. We were greeted and promptly shown to a table right near a lovely gas fireplace. The restaurant was busy, but not uncomfortably so, just enough to give it atmosphere. The decor was very warm and cozy, lots of wood used throughout the restaurant. So altogether the atmosphere was a nice pick-me-up from the cold, wet New England winter weather outside. It did have a sort of predictable look to it though. As in, there was not much going on decor-wise that I haven't seen in dozens of other restaurants in my life. Not a bad thing, but nothing amazing either. Our waitress took an inordinate amount of time getting to our table. In fact, I had to ask a passing waitress who our server was, and where they were? The passing waitress was very helpful though. She took our drink orders and went and fetched our own waitress. A word on their drink selection. AWESOME! Maybe this is a New England thing, or maybe just a Boston thing, but this place had a fantastic beer selection. I was very impressed. They had at least a dozen or so beers on tap and they were almost all very high quality brews. So big thumbs up there. Our waitress was knowledgeable about the menu, she made several good recommendations. And she was quite friendly. My girlfriend ordered the Chicken Picata, and I ordered the Chicken and Broccoli Penne. The food was out within about 15 minutes. My meal was quite good. The pasta was well cooked, the chicken wasn't overcooked, and the dish was well seasoned. There could have been more fresh basil in the dish and the sauce was a bit thick for a "light cream sauce" but on the whole I'd say it was good. My girlfriends meal was also very good. The the standout of the meal though, in my opinion, were the potatoes that came with it. "Christopher's Potatoes" as they were called. DELICIOUS! The were like a cross between hash browns and mashed potatoes, all with lovely cheese! The chicken was nice, I think they might have been a bit heavy handed on the citrus (the menu says they use lime instead of the traditional lemon, it was a nice deviation from the ordinary). The chicken was nice and thinly breaded, not caked in a thick greasy coat of flour as you would usually find in places that don't know Italian food. Again, I think the fresh herbs described on the menu were very sparse. But other than that, the dish was quite good. As for the price, at first it struck me as a bit on the pricey side, considering that the menu seemed at first-glance, pretty standard fare. Upon closer examination, though, I found that there were a lot of interesting things (the Buffalo Tofu seems intriguing, and they do seem to have a reputation for awesome burgers), that I had missed the first time round. And they seem to be fairly committed to using all natural meat too. So, on the whole, I think the pricing was fair. All in all, this place was very good. I think they make efforts distinguish themselves amongst the sea of family restaurants in a way that is subtle enough to not scare off dad, mom, and their two kids, but interesting enough to give a couple out on a date some cool choices as well. I do think that they could've gone the extra mile and put some more effort into the presentation though. Big thumbs up on the beer selection. So all in all I would give this place a solid four stars. Again, it's an all around safe bet, for someone looking for a place to have a good meal in a nice atmosphere.
(4)
Matt S.
parmesan crusted haddock!
(5)
Michelle A.
i'm bummed that others who have reviewed christopher's have not always had the best service or food - but in my experience christopher's is perfect for brunch, drinks, outdoor summer dining, and cozy comfort food in the winter...it's an all around great spot in cambridge. the burgers really are the thing to get here, but their omlettes at breakfast are great, too...they offer rotating omlettes of the day and they are always creative with the ingredients. the beer selection is the one thing I'm not the hugest fan of - I like a lot of selection which they offer, but it's a lot of rotation and there's not a ton of new england stand-bys always on tap. i recommend this place especially for a weekend or nice day - the vibe is great and they have a decent amount of outdoor seating.
(4)
Theodore B.
not bad considering their price points noisy, cramped space and very casual. its kinda like a bar as they have a few good flat screens, but they are certainly bias to boston sports i come to find that bostonians really love their teams, unlike some houstonians *uuhhmmph* we started with the calamari. over battered and the sauce was just marinara I had the sirloin, med rare, with champagne or wine wine mushrooms. Their potato square side was really good mo had a boring salmon [under seasoned] with mix veggies and the same potato dish overall ...underrated for valentines go beer. the best thing was their beer sampler
(3)
Graham C.
I don't quite know why people are so down on this place. It has one of the better beer lists in Porter Square. I think Cambridge Common, owned by the same people, has a better list. My favorites here would be the steak tips. I had the English burger tonight, which I usually like, but tonight had the most giant mutant English Muffin I've ever seen. But for Porter, the food is fine. Sure it attracts a lot of yuppie couples. But c'mon, this is Cambridge. Throw a rock and hit a Banana Republic sweater. Solid choice....and Toad has some awesome music.
(4)
D H.
I always order the burger. A fantastic burger. (Especially the ale-marianted "English Burger"). And a great beer list. It's not a large list, but they certainly know how to pick them. The buffalo wings are pretty good too. But the service has dragged it down too many times. Seated and ignored some times, drink orders taken and forgotten until appetizers sometimes, having to retrieve ketchup from the bar because the waitress forgot after two requests (or is chatting with another waitress near the bar constantly), and then listening to this waitress blab on for 10 minutes about the menu items she likes (customer's really don't care. Really.) in an attempt to be friendly to save her tip. One time they wouldn't seat a friend, myself, and my wife on an off-night unless we promised to order dinner - I say "they" but I mean a 5"4 or so waitress with shoulder-length straight black hair. Trust me, we would've run up a much larger tab on beer alone without ordering, but we left because this pissed us off. Long waits Fri&Sat -- attesting to burgers' and beer's redeeming qualities. Update: Having eaten here many times since writing the review, I've upped it to four stars because the service problems ceased and did not return.
(4)
Tricia W.
Christopher's is my stand-by, go-to place in the area. I've not had a bad meal here. They are, above all, consistent. The menu has a nice variety, the atmosphere is casual and comfortable, and the wait staff are friendly. Bonus features include the selection of beers on tap, the fireplace, and display of local artist's work on the walls. I've had many great meals here- grilled chicken, some amazing pumpkin ravioli, and a chicken ziti dish for dinner, as well as a yummy brunch (a delicious omelette) on New Year's day. All in all, I'd say it's worth checking out.
(4)
Maria Z.
Very reasonably priced, good quality food. The atmosphere is comfortable and our waitress was very quick and pleasant. If you're in the area, then I would recommend Christopher's for predictably good pub food.
(4)
Boogie S.
When I first moved to Somerville, I ended up going here a lot because I didn't really know any better. My food was always meh. Burgers, salads, anything. It's always busy, so I must be missing something. The staff are attractive but inattentive. It feels like Uno's, but without the consistency of a chain restaurant. If you're in Porter, there are 20 other superior restaurants on the block, and the T is right there! I'd go somewhere else.
(3)
C P.
This could have potentially been a disastrous brunch experience, however the customer service made up for it and then some. Half an hour after placing our orders, our server approached us apologizing for the "back up" in the kitchen and gave us drinks on the house. Great, thanks! That's proper customer service. Our brunch was delicious. I got the blueberry challah french toast (wow, wow, wow) and my friend got the deviled eggs (delicious). Unfortunately, there was a significant piece of shell on one of the eggs. The waitress had offered to bring her a new meal, my friend refused as she had already worked her way around the shell. Within minutes the manager came out, genuinely apologized and generously offered to comp our entire bill. NOW THAT IS CUSTOMER SERVICE! I would go back in a heart beat as they made me feel like a valued customer
(4)
Terri T.
We found parking here relatively easy which was surprising for a Saturday night in Cambridge around 7:30. Our server was very efficient and pleasant. A friend and I ordered some red sangria and it was very good. We ordered fried calamari for an appetizer. It came with fried onions and jalapenos which was different and delicious. I ordered the tofu stir fry for my entree. The brown rice that came with it was cooked perfectly. Lots of fresh veggies. Ordered chocolate raspberry cake to go for dessert since I was stuffed. Ate it at friends house and it was yummy. Very nice dining experience.
(4)
Andrew R.
Used to be one of my favorite local places. Good beers and food, with the specials sometimes being great. The drink specials sound interesting, but have always been too sweet or off for my tastes, so I stopped trying. If I were only reviewing the downstairs, I'd be giving Christopher's 4 or even 5 stars. My last three visits however have been upstairs (partly because of going with larger groups) and that's what this review reflects. I've decided it's only worth going if downstairs seating is available. The ambiance is downright depressing upstairs: no bar, no artwork, no fireplace. It's just packed seating, coat racks and shelves storing the baby booster seats. The service is much worse upstairs, slower and you have to ask to get the full beer menu. Even then you can't keep it. The beer specials are printed on plain (legal sized) paper, but the server explained they don't print enough. An odd business choice for a bar with an impressive selection of rotating taps. To summarize, I would only go to Christopher's with small groups (4 at most) to increase the odds of getting seated downstairs.
(2)
Nicole E.
I had been here before and thought I would give it a shot again. The space was pretty cramped in the dining area but we were comfortable against the back wall. Plus there was some great eye candy in my line of vision to get me going. Our waitress seemed a bit inexperienced but was very polite and always did what we asked of her. When the appetizers arrived, no plates were brought to eat said app from. We grabbed the hostess who politely brought them. The cocktails were mediocre at best and the Calamari was lacking. But the saving grace was the entrees. I had the ravoli special of the evening and my friend had some sort of mushroom dish. Both were filling and delicious. We left, ready for a fun evening. Would I go back? Probably but I'll stick with beer next time.
(3)
Crystal S.
I've been here several times and have never had a bad experience. The fresh haddock sandwich is my favorite, the breading is just crispy enough and not greasy. Portion sizes are ample. And I always have to order water at restaurants so I don't know why it's a big thing that they have signs on the table telling you to do so. As a recovering vegetarian, I also like that they have several tasty veggie options because I remember those days of having nothing to choose from but salad.
(4)
Cierra C.
I came on a freezing desperate Friday night in a low blood sugar frenzy on which I could not be picky. I had had bad experiences here so I figured I would be safe and order the veggie burger which the menu claims is "Best of Boston". Blegh. Never again. I think parts of it were still frozen and the bun was stale, soggy fries. Pretty hard to screw up a veggie burger if you ask me. It is strange to me that Cambridge Common, which is owned by the same folk is cheaper and yummier by far. (Although I have heard from multiple sources they treat their employees like absolute crap) The one thing Christopher's has going for it is a mellow 30- something bar scene which can be hard to find in this increasingly collegey college town.
(2)
S W.
Back in the day, when I was a single gal, Christopher's was a go-to place for first dates-- Not because it is romantic or even tasty-- just because they have a menu that can accommodate most palates and dietary restrictions. But that aside, food ranges from mediocre to totally sh*tty. From sub par caesar salads (with chemical tasting dressings) to overcooked, underseasoned meats of all varieties, Christophers, like dating(sometimes), can be an exercise in lowering your standards. That said, I have had worse, but that is as close to a compliment as I can give it.
(2)
nicole p.
Christophers is a great stand-by, a dear old friend you can depend on. Food is generally pretty good, they have rotating specials which are always fun to try and an ever changing and large beer list, plus fun yummy drinks. Yuppie nachos, buffalo tofu, mediteranean plate, all good. Great salads, good burgers, decent tex mex. I had salmon with mango salsa here recently that rocked. Christophers is open late, you can always find parking in the porter lot, and yes, it is next to toad so you can catch some free live music nearby too. There is a huge menu, so always something for everyone and a good place to go when you can't decide what the hell to eat with a group of people. I've never had a bad experience here. Plus, they have KICK ASS brunch with really good eggs benedict and their potatoes are so yummy, plus you can get smashed on espresso martinis that are perfectly justifiable as a vehicle for caffiene that just happens to contain lots and lots of booze too. what's wrong with multi-tasking?
(3)
Natasha A.
I still love the food (you can not beat their burgers and the beer selection is great) but have to take them down a star for the deterioration in service. On a recent evening, they would not sit us down because we wanted to just share a few apps. The hostess that night said we each had to get a meal..never mind the fact that we would order more in alcohol than a typical diner. Next time, the waitress was a complete airhead. It was 3 pm, not at all busy. She could not remember to bring us anything..our beer was late, the ketchup was ignored until we had to ask the bartender. Then in the end she decided to be all chatty, as if that would make up for it. Now that we finally have everything we ordered after asking about 10 times, please don't bother us with your banter. Like I said before, I will come back because of the beer and the food, and the fact that it is around the corner, but I sure hope they work on their service, which used to match the quality of the food back in the day.
(4)
Whitney W.
If you want a reliable cornucopia of drinks to choose from, like a whole lot of beer, a wonderfully consistent sangria, and exciting hard liquor, then Christopher's is for you. Foodwise, though, I would recommend sticking to two sections of the menu: the burgers and the Mexican-oriented food items. Once you get into other things, it is sort of hit or miss, which is a shame, because I wanted so badly to like their seafood risotto. The other benefits of the burgers (which are veggie and not) and the enchiladas are that they are way affordable in addition to being great on a regular basis.
(4)
Amanda L.
After busting my ass at the YWC, we decided to NOT eat at the Porter Exchange, but to go down the street to Christopher's. Nate had mentioned that they were pretty good so we headed on over. We waited less than 10 minutes for them to scrounge up a table for us. The hostess looked a little freaked out that 3 parties walked in at the same time. Amateur. So we sat upstairs, it was pretty nice inside, half pub half restaurant feel. Our waiter was nice enough, but he was nervous. Don't know if he was a newbie as well..... The brunch menu was still going on, which made some of our party members grumble. Anyway, we ordered drinks and food at the same time. So, the boys drinks came, but not me and Jess. Fine, he only has two hands after all. Then....the food came out, and me and Jess still did not have our drinks (she a tropical smoothie, me an iced coffee with Kahlua and Godiva Chocolate liqueur). He mentioned something about the smoothie being frozen? And they were defrosting it. Nothing about my drink, until Jess mentioned it. "Oh, I'll get it right now!" Clearly he had forgotten my drink....but whatever, I was in a good mood. So, 10 MORE minutes go by, and I don't eat slow by the way....so I'm trying not to finish my Huevos Rancheros. He comes back, I'm giving him the Evil Eye, and he tells me the manager is going to come with my drink.....OK. 5 more minutes. WTF?! So finally, my drink comes, and it barely tastes like it has any liqueur, never mind 3 different kinds. It's tasty and everything, but seriously..... He gets points for taking that shit off the check. Otherwise, I would have raised hell. He should have taken Jess' drink off as well, since she waited almost until the end of the meal as well, but Jess is nice like that =) Anyway, the meal was pretty tasty other than that. I'd probably come back if I'm in the area, especially since I want to try one of their yummy burgers. 3.5 stars.
(4)
john e.
this place had a very good ale list and in greast condition. The food was served as if prepared bya gourmet chef. Very impressive.
(4)
Dave C.
Christophers has the best veggie burger I have ever had. Their buffalo tenders are also in my top 5 best in New England.
(5)
Molly C.
HORRIBLE service with snotty, spoiled trust-fund baby servers who must be destined for bigger things but in all reality ladies, chill, you are just servers - no need to share your crap attitude or indignation at this cruel world. . I don't know Miss High-n-Mighty's real name but she took FOREVER in serving the food and check. Both the hostess and the server gave us attitude when asking for a booth and for change. The yuppie eatery food itself - sub-par. Buffalo tofu was probably yummy if it wasn't WAY too spicy, but we couldn't get a server to give us much needed water! We didn't leave a tip - first time in my life. Sad to say, this place was awful. Please feel free to visit if you want bad treatment and overpriced food.
(1)
Jessica C.
I have to be honest, I wasn't sure if I should give Christopher's 3 stars or 4 stars. The beer menu is always great, they have a nice selection of micro brews, plus a good selection of other beers. Although it is a beer bar, their cocktails are always strong, tasty and well priced. They always have an interesting drink special and their taps change frequently which means you're getting something fresh. So the bar certainly deserves a four. The food, stick to the burgers even the veggie burgers (which are homemade) are excellent. The fries are hand cut (worth every calorie) and most meals come with a small salad. I've had a few soups and tex-mex items that weren't very good. The rice was undercooked and the enchiladas were soggy. Perhaps I was in the wrong ordering tex-mex at a pub. Overall, you can't go wrong with a burger and a tall cool beer.
(4)
Greg D.
Great burgers and terrific beer selection.
(4)
Selene K.
I went with friends on a Friday night for drinks and appetizers. I loved the nachos, some of the best I've had in years! The service was great, we ate upstairs and were seated right away. I would go back again.
(4)
soxygal E.
I am a regular here - you can often find me at the bar reading a book and savouring the Christophers' Veggie burger and having a few beers. Friendly staff, GREAT beer, great, standard comfort food that's good for various diets (vegans, weight watchers, glucose, etc.) - they are very accommadating - I eat meat but happen to just love the veggie burger (the special one). They also have great appetizers and salads. I'd recommend sticking to the basic bar food - salad, burgers, apps, beer - and staying away from the more creative selections. But for bar food - and a friendly atmosphere - you won't go wrong. Also a great first date place!
(4)
Natalia B.
Like everyone said, this is a good place to go when you can't think of what you want, but I'm indecisive, so for me, that's an awesome thing. Their homemade veggie burger is absolutely delicious, and my favorite thing to get. The weekly burger specials are interesting and usually very tasty. I like the stuffed turkey burger with chipotle bbq sauce. The best thing about this place is their beer selection. They have a constantly rotating selection of good craft beer, and they have a ton of stuff on tap. Plus, the prices are low, and the service is quick and friendly, so what's not to like?
(4)
Nicole W.
I love this place for many reasons. It is super convenient for me to get there from my house. The menu has a pretty wide variety of options for a pub style restaurant. They often change up the menu, so you can usually try something new each time. They have an extensive list of great beers on tap. They even do brunch on the weekends. I've only ever had one bad meal here, and the staff was very nice in accommodating me by bringing me a new meal at no extra cost.
(5)
Jonathan S.
Christopher's is where you go when you can't come up with a better idea. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Sometimes it's comforting to hit up the place that is more familiar than exciting. The menu has something for everyone (carnivores and vegetarians alike), and the burgers (at around $6) are delicious. The beer selection is great and changes weekly; I've had a few beers here I've never seen anywhere else. Service is good (the weeknight bartender is the man) and decor is very warm and inviting, especially when the weather turns cold. I'd give it 4 stars, but I've had sketchy cleanliness experiences more than twice. I won't go into details, but let's say... bad enough that I didn't eat there for a while, but not bad enough that I never went back. Christopher's is the Camry of Porter Square. It's reliable, responsible, and predictable. Kind of boring, too.
(3)
Stephen K.
I came here yesterday and had a huge bowl of homemade chowder for only $4. They also have a great selection of draughts, including several from the CBC and others such as Victory and Southern Tier. We also had the calamari and nachos, both were good.
(4)
Ryan C.
I ate here the other night with a group of eight. We made reservations late, but were still able to have a table reserved. I ordered the steak tips with garlic butter sauce, potato cake, and haricot verts. The steak tips were amazing (very tender, and the sauce was a great accompaniment) but the potatoes had absolutely no seasoning of any kind and the grean beans were cold and under-cooked. Even though my entree was a bit disappointing, the remaining seven at the table (most of whom were vegetarians) were very satisfied with the abundance of options and the food in general. The place has a nice atmosphere, the prices are reasonable, and the service is ok. Overall worth a trip.
(4)
shannon r.
Christopher's is a solid option for a nice meal in porter square. The best word I can use to describe it is "comfortable." The cozy booths, the fireplace, the extensive menu of familiar favorites (burgers, steak tips, tex mex). There's something here for everyone, though the upstairs dining area leaves alot to be desired and is not as cozy as downstairs. The bf and I came here recently on a Saturday night at 6:55. The waiting area was empty and we only had very short wait. By the time our table was ready 5 minutes later, the waiting area had completely filled up and the line to put names on the list was out the door. It seems like getting here slightly before the 7pm rush makes a world of difference. My faves: buffalo tofu (weird but good), the turkey burger special, and steak tips. Some dishes are better than others but I've never had a dud.
(4)
Dave M.
Tasty food, good atmosphere. There's usually a pretty decent wait around dinner time on the weekend's. Basically, a big step up from your standard bar fair, while still serving things of the same ilk. Great place to start a night out in Cambridge/Somerville.
(4)
Kate S.
Always a good meal for the money. Go for the salmon and white sangria. Skip the french fries.
(4)
Leigh S.
This place is so balanced. It's part pub--full of exposed bricks, an expansive bar and that local-charm feel--and it's part swanky eatery--GREAT veggie options, inventive menu trappings and knowledgeable staff. The 2 times I've been here, I've loved it. The vibe is hip enough to be a great meeting spot for all you twenty-somethings looking for a regular place to hang, without feeling like Cheers. It's also low-key and comfortable enough to have out-of-towners meet up there for a birthday dinner, with children in tow! I commend the staff on being so genial and patient with questions and requests. Their beer menu is fantastic. Try their veggie burgers--even if you're an omnivore!! All of this stuff--it makes Christopher's a real gem.
(4)
Ben K.
My friends and I had long been regular at the Cambridge Common before coming to Christopher's, so it's inevitable that any judgment we make will be couched in a "Well, it's like Cambridge Common, but..." mentality. I think every time I've been there, someone has ordered the "blackjack, or whatever it is you call it here" burger. And there's certainly overlap here. The establishments share ownership and play to similar crowds. In my head Christopher's skews slightly more upscale, but they both hit the same price point. Both have excellent beer menus (varied enough to give everyone something to like, short enough to actually get you to order). Both have stellar burgers, although I think I have to give the by-a-nose victory to Christopher's there. Christopher's also wins for still having deli spears, not bread-and-butter slices. Blech. Despite hewing close together, I take Christopher's over the Common any day of the week (although we often argue between the two, and I never complain about going to either.) The bar is nicer for sitting with a cocktail, the patio is nicer for sitting through a meal on a hot day, and it's never quite as hectic-crowded as the Common always seems to be. Porter Square gets some shit for not really having anything going on, which is at least somewhat deserved, but Christopher's is a reason to come to Porter.
(4)
Alyssa B.
I've been here twice and so far I love it. The location is perfect - I can walk to and from, though it's also right next to the Porter T if you don't live right there. I ordered the veggie burger both times and it's one of the few places that have quality hand-made ones. So good! I also love that it is served with salad. There are specials that actually look yummy and the staff is super friendly and doesn't bother you too much throughout the meal. The sweet potato soup was amazing! As were the sweet potato fries.... anything sweet potato! They also have really cool paintings hanging up that are also for sale.
(4)
Jessi L.
Let me preface this review by saying that I love where I live. Cambridge has everything a young professional could possibly want: a wide-variety of delicious restaurants, easily accessible to public transportation and friendly to those without vehicles, great places to jog, etc., etc. However, the people in Cambridge can be AWFUL. Which is why I love Christopher's. Christopher's is just a good neighborhood restaurant that has great beers on tap, a solid menu, and is not over-ridden with hipster douches. It's one of those places you can roll into, be able to find a seat at the bar, and be able to share a delightful meal and brewski with your friends.
(4)
Sara S.
Everyone raves about the veggie burgers and yuppy nachos, so Brett M. and I came here and tried both. Yuppy Nachos- seriously? They were pathetic and a terrible excuse for a nacho. The sun-dried tomatoes were flavorless, and the only evidence of goat cheese was a massive blog smack in the middle of the chip plate. At least spread the cheese out! We asked for the guacamole on the side, and were served a TINY portion. The salsa was good, but not homemade. I got the Chuck's veggie burger patty, but added my own toppings rather than going with the roasted red peppers and pesto which are listed on the menu. The chuck patty is oatey and has lots of veggies in it, whereas the traditional veggie patty is more like a Morningstar burger (boring). So, I'd recommend getting the Chuck's patty and picking and choosing whatever toppings you'd like on it. The salad served with the veggie burger was really pathetic. Romaine lettuce, a slice of cucumber. That's it! The food took a little longer than it should have to come out... we put in our nacho order with our drinks, and it took at least 20 minutes to arrive. Service in general was just OK. I'd come here if I were in the area and wanted a veggie burger, but I'd never specifically pick going back to Christopher's for a meal.
(3)
Yoonie C.
Maybe my bf hyped it up a bit too much for me... hence 3 stars in my book. Ordered "mighty mushroom" burger... a mixed patty of chopped mushrooms, bacon, and beef. Requested it at medium temp - got it medium-rare. Also, the patty had a faint BO-like smell... why? Chipotle BBQ sauce shouldn't be stank. Lemonade was good. Extra slice of lemon with the appropriate amount of ice made it extra nice. Other 2 in my party got the English muffin burger with bacon and cheddar. One got his cooked perfectly to medium, the other got a very dry almost well-done patty instead of his requested medium-well. I also got a side salad with lemon vineagrette on the side. Maybe I'm kinda diggin' lemon vineagrette now, but the dressing was pretty good... slightly oilier than I'd like, but not too bad considering it's a bar. A taste of my bf's beer on tap was also pretty good. Didn't want to over-do it at just shy of noon on a Saturday. Bottom line: Get a burger - request it medium - and get some beer.
(3)
Paul W.
One of my favorite places to go to for good food and beer! The crowd here is a mix of yuppies, hippies, and hipsters ;-) But I don't think I fit into any of those categories, maybe a food yuppie who doesn't fit into the Wiki ( en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yu… ) defined category so much. The crowd is a mainly a younger fun crowd either way. Anyways, back to the review. I had the mighty mushroom burger which really didn't live up to the mushroom hype and had more of a bbq sauce to give the flavor. The meat patty was a little thin for my liking for a burger but it satisfied by once in a while burger craving. Their other main courses are ok and I typically don't even consider ordering a burger unless the rest of the menu is not looking appealing. Their appetizers though are good but for this visit, I was not looking for just appetizers. Their bloody mary is huge but full of ice. It has a kick to it that is nice but it was lacking the bloody mary character that I enjoy and if I was hungover, I would not want this bloody mary to be my "hair of the dog" choice. But it fulfilled by desire for a bloody mary and I will not be ordering one here again. I still give it 3 stars because not all items on the menu are great and the service is only ok. Don't get me wrong, I love the place still and would still go back for their appetizers and the good beer selection.
(3)
Christian H.
I love this place. With a great drink selection, good food and great atmosphere, this is probably one of the best places in Porter Square. That being said, this is an overall score, not based on my last experience. I appreciate that this place serves food really late. Its always a good go to place to grab food and drinks after a night on the town, or a movie or a theatre show. I think they do certain things better than a few things, like their app selection is great. Also, its just a fun place to be. The fireplace is a great touch, especially on those colder nights. Though, I wasn't wowed by their burgers, but they are still good enough to hit the spot. However, overall, I enjoy this place. I went the other night with my friend. Our service was pretty good, but my friend ordered a flight of beer samples and one random waiter came by and served it. He didn't even tell us which beer was what. At least a card or something would've been nice. We were just going off of tastes. Despite this, our food was still something to look forward to. We started with the nachos. I wonder if they did something different this time, because the chicken on the nachos were really tasty. Seriously. It was this shredded, lime flavored, herb induced taste. It was really good. The melted cheese was great as well. With nachos, it can be a crap shoot, considering the cheese isn't always melted all the way through and there isn't nearly enough cheese on there to begin with. With the chicken nachos this wasn't the case. With a nice pico de gallo, it was a great taste and multiple flavors were hitting me at once. The chips were nice and warm as well. As for my main entree, I got the Christopher Club. Usually, when I get a turkey club, I expect it to have REAL turkey. Especially when the menu says that its real turkey. It was served on onion/garlicy wheat or something. And it was processed. It was kind of a let down. Everything else about the sandwich was fine, but its amazing how little things can take away the moment. The bread it wasn't working for me as far as tastes. It kind of overwhelmed the rest of the sandwich. It was still good, but the processed turkey and the bread took away from the experience. Their fries, however, were good. They were more like little seasoned potato wedges. They usually make every meal slightly better. Again, this is one of my favorite go to places in my neighborhood. Its open late, serves good food and I can get my drink on. Its a great place to bring friends and family alike. Most of the food choices there are pretty decent and there is a lot to choose from. With a chill and reasonbly quiet atmosphere, Christopher's is a good experience.
(4)
Denise W.
Had actually been asked here a few times for drinks but never got the opportunity to go so when I was meeting up with someone for dinner/drinks and was in the Porter Sq area, I decided that this place was a go. Because we were also having dinner, we chose to dine outside (apparently a law that you can't do drinks-only outside in Cambridge, which is LAMESAUCE). Ordered some excellent sangria for 5 or 6$ a glass which is par for the course and some 8-10$ means - I had a mozzarella, tomato, lettuce, and basil sandwich and my friend an apple, walnut, gorgonzola, etc. salad (neither of us are veggie but did the veggie thing here with zero complaints). Nothing to complain about as fas as service was concerned, either. Pro: costs are par for the course, great food, excellent sangria, option to eat outside, good service, convenient location right outside Porter Sq T stop Con: If anything it's that the patio area was a little squished-feeling
(5)
Calli C.
We stumbled in the door late on a weeknight, looking for some drinks. The bartender didn't know what a gin mule was, nor a Moscow mule for that matter. I was able to make up the recipe one the spot, and they surprisingly had really good ginger beer available. I'm a sucker for anything ginger related, so they're a solid three stars for that. The bar is crowded and awkwardly narrow, so sitting there means you're practically behind the bar with the bartender (which I wouldn't have minded, as she was pretty good looking). They also had some really weird game show/video clip channel going that was like a bad Japanese game show, and then UFC or something like that, which clashed with the classy-comfy decor the place has going for it. I'll update more when I go back for food.
(3)
Haley T.
Veggie options galore! They now have a good variety of vegan and vegetarian options for dinner. The beer is also excellent, and the outdoor tables are great in the summer.
(4)
Apolinaras S.
Staff needs to get a bit more expedient and attentive. We came at 11PM and we almost had to chase after our server to get service. Food redeemed bad service (hence 3 stars and not 2). Burgers were good and fries were good too. Nothing to write home about.
(3)
Jon W.
You would think that since it's closely tied with the Cambridge Common that it would be at least on par with them, but it's not. The selection is limited, the food is okay, but I seriously expect a little more since Cambridge Common is fantastic. It's also often populated with some really irritating clientele and if you want to eat, you wait long to both sit and be served.
(2)
Todd R.
I have been to Christopher's before and really enjoyed the burgers and nachos. On my latest outing, however, I decided to go healthy and went with the southwestern chicken salad. one of the things i liked about christopher's was portion size. no cheesecake factory ginormity nonsense, but a decent amount of food. since I was switching from a meat-centric item (the burger) to a veggie-centric one, I assumed that if anything, there'd be more salad-y goodness. not so. I watched jealously as my companions' burgers and club sandwiches arrived, spilling over the the edge of the plate in their abundance. my salad was comparatively paltry. yes, the chicken was reasonably sized. however, I believe the chef was challenging himself to not let the salad beneath poke out past the chicken on any side. adding insult to injury, my meal was priced at or above the level of my carnivorous companions. it was only by shamelessly plundering the plates of my friends that I was sated. the service was friendly and, as I said, I've enjoyed other meals I've had there very much. stay away from the salads, though.
(3)
Karlis B.
What I like most about this place is that when you walk in, you feel like you're walking into someone's home. The place is dark, lush and comfortable. They accommodate large parties very well and the staff was very friendly. The food was solid. This place has six kinds of nachos and we went for the most "alternative": Yuppie Nachos with melted cheddar, jack and goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and guacamole. The chips were thin and pack a nice crunch. Ingredients were not evenly distributed which created that whole "who gets the chip with everything on it" situation. In this case, there was one chip just drenched in goat cheese, so I passed on it. I don't remember any particular ingredient being stellar, but I remember enjoying the nachos overall. My boyfriend tried the drink special, The Molasses Cookie. I didn't recognize any of the ingredients (woo hoo! I'm not a total alcholic), but I did recognize the comforting taste of a molasses cookie (and booze). After a while, the whole table ordered one. Their special holiday beer, Seriously Bad Elf, was also popular. I'm thinking it's popularity was due to its high alcohol content (11.2%) and not good cheer. For some reason, I was craving Chicken Picatta all day and I was thrilled they had it on the menu. Christopher's uses lime instead of the traditional lemon, so it didn't have that sour ping I was really looking for. The chicken was very moist and tender and the breading was tasty. So I'm not complaining at all. The green beans were buttery and well cooked. And the house potatoes is actually like a pancake of mashed potatoes that are a little seared on the outside: quite delicious. Everyone else ordered one of the many burgers they offer and each person devoured the whole burger, so I'm guessing they were good. And if you don't have a personal goal of not putting on weight this season (cuz you know you're too lazy to want to go through the effort to lose it again) consider the weekly burger special. The trend seems to be cheese and various other heart clogging ingredients stuffed into a hamburger patty with more artery hardening ingredients on top. That's the kind of food my tongue screams for and I kinda wish I tried it.
(3)
John K.
This place was horrible! I went there for brunch today the service was terrible and the food was just nasty. The stuff french toast had no "stuffing" but a few blueberries, no cream cheese or custard and it was under cooked and disgusting. I would never go there again and I would never recommend it.
(1)
Nikki I.
I stopped in here with a few friends for drinks later on in the evening. It seemed as though this place would have been good around dinner time, but as for the drinking atmosphere.... it was lacking.
(2)
Lena N.
I had an intense craving for a burger one weekend so I decided to go to Christopher's for lunch with my burger buddy. The atmosphere was like every other pub. Nothing out of the ordinary. Not that I cared about the atmosphere at the time because I was about ready to chew my arm off. I had their English burger. A burger in an english muffin? Well, that's a bit genius. The burger was good. Nothing was terribly wrong with it. But nothing was life changing about it. But forget the burger, their fries are amazing! I finished my whole plate of fries and a bit of my friend's too. Bottom line: Your average pub with somewhat above average burgers and awesome fries to make your inner fat kid happy.
(3)
Kat O.
My mom and I wanted to do a late lunch yesterday and the little outdoor seating area at Christopher's always caught her eye when we drove through Porter, so I suggested we finally give it a try. It was close to 3pm when we arrived, so the place was pretty empty. We got our outdoor seat and ordered a few appetizers each for lunch. We both enjoyed the summer spring rolls (cucumber, carrots, red pepper, avocado wrapped in rice paper with a soy dipping sauce), and she ordered a white bean and vegetable soup special while I had the bruschetta. The soup was tasty, but a little heavy on the salt, and the bruschetta was fantastic! It wasn't completely traditional, as it had olives on it, but it was so so good. The bread was definitely fresh and crispy and awesome. It was a great lunch stop but it didn't blow us away, so I wouldn't feel the need to return. I do appreciate the outdoor seating though, so that's why it gets 4 stars instead of 3!
(4)
Peg P.
I like going to Christopher's for brunch, lunch and dinner. Their menu is a funky mix of American fare, some Tex Mex, and some Bistro-like options. I like the look and feel of the place, they have a lot of original artwork up and it had a cool fireplace in the back section. They have a nice bar selection and their prices are pretty reasonable. The service is great, everyone is really laid back and friendly. I really like going there for their brunch. It is usually pretty crowded, but is worth the wait!
(4)
Kristine A.
I think this place is really neat. There are two floors & plenty of space for groups. They have a very well thought out menu that has great vegetarian options. It's a pretty chill place to go & totally recommend.
(4)
Jamie L.
I've had some luck my last few times through here and the food seems more consistantly delicious, thanks Christopher's!
(3)
Sara C.
Great menu, very nice wine and beer selections. Love the homemade veggie burger.
(5)
Ben H.
I love this place! It's got great bar food and a wide drink selection. The buffalo tofu was absolutely delicious, and the veggie burgers were great too. It's extremely unusual to find such a good selection of vegetarian options at a place that serves hearty pub food. One of my favorite spots in Boston. The non-vegetarian burgers are supposed to be the best in Massachusetts if Bobby Flay is to be believed.
(5)
Christopher M.
For those of you unaware, I love being Christopher, and hate being called "chris". As such, Christopher's has a special place in my heart. . . Ohhh but the five stars go deeper than that. The staff, friendly and on top of their shit. The burgers, delectable. The beer, tasty. The atmosphere, existential (ok maybe not, but I enjoying being a nihilist while sitting at the bar cursing God) All in all, a place I enjoy going, when i'm going somewhere. And if you see me there, please, feel free to buy me a beer or pick up my tab. It's the sociable thing to do.
(5)
Elaine L.
This place is pretty good, like 3.5 star good, but I'll round up. I've been here a handful of times now. The food doesn't push any limits - this is pretty standard home-y food with an occasional twist (burgers with bacon bits and mushroom in it? intriguing). However, the menu does span quite a few cuisines, from Mexican (enchiladas, burritos, and a few other classics) to as-American-as-it-gets sandwiches/burgers, to Italian (daily ravioli special?!). It's hard to decide what to get! I've had the enchiladas, portobello pasta, and Chuck's veggie burger. All of them tasted great but not excellent. Not that that's a bad thing at all, especially since the prices are completely reasonable for the quality of food, and in some cases, it's a steal (especially since a good number of restaurants would charge $4-5 more for the same exact thing). Chuck's veggie burger is supposedly the best of Boston. While I haven't had any other veggie burgers since moving to Boston, I remain unconvinced that none of the other veggie burgers out there are better. The patty was sort of thin and potato-based -- I guess it kind of reminded me of a latke. I'm not a veggie burger conoisseur but I have had veggie burgers before and enjoyed them. This one was only $5.95 so I didn't feel too disappointed. Perhaps Christopher's eponymous veggie burger was the awesome burger that all the rave reviewers are talking about? Food aside, the service was excellent every time. Food and drinks were served reasonably quickly. I never had to wait long for a table since this place is big. I'd take friends here for a casual meal for sure -- it's one of my go-to places. This place probably won't cut it as conventional first-date restaurant, but it's a very pragmatic choice for those willing to defy convention.
(4)
Lee M.
I had two major impressions after eating at Christopher's. The first was "man, that was a really good burger" and the second was "man, it was hotter than sin in there." I went on one of the first cold nights of the season, so maybe they just hadn't figured out their heating yet, but it was just uncomfortably hot in there. But the food was good. I generally operate under the assumption that the burger I order won't be cooked as I order it. I find that restaurants usually tend towards medium no matter what. Christopher's actually cooked the burger as I requested it, which impressed me a lot. We were able to have drinks at the bar before we got a table, which was nice. But they couldn't transfer the tab to the table, and the bartender wasn't the most attentive, so we had to wait almost 10 minutes until we could settle the bill and actually get our 4 person party to our table.
(4)
Jenna B.
I love this place. And I am lucky enough to have it as my neighborhood pub. I go in here either to sit down and eat or for take out at least twice a week. Their menu is diverse, it's not overly pricey and everything I tried here so far has been delicious. I had a friend visiting from the UK and he ordered their chicken, broccoli and penne dish and said it was one of the best dishes he's ever had. Waitstaff and bar staff are friendly, too. Not much else to say about it except that I wish I hadn't waited so long to check it out!
(4)
Mac P.
Pretty middle of the road.... Go here if you dont really want any suprizes
(2)
K J.
Since I have been slacking on my reviews lately and am absolutely bored out of my mind, I decided to add my € 0.02 on a place I like to go to get my beer and burger fill. It is in a easily accessible location, close to the Porter Square T station if you are environmentally friendly person. Petrol heads need not be disappointed because parking is conveniently located at the Porter Square Exchange mall right across the road. I have never seen them get super crowded, even on Friday evenings, so usually I have got a table pretty quickly. Like I said, I have always liked this place to a beer and burger joint. On the occasions I ventured into the appetizer territory, I was disappointed; especially their tortilla chips. The spicy pepperjack burger is my perennial favorite to go with a few of their ever changing beers on tap. Burgers, standard or made to order, are served with thick fatty fries and I have a number of occasions tried hard to finish all of them. Service has been standard as well. P.S. Never talk about beer when you are really bored doing nothing at work. It just makes you want to have one
(4)
Daniel M.
Get drunk here and forget about the food. On second thought, get drunk and then eat the food, then you won't be disappointed by the mediocrity of Christopher's. This is a BAR that tries desperately to be an eatery but just fails miserably, they don't know whether they're coming or going. They have a fire place, HD televisions everywhere and a wrap around bar with a bazillion bar tenders. They're so well staffed at the bar, it's like they're expecting the homeless to stampede from off the streets and into the bar for happy hour! The famous veggie burger should be rated B because no one really needs to know about it and only cult followers will want to appreciate it's subtle nothingness. The black bean soup, um....I think Trader Joe's stole their recipe and offer it out of a can in stores throughout the state. The fries were ok but I really couldn't tell because I think they gave me 4 total (literally, no joke). The burger also comes with a "side salad" which is basically a handful of baby spinach that's smooshed into a ball next to 4 french fries. Drinks are plentiful and I believe good ole Christopher specifically offers a wide variety of drinks so that his patrons are so wasted that they won't care if they're eating a dead rat from the tracks of the Porter Square T stop. The staff - I hadn't had a bite of food and the waitress asked how everything was, this is just an indication of how welcome I felt while dinning at their establishment. If she could have, this impatient waitress would have sat customers on my lap just to seat more people even though there were lots of tables available. Unfriendly, unprofessional and impatient, very distracting. Christopher's should stick to what they're good at and that's getting people drunk.
(2)
Caitlin I.
Does Christopher's need its 300th something review from me? Probably not, but it's gonna happen anyways. I've been here a few times. All aspects of it actually. Upstairs for dinner and drinks with friends, downstairs for the first date drinks, and the other side for what can only be described as "I feel out of place because I have boobs but don't have a cowboy hat" music night. First time for dinner and drinks, we headed upstairs. The server was incredibly sweet about making sure we had our bartender from downstairs make our drinks the way we had while we were waiting and was completely attentive and understanding about one of my friends who has food allergies. She went back multiple times to check with the cook about ingredients and oils and I know that my friend was appreciative since that's not always the case. The food (the burger at least) was tasty, no confusion or delays, and reasonably priced for the amount of food that they place down in front of you. It weirded me out a little that there were parties of people with babies there (not the ones that can actually move around on their own, the "won't stop crying til a pacifier or bottle is shoved in my mouth" kind) that put a little damper on the vibe of the place, but at that point, it was pretty loud that they barely made a dent in the cacophony of the night. Drinks downstairs at the bar. This might be my new official go to place for the first date drinks as well. All drinks are priced that I don't feel completely ripped off when I get my bill and they're well made. And they've got some interesting choices if you choose to be adventurous with your liquor. Perfect place to sit down with someone new, get to know them between drinks and the game on the tv, but not feel like everyone is watching you knowing exactly what you're up to. It puts you at ease and creates a cozy environment until the guy next to you tries to get off his chair and kicks you in the shins. I'll just pretend that adds to the ambiance of Christopher's. And lastly...the other side with the music. I can't really comment because I didn't stay past chugging my beer down with my date when we saw the guys in the cowboy hats come out. Apparently they've got live music every night which I can completely respect, but the cowboy hats, not so much. Sorry fellas. It was a nice mix of younger hipsters with an older crowd which made for some interesting people watching, but for now, I think I'll be sticking to the other side of Christopher's.
(4)
Lindsay L.
I don't know what everyone else is looking for in a bar & grill setting, but I love this place. Vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike eat well here in this casual dining setting. Vegetarians who like spicy food will be delighted by their buffalo tofu! They always have a vegetarian soup of the day, and their chili is vegetarian as well. Don't miss the portabello mushroom rueben. My very picky NON-VEGETARIAN boyfriend loves their burgers, chicken sandwiches, and buffalo wings. I also enjoy their tongue-in-cheek apps menu, which boasts "yuppie nachos" with goat cheese as well as traditional "buenos nachos." They have a great selection of microbrew beers, and for a girl who loves a good dark beer, Christopher's is a great place to get something heartier and fresher than Guinness. Christopher's is heads and tails above the other bar and grill places I've eaten at in the Boston area. If you're looking for fine dining, don't go to a bar and grill. But if you're looking for not-too-expensive, tasty casual food that is fresh and made with real ingredients (even the olives here are good), then Christopher's is the right place to go.
(5)
Leighann F.
It pains me to do it, but I've been left with no choice! Christopher's brunch experience just hasn't been up to par as of late and it really merits the removal of a star. The eggs on my eggs benedict were so overdone that when I cut into them, they looked more like the inside of a hard-boiled egg. And when our server refilled the coffee, the dumped the last half cup into the mug, along with all the coffee grinds and said she'd have to brew more and left the table! She came back and we had to ask for a new cup! The quality of the food and service have just been a bit sub par over the past few visits, and with so many other option in the area, it makes me wonder if there's a reason to keep going back?
(3)
Rebecca K.
Considering that Christopher's is a mere 15 minute stroll from my front door, I'm a quasi-regular. I've come here for multiple reasons: for a drink before dinner, a drink after my orchestra's rehearsal, for a pleasant dinner, and for brunch. It serves well for all of those occasions. Christopher's serves what I would say is better than average pub food. They have a large selection of your typical appetizers and their burger and sandwich choices are excellent. They have specials every day, covering a burger/sandwich, a pizza, and a ravioli. I've never ordered any of the pasta dishes, but I've tasted them and they are superb. (Avoid desserts, though. The one down side.) As others have said, their nachos are dynamite, although a bit pricey. I think it's worth it because the toppings are better quality. (If you want big, cheap nachos, go to Tavern on the Square.) Also, the draft beer selection is top notch. One days when I'm feeling more adventurous and a bit more spendy, I get the prickly pear margarita or the lime rickey, but all of the cocktails look good. Christopher's is a solid pub and one that I'm glad is walkable.
(4)
Jennifer B.
I seem to be one of the few unimpressed by their veggie burgers. However I tried again and fell in love with their Portabella Ruben. The boyfriend hated their Steak but loved their Cajun Cheese Fries so much so that I've had to recreate them at home no less than twice a week. You have to try the Portabella Ruben and the Cajun Cheese Fries, I mean that is if you get there late enough. Too early and you'll be stuck with the limited menu.. booo.
(4)
Vanessa C.
I know I have reviewed this place before FOR A FACT, since it is home to my favorite burger in boston. yeah you read that right, and its no small claim. I pretty much had my own table here when I still lived in somerville. ok then I will review it ONE MORE TIME but I'll stick to the facts ma'am: THE BURGERS RULE - will cook to specification. medium rare? still moo-ing? check. THE LITTLE POTATO WEDGEY FRIES RULE - just get them. get them and forget you ever learned the word "trans fat" THE NACHOS RULE - giant humungo plate of awesome nachohhhz yum yum BRUNCH - meh.... skip it. DESSERT - recommended. I dont drink but there are tons of beer choices here. ALSO! ! ! they have the most amazing 80's satellite radio station here that plays like GOOD stuff not the overdone cliche stuff. like back to back depeche mode - the cure - the smiths - tears for fears kind of playlist. some days I would just want to sit & hang out with the ex-gf & listen to our "old people" music. *sigh* one of my favorite spots in somerville.
(4)
Deb L.
2.5 stars - nothing memorable about the brunch, maybe it was what I ordered (omlet). Fun location/space.
(2)
Chris H.
I'll sum up in three words: Good Value Food! (plus a few extra words: Awesome beer selection!) This is my 'local' as i like to call it. it's friendly, has great atmosphere, and not too expensive. Dont get me wrong though - it aint the cheapest place in town - a beer will set you back 5 bucks minimum and the average main is about 13 dollars. But it's good. Real good. So, I like to break my reviews down into four parts: The Food, The Drink, The Service and "Chris' Final Thoughts'. So, lets break-it-daaoooown! The Food (3.8/5) It's good! not great, but good. You will never have a meal you dont like (in my humble opinion) - cooked well, good ingredients and well seasoned. it's not stunning, but simple honest food. They have weekly specials for burgers, pizzas and pastas. Their specials usually rock alot more than their standard menu - but my favourite dishes by far are the Buffalo Wings and the Chorizo Burger - awesome! The Drink (5/5) The beer selection ABSOLUTELY ROCKS. They have ever changing taps - 12 rolling beers from various local micro-breweries as well as a great wine selection and all not massively expensive. A great place to put down 'the base layer' with some good quality drinks. The Service (4.5/5) They are mega attentive but not pushy. I prefer to sit at the bar, but hey - that's just me. The staff are friendly, like to talk, and know their stuff. The only downer is that they cant always keep up their super smiles and friendliness when it gets mega busy. Chris' Final Thoughts (4/5) Great for a second or third date and also great for a tried and trusted place to booze and eat at the same time. If i were to relate it to my favourite music, with radiohead at the top and jeff buckley's new tunes at the bottom, i'd put it as an old school U2 b-side. Rock on.
(4)
Jessica M.
Dear Christopher's - Thank you for serving good food and a variety of edible delights, they make me happy. More than that, thank you for being stumbling distance from my house, and therefore providing me with plenty of opportunities to, well, stumble home from a bar. Looking forward to your steak tips and another pint! Cheers!
(5)
Yumiko F.
Beer selection is good. ( not only just cheap beer.. they got more of nicer beers on tap! ) Food is pretty good. I tried potato cream soup was very yummy! Also tried Spinach apple salad and was tons of it but was really good! They have vege burger so even if you only eat vegetable, You can definitely go there and enjoy! I like the atmosphere and all the stuff are very nice! Tip them well!!
(5)
Annie L.
Sunday Brunch: Huevos Rancheros: Not bad. Potatoes on the Side: Delish. Crispy, seasoned outer, soft, perfectly warm inner. "Side of Fruit": 4 apple slices, 7 grapes, and a strawberry...? "Iced Coffee": If you're out of iced coffee, please ask me if I would want hot coffee poured over ice before assuming that will be the best solution. "Service": Okay, I was sitting at the bar. Very friendly when attentive, but impossible to flag down. Please note that the two of us still gave 20%. Total Hangover Reduction: 96% ...Goal accomplished.
(3)
Kimberly N.
I love this place! Went here one Friday night because we had hurt great things about this bar; however it is so much more! The food is awesome, much better than typically pub food. My boyfriend got the jambalya and it was amazing! I got the chicken piccatta and I enjoyed every bite! Great beer selection and friendly service! Will definitely go back!
(4)
Brooke W.
The ambiance wasn't above average in any way, although generally pleasant, but I really enjoyed my meal here. Great for a hangover. I had the english person's burger or whatever it's called, and it came to me medium like i requested cooked in ale with cheddar cheese and bacon I think. FELT SO RIGHT. Also, I am not generally a fan of thick cut potato wedges, but these somehow were amaazzing. The outside was perfectly crispy, not soggy or undercooked. They also had a nice beer selection, and good sangria. I have heard great things about the stuffed turkey burgers and veggie burgers as well. Based on my delicious experience, I would not be afraid to try anything on Christopher's menu.
(4)
Torvic V.
I've been a vegetarian all my life so naturally one of the first menu items I try out are the veggie burgers. Let me just say that I've had A LOT of veggie burgers in my time and the one I'm always comparing them to is Christopher's Homemade Veggie burger. It's a must have for veggie burger lovers. Staff is always friendly and prompt. Great place!
(4)
Jess L.
Went for my birthday. The waitress noticed on my ID that it was my birthday! The stuffed turkey burger of the day was great. How could you not get a burger? Nice ambiance. Great selection of beers. I'd definitely go again.
(4)
Shauna G.
I've only lived in Porter Square for a few weeks, and already I've been to Christopher's three - maybe even four? - times. Now, I probably wouldn't go here so frequently if it wasn't so convenient, but that doesn't mean the food and drinks aren't damn good. My favorite drink so far is the raspberry lime rickey drink. You'll swear you're drinking the sweet, cool, non-alcoholic version - I actually asked the waiter if she might have gotten my order mixed up! By contrast, my other drink orders - a standard rum and coke, and a pomegranate martini, were decidedly uninspiring. As far as food goes, my favorite appetizer is the nachos. I was really excited by the buffalo tofu, but it turned out to be way to spicy for me. Their veggie burgers are delish, and I have it on good authority that their animal burgers aren't bad, either. Where they really shine is their brunch. A bunch of friends and I went there on a late Sunday morning, got a table easily, and treated ourselves to their variety of creative brunch options. I got a delicious mozarella and tomato omellete, and we all agreed that their potato-and-vegetable sides that came with our meals were as good as the entree itself. I will come back and keep updating this review with more opinions as I continue to sample Christopher's menu.
(4)
Hugh R.
I've had mixed experiences at Christopher's. At times the food is superb, while other times it's just "meh." I've enjoyed the fish & chips but came away feeling underwhelmed by the blackened chicken sandwich. The portion sizes (generous) and the price (quite right!) for my fruit stuffed french toast and chorizo omlette during Sunday brunch were to my liking, but I feel like each could have had just a litttttle bit more flavor. Overall, a pleasant dining experience. The staff is pleasant and attentive and the food is generally good enough to keep bringing me back. A nice place to grab a bite to eat before hopping (get it!) on over to Toad for some live music.
(4)
Sarah D.
For what it's worth, I go to this place a LOT. Like, really a lot. Like this is my "you wanna go where everybody knows your name" place. So with that disclaimer/admission, here goes. Rob the bartender is a master! Note to self & others: don't even bother getting a periodista if he's not making it. Melissa and the other staff whose names I don't remember are great too -- super friendly, attentive, etc. The yuppy nachos sound kind of ridiculous, I know, but they are truly a great culinary invention. Anything on the menu here that involves homemade fettucine is a must-try. Boneless buffalo wings are by far the most flavorful I've had anywhere, plus a good dose of heat. The chicken ziti & broccoli here has the genius addition of a little fresh basil (not to mention a light sauce) that makes it sooo delish -- though it is v. garlicky, be forewarned. Salads are big and fresh and varied. Also, the reuben is grilled cheesy goodness. Don't bother with the pizzas or the spinach artichoke dip. There's plenty of other great stuff to eat.
(5)
Micah W.
MY favorite place to eat in Porter. Great beer selection, super food and I can get out with a couple'a beers and two dinners for under 40. Which is tough in our fair city of Boston.
(5)
Jesse F.
Sunday brunch is great but $4 for a very small fruit platter of melon, grapes and strawberries is not.
(3)
Dave W.
Love the yuppie nachos and the rotating taps, but the place is a little too yuppie for me. Having to ask for water? Come on. If I don't order something else bring me a water. Its not like they serve bottled water, and you can water a plant with it if I don't finish it. I still go to Christophers for the yuppie nachos. I love them. Main courses arent my favorites. Sometimes service is iffy but never horrible. Good place to go with friends, get a burger and have some beers.
(3)
Ely S.
TL;DR -- Christopher's always serves consistently good food with good prices and a good, diverse beer list. Sometimes their special items are exceptionally good, but in general you won't find the best meal of your life. It's a great place for a date and their brunch menu is also good and well-priced. Lastly, Christopher's has excellent options for vegetarians. Full Review: Christopher's is a hip-looking landmark in Porter Square just about 1 minute away from the subway station. The interior is always classy with a nice fireplace and lots of seating (including an entire upstairs area). I live close by and have been going here for about two years regularly. I've never had a bad meal or bad service at Christopher's. I'm a vegetarian, so I frequently order dishes with blackened or buffalo tofu in place of meat and the tofu at Christopher's is very good. There is also a unique spinach and artichoke burrito on the regular menu that's pretty tasty. The veggie burger isn't bad but it's also nothing special. They frequently have vegetarian soups and special entrees. Almost any vegetarian ravioli they make is bound to be delicious (I've had the 3-cheese ravioli and the pumpkin ravioli and both were excellent). As much as it pains me to order a dish called "yuppie nachos", they really are delicious (goat cheese, guacamole, and sun dried tomatoes on tortilla chips). The blackened tofu / black bean empanadas are also a great appetizer. In terms of beer, Christopher's is right up there with Cambridge Common in terms of having a large, rotating menu. The stuff they always have is decent, but you can always count on 4 or 5 really good rotating draught beers. They also serve good cocktails (I've had a few at brunch). Lastly, the brunch menu is great. I highly recommend the blackened tofu breakfast skillet. If you arrive by 11 am, the place is almost never crowded. Around noon it starts to pick up and there can be a long wait. I find it pretty uncomfortable to sit at their bar for brunch; it's just something about the seats and how far away they are from the counter. Waiting for a table is better. There's no better place to sneak into on a cold, snowy, or rainy Cambridge evening to warm up and have good food and good beer. You wouldn't think of it as a dive bar or a "go-to bar" because the interior is so nice, but it really is a staple of Porter Square.
(4)
G S.
One thing I love about Christopher's is that I can choose to have a delicious stylish meal (homemade ravioli) or regular bar and grill food. Well...I should reword that sentence. Their bar food is anything but 'regular'. They have many vegetarian selections (in appetizers as well as main courses). I come here a few times a month to snack on bbq tofu or tofu southwestern dip and a cold beer. With the friendly staff and good food (for both vegetarians and meat eaters), I can say that I highly recommend Christopher's!
(4)
Kaajal M.
This is my #1 favorite place to get burgers in Boston. They make the most delicious burgers with such great toppings. I've yet to have a single meal here that isn't perfect. The beer selection is always changing (they do flights of beer for tasting as well) and they do pitchers of sangria that are huge!
(5)
Shaina P.
Christopher's always has a a clever selection of booze, but the shape of the bar leaves no room for bystanders (yet they try anyway). The food is forgettable, the service just fine. Things that I think of when I think of C's is the dark wood-y interior, the beer, and Toad.
(3)
Erin M.
Now we're down to 3 stars. Sorry Christopher's, you lost your half star. Look, I know my friends and I came on a Sunday. But is that really a reason for the waiter to ignore us and chat with his friends all night two tables over? We were thirsty and would have appreciated refills of our water. We would have appreciated getting our food a little faster. We also would have appreciated our food being a bit above "eh/ok/average" because I KNOW last time I was here the food was a bit better than "eh/ok/average". That is why I picked you to eat at in the first place! The OTHER waiter who came to help us was very attentive and kid. I hope he got the "eh/ok/average" tip we left instead of the inattentive one. We had to cover our bases though. Oh, and all because it's Sunday doesn't mean the portions should get smaller. We were hungry! We might come back...if necessary.
(3)
Will W.
To get things straight, I've only had the beer there. Going there for whatever kind of game has always been a treat. The people are quite nice and low key and the barkeeps really do help you out. The selection is above par for beers and as far as food goes, I've heard their nachos are incredible. I'll have an update eventually... after I actually by some eats.
(4)
Evan M.
Wow, I must say I'm surprised by the mixed reviews, I've eaten here almost a dozen times since moving to Porter square and not once have I had a bad experience (knock on wood...) I've tried a number of items from their vegetarian options to their real burgers and even the salmon burger once or twice and it's always been good. They make my gin and tonics strong enough, and I usually don't have too much of a wait. All in all, I'd say try it yourself and go in with an open mind. I really like this place.
(4)
Schae K.
this is a great go-to place. their food is yummy, their selection is great...they do a decent brunch & make good drinks at totally reasonable prices. i will say this though - i'm so glad they changed their wall art...they had really strange paintings up for a while that were totally obtrusive & distracting...thank buddah they're gone now! other than that, solid all around place with good grub & drinks. also, awesome location, chill & unassuming atmosphere, and pretty much always has seating thanks to the second dining room upstairs!
(4)
Evonne S.
I ate here last weekend with my husbands family because of the reviews I read here. It was nice. Staff was super friendly and attentive. Enough room for the kids to come out. Food prices were not bad compared to every where else we have eaten so far. Location was ok but the parking situation was bad - not for me since I found parking right next to it but for the family it was down right bad. So if you come, come by train or be prepared to really struggle with parking. Our food was not bad - my only gripe is that it wasnt hot. It wasnt cold but it kinda freaked me out it was not hot meaning it has been sitting there for a little bit. All in all, I would probably try it again just to make sure.
(4)
Betts C.
I'm slightly uncertain of how many stars to give Christopher's. I sort of want to give it four, but it's just not that amazing. It's good. It's really good pub food, they make excellent drinks, and they have a good beer selection. However, in comparison with other similar options in the region, it's just not phenomenal. But it is a good place to get a burger (the English on the English muffin is pretty tasty, and the Andouille is a more interesting but still delicious burger) and their fries are nice and thick-cut. They are not, however, the burgers that I could get back in the Midwest (sorry, it's true), nor do the fries hold up on that scale. I fear that living in Missouri for a year, being the fatty and fried Midwest, has sort of shifted my ability to judge such things. It's also not helpful that I had Craigie on Main's burger fairly recently. That, which is pretty much like ground up filet, shouldn't even be called a burger. But it is, and it too has tainted my judgment. But that said, Christopher's burgers are also entirely reasonably priced for what you get, and you get a whole lot of food. I've heard very good things about their black bean burger, and have every intention of getting it in the next couple times I go there. I've also sampled two different fish and pasta specials. They were both good, but slightly less than phenomenal. However, their short ribs that they had on special, which were a sort of barbecue flavored affair, were delicious. Hands down the best thing I've had there. And I'm coming from one of the undisputed barbecue capitals, and I have to give them this one: those are some very tender (if yes, fatty) short ribs (they're going to be fatty, that's the thing with short ribs). The mashed potatoes they come with are an excellent support, even if the other accompaniment, some broccoli, doesn't hold up to this level. Again, it's pub food. The vegetables aren't even supposed to hold up. So it's good. It's somewhere to which I will happily return. Their staff has always been super friendly and very good to us. The drinks may not be of the likes one can get at Craigie or Hungry Mother, but this is a pub, not a super adorable little chi-chi restaurant, and they know their stuff.
(3)
Brandon T.
The services was slow and the run/coke was only average. The food was nothing to write home about. The Bloody Mary was actually above average I thought though.
(2)
Sara J.
This place is great! Wonderful beer choices and unique cocktails. Good menu with a lot of interesting and tastey vegetarian options. Service is always quick and kind, but the wait can be long for dinner time since it's so popular. Brunch is also great here.
(4)
Barney B.
often times with siblings, there is the older, cool one you really enjoy hanging with - and the younger, uncool one that's awkward, tries too hard (and not enough) and just fails socially. Christopher's is Cambridge Common's baby brother, for sure. Odd setup, awkward service, mediocre food - yet a menu and owner shared by the terribly-more-efficient sibling up the road. I had some annoying times here in the past, but held off reviewing because maybe things have changed. they haven't - it's really meh
(2)
Rachel B.
Dear Christopher's, Your prices are great. Your food is pretty good. And you have a bunch of alcohol. That's all fine and dandy. But you must do something about your outdoor seating area. It's pretty ridiculous. As a pedestrian (yes I just said that), I walk by your restaurant during peak hours, and I fear that I will smash into one of your food-and-drink-carrying servers as they enter and exit the front door. It's dangerous stuff, you know. Outdoor seating is a great idea. But when you are consuming 80% of the sidewalk, it's pretty annoying. Now, I have never dined outside at Christopher's (as a customer -- not pedestrian -- as technically one cannot ambulate and dine at the same time), but I can imagine it would be rather awkward to be gawked at by the passersby as they try to avoid smashing their briefcases into my face. That would definitely be problematic for all parties involved. I know you will not change your ways, as one yelp review means squat. But perhaps your future customers will take the "inside or outside?" question commonly asked by your hosts/hostesses into serious consideration. Thank you. Sincerely, Ordinary Pedestrian/Occasional Customer
(3)
Ashley A.
Food and drinks were very good, overpriced for the food and the portions are very small.
(3)
Chanel R.
I have mixed feelings about this place but since I am sure that I will keep going back, it gets 4 stars. The one and only reason I hate going there is because I always get stuck upstairs which is the awfullest atmosphere! Brown wood paneling, no art work. It is hard to describe it with precision but I hate being there. Here is why I love it when I don't feel like cooking: For light eaters- I love the low-fat ceasar and their veggie soups are usually great. Black bean burger is great. Homemade raviolis are good. Heavy but good. They taste homemade. Espresso Martini at brunch was to die for. Blood Mary's are really good. Nachos are really good- I like that they come in small and large. Although, the small nachos is more than enough for two people.
(4)
Kathryn H.
Perfect for cozy, comfort food. Can be crowded, but affordable and with great vegetarian options. We go here regularly, have never had anything terrible. There are some hit and miss waitstaff, but overall they are quite good. Will continue to go there for low key dinner with friends or family.
(4)
Kelly W.
This bar is pretty non-descript. Not in a bad way, but it could just as easily be a Pizza Uno or another Joshua Tree (albeit with less annoying blasting music & TVs). That being said, the place gains most of its points by having a fantastic variety of beers on tap--tonight I think I counted 2 different pumpkin ales and 4 Oktoberfests (and I love my seasonal beers, mmm) as well as a Magic Hat Chocolate Stout and a Watermelon Wheat. All the beer was around $4.50-5.00 a pint, I believe. Also, the service was really great--friendly and quick. I'll probably only be back if I can't find a bar with just as decent a beer list that has a little more personality.
(3)
Jamie G.
Came here with a group of 6 (luckily they do they reservations for groups of 6 or more). We ordered a pitcher of white sangria and then later red. I personally thought the wine was better but others in my group liked the red. They were both tasty and drinkable though not nearly my fave. My friend had a martini which she said was awful. So dont order a cocktail here! We started with cajun fries... which were WAY too cajun for me but others quite enjoyted them. But dont order if you're like me and cant handle spice! Then I had the special raviolis, which were pumpkin and DELICIOUS. Others in my group had beers, burgers, and wings, and enjoyed them as well. Good casual atmosphere, good beer selection, good food. Not my fave, but not bad either!
(4)
Anthony R.
Did you know: Christopher's is the the "sister" restaurant of my old standby, Cambridge Common. The similarities run deep, so much that my friends and I refer to it as "Bizarro Cambridge Common." Some things aren't as good : there aren't any fried pickles (damn), everything costs about a dollar more (damn), and there aren't quite as many beer choices (damn!) but in return you get a slightly nicer atmosphere and a bit more interesting food options. I had the Andouille burger last night and it was very tasty - there's something about packing two animals into one patty that's just pure, inspired brilliance. They also serve the Cambridge Common's blackjack burger (nice!) but call it the "cajun burger" and serve it with steak fries. Whatever, I'm happy with that. I think I'd usually pick Cambridge Common over Christopher's, but it is closer to my place - if only slightly - and it's nice to vary it up.
(4)
Nhi N.
I looove brunch at this place. I had a pesto lentil burger the first time - so delicious! And I almost never like fries but their fries are addictive. My friend had the mushroom omelet which was really good as well. The 2nd time, we had buffalo wings with blue cheese sauce - accidentally inhaled the smell and it was strong, in a good way! And the blue cheese sauce probably had creme fraiche in it, it was sooo good. My eggs benedict had 2 perfectly poached eggs (that broke into beautiful yellow yolk liqud when you cut into it) and the hollandaise wasn't breaking or greasy or too thick at all. I'll have to come back here for the fruit stuffed french toast! And the best thing is it wasn't expensive at all :) love this place!
(5)
John W.
after posting a "meh" review of Tavern in the (Porter) Square, some folks asked what in the hood was better. Christopher's, i tell you. they have a wonderful tap selection. the menu is mostly bar food but with many options for vegetarians. the Buffalo Tofu Wings are good, their homemade Vegetarian Burgahs are terrific. minus one star cause the service is hit-or-miss.
(4)
Rachel Z.
Good brunch!
(5)
Richard C.
I have to stop with the expectations. Whenever I have high hopes for a place (see: O'Sullivans or UBurger to start) I'm severely disappointed. I read "best of" lists or read a great review on Yelp or plain old word of mouth that gets me excited for a burger, but 9 times out of ten it's just not very good. Christopher's has all the accolades, in fact, Food Network recently claimed it to be the best burger in Massachusetts. But it's painstakingly average, it's a pub burger and no more. I love the location, it's Cambridge, and the Porter Square area, and it brings back fond memories of culinary school for me as we used to frequent here for a drink or four after a hard day in the kitchen. Walking over to Christopher's last night we walked by my alma mater and saw some hopeful culinary students in class, ah the memories. I was excited to be back in my old neighborhood and I was excited because I was so sure we were in for great burger. They list a few different options, but to be fair and consistent, I have to keep ordering the same thing, a bacon burger for me and the English burger for Nick (marinated in Ale, topped with cheddar, bacon and served on an English muffin). I immediately know I'm in trouble when presented open-faced, there is a good inch between the meat and the space to the bun, too much bread will be a problem. The burger has grill marks on it, and of course my preference is griddled, but I'm open-minded, unfortunately the meat, while relatively tasty, is totally dry despite being cooked properly. (no easy feat) The fries are good, pub fries basically, but seasoned good, if not a little skimpy on the portions. The burger is supposed to be six ounces, but it doesn't feel six ounces, and the biggest problem really is the bread. It takes a couple of warm-up bites to get through the first layer of bread to even reach the meat, even then it's a struggle, it's way too big a bite while still being cheap with the meat. (again, no easy feat) It's totally average, and a huge letdown. Nick claims to barely pick up any hint of the Ale, his cheese is not fully melted (surprise surprise) and he also faces the same bread problem. Despite having a cool neighborhood feel, it's quiet enough that you can actually have a conversation, and the menu at least boasts several options for everyone, it just isn't very good, and certainly not very memorable. Next time I have high hopes for a restaurant based on some list, I'll run the other way in horror, because I already know it's not going to be any good.
(2)
John D.
A real, real good place...but not spectacular or outstanding. Just really good. Good food, good atmosphere, never a wait, attentive waitstaff, so what's the problem? Don't ask me, because I think that's just the thing. It's a B+ type of place, not a straight A place. Fun place to go and you can bring your parents or the date you want to get into bed...or the date that you want to take to your parents sooner or later. It can work out for anyone, and anyone can find something on the menu that they'd like to try, and then like what they tried.
(4)
Cynthia S.
This place is truly hit or miss. don't get me wrong the food is good. It's the service I'm talking about. Either you get a very attentive server or the worst server in the WORLD! I go back when a friend suggests it, but never on my own.
(3)
Joseph R.
I just went here for the first time the other day and am really amazed it only has a 3.5 star rating over all. This place was excellent. The prices were decent. The specialty beers rocked. I will definitely be back!
(5)
David T.
pretty good place to get a drink, dinner, and still be able to talk to the people around you. ended up going just on a whim, and was pleasantly surprised. definitely going back for seconds! had a pitcher of sangria with a friend, which, mind you, is a lot more drink than i expected! about 5 or 6 glasses in a koolaid style pitcher hehe. they mix the sangria at the bar, which is a whole other deal. i thought it would be presoaking in fruits and stuff, but the bartender just whipped it up right there. wasn't expecting much, but it was surprisingly alright. also had the cajun cheese fries - they are the devil! haha. you'll be craving more and more. they definitely hit the spot when you are drinking. overall good service and good times.
(4)
Arnab M.
I've only been here for brunch and it was bloody fantastic. Perfectly done hash browns, omelets and French toast make for a delightfully delicious and fattening brunch. There was no wait, which is always great, but it filled up shortly after we got there, which is also a good sign. If you like Sunday brunch out, this would be a good outing.
(4)
Lena S.
If I could eat their smoked salmon eggs benedict every day I would die a morbidly obese by insanely happy woman..... I've only been here for brunch but it's my favorite place to be on a Sunday.
(4)
Ben B.
I think I love everything about this place. The beer selection and bartenders make it easy to stick around for hours.
(5)
Amanda B.
We went out with a group. There were two vegetarians in the group. The veggie burger was really good, but the portobella reuben was just okay. Vegetarians beware: the fries are fried in the same oil with meat, etc. So, we were slightly disappointed not to have any fries. Had a salad with balsamic dressing. Their house made balsamic is too heavy for my taste. The meat eaters seemed pleased with their hamburgers and fries.
(3)
Daniel C.
Classic pub food, good beer list. I have a few small gripes: The burgers aren't very consistent; sometimes "medium rare" gets you a blackened patty, other times bloody. The upstairs dining area has a limited beer list, so if you want something from the full list, you have to hike downstairs to get it yourself. (They'll carry food upstairs, but not beer, apparently.) Anyway, generally a positive experience though.
(4)
Jonathan S.
Count me as a Christopher's fan. They make good burgers, have a good beer selection, and competitive prices, especially considering they use all natural ingredients. Their homemade veggie burger is excellent!
(4)
Dave L.
I like! Great range of veggie options here for the GF. Some of which I was very impressed by. The buffalo tofu was great, and this farfale dish I had was also quite good. The food quality is above the price range, and above the general "vibe" of this place (which I do like). Good range of beers, and you can get beer samplers! I really need to come by here more often.
(4)
aine f.
Christopher's has been our go to place for years- casual, convenient and dependable, with a great beer list. In the last few months though- we have noticed a steady decline in all aspects of the place. The only stand out bartender, Melissa, has left and the remaining bar staff are sorely lacking in either personality or efficiency. I would suggest that Christopher's take note of the Highland Kitchen model and hire some "career" bartenders who give a sh*t. Food quality has also declined, not sure if kitchen staff has changed? But given that it has been our "local" for so long- we still continue to go and hope that the decline is temporary. Last night though, we sat at the bar for 10 minutes without even being acknowledged. Having been in the service industry for longer that I care to remember, I understand that the customer may not be aware of all that is going on- but a simple greeting- to let me know that you'll get to us when you can- goes a long way. The second bartender went off the bar just after we sat down- and it wasn't busy- but no no-one so much as looked at us. We left without being greeted- let alone served. Time to find a new local.
(1)
Bhuvana H.
I've been going to Christopher's for years and have always liked it. The beer selection is good, and the food is tasty, especially the nachos, burgers, and sandwiches. There are good vegetarian options, and the service has always been fast & friendly when I've gone there. Most of the menu is great but a couple of their appetizers (cajun fries, spinach & artichoke dip) are a bit weak. However, their yuppie nachos (with sundried tomatoes!) make up for those.
(4)
chungo m.
this place sucks. it's filled with wanna be yuppies who can't quite make it into Boston. gross food.
(2)
Will E.
A great place to meet for a drink or some food in the Porter area. Convenient to the Porter Red Line. Good beer selection. Small but welcoming bar area. The food at Christophers is better than it needs to be - with a surprising amount of vegetarian options. I had the avocado quesadilla - a little heavy but good. My wife had a personal pizza - quite enjoyable.
(4)
Bryanne R.
Was here twice...once to get dinner on a Saturday (too long a wait...we left) and tonight to grab a quick dinner after the gym. My friend and I split the andouille and beef burgah. It was really good! Highly recommended if you're looking for a safety meal with an awesome flair.
(4)
Zachary B.
My group has held a half dozen large brunches at Christopher's in the past few years -- anywhere from 12-40 people -- and I've been happy with the service. As other reviews have noted, the food is satisfying. But there seems to be a new policy on group reservations; I asked to schedule a brunch for 24 people on Sunday morning, and the manager informed me that they'd seat us only if we guaranteed that our party would spend at least $1,000 -- after a moment, he adjusted that to $800 -- for our brunch. The reason he gave, when I asked about this new policy, is that the upstairs (where large groups are seated) "isn't usually open on Sundays." This contradicts my experience, and I don't find it a friendly change in procedure. We'll be taking our group business elsewhere from now on..
(2)
Jen H.
I can only give this an A-OK. It was crowded and not really constructed well for a group of people to stand and talk b/c of the barricade between the bar area and some of the dining area. Also... it smelled like fish for most of the time I was there. This is probably due to someone in the dining area behind me ordering something fishy... but MY GOD... P-U!!! I don't like fish. In fact, the smell of fish cooking makes me sick to my stomach.... and this fish after it had been cooked and was on someone's plate smelled so fishy, that i had to leave and go get fresh air, and then come back b/c it was making me sick. You KNOW that was some smelly fish when generally I can go to seafood restaurants, and so long as i'm not sitting close to the kitchen, I'm ok - even with everyone at my table ordering fish. Yuck. I will refrain from this place b/c of that smell... and the poor bar setup for groups.... but if you try it and have a good time with the food (non fish of course - hah) tell me, make me go back, convince me to give this place another try.
(3)
Ryan L.
Only been here once because the line was too long at Town Diner (watertown) but was pleasantly surprised. it's got a sports bar type look inside with all the TVs but the food was decent for breakfast.
(3)
Lynda M.
Not as horrible as people describe it. It is pub grub, with two floors of benign decor. The food is decent and the prices are good. Staff was very friendly and our waitress was attentive. Sure the wine glasses were small, but so was the price of $5.95 per glass. The Cajun cheese fries were delish. If you want a local joint with no frills, this is the place.
(3)
Sheena F.
This is one of my best restaurants in all the city for casual, pub-like fare. I'm a vegetarian so I normally shy away from restaurants such as this because they normally serve your trypical chicken wings, burgers, and beer (which I'm not a huge fan of). But, between the portobello-stuffed ravioli, soups and salads, veggie burgers, and tofu Buffalo wings (strange but true and actually delicious), the only problem I normally have is deciding! The beer choice is pretty extensive as is their mixed drink menu. I definitely recommend their Long Island Iced Teas, but make sure to have a designated driver that night, as they are strong. I agree that the service leaves a little something to be lacking during peak hours, like Friday and Saturday nights, but when I went for a Saturday late lunch, the staff was perfectly attentive. The ambience is also great, very relaxed. The prices are also really good, pretty average, I think, for the type of food and atmosphere they serve.
(4)
Heidi E.
Four stars because you can get wings and a really good burger on Sundays when the rest of the city is ONLY serving Sunday brunch.
(4)
Malcolm F.
This is a fantastic place. If you're feeling social, grab a seat at the bar and strike up a conversation with Rob, Jon, or Anne, some of the best bartenders you'll ever meet. The Assorted Nachos are killer.
(5)
Sandi H.
This is a basic joint- burgers, beer, neighborhood spot. What I love about it, though,is it feels like you are in someone's home. This is my go-to for casual. Rock solid. Have been going there for years. There is something about the vibe. Love it.
(4)
Jennifer T.
Fun, laid back atmosphere. Not fine dining but that's not why people go there. It's a pub with great beer and good food. They have beer paddles (always fun!), and a really interesting beer selection. Veggie burger is homemade and great, and I hear the regular burgers are good too.
(4)
erin e.
Higher-end pub-style restaurant. Great Sunday brunch also. I prefer to go in the winter, when it's particularly cozy in there with the view of snow-covered Mass Ave, as well as the fireplace lit in the main dining room. The food is much better than can be expected of most pubs, but still doesn't compete with nearby Temple Bar or West Side Lounge (although it's far cheaper). Bottom line: if you want pub food, go to Christopher's and then catch a show at Toad after a few drinks.
(4)
matt o.
I'm going with 3 stars cause the clam chowder is delicious, the burgers are pretty damn good, and i had a breakfast burrito for brunch that was pretty damn good, but they lose 2 stars for the worst and damn near disgusting Shepard's pie I had there once, Shepard's pie is pretty simple and I don't mind adding somethings but I don't even know what was in this it was horrible, but this was like 3 years ago and I haven't been back since so i could be completely wrong and holding a grudge but I will gladly drive by and stick out my tongue.
(3)
Kayle S.
Whenever I'm in the Porter Square area and looking for a hearty, comfortable meal, Christopher's is the first place I think of. I like the gas fireplace, good beer selection (on tap and bottled), and wholesome American food. Excellent buffalo (and tofu) wings, tasty home-made veggie burger, great big soups, and all-around good atmosphere. And it's easy to make your way to Toad next door.
(4)
Ashley M.
I went for brunch and was impressed by the menu. I hate typical breakfast food, but portabella eggs benedict and the like varied just enough to make it interesting. However the service was horrendous. Maybe they were really busy. I don't know. Didn't seem like it. I can serve food to myself at home for free, so you know I'm paying to be served food, I um expect to be served food.
(2)
clare m.
such a great place. the homemade veggie burger with caramelized onions and guacamole and white sangria is my current death row meal.
(5)
Ken M.
My favorite place to hang out and bring friends or family in Cambridge. Always accomodating to large parties. Food comes in large portions, is good, and is cheap. Servers and bartenders are friendly. Lots of beers on tap. The wings (real chicken or even tofu) are awesome. Chicken or spinach burritos are exceptional.
(5)
Stacey D.
Went here a few years back and wasn't super-impressed, but this chilly night my hubby & I wanted some good hot comfort food and Christopher's delivered. We started with the buffalo tofu (thanks Maria!) and it was very tasty - not totally like chicken, but good texture & sauce. I then had a veggie burger with blue cheese & carmelized onios - very tasty - not amazing, but good. My hubby had steak tips with mashed potatoes and really enjoyed both. I tried the potatoes and they were excellent! As others have mentioned, there's a great selection of drinks too.
(4)
Bridget D.
I was listening to the tunes at the Toad next door and bartender man said we could get takeout from Christopher's and bring it on in. My dude wanted a burger, so I skedaddled over to check out the menu and see if they had something i could eat. I strolled in and went up to the hostess who was leaning on the podium with the blankest of faces. "Hi," I say, "I would like to order some takeout please." She glances at me, "You have to order it from the bar." She said this and jerked her head in an upward tilt motion, which I thought was in the direction of the stairs next to her. "Okay, thanks, " I replied as I make an usure step towards the stairs. "No, at the bar," she repeats as she continues to lean on her podium, expressionless. "I am sorry. I have never been here before. Can you point me towards the bar?" She releases a sigh, "It is behind me and around the corner." WOW! So I make the move behind her and around the corner and low and behold there actually is a bar. I approach and attempt to get the attention of several bartenders. No dice. I finally go straight up to one as she is about to leave and she gives me a menu. A quick glance indicates to me that this menu is fruitful and has offerings for me to enjoy. I order up a meat burger for my fella and I notice they have a few veggie burgers. The nice bartender lady says the homemade veggie burger is great, rave reviews, but it has pesto on it. Now, I love pesto, but me boyfriend is allergic to pine nuts. Dang. So if I want some smooches, tis best to avoid spreading the allergens. I go for the regular veggie burger instead. For a total of 15ish bucks and approximately a 15ish minute wait, I am content and I head back to the Toad to see my fella and inform him of the situation. I had to make a quick dash back to adjust the order after I told him that I ordered his meats medium well. I don't know about meats, but he says he likes it medium rare. (G-ross!!!) It was not a problem and the bartender assured me that they could do that. Sweet. So me boy picked up the food and we sat at our mini table in the bar next door. The meat burger was huge and they both came with lots of fries and a long pickle sliver. My veg burger was okay. It was the standard/generic grainy circle, but the fries were nice and crispy. They supplied us with many packets of condiments and utensils, so that was pleasant.
(3)
Jud P.
There is nothing terribly wrong with Christopher's, they just don't do anything well and there are much better options to get the same kind of bar grub in the surrounding area. As a lot of other people have mentioned, the service sucks, the food is mediocre (there are much better burgers available in Boston), they charge too much for what you get, and the beer selection is limited. The atmosphere is nice, and that's probably the best thing about this restaurant. But you need more then ambiance to please your customers. Save your dough and hit up someplace more worthy.
(2)
Stephen J.
Chrostpher's is okay, but going with the theme of a few yelpers on here, there are definitely better similar options nearby (eh hem, Cambridge Common down the road 1/2 mile on Mass Ave). I think the food is overpriced, the beer selection too limited, and you can wait a while for this place if you catch them on a busy spell. They do have decent specials with enormous portions (I remember having a catfish burger special there once, which certainly was delicious that night but then I finished it the morning after, yea bad idea). But all together, I think you can do better in the area - nothing too special here. I originally gave it two stars, but it doesn't quite deserve that in my opinion - maybe a 2.5?
(3)
Rina R.
A nice, friendly, place. - the kind you'd bring your parents and kid sister to if they were visiting. While you won't find anything exotic or too fancy, Christophers sells good burgers and pasta, and you won't be broke by the time you leave.
(3)
Ace Z.
Christopher's is weird. As a friend of mine put it, it's a solid "almost." Service is generally OK (cute servers), atmosphere is pleasant, (usually) good music... but there's always something not quite right with the food (cf. my earlier comment about the bun issue). Last night for dessert I got the special, which was basically vanilla ice cream with two chocolate chip cookies "in a goblet," as the waitress made sure to point out. The goblet did not disappoint but if we hadn't asked for some chocolate sauce on the ice cream it would have been just plain boring - not particularly tasty ice cream, though the cookies were good (but would have been better heated)... I dunno. I end up at Christopher's a lot because of the buffalo tofu, beer, and ambience, but it's a definitely a place to take on its own terms. For a better overall experience, head to Cambridge Common, where I am going in about five minutes.
(3)
Alison T.
The first time I was at Christopher's was for sunday Brunch. We sat at the bar, which is fine, but the waitress/bartender was mean, slow, inattentive, and obviously wanted to be doing anything but waiting on us. I enjoyed the eggs benedict and my boyfriend's omlete was pretty good. The second time was also brunch and we were seated upstairs which has a nice inn feel to it. Our waitress was one of the worst i've ever had. She chose to communicate in single words, possible three if necessary. We waited a really long time for our food. My order came out wrong (an omelete instead of a burger), but since she basically dumped the plates with us and then left i didn't have a chance to tell her it wasn't what i ordered. it took another 5 minutes for us to catch her attention. She said NOTHING, took the plate away and came back about 10 minutes later with my order, once again saying NOTHING! some may claim that because she was from Brazil she may not have had the language to say 'sorry for the mix up', or 'i'll be right back', i don't buy it. she was fluent when she spoke more than one work and her accent was minimal. she obviously just didn't care. And to top it all of, it was one of the worst burgers i've ever had. I would've only given one star except that i do like the omelete and eggs benedict. terrible service and otherwise bad food. Maybe i should try the vegan and vegetarian options, if i can stand the bad service.
(2)
evan b.
As a vegetarian i love Christopher's. They have a great beer selection that always has me trying something new. The buffalo tofu is excellent, the nachos are good, their veggie burgers are tasty, and they have a range of options from burgers to asian to mexican food. When i'm in the mood to go our for bar food, Christopher's is my top choice.
(5)
el e.
the food is great, the prices are great. the first time i got a pesto grilled chicken sandwich something or other, the second time i got the andoullie burger -- equally delicious, though a bit too greasy -- but hey, that's what it's all about. pretty big portions. open late, good vibe, cute artwork (which is somewhat out of sync from the general restaurant decor, but much appreciated anyway). recommended!
(5)
Irene F.
I have spent many a night waiting for the commuter rail with Natasha in this place. The bartenders are great, and will mix you up whatever. They also have a good wine selection and some yummy grub. It can get a little crowded on weekends, but well worth fighting your way in. They have some great mussels, and the salads are fab also. The people who go there are also friendly and fun, which adds to the great atmosphere!
(5)
Anonymous P.
Stick to the basics and the beer. Nice local atmosphere, decent simple food. I really like the boneless buffalo wings. I'm not sure why I'm giving it 4 stars as opposed to 3--maybe for healthiness, vegetarian friendliness, nice bartender, and reliability.
(4)
Sara B.
I've been holding a grudge against this place for a while. I had the kind of night there that turns you off of a place forever. The kind of dinner that, halfway through you think, "I can't believe this sucks this badly" and then three other, entirely unrelated, things go wrong. Screwed up orders, missed orders, unrepentant waitstaff, an "incident" in the bathroom"... it just went on and on. And of course, the food that we did get wasn't nearly good enough to make me think I should suck it up and come back anyway.
(2)
al e c.
i love christopher's'. there was a time when i'd enjoy nachos and beers at christopher's twice a week, minimum. as a vegetarian, christopher's is my favorite place to take carnivores because there are ample options for herbivores and omnivores alike. their nachos are amazing, the veggie chili is great and their buffalo tofu fills the "hot wings void" created by my vegetarianism. (and my carnivorous friends have given the meat version high marks). christopher's has a great beer menu and the seasonal beer sampler is a great deal. their martini's are a little disappointing but i'm more of a gin and tonic girl anyway. in general, the food and drink are excellent, the staff is friendly and the atmosphere downstairs is fun and relaxed. the downside? the upstairs dining area is sterile and uninspiring (plus, they only have about 1/2 of the beers on tap on the upstairs menu) . recent menu changes did away with the "small" size nacho plate (which was *not* small) also, prices have gone up a lot (as they have everywhere) so i've had to cut my former christopher's habit down to a few times a month.
(4)
edition o.
we love this place. sure it can get crowded but if you hit it at the right time, you'll get a great meal for a great price and a little ambiance thrown in. the buffalo tofu is superb as is their french fries. they have some great drink specials and i love their alcoholic rickey.
(5)
M S.
This place is a little on the pricey side for a pub. The food and drinks were good, but I wasn't expecting to pay $20 for two drinks (incl. tax and tip). I was impressed by the selection of vegetarian food. On a Friday night, there was a long wait (which we skipped thanks to our reservation, available to parties of 6+), and a bustling atmosphere inside. The waitress was nice and had good recommendations, despite being insanely busy. She definitely earned that 20% tip. So if you want to spend some money on a fun night out, Christopher's is the place for you. If you want to spend less money on a fun night out, head down to Grendel's Den in Harvard Square during happy hour.
(4)
Scarlett L.
My friend and I dined at this restaurant on a cold, wintry Thursday night. We arrived at 6:30 and intended to have a leisure dinner and good conversation. The hostess was not very friendly at all and this is a problem considering she's the first person greeting you at this establishment. The atmosphere was dark and dingy and did not give me an over all clean feeling. Our server was by far the most disappointing part of our evening. He approached our table seconds after we were seated asking us what we'd like to drink. We wanted waters to start and needed time to choose wine. He came back less than 2 minutes later asking if we had decided. We told him we had not and that we needed more time to peruse the selection. Less than 2 minutes later he was back and we felt rushed to choose, so we did. He asked if we were ready to order and of course since we were focused on the wine selection, we had not decided on our meal for the night and told him we needed more time. He came back 2 minutes later asking us yet again if we had made any decisions. The whole evening went on in this way, with him being there when we didn't want him and then when we did he was no where to be found. Finally, I decided to speak up at the end of our dinner to our server about his rushed and arrogant attitude. His response was that he was sorry that we felt that way!!! We will never be returning to such a place where staff like this is hired!!! The food was just okay, but certainly not good enough to come back and withstand a server that just could not leave us alone and get the point!
(1)
Patrick B.
A good place to stop in every once in a while. I've had some wonderful nacho's here and the burgers are very good - even the turkey burgers. And, there's a good selection of beer on tap - though what you can get depends on whether you're upstairs or downstairs. There are a few TV's above the bar, but they're small so its not a great place to watch a game.
(3)
Dr. Sweetpickles Ph D.
This is the only place worth driving to Porter for. This and that guy that sells those black market copy's off The Clapper out of his van (that little device that shuts the lights off when you clap?) Good food, quick enough.
(4)
Jake L.
OK - I'm a fan. I've been to Christophers a couple of times for eating out with friends - the food is good and reasonably priced - they have a great selection of draft beer - you can usually try something new. My one complaint would be the desserts - they were very average and for the price I expected something more.
(4)
Melissa B.
Christopher's is one of those mid-price restaurants that is great for a large group. They will most assuredly have something for everyone on their menu (meat and potatoes, healthy, vegetarian) and the prices are really quite reasonable.
(3)
Melissa A.
Ok, so I had always heard that they had the best burgers around...so not true! Everything was incredibly mediocre, the service was bad and the drinks were worse. No thanks!
(1)
Aaron S.
This is a great place to meet a friend to have a drink and grab a bite. They have lots of vegi options, and are just a cool place overall. I would tell anyone to go there.
(5)
k v.
the food was mediocre to pretty good. i recommend the homefries & the calamari. however, the bloody mary was the worst i've ever had. but when i told the waitress that i wasn't enjoying it she did offer to take it off the bill. nice atmosphere, decent service--just avoid the bloody mary!
(3)
Sarah C.
Christopher's is just SO easy. It's a convenient (and for the most part, reliable) little bar and restaurant with decent prices, interesting specials, surprisingly good beer (AND beer flights!), and friendly service. They aren't trying to be anything they are not... not posh or over the top, just easy. This evening was my fourth visit, and I must admit it is usually hit or somewhat miss here. Tonight was great (last time was crazy slow service with TERRIBLE seating, I mean...right next to the host stand with foot traffic on either side). So tonight, we sat immediately, got our wine right away, and apps like 2 minutes after ordering (just soup and salad). If our waitress wasn't there, the floor manager or another server was ready to help (and did). I ordered the trout special and DAMN what a surprise. Loads of fresh green beans, and topped with delicious capers and fresh tomatoes. The trout was coated with rosemary... which completely won me over... I'm a huge fan of rosemary. My friend Amy ( a new Grad student at Longy in Cambridge woo! And I'm going to get her hooked on Yelp) Got a nice fresh goat cheese and sun-dried tomato salad. All in all, the service was right on, timing good, portions actually quite large, prices easy on the wallet, dim relaxing yet active atmosphere, filled with locals, parking easy... like I said Christopher's is seriously an easy place to just go relax and have inexpensive, yummy food with old friends :)
(3)
Kate S.
I used to really like Christopher's. It was decently priced with a menu that could satisfy anyone (veggie options, burgers, burritos, stir fry, tasty salads). But over the last two years, their service has absolutely gone to sh*t. I still end up here every 3 or 4 months because it is close by and I cannot believe that their service could have so completely tanked. Every time I leave I promise never to go back. Half of the table won't get their order, it will take 45 minutes between ordering and receiving your (by that time) lukewarm food, never getting refills of water or even a waiter coming by to ask if everything is okay. The food is still pretty decent (when you actually get what you ordered and it isn't cold), but the crappy service just isn't worth it to me anymore. Also, there are plenty of better places to eat in the area - Kaya, Sugar & Spice, Ana's Taqueria, West Side, Temple Bar, just to name a few! Even Uno's (across the street) will guarantee you a burger with less than a one hour wait.
(2)
Jessica H.
This is a really great place to go for a burger. The atmosphere is awesome too. Their menu is very surprising. The place just looks like a bar and you would think all they have is burgers, but that is just not true! They have mexican appetizers and great vegetarian options as well.
(4)
Trish F.
Me: Two shots of tequila and the check please. Bartender: Um.. what kind of tequila? Me: Whatever's closest to your pouring hand. Bartender: IDs please. You okay? Me: Swell. Sweeeeellllllll. I liked that bartender. 14 hour work days make Trishie a sassy bleotch. PS - I was with a friend.. so they weren't both for me. We went to another bar afterwards. hah.. And side note.. other stops into the bar have been quite enjoyable. I went to the restaurant (I usually pop into the bar) for the first time this week. This place made me really think about the whole restaurant experience because although our waiter didn't really interact with us much (didn't introduce himself, only stopped by the table about twice), the food was fantastic and the service was very quick. Despite being packed, we were seated right away. I ordered a pomegranate margarita (yummmm.. and I'm not normally pomegrantey) and an eggplant burger (with pesto and feta.. kind of crazy but hit the spot). Like Laura M., I thought the salad was unnecessary. The fries were executed well, crispy but not hard... although at the end of the meal I picked up a fry that had been sitting for about 15 minutes and I think it absorbed all the oil from the plate because it tasted like super cardiac arrest fry. Yuck. Soo.. the waiter wasn't mean or over attentive.. just rather indifferent? Didn't effect me much.. but I know some patrons do enjoy being doted on. I just like anecdotes for my Yelp reviews... but we can forgo that for great food. Update: 11.9.07 Stopped in again for French Onion soup and a catfish burger (I have weird cravings). The soup had huge chunks of onions, but it was rather delicious and I slurped up the whole thing. I think it also had to do with me being cold. The catfish burger patty was HUGE which I was excited about, but it was too much. Fries weren't as great this time. The waitress was also pretty slow, but seemed like she was the only one on the floor. Sad. No stars deducted though. Slash.. Guinness topped with cherry ale. Hello lover.... Update: 2.08 Catfish burger was perfection! And the service has definitely improved. Yay! Props to the server that knew exactly when to stop by after my friend and I had small teary breakdowns. haha
(4)
Corey P.
Now I work in Central Square, but will often take the T to Porter to have lunch at Christopher's, when it is a bit more quiet than the late night. Yuppie nachos are always a must, as the goat cheese just adds a whole new twist to nachos. Burgers, especially the Andouille Beef and English, will always fill you up. Plus, you can tell their french fries are actually made from potatoes. Never had an issue with service, and the price is pretty reasonable. Overall, I would say a solid place for lunch when you're about and about in Porter.
(4)
Penelope T.
I used to come to this place often as I loved their homemade veggie burger, the nachos (with homemade chips), caesar salad, and tofu buffalo burger. However, they have recently changed main head cooks and the food is really not what it used to be. The salad is not fresh anymore. The nachos are smaller and not as good and nothing tastes as good as it did before. In addition the new fries are gross.
(2)
Sarah G.
I went to Christopher's with a large group. Everyone in my group seemed to enjoy their food but I was really disappointed with what I had ordered.... I ordered a BBQ chicken sandwich and the chicken was so dry. There were barely any toppings on the sandwich. Oh well.......I guess I've been spoiled by other chicken sandwiches: - ((
(3)
Laura M.
This place kinda gave me "Cheesecake Factory Syndrome" as I examined the lengthy and somewhat unfocused menu. But, I had heard good things about the veggie burger, and sometimes all a girl needs is a cold one and a veggie burger, so that's what I ordered. Burger was pretty damn good (house made) but fries were huge chunky style, and in short supply. I got a side salad that I didn't really want -- just give me more, crispier fries! (Although, for the chunky style of fry, they were pretty well executed, not mealy inside.) I'm not sure I'd order something fancier than a burger and fries here, though. Beer selection was wide and I was allowed to sample before buying my first pint of an untried variety (Rapscallion). Tasty! And our waitress was like, the best sport ever, really great. So, overall, I'd give Christopher's a repeat.
(4)
Chana B.
Fantastic Mussels, Great Salad, Great Service, nice prices, and good wine. Sometimes the pub/tavern atmosphere is just right, and Christopher's has it going on. My One Wish is that someone cared enough to notice when an empty water glass needs filled. Maybe if Christopher's reads this, they'll go on water-glass high alert and then the place will be virtually flawless.
(4)
Kevin M.
Overall good bar , Great food and bartenders are great.
(3)
Doris K.
I really hate it when places are out of items. If it's a special and you've posted it then you should have it - else remove it. I think that food is a hit or miss at Christopher's. Some things have been surprisingly good and some staples bad. I didn't like the nachos or spinach artichoke dip. They were bad, very bad and yet their burgers and chicken piccata were great. As for the avocado quesadilla there wasn't any avocado in there. I certainly didn't see anything green, and although the server was nice enough to bring us some slices of avocado what bothers me is the conversation that led up to those slices. David: Excuse me. I don't think there's any avocado in my quesadillas. Server: Sure there is. Don't you taste it? Me: Uhh I don't see anything green in here do you? Server: Well I've had it several times before and there's always been avocado. There just wasn't a need for it. Restrooms: Very spacious ladies! Plenty of room to hang my little purse on the door and dance around if I feel the need to! Most importantly - CLEAN.
(3)
Katherine M.
I've been here several times before and have had several enjoyable burgers, but tonight I can say, confidently, I had the best burger of my life. My friend also elevated hers to the same status. We didn't even particularly notice their greatness while we were eating, but after we'd finished our meal we both sort of took a moment before realizing: that...was...amazing. The best descriptor I can give is that I felt like I'd given my stomach a hug. Lame, but this was a truly spiritual experience. Perfect contentment realized. I had the Mighty Mushroom, if you were wondering. The waitress was fine.
(4)
F F.
I agree with all the positive comments. This place introduced me to one of my favorite drinks Dark & Stormy so always glad to come back home again. This place is great for first dates because if the date is lame at least the food, drinks and atmosphere will be great. The televisions everywhere made me take one star but the masses love them so I forgive them for the business decision.
(4)
Marlene S.
A HUGE thank you to the friendly staff at Christopher's--my boyfriend and I go here frequently and the service is always great. Most notably, I have a number of difficult allergies, and the staff is always patient and helpful about helping me find a dish I can eat or tweaking one to make it work. This is not the case in many restaurants, and in fact since I have developed the allergies I have found it nearly impossible to dine out. Not so at Christopher's--they have a great food and drink menu, nice atmosphere, a huge amount of tables (upstairs too!), and are SO NICE!
(5)
Meghan W.
This was the perfect place to meet up with friends for a casual dinner. The menu was extremely varied and there was something for everyone. The service was attentive and the atmosphere was nice. It's conveniently located near the T and there is usually street parking available. While the food didn't knock my socks off, it was what I was expecting and looking for and I would definitely go back.
(4)
Alex M.
Ive been here twice and the food was up and down. The first time I came here I got the cajun burger or something to that effect and it was cooked properly and was delicious. The second time I came, I had their famous "english burger" on an english muffin and it was lackluster compared to the reviews I had heard. On the upside though, Christophers has a great selection of beer, a good atmosphere, and good service so I will give it three and hopefully it will suprise me next time.
(3)
Muttley D.
Very run of the mill bar fare...the burgers are so-so...and there's not much I can say to make you go there...there's not much I can say against this Porter Square joint...except it's very very average at best...it does have a decent atmosphere and might be an okay place to knock back a pint....
(2)
Steve G.
Well my journey up and down the east coast continued with my stop yesterday for lunch at Christoper's and I was not disappointed. First off our server was fantastic and very helpful. I started off with the bruschetta which while not made in the traditional manner was nonetheless fantastic. Next I had a Caesar salad which I enjoyed very much. While I was there noticed many people ordering burgers,that looked great. I will definitely be back on my next trip to Cambridge and looking forward to having a burger at that time.
(4)
Veronica A.
OMG the HOME-MADE VEGGIE BURGER!!!! EXCELLENT! That meal will beat any tasty burger in the world. It's FILLLLED with taste! And their fries are HUGE and yummy. The nachos are excellent. Their menu is very large. Their food of the day always has great options. There is literally nothing wrong with this place. Parking takes place in the Porter Square parking lot and then you have to walk across the street. But very very good for a solid meal that you can revisit over and over again. The poopy part? It can be packed sometimes...and if it is, then the chances of you not getting a booth and sitting really close to someone near another table is high. But again, worth the food.
(4)
Sarah L.
I have such mixed feelings about this place. I keep going back, feeble attempts to make it into something it just isn't. I like the feel of the place. Dim lighting, dark wood, cozy (sort of), fireplace (though a pointless gas fireplace). Good beer selection...and that's about it. The food is the definition of mediocre. There's always something missing. Brunch in particular is a disappointment. "Waffles" on the menu is actually just one waffle, huevos rancheros is served sans salsa, service is so-so, and coffee is not free-flowing. Dinner service and quality is a little better, probably because they get more tips off booze. I'll probably go back because it's an easy place to meet up with people, and because I'm still a little hopeful that it will live up to expectations.
(2)
Jennifer D.
Moved to Porter Square a few months ago, and I first discovered Christopher's while looking for an 11pm dinner on my way home from a long shift at work. Someone pointed me in their direction and I am so happy they did! I've been there for lunch, dinner, and drinks, and have shown up alone, with boyfriend, with the girls, with roommate, and with a friend visiting from NY. Every time has been a great time. I've never experienced a long wait for seating. Sometimes the table service can be a little on the slow side, but the servers are always friendly and happy to answer any questions about the drinks or menu specials. The food is awesome and very reasonably priced. They take pride in making most of their sauces, dressings, etc. in-house (including their hummus... and OMG, it's delicious.... the middle-eastern appetizer platter is probably my favorite thing on the menu!) I love their "healthy" caesar salad, and I liked the veggie burger. Also, I don't eat red meat very often, but find it very hard to resist their steak tips. They always have interesting daily food and drink specials, and a rotating beer list that is, to say the least, pretty kick-ass. I had some Apple Ephemere (?) beer from the rotating list a few times over the fall, and it's probably one of my all-time top 5 beers... I hope they get it back this year! Solid food, casual atmosphere, great drinks, and a very friendly bartender make this place a perfect neighborhood hangout. I definitely plan on going back often :)
(5)
Nikki T.
Two words: CLAM CHOWDER!!!! I was in Boston this past weekend for my best friends graduation and we stopped at Christophers for dinner. I had Clam Chowder 3 times on that trip and Christopher's was the best! YUMMMY!!!
(5)
Stephanie F.
The burgers at Christopher's is pretty tasty. So far I've had the: - Spicy Pepperjack burger, and the - Roquefort burger (with BBQ marinated onions!) I haven't had any entrees other than burgers 'cuz I'm always craving burgers when I go to this place. Anyway, I haven't been displeased with any of the food yet. The service was pretty good whenever we went. But if you're looking for a larger selection of burger variety, go to O'Sullivan's on the corner of Beacon Street and Sacramento Street in Somerville (right in front of the sketchy Star Market). Their whole menu is burgers galore!
(4)
Renee L.
I went here last week, and I can't believe how, every time I come here, there is a wait, I think the restaurant is fairly decent sized. So we got there, and we waited, then we sat down. The waitress was very friendly, and I liked how they had a big recycling/sustainable mantra. I ordered the veggie burger, and it was really good! It came with a salad which had avocado dressing on it (which was TO DIE FOR) and really yummy french fries! My boyfriend got their "famous" burger, and said it was good also. I would totally go back to eat for a nice, casual bite to eat.
(4)
Daniel M.
What's wrong with being uncomplicated? Let's say that you're not in the mood to try out that new Malaysian/Indonesian fusion dumpling house. What if you just want a burger and a beer? Christopher's has got you covered. Their food is a cut above standard pub fare, they always have different beers on tap and their cocktails are the reason that my wife suddenly developed a liking for cocktails(that damn Raspberry Lime Rickey). Give it a shot. Try the catfish burger.
(4)
Bradley D.
I also like going here when there is nowhere else to go. Everyone I'm with can always agree on coming here and there is something for everyone. Last time I was there I was with a group of 8 or 9 other people. The service was good and the food came out really quick considering the table size. I opted for some variation of a cheeseburger and I can't complain. Cooked just right, and very juicy. Everyone else I was with seemed to enjoy their food too, wether it was the fish and chips, a salad, or some pasta. The beer selection is also decent. All around a good place to go for a good bite to eat.
(4)
Emily F.
I think this is a place very dependent upon the day you go and who you go with. I met my old man there, we both had the black bean burger and some beers.. The fries were tasty! Big hunks of potato. The bartender was really nice too. Very attentive. It's not a crazy place, the crowd is mild mannered. A good escape when Toad's next door is too crowded to think.
(4)
Kelly N Z R.
GREAT vegetarian and vegan options. Try the buffalo tofu. Or any of their great vegetarian options. I read a review somewhere that said something like "the best place to go if you want a great burger, but your vegetarian friend wants to eat too," and I think that sums it up perfectly. The food is good, the service is good, the ambience is pleasant. It's not romantic, but it has a fun atmosphere. The drinks are good, and from what I can tell, the bartenders seem really knowledgeable. You can often hear the music from Toad, next door.
(4)
Rich P.
The food/atmosphere was good enough, but I've spent the past 12 hours with severe stomach problems, clearly related to something I ate there. Look out!
(1)
Denise G.
Cheap beer compared to the overpriced place across the street near Lesley and all those Japanese Restaurants. :P Haven't had the food, and probably never will other than an appetizer to go with my gluten-free cider. Cheers!
(4)
Charlotte H.
Very consistent. Burgers or brunch, the food's always decent and the service is good. Nice place to go in Porter for all occasions.
(4)
Meredith K.
So I'm probably a little biased. My friend worked here for a while, and I got know know a few of her co-workers as well - so of course any time I've gone in there my service has been totally awesome. For a small place they have a decent beer/wine selection and pretty good cocktails too. Food isn't amazing, but it's not bad either. Good salads, burgers, apps etc. and I like the weekend brunches. LOVE the cozy fireplace in the winter. Decent place to grab a beer and burger with friends.
(4)
dan m.
An overall nice place that you'll always end up spending lots more time/money than you planned to. They make good rare burgers and the buffalo tofu burger is a great alternative. (I had each of the former on two separate visits) Beer selection is pretty good and pricing not out of this world. Food was beter than most in this category, slight edge over cambridge common (in the food dept only.) For some reason however, my dinner always ends up being around 50-60 when I go here. Booze drinks can build a tab up quick (as they can anywhere)
(4)
Danielle M.
I work nearby and go here often for lunch. It's great, the staff is friendly and attentive whether you sit at the tables or at the bar. Rotating local art adds a nice neighborhood feel to the place. Food is yummy - my favorite is the Mozzarella Sandwhich and the Butternut Squash soup when they have it. Cobb Salad is also good, but it is HUGE. Good for weekend drinks as well, has a very cozy atmosphere.
(4)
Steve K.
I can make pretty good nachos on my own, at home, for a fraction of the price one normally pays at a restaurant. However, the 'yuppie nachos' at Christopher's cannot be replicated and cannot be beat! The atmosphere is great, there's plenty of seating available (I've never had to wait for a table), and they are one of a few places I've ever been that have Boddingtons on tap! Definitely a great place to get together with friends or family.
(5)
Thomas J.
I can't say enough about how much I love this place. I've been so many times and never have I had a bad experience, which is rare when you've been to a place a number of times. The staff is very friendly but not intrusive, the food is excellence and the selection of beer is just fancy enough to try new things but still have the old favorites without a hyped price. The overall feel is calm and you really could sit in a warm wooden booth with friends for hours here and feel like your sitting at home. It's a great place and the kind of place more people should know about or at least try once, I doubt it will disappoint.
(5)
B. B.
In my opinion, the only edible dinner item on Christopher's menu is the Roquefort burger, which is extremely tasty. They usually actually cook their burgers to order- a feature which seems increasingly pleasant as it becomes harder to come by. The pasta is always a gamble, and is quite often hideously oversalted. The Mexican is hardly worth clogging an artery. They have a good number of options for drinks. Lots of beer and a decent selection of wine and cocktails. Desserts are overpriced and very bad, with the exception of the carrot cake. The carrot cake is OK.
(3)
Katy P.
Christopher's is a great place to go if you're with a group of people who can't decide what to order. They have a broad menu that offers great burgers and other sandwiches, pasta, salads, a daily pizza, and a spattering of Mexican fare and other goodies. The Mexican is decent. It takes care of my cravings, but there are better places to go for this cuisine. The burgers are always yummy and I love their cobb salad. Also, if you're in the mood to indulge, the cajun cheese fries and the variety of nachos they serve are pretty delicious (and WAY cheesy). The wait can be long and the servers are always friendly (though we had one unfortunate issue that I won't mention) My favorite waitress is the one with all the tattoos. I don't recall her name, but she was awesome.
(4)
Marina P.
I've only been here for brunch - apparently they have one of the best burgers in America here? - but I thought the food and service were totally satisfactory and the place overall was well priced. I had a breakfast scramble with basil, goat cheese and sundried tomatos. It was really quite delicious and light. Their bloody mary also had a great kick and made for a perfect boozy brunch drink. The interior is cool and relaxing - total dark pub - and makes for a nice place to hang out with friends. I'd definitely come back here to try the burger and perhaps hang out at night!
(3)
Nicole K.
I think I'm getting old. I was sold on Christopher's because I could hold a conversation without yelling "WHAT?" over some obnoxious thumping base, and I didn't have to elbow my way up to the bar to order a glass of wine. Yes, I'm so old I now order wine at bars instead of tequila shots. Thank you Christopher's for not judging me. Added bonuses (or is it boni?) - decent food to nosh on and great art on the walls.
(4)
Elizabeth F.
I'd heard so many rave about the burgers at Christopher's, and having been there several times now, I don't see what the fuss is about. The food's fine, but not necessarily passionate-recommendation-worthy. The atmosphere is fine, but nothing special. The waitstaff is nice, which is better than a lot of places. The beer selection is good, but then, lots of places have good beer selections. But it's convenient to get to and not ridiculously priced, and there's nothing wrong with it, really. I've been a bunch of times and as long as it's easy to access, I'll keep coming back. So far I've found no reason not to.
(3)
Amie R.
I love Christopher's for brunch. While it's not your cheapest option, it's arguably one of the better-tasting. I've had their huevos rancheros and the portobello omlette (and a few others that I can't remember now -- I do remember they were all good though!). This is a cozy, quiet place to meet friends for brunch. The table service isn't always top-notch, but it's never ruined a meal here. Great lunch menu, too! (And drink selection... )
(5)
Al A.
Bad hamburgers. Over priced. Slow service.
(2)
Erin B.
I love Christopher's, even though the first fifteen minutes I spent in the restaurant came dangerously close to putting me off forever. A friend and I were looking for a restaurant for our birthday dinner, and seeing as half the people coming were vegetarians, we wanted a place that had a wide variety of meat-free options. Christopher's seemed like the perfect place, so I called and made a reservation for 14 people for the next evening. We showed up and I gave the hostess my name...she couldn't find the reservation in the book. "Oh, well that's ok, how many people did you have in your party- four?" Hmm...no, a few more than four people. Somehow, they had a free table upstairs that would fit all of us, so either we had some great luck or they actually did hold a table for us and the hostess just messed up. After that close call, we took our seats and just sat around for a while until I had to go downstairs and ask them for some menus. Not the best start to my Christopher's experience. However, everything else was great that night and has been fine the other times I have gone. Now, on to the food and drink. I LOVE the drinks here. I always seem to spend at least twice as much on drinks as I do on food. My favorite is Ben's Chocolate Espresso Layered Martini. So good! They have a good beer selection too. The food is decent as well. I'm not too adventurous with my food choices, and for dinner I stick with the chicken pesto sandwich. The pesto is delicious, and I like the fries too. I've also been here a couple times for brunch. I get the two eggs any way (scrambled). The quality is better at some other places I've been to, but the meal also comes with bacon, toast, home fries, and fruit, which covers practically all my favorite breakfast foods. The coffee is also some of the best coffee I've ever had, and they keep it coming your whole meal. I can't give Christopher's 5 stars due to the issues I had here at first and the fact that I don't always get the best service by my waiters and waitresses, but I love this place and bring all my visitors here at some point during their trip. If you're in the Porter Square area, I highly recommend this place.
(4)
Rachel K.
We went here with a multi-generational gaggle of family members and we all were easily able to find food we loved. The burgers were cooked perfectly, nachos were super-loaded and club sandwich was stacked with deliciousness. The services was quick, friendly - my grandmother even referred to it as "chirpy"...quite a compliment from her! We will have to try the desserts next time we are in...yes we are absolutely planning to go back!
(5)
Elmer S.
I love this place. The burgers are excellent and it has a really good beer selection. One of my favorite places to grab food in the Porter area.
(5)
Patricia H.
It was after 11 pm so my choices of places for a late supper were small, but in the distant past I had ok food at Christopher's. Not last night -- I had over-salted dried out salmon that didn't taste very fresh, over-salted mashed potatoes, and 5 or 6 tiny sprigs of asparagus for about $15, about the same price they charge for much fresher better salmon and a more generous portion of vegetables at Tavern in the Square. Christopher's was totally uncrowded, quiet enough that even though I was trying to read, I couldn't avoid overhearing a tawdry conversation a few tables away from me. Even at a quiet time, the waitress couldn't be bothered to ask if the food was all right. In the future, I'll try to finish at Healthworks earlier so I can go to Tavern in the Square and get decent food.
(1)
Iska B.
Lots of negative reviews here but I didn't have that bad a time at all! I came on a Wednesday night at about 8pm and there was a line, which was surprising but we were allowed to go sit at the bar and wait for a table which was fine and dandy. When we were seated the waitress was really friendly and talkative and I really liked the decor inside. All warm and cozy and dark. The food was totally decent. The burgers were really big and come with a lot of thick meaty fries. We also had some chicken nachos which were generously piled with chicken (though it was rather bland) and cheese. The salsa was a bit too mild and tasted more like tomatoes in lime juice then like actual salsa but hey it's not a real Mexican place or anything. The drinks were decent too, no skimping on the booze although the scorpion bowl seemed a bit weak to me (but then I've never had any scorpion bowl compare to the ones at Rick's Cafe in Billerica) but it was full of fresh fruit which was nice. All in all a very nice experience. It was a little pricey but not overly so. I'd totally come back here for another burger.
(4)
Mike H.
I kinda dig this place for a variety of reasons. Mainly because they have the best beer selection of anyplace within walking distance. They have the standard pretty good taps (Boddingtons, Harpoon, Sierra Nevada, Stella) plus a rotating draft list that has some happy notes (I had an Allagash Dubbel last night, one of my favorites). I'm a total tap beer snob and I gotta say their taps are well kept. Their liquor selection is pretty decent as well. Food wise, I've had a bunch of things there and I'd say their pub food is where they shine. Burgers and nachos are well above average goodness. Their fajitas and quesadillas are also good. Prices are average. Plus, it's right across from the T stop. Quieter and better beer than at Tavern at the Square across the way.
(4)
Liz W.
Stopped in last night for an early dinner with the kids and met our cousin. She lives in Porter Square but had not been . Pleasantly surprised with the freshness of the food. PJ had the Fettucine with mushrooms and loved the fresh pasta and the dish. Ev was in heaven with his spaghetti and meatballs (licked the plate clean) I had the fish tacos - the fish was a bit disappointing but all the accompaniments were fresh and great. Cuz had the veggie burger - huge but delicious. Will definitely be back - 4 stars for service- while not bad, not stellar.
(4)
Heather C.
I love Christopher's food. From salads, to burgers, to veggie burgers and buffalo tofu, I am always satisfied. Ambiance is young (but not too young) and fun. Service can be slow, but not too bad. We had a large party here once, and it worked out great for our friends of various palates. Great beer menu too!
(4)
Christopher R.
This place was a bit nice than I had thought. Defintely a bit more classier than Cambridge Common. They have a great menu for vegetarians. We had the Buffalo Tofu and the sauce was out of this world and I dont know how they did it without the tofu becoming mushy and the breading soggy. It was crisp, delicious and the tofu was very firm. Perfect. I had a Cherry Wheat Truffle which was an interesting mix. Id love to go back and try them for brunch.
(5)
Michael C.
Good burgers and good beer, no need to consider anything else. Highly recommend.
(4)
Mimi W.
Living in Porter Sq, Christopher's is my neighborhood bar. I like it because it's got a fair amount of seating, the place has a nice sophisticated look about it and there's a nice fireplace in the back which is really inviting in the winter. I also love their spicy pepperjack burger, and their lobster ravioli was good. I think it's a nice option that they have buffalo tofu for the vegetarians. The spiked lime rickey is good too. I wouldn't say the food is stellar, but it's a good price, and it's a nice hearty meal. What I don't like is that sometimes the host is rude. Once there was a young (like 17) boy who was hosting. Must have been the owner's son or something. When someone told him to give us the dessert menu, he tossed them up carelessly on our table without looking away from his conversation with some other staff person.
(3)
Maureen D.
I have been to Christopher's maybe three or four times, never my choice, and this past time will be my last. I have never been impressed with the food, sometimes finding it bland, sometimes just bad, and the service has been reliably poor. Yesterday we were seated for brunch, then our waitress eventually came over, and then 25 minutes later we had to flag her down to ask where our food was. When she came back from the kitchen without our food, she essentially yelled at me that there wasn't anything *she* could do, the food would be out. Sorry! Ummmmm, there's a whole bunch you could do. You could stay on top of our order, you could seem sincere when you have customers who have been delayed so long that one of them misses their connection at South Station, you could provide service. I don't know if the order never went in or if the kitchen screwed it up, but this was the last bad experience I'm having at Christopher's. Next time someone wants to go there, I'm opting out.
(1)
Karen P.
What can I say about this place, my FAVORITE all-around place to hang out in the Boston area so far? Consistently great food. Consistently great service. Consistent friendliness. Consistent comfortable-ness (yes I made up a word for them). Consistent great prices. Consistent awesome beer list and strong drinks! I could be biased because this place is a 10-minute walk from my house. But I'd say there are a few other reasons to go: first of all, they have a very good selection of items for vegetarians, or people who eat only seafood, like myself. (their angel hair/shrimp/scallop pasta is to die for). I CRAVE THEIR BUFFALO TOFU LIKE THERE IS NO TOMORROW. MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM OH MY OH MY OH MY!! yes that was a tofu gasm. ... Secondly, the place is always full but not too full, and I've never ever seen a scowling face inside the warm, cozy wooden-floored place. Try sitting with your back to the fireplace when it's cold out, it's great! But let's get back to the food. Seriously. Where else in Boston can you get an enormous nacho plate for $5.95? And that's just the SMALL portion. Thirdly, they are one of the only bars in the area serving food until at least 12. GREAT food, and a full menu. yay! and they always have different food and drink specials ... Fourthly, I BELIEVE (not entirely sure) their menu indicates that all their meat is farm-raised ... if not organic ... YAY for responsible feeding of the public! so lacking from so many restaurants today ... And finally, if you like bars with great atmosphere but not dark and grimy and way too loud, you'll love Christopher's as much as I do. Its clientele are educated, laid-back, and just there to catch up with friends/have great conversation. Try to skip the mixed drinks, though (even though one of the bartenders makes great martinis, as he used to work in a martini bar, try and get him to make the Snickers Bar one on a slow night). This is a beer bar all the way. So ... my five-star rating stands ... HOW-ever, my only complaint is that they need to put the Texas Ruby chocolate cake back on the menu. Won't stop me from hanging out at least once a week, though ... great job you guys!! p.s. i read every review on here, many of which talk about crappy service. as a waitress, maybe i'm just the most patient of eaters, but i have never had a problem. ok, they're not acting like they're your best friend, i can see that, but i've never had a major problem. when i'm waiting for food, i just talk to who i'm with and the time flies by. don't go in there starving, i guess. it's just food, people, and i mean that with all kindness. really. look around. if your server seems a bit harried, it's probably just because he/she has a large section and is very busy. cut he/she a break. : ) and tip well!
(5)
Merida F.
We went for dinner on a Sunday to celebrate a friend leaving for a trip. It wasn't too crowded and we were seated right away. We ordered the Salmon Fettuccine, Chicken Broccoli Penne, Burger, and the house special Ravioli. Everyone enjoyed their dinners and the portions were quite large. Our actual server wasn't very attentive and spent the time talking to his friends-so the other server ended up helping us with our needs more.
(3)
Angela M.
This place was right down the street from my old apt. in Porter Square. The place was usually pretty busy, but the wait was never ridiculous. They have a burger on an English muffin which is pretty delightful. They also know how to pour a pint of Guinness, which is always appreciated. Cheap, convenient to the train and a nice, laid-back atmosphere.
(4)
Patrick B.
Don't let the wall of awards in the foyer fool you--Christopher's has earned its 3 stars on Yelp by being "nice" and "all right" but "nothing special." It looks like it should be so much better than you end up feeling on your way out. This visit supplied us with a great waiter. He was always there and always polite but not overbearing. My first mistake was to stray from the specials menu--should have tried the Sunday brunch Huevos Rancheros, but opted, instead, for the Spinach and Artichoke Chimichanga ($7.95). I love chimis cause they're crispy, but the menu warned it would be covered in a red sauce, and this made it kind of, well, flabby and soggy. Plus, artichoke is a tough flavor to pull off in large amounts, and this poor drowned chimi was absolutely stuffed with it. Serves me right. She had the real reason you should grace this place with your presence: Blackened Sirloin Salad ($12.95). The conundrum was this: can they blacken the sirloin while still serving it rare? Yes, they can do that, and did, dammit. Taking in those greens with onion, tomato, peppers, blue cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette, she announced it her new favorite salad. Allowed a few precious bites, I'd say it would be hard to beat.
(3)
David G.
I've been going to Christophers on and off for the past two years, but I've pretty much given up on it at this point. It's the kind of place that I want to like, and seems at first glance that I should, but never seems to deliver. If I could sun this place up in one word it would be "forgettable". The food isn't bad in anyway, but it's never very good either. It's just usually adequate and I guess that's fine. The wait times aren't usually very good for this place unfortunately, and a long time always seems to pass no matter what you choose to order there. The service has been pretty bad for me on most visits, but not because the waitress was rude, but usually because they make one visit to the table and go missing the rest of the night. Also, some of the waitresses are a little flakey and seems to be a little spaced out. Not all of them, but some surely shouldn't be waiting tables for a living. The atmosphere doesn't do anything for me. There's nothing specifically wrong with it, but it seems a bit open and cold to me, and the 1970's dark wood interior doesn't help. In summary Christopher's is a place you might go when you can't decide where to go, but get reminded afterwards that you wish you had tried something else instead. Boring and adequate with a blah staff.
(3)
K M.
I've been a few times to Christophers and always seem to order the same thing: yuppie nachos and a lime/cucumber cocktail. So if my opinions on food are a little limited, it's only because these are two great options! Overall, Christophers is a bit run-of-the-mill. It doesn't have too much outstanding in the way of decor or atmosphere, except for the god-awful local "art" that covers the downstairs walls (honestly, there was a artist who made scraps of knitting with 'found' yarn and twigs... that's not art, that's the unfortunate aftermath of a craft-store tornado.) The one time I've gone with a pickier friend, our waiter was very understanding about her last-minute order swap, although it arrived with a few errors.
(3)
Todd W.
Extremely mediocre food. The staff has typically been a downer. But if you're going for good beer and good surrounds, then this place is great. The ever-changing, and well selected beer menu, is the really the only reason this place even gets three stars.
(3)
Gracie B.
First Impressions: I had always wanted to try Christopher's. From the outside I always thought I'd find a darkly inviting and cozy little neighborhood spot. It did feel that way when I walked in on a recent cold and snowy day.. But unfortunately the feeling didn't last as I was whisked right past the available tables near the fireplace, only to be seated in a tiny spot near a drafty brick wall on the other side of the room. (The place was crowded, but there were still at least 2 or 3 other good seating options.) You should try to please the customer from the minute they walk through the door, and that starts with where you seat them. Service: The servers were young, and eager to please but missed the mark on many levels. The best example I have of that is when our waitress kept asking us how we were or if we needed anything, but never stayed around for our answers. It was comical. I actually had to shout after her that yes I would in fact like some more coffee. I know this might really be pushing in in the needy-customer department. And tell me if you think this is an outrageous request. But I have always felt that the mark of a great server is when the ask you how your food is after first noticing whether or not your mouth is full. We asked at least twice for spoons to stir our coffee, and more creamers to put in that coffee. (Side note: Yes, I said creamers. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with that. But again, I just expected more; like actual milk in a pitcher, or half and half. Not a huge deal though). She did finally bring the creamers, but forgot the spoon. I just stirred my coffee with my fork. (Again, not a huge deal, I'm just saying....) The meal: I don't know, maybe I shouldn't have waited until 2:30 to go there when brunch ends at 3:00. But I don't think that was the problem. They have good menu choices. But the food quality and presentation was comparable to your basic TGIF type places. It's great if you like those kinds of places, but I was expecting more. I ordered huevos rancheros. I thought the portion size was just fine, no complaints there. I also liked how they added plenty of fruit to the plate. Some places will put 1 strawberry on a brunch plate and consider it brunchy. My dish had lots of strawberries, cantaloupe, grapes, and honeydew. That was very nice. Even though the cantaloupe was totally not ripe. My home fries were cold. The flour tortillas were stale and hard. Not only were the onions inside the omelet totally undercooked and crunchy, but there were a *million* of them. Coming over the 1st time to check on us, the waitress asked me if I wanted some salsa. The dish came with 2 little containers of black beans and sour cream. But the fact that it did not come with salsa, and she asked me if I wanted some almost as an after thought struck me and my fellow diner as odd. Bottom line: Our waitress was a real sweetheart, who was not refined or very smooth and did not seem to be working in a place that had any desire to teach her. I do not blame her *at all* and we tipped her 20%. My sense is that management just does not have extremely high expectations of giving an above average dining experience because they know they can get away with less. They are in a great location, and do not seem to hurt for customers. The funny part is that I would go there again. One reason is just to give them another chance. It could have been an off day or bad timing. But like I said in the beginning, I kind of doubt it. Secondly, I think this must be a much better place to go at night before or after some other activities, like hearing music or hanging out with friends. I went here as a brunch destination and I had high hopes. I would probably be much happier with a beer and a burger and a bunch of friends. I'll probably go once more and call it a day on Christopher's.
(2)
stacey l.
Big place with a big menu. I haven't had a lot here, but I love the burger menu at this place. The house veggie burger is tasty as I am always looking for a nice fresh veggie burger. Not the best, but respectable. Nice service.
(3)
Sarah G.
9/8/11: Must update, as I've been taking Christopher's for granted for too long. Great for vegetarians. Mexican menu items are still sub par, but tofu sliders, salads, and veggie burger are all great. Nice beer selection, decent atmosphere. I like the amount of vegetarian options on the menu and the healthier than normal pub food pub food, but nothing is spectacular. That said, tonight I wanted a veggie reuben but all they have on the menu is a portabello reuben. It was no problem for them to sub tofu for shroom and mmmm, the sandwich was tasty. The tofu fajitas leave much to be desired - some unfrozen vegetable mix with Mrs. Dash and tofu, yuck. Not a huge beer selection, but their variety is decent and well thought out. Waits are never super long because they've got tons of tables.
(4)
Phil D.
One star for the fireplace. One star for the convenient location. This place is usually last on my list of options in the Porter Square area.
(2)
molly f.
So aside from the fact that we nearly got into a fight with an old lady there giving us the stink eye for over an hour, dinner & drinks at Christopher's was fun, affordable, and low key. Our server was friendly and the selection of entrees, appetizers and adult beverages was plentiful. I ended up with a delicious burger topped with boursin cheese and caramelized onions and it was seriously yummy. Everyone we were with seemed to enjoy their food & the atmosphere...I would like to come back & try some of the other options on the menu & to see what the bar scene is like when a bunch of old women aren't trying to evil eyeball you out of the place.
(4)
Rooster L.
I really like this place. It is a nice size and has a good feel to it. Good beer and booze selection and the prices for food are reasonable. I got the slider special which had a salmon burger with pesto, chicken sandwich, and beef burger with garlic aioli. The chicken and beef were great with alot of flavor. The salmon burger was good, although I've never had one before so I don't know what it was supposed to taste like. My boyfriend had the chicken wings and loved them. They were breaded and had a tastey sauce although not too spicy. I appreciate that they use all natural beef (grass fed I think) and chicken and don't charge an arm and a leg for it. The bartender was very busy but I thought the service was ok to good. My complaint would be the music - it was really cheesy 80's when we were there. It is right next door to TOAD, so a good spot to grab a bite then go listen to some live music (no cover there). Will definitely go back.
(4)
Lily C.
I've been to Christopher's a few times because my sister lives near it. Usually the food is pretty good and the service is fine. The nachos are very good and I like that they have Woodchuck Cider on their menu. Last week I went to Christopher's with my Mom and my sister around 6:30-7pm. After a fairly short wait we were brought to our table. We ordered drinks and an appetizer and our entrees. The nachos took a while to come out but not outrageously long. Our entrees took forever. The waitress came over twice to apologize and my sister stopped her once more to ask about our food. The parties sitting on either side of us, who had been seated long after us, had already been served. Finally, our entrees came with the explanation that there was a party of 65 upstairs and a lot of them had ordered pasta so our pasta took a while. There was no mention of compensation for the time we waited and waited and waited (gratis drinks would have been appreciated), management never came over to apologize for the delay, nothing. They must have known they were going to have a party of 65 in that night. Why not plan a little better and, if you didn't, try to placate the customers who had to suffer for your lack of planning.
(2)
Julia F.
I went to Christopher's for the first and only time with my friend - both in dire need of libation. We parked the car in the Porter Sq parking lot and strolled in to the restaurant and plopped down at the bar. We ordered Appletinis. This wasn't the first time I'd had them, but it was the first time I'd had one made with any real amount of alcohol in them. The bartender was generous from the start. Since we were drinking the same drink - and at different paces, he would top the other class off every time he made a drink. Due to the nice-nice mixing by the bartender, I was in need of a cigarette shortly there after and frequently from then on. Each time I went out for a smoke the hostess would open the door for me (nice) and say goodbye (clearly confused...) I sheepishly explained my extreme addiction to nicotine, and yet each time she would say goodbye to me. When I jokingly asked if they wanted me to leave, she was confused and seemed to take affront to the comment. The bathroom was clean - though I still wouldn't use it, I like to at least look at public bathrooms that my friends dub "not scary, but still not Julia friendly" you could park a freaking BUS in the bathroom at this joint. It puts most handicap bathrooms to shame! We had some appetizers, but I'll be damned if I remember what they were or how they tasted. The bartender got me drunk. I appreciated it - except for the fact that I drove there... We didn't even end up paying for all the drinks we drank. At least we still had some of our wits about us in the end, cause we tipped appropriately for the drinkage.
(3)
First L.
I have been going to Christopher's for years, it's a great neighborhood restaurant with friendly wait staff, good food at reasonable prices, a down-to-earth bar with a great drink selection. It even has a cozy fireplace for cold winter days/nights. And for late owls looking for a place to eat after 10pm, this place serves dinner until midnight! Highly recommended to anyone looking for an overall good meal experience.
(4)
Joe D.
Fun atmosphere and good food. I had the special Haddock Cakes and they were mediocre. There was very little Haddock and the meal as a whole felt like an appetizer. Everything else was great!
(4)
Ryan P.
I've gone to Christopher's several times and have enjoyed myself every night. It's the prefect place to bring the family, or have a great date. The beer selection is decent and you know the stock is rotated quickly. I would definitely recommend.
(4)
Gail F.
The food was fine, but the service is always slow! Too bad!
(2)
William B.
Poor service, bad food, moderately pleasant environment. I live nearby, and about every two to three years forget my last experience and go back, thinking I must have made a mistake, and it's really okay. Sigh. The worst ever was what they claimed was a Cobb salad. No way.
(1)
Mihir P.
I ate here before Yelp was even around and I still vividly remember how bad the food was. The Thai chicken sandwich was a sad piece of grilled chicken breast with a diluted peanut butter for the peanut sauce. Yes, gross. The mango jerked chicken had no jerk to it and was dry as hell - and the piece was a chicken leg. Then I tried the risotto which was undercooked and crunchy. The menu has changed since but now it looks as though they are trying to please everyone. You'll see what I mean. I give Christopher's two stars as the manager was extremely polite and took two meals off the check without us asking.
(2)
Sherry F.
I always enjoy going to Christopher's. There burgers are awesome, nachos are great and there mixed drinks are good also. I usually go preety early so I never have to wait more than 5-10 minutes. Parking can be a pain, I usually park in the lot across the street which you are not supposed to do but I haven't gotten a ticket yet.
(4)
Jamie A.
Both of the times we've been to Christopher's, I've been pleased. For my first visit (it was right after we signed our lease to move to the area!), Tim & I ordered some beers, split the nacho appetizer (tasty, but nothing out of the ordinary), and the fish & chips (highlight of the night...very good.) I also recommend their Healthy Ceasar Salad...it's great for not feeling tooooo bad about dinner if you're watching your calories and such. It's light and very filling.
(3)
Liz D.
Just wanted to add that one of their rotating taps always features a Magic Hat beer now, nice!
(5)
Jason K.
I'm having communication issues...the long and short of it: Christopher's used to be really good. Now it is not. The breakdown: It's next to Toad - good. The food is marginal - not good. Nice beer selection - good. Waitress had trouble taking orders - not good. Hostess was checking me out - good. That last line was a big, fat lie - downright sad.
(2)
Becka D.
Good place if you are looking for a casual, sit-down place. Huge menu with enough options for everyone...including a decent amount of vegetarian options. Great burgers & tex-mex, and the salads are pretty tasty too. And the fries are those thick-cut wedge kind...mmmm. The ambiance is typical for the Irish-pub. Lots of wood inside, and has a warm feel to it.
(4)
Quita C.
I can't believe I haven't eaten here yet. I live fairly close to Porter Square and usually only end up at Christopher's for drinks. My friend and I decided to get dinner here after an exhausting day of shopping and mayhem. We were seated right away and our server was so pleasant. Order the fried pickles! They were amazing and I can't even describe the love I now have for the buttermilk dipping sauce that came with them. So Tasty! Also my friend and I ordered one of their specials her the chicken burger and I the gnocchi. Neither of us were disappointed in the slightest. I will tell you they give generous portions for the prices and they are just as good as leftovers. Also I can't forget to mention how decently priced the cocktails were. I will definitely be coming back here again.
(5)
Charles C.
very slow service. I've been here for 25 minutes now and am still waiting for my food. no idea when it is coming and it doesn't look promising. the restaurant is not even full. absolutely terrible service and unacceptable update: got my food 30 mins later. staff slightly apologetic. home fries is too oily and there are some bad chunks... French toast also too heavy. I ate here 6 months ago and loved it. I was excited to come back, but this time it was incredibly underwhelming. this ruined my day. i feel depressed.
(1)
Gonen M.
I really don't like to write bad reviews, but... Christopher's really doesn't deserve a good review. I've been here for 3 times and I don't think I'll go again. The service is super slow. One time, I had to wait almost 40 minutes for a sandwich. The food is not so great. The environment is depressing and dark. If you want to eat something and have a beer with friends, I suggest McCabes on Mass, which is like a block away from C's. Tavern in the Square across the street is also another option.
Christopher's is the friendly Porter Square bar that everyone knows and goes to. It has everything you need in a solid bar: a variety of decent burgers, a surprisingly wide selection of beers that changes seasonally, and wonderful service. While Christopher's won't change how you view bars or transcend food, it does provide an ideal bar experience, and anyone in the Porter Square area would be remiss to avoid it.
(4)
Stella B.
I went this place for dinner with my husband tonight and we had healthy Cesar salad, boneless Buffalo , English burger and fish and chips with some beers. Their food were great because we were starving but nothing special . I mean, I know our choices are nothing special so I don't complain . Lol I wanted to give 4stars but I'm considering we were starving so I give 3 stars . Service was just okay , no complain but nothing great. Pictures I took are great though .
(3)
Shirley E.
Christopher's is definitely my go-to neighborhood bar. Most importantly: TRY THE JOHNNY DEPP RUM PUNCH! This not-to-sweet fruity drink that has a splash of pineapple juice was introduced a few summer's ago and became such a hit that they put it on the menu permanently. The burgers are always perfectly portioned and juicy with a decent size helping of fries to share with your dining partner (or you can substitute it for a salad, of course). Service is always swift and efficient, even during peak times and the staff sets the bar for 'welcoming service with a smile'. I'm not a beer fan, however, if you are you'll love the variety draft selection offered. Based solely on what I've read in the descriptions or over heard from patrons their selection has something for everyone.
(4)
Ali L.
Everything about this place is cute and a nice neighborhood space. I'm a fan.
(4)
Keo H.
The bf & I had a nice chill & relaxing brunch here. Its considerate on the wallet & outdoor seating. Service was prompt. The brussel sprouts a tad bit overcioked but the cheese & bacon made up for the shortfall. The burger was good but the muffin it came in was a lil dry for me. The fries are freekin awesome!! Crispy outside & soft inside. Our drinks were really good for less than $10 each. Its ur good ol' neighborhood restaurant grill. Nothing fancy schimanchy.
(3)
Catarina D.
Quite consistently acceptable food. Nothing out of this world, nothing I'd want to spit out. I know it's not a high compliment, but it's true. Do me a favor and don't crowd up this place on nights when I don't want to spend an hour in line at the all-star restaurants a short walk away in Davis Square ;)
(3)
E F.
Yum! Fun mixed drinks, tasty food every time, a bit crowded some nights, but as I always say, that's not a bad sign. The mussels and fries were super tasty! Shoestring fries with just the right amount of salt and mussels that made my stomach super happy. The mixed drinks do have silly names. You may not say them right the first time. But they will come promptly, with lots of mango flavor, and rather strong. A regular for date night.
(4)
Renee F.
The kitchen is very slow. We came here at 1:00pm and the restaurant was only half full, but it took 30 min for our food to arrive. And the food wasn't good either. The fries and the chicken were overfried and hard. The french toast was okay. Would not recommend this to anyone.
(1)
Robyn B.
Nice beer selection, friendly staff, cozy & comfortable environment. The veggie burger isn't anything special...but I had to try it given the other yelp reviews. I much prefer the mushroom burger! For appetizers, get the fried pickles and/or mussels. So good.
(4)
Sarah M.
I'm always skeptical of places literally across the street from T stations-- somehow, it seems logical that they don't have to work as hard to serve good food, since they're guaranteed a crowd from the T. Christopher's, however, disproves this point. They're one block from Porter and are one of the ass-kickingist bars/restaurants in Porter Square. There's plenty of seating at the bar and around the restaurant-- don't forget the upstairs. Service is friendly. The menu is pretty extensive, and most importantly, NOT expensive. You can do well for yourself for $15-20 here, which is not common for a sit-down restaurant in Cambridge. Culinary highlights include the Brussels sprouts with bacon and cheese, chicken panini, veggie burger (though I am not yet comfortable calling it the best veg burger in the area), and fries of all types. They've also got a great beer list with a sizeable list of rotating specials. Ultimately, in an era when limited-selection menus and small plates are the trend, Christopher's provides a welcome respite to those who prefer choice and bigger portions in an unpretentious, cozy space. Whether you're veg, gluten free, alcohol-only-- chances are you'll find something here you want to try, and you'll want to stay a while, too.
(5)
Misato P.
We went to Christopher's on a week night(Tuesday night) around 6:30pm. The place filled up pretty quickly at dinner time. My friends had Cobb salad (large portion with fresh everything- she loved it) and cod fish plate(hearty fresh grilled cod fish- again, she loved it!). I ordered their famous toad burger: it has all natural beef burger with melted cheddar, pickles, crispy onions, chopped lettuce and special toad sauce, on an onion roll. What is a special toad sauce? It is a mixture of ketchup, mustard, mayo and I'm pretty sure it had some tangy stuff like BBQ sauce or something! I really enjoyed this burger a lot and no wonder it is their famous go-to burger for many patrons. Their fries are steak fries which I loved! I'm definitely going back there for more :-)
(5)
Brie P.
Beer, good food, and family friendly atmosphere. I've been here a few times, and have enjoyed my time here. I always try the turkey club (something so simple, how can you screw it up?) And they made it perfectly. Great turkey, awesome bacon, bread nicely toasted and their fries were good. They made some great hearty food too, and their soup is great on a cold New England day. Two floors, comfortable seating, great staff. Not a bad spot to hit up with a small group.
(5)
Chris J.
Finally made it! I'm new to the area and have been attempting to systematically taste my way around somerville. Sunday afternoon late lunch/early dinner. I ordered the appetizer special which was "Cajun" cheese fries with bacon and a buffalo ranch sauce. They were yummy. Initially my first order was wrong, but the waitress happily took it away and the manager promptly returned with the correct order and I was only charged half price for the app. My entree was the Greek salad. That thing was on point. A salad hearty enough for a man of my size. Chicken was seasoned well and moist. The feta was nice and creamy and veggies were immaculate. As I was good watching, I noticed quite a few sandwiches roll out of the kitchen. They were definitely calling me. Until my next visit I guess.
(5)
Faith K.
I don't know why I haven't reviewed Christopher's sooner, but I love this place. I kept meaning to get in here and would always forget because porter wasn't really on my radar, but we ended up in here one day for lunch and never looked back. This is one of those awesome restaurants where vegetarians and meat eaters can go together and both leave satisfied. Service is great and always friendly. Sometimes it seems slow and like they're understaffed, but it's worth a little patience. Good food, reasonable pricing, vegetarian friendly, clean and cozy inside (love the fireplace!) I've enjoyed everything I have tried, except for the spinach dip. That was weird and gross in my opinion. BUT, the salads are huge and tasty, the fries are on point every time and never greasy or salty, the veggie burger is different with the pesto and roasted peppers and it is absolutely delicious, and there are always vegetarian soup options. Just go, you won't regret it.
(5)
Rick M.
Love Christopher's burgers! Especially the ghost pepper burger. Ghost pepper cheese with Sriracha sauce mixed in with the beef. Delicious!! I enjoy the Sriracha pulled pork too, but they don't put enough meat in it.
(5)
Tanya S.
This place is so friendly! We've had good luck here on weekends, during world cup, etc. Big TVs, friendly service, very accommodating. They have a lot of different burgers, and eating gluten free was not an issue at all. Food was delicious.
(4)
Kim A.
No parking, you may have a wait, and I have never had anything that I like here. My husband likes it though, good beer selection and the yuppy nachos. The staff are always nice and the fireplace is a great touch during the cold months!
(3)
Lynette S.
I really liked this restaurant. We ate outside for convenience ( I had a stroller and a kiddo who wanted to move around). The food was excellent! I got the veggie burger (house-made) and my friend got the tofu salad. We spilt the chocolate bread pudding. Mojito was also very, very good. Service was nice as well. Only thing missing from this place is no baby changing table in the bathroom.
(4)
Jake F.
Solid burger here at Christopher's. I love places that will serve their burgers on an english muffin. Really lets the meat shine. Subtracting one star for fries being a bit on the soggy side. This meal would have been perfect with hotter, crispier fries. Overall a great vibe and excellent beer list. Definitely a go-to in Porter.
(4)
M B.
Amelia! Amelia! Amelia! Best waitress we have ever had. She goes above and beyond to make sure our orders are correct. We specifically asked for her name just so we could write this review. We have been there a few other times and have been less impressed with the service. I just wished they learned a thing or two from Amelia. The food is pretty good and reasonably priced. We like the assorted nachos. Other items have been more mediocre. Overall we will keep coming back, especially if Amelia is working.
(5)
Daniel F.
I can't remember the last time I left a Yelp review, but I feel compelled to after a seriously disappointing meal this evening. Christopher's is a fun place to be, with great decor, a nice beer list and friendly staff, but the food itself leaves something to be desired. I got the chicken pot pie, which came with a Caesar salad on the side. It was really bad. The salad was over-dressed, warm, and wilted, as was the salad that came with my girlfriend's meal. The chicken pot pie felt, smelled, and tasted like really thick clam chowder without the benefit of clams, with an unwieldy tuft of puff pastry atop the gloopy white mass. My girlfriend got the salmon burger. It had way too much going on in terms of toppings, and the salmon patty was bready, but it was great by comparison. We shared her meal and left mine. We also got the fried pickles. They were ok, but there was way too much breading and you could hardly taste the pickles. Still the highlight of the meal. Needless to say, we were disappointed. I remember having a nice meal at Christopher's a couple years ago and have brought my girlfriend by a couple times, promising that our last experience was just a fluke and they really do serve good food. I think I'll give up now. Seriously good beers, though, so at least there's that. Maybe after enough beer, the food would start tasting better.
(2)
Nicole C.
Christopher's is a great cozy, reliable spot with friendly service and an awesome brownie sundae! My favorite bartender, Tami, always has a smile and is on top of her game! Good beer selection and cocktails as well!
(4)
Marina G.
I was going to give this place a four star rating, but then I remember I once found somebody's loong light brown hair in my food (not mine!). The burgers are pretty OK, the specials are pretty good, and the local cider is great. Unfortunately the sweet potato fries are awful, I always find myself freezing here. At least it's never a long wait for dinner or brunch.
(3)
Molly G.
Christopher's is my favorite american restaurant in Cambridge. I would describe their menu as upscale bar food, and everything I've had has been really tasty. The blue cheese burger is the best burger I've ever had. The tater tots with ghost chili cheese are really good, too. The only thing keeping me from giving them five stars are their desserts- definitely not on par with the rest of the food. I've had the bread pudding, the molten lava cake and the brownie sundae, and didn't really like any of them. Their draft selection is really good and changes pretty often.
(4)
Anna W.
Excellent all around. Great pub style ambience and friendly staff. Our orders arrived quickly and everything we got was soooo good. I had the chicken pot pie, super rich, delicious comfort food.
(5)
Bryan K.
Met up with friends for a celebration dinner. I had the veggie burger with french fries. The burger was remarkably moist and delicious. It almost tasted like stuffing from Thanksgiving. The french fries were large chip style, and it also came with a salad for only $10. Service was very pleasant and not rushed. Will definitely go back the next time I'm in Porter Square.
(4)
Izzy G.
It's everything you want in a neighborhood restaurant! But better. The chicken nachos.. Amazing. Not greasy at all and really filling. I like to add extra jalapeños. The English burger is a favorite and my husband enjoys the rotating burger specials. Great kids menu, always friendly service and such a great list of drinks at a reasonable price. We used to be regulars when we lived across the street, but we still pop in from time to time and it's consistently good food and drinks.
(4)
Alan T.
This review is long overdue. Christopher's is my go to place - PERIOD! If I am alone and want a dinner, maybe a veggie burger, a blackened chicken sandwich or anything else on the inviting yet simple menu - with or without a tap beer or mixed drink, this is where i sit. I can get excellent service at the bar or at a nice table. When I'm hosting an event, I bring my guests to Christophers afterwards. When someone i really want to communicate with is around and we're hungry and want to continue our discussion, we all go to Christophers. I've been coming her since 1990. That's 25 years! I used to live in Porter Square. There are other places BUT not as good food, service, atmosphere and price. You can get a fine meal for under $10.- !
(5)
Karmen C.
Definitely my favorite place to go for a burger in the area. I've tried a bunch of places in the Cambridge area that supposedly have amazing burgers but I still come back to ranking the Christopher's burger as my go-to-spot. The price is also unbeatable, $9.95! For a while I was also obsessed with their fries that come as a side with the burgers. Their salads are also sizeable and delicious.
(5)
Lauren E.
This place is huge! There's 2 floors of seating plus outdoor tables for when it gets warm in Boston. It's in a great location too -- steps away from the Porter T station. The food here was delicious! They are known for their veggie burgers but I had the turkey burger. It was flavorful, tasty, and just great. It came with avocado, lettuce, and tomato (plus pickled onions but I removed those) and chipotle mayo. So many delicious flavors and just the right size. The French fries were thick but crispy and had just the right amount of salt. Delicious all around! Would definitely go back! The only reason I'm not giving it 5 stars is because the service wasn't amazing.
(4)
Inês L.
Well, this was a huge disappointment. Thanks to Yelp, I read that this place offers some vegan friendly options. Cool! The waitress was nice enough to double check and confirm for me that the veggie burger HAS eggs but the tofu beet burger does NOT. I got the tofu beet burger and it was pretty pathetic. It had absolutely no flavor. It was just a crispy, red, flat patty. Not even the lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup could save it :( My bf got the turkey reuben and he said it wasn't good either. How do you mess that one up? Shame. We also got the spring rolls and they were pretty tasty but pricey considering it only came with three little rolls. Our meals were just a $1 more than the appetizer and the meals had much more food. The best part of our meal was the fact that it was pretty cheap and the fries were decent. Otherwise, not visiting this place again.
(1)
Dennis M.
Kinda made up my own thing. Burger and a bloody. A perfectly cooked southwest burger and a spot on Bloody Mary. Thank you sir, may I have another? This really should be a daily special
(4)
Steph H.
Best service I think I have ever had at a restaurant! Came here after the Boston Marathon after seeing it had one of the top 10 veggie burgers in Boston. It did not disappoint. The craft beer selection was pretty great, which was another draw to this place. I subbed the gluten free potato cake for the fries, which I HIGHLY recommend. The brussel sprout appetizer was amazing. They actually messed up one person's order but the way our waitress handled it was beyond professional. She brought out chips and salsa in the meantime as well as a salad for the person. There is an entire gluten free menu for those that are in need of that sort of thing. Overall, our party of 8 was highly impressed and we all left raving about this place. Thanks Christophers and our amazing waitress for a most memorable post marathon experience!
(5)
Jo M.
Christopher's is pretty good. A great selection of beers, and the burger list is great. Definitely worth dropping in to.
(3)
Will M.
This is my go-to bar for burgers and beer and I have never been let down once. The service is prompt, friendly, and helpful. The burgers are absolutely to-die-for, and you can get huge size ones too if you are feeling ravenous. Best of all though is the great draft beer selection - highly recommend the nitro stouts, mayflower porter, or some of their pale ale selection.
(5)
Noreen A.
I love most if their menu but especially the diversity of burgers. Wonderfully made and very filling! The staff are very courteous and nice. The ambiance and prices are great too. For 2 years, this place has made it to the top 3 places to go when in or around porter Sq. When I need time to eat by myself and not feel so awkward that I'm lonely. I'd totally recommend it
(4)
Lana A.
Our party of three enjoyed perfectly cooked meals for lunch here, with each of us choosing different entrees as well as side dishes. Meal delivery was timely. The only down side was having been assigned a somewhat inattentive (though friendly) wait staff, but this only caused minor problems during our visit. All three of us would recommend Christopher's to others and we will definitely return in the future.
(4)
Stephanie M.
I've been coming here for a while now, and have never really been disappointed. If you're looking for a casual dining experience with an assorted menu ranging from vegetarian friendly to a burger this is always at the top of my list. It's not fancy, the food isn't gourmet, but it's always a good time. I generally never order anything except one of their salads or a burger. I usually just get too excited that I'm here and get to have one or the other that I never want to try anything else. I've had the boneless wings, nachos, and various other shared plates as well. The spicy artichoke dip is indeed, a bit spicy. The wait staff have always been friendly and courteous. There can be times when you're seated near a big party that it gets far too loud for you to carry on a conversation with your own party, but eh it's a restaurant. One of my favorite features? The bathrooms are one holers.. I hate large restaurant bathrooms. Yea yea.. Weird I know. A couple of years ago we brought my girlfriends parents here for her mothers birthday. She loved it and her dad went nuts over the beer selection. Overall? Yeah, it's good stuff.
(5)
S R.
Food is Excellent but service is just OK. I've been here twice now and the waitstaff seems overwhelmed. On Sunday, for example, my friend and I were served by Nicole. She came over once without being flagged down, to take our drink and food order, but was otherwise unavailable. I waited almost 10 minutes for my tea before asking for it again; Nicole got it immediately but it would have been nice to get an apology or smile. I had ordered a side of avocado with my meal that didn't come, but I disregarded it because I couldn't flag Nicole down in time to reminder her about it, I decided to eat my meal without it. We had to be on the lookout for her to get our water and coffee refill. I asked for a tea refill and she waved me away. A few minutes later, she returned and explained that tea refills just included hot water; a second tea bag would cost me an additional $2.50. I've never heard of that policy but I suggest they change it. Worth going for the food and drink selections, though!
(3)
Howard L.
When in for drinks in the afternoon and met a bartender named Tami. Service was slow and the drinks were weak. Will never return... Save your money guys and go to another bar
(1)
MaryGrace A.
I had the veggie burger and nachos-I don't remember which kind, but they had black beans, cheese, and avocado on them. Everything was delicious! I like how they included both a salad and their signature fries with the veggie burger order. So good!
(5)
Joe T.
How have I lived here so long without knowing about the glory of Christophers!? First, I love the environment. It feels like a fun, dark, solid place where deviant, fun, adventurous things happen in the nighttime. I plan to return here often. Second, Crisopher's has so many vegetarian options! I got a great veggie burger that tasted like it came right off a barbecue. Next time I want to try the deep-fried tofu!!! Third, Cristophers had very reasonable prices.
(4)
Dave Y.
The best fried pickles in the city. Normally love this place, but today the eggs Benedict was not done well. English muffin was soggy, maybe a new cook or something. Their food is usually amazing.
(3)
Jim B.
Let me be honest.. this place is my regular "local" so word to the wise, the review could be biased. I have watched the Red Sox win 2 World Series championships and the Bruins win 1 Stanley Cup, both while sitting on my back door perch in this establishment. I first walked in back in 1992 and ordered a Margarita that gave me mean heartburn, but was otherwise lubricant for the soul. I have met many others like myself here, made friends here, buried friends I've met here, and even met a few ladies here over the years. Like most locals here or abroad, your experience out of this place depends on what you put in. If you are seeking a low-key, low-lit, but not so low-priced hang-out, and you came in via Hush Puppies or 2 wheels, then you shan't be dissatisfied. Try driving to Porter for any reason, and you'll probably really need a drink by the time you get to the bar. Staff has changed endlessly over the years, but some above-line staffers have been here since it's early 80's days, including Charlie himself (also the owner of Cambridge Common, Lizard Lounge, and the ever-hip West Side Lounge, all down the street). I've enjoyed good times here, and although the original crowd for me has thinned out, its still a fun place to grab a beer and some halfway decent food. The food... OK, it's, well, OK. Nothing special, but you can be sure of the consistency. They have some rotating specials, but the basics are reliable comfort food favorites (burgers, salads, Dave's Pasta specials on most nights). Lately, they've had an obsession with ghost pepper cheese (its addictive..). Parties of 8 or fewer can be easily accommodated. Service is friendly. C's and restaurants like it are fading in America, being replaced by chains (the new Earl's in Assembly Row to name one, Not Your Average Joe's, Tavern In The Square, etc). I like C's and its general neighborhood street cred; it will remain a part of my weekly "wheel" hopefully for a long time. If you catch me by the back door on my stool, knock four times on the door glass and maybe, just maybe, I'll let you in through the wrong door. Cheers.
(4)
Emily V.
I went here a few weeks ago, so it's kind of hard to remember everything. A definite stand out was the homemade clam chowder. Yowza! The portions are huge, so come hungry or split with someone. I got the beet salad with goat cheese after the chowder. While it was good, I expected many more beets (especially with the name!). The salad was mostly greens and a few pieces of beets on the side. Sadness. I wouldn't get it again. Everyone else in my party seemed happy. Someone got salmon on cous cous...someone else a burger (huge)... Cute place. Nice atmosphere. Decent prices. Much bigger than it looks; there is an entire upstairs.
(4)
Gordon B.
This is my go-to spot in Porter Square. Great selection of draughts, great burgers ( including one made with sriracha sauce in the beef and ghost pepper cheese on top), fireplace, good value... headed there now!
(4)
Lisa M.
This place is full of surprises. Sometimes the service is great, but it's usually adequate. Usually the temp is too cold, but sometimes it's comfortable. Sometimes the table by the fireplace is available, but usually it's not. The one thing I can say for sure is the food is always good. Usually it's typical, uninspired bar food, but sometimes the stars align & you get something special. It happens enough that I return again & again. There are many things that are attractive about Christopher's that keep me coming back but I admit; it takes a bit of strategy to decide whether to go. On my last return the food was on par with us showing up after midnight. The experience was heightened by a new bartender. She was not only attentive & charming, she was extremely knowledgeable about beer & local customs. I hope she becomes a fixture.
(4)
Ian S.
Great bar and grill in Porter Square. I love the classy, old-fashioned feel of this place which (if the original sign is to be believed) dates back to 1920. It's casual and the food is modestly priced, but you don't feel like you're getting a cheap dining experience. It's a great place to enjoy a relaxing Friday night. About the food: I've enjoyed everything I've had here--mostly burgers and sandwiches. I also came here for brunch a couple of times and LOVED that, especially during warmer weather when outside seating was available. However I got severely ill after coming here for brunch with a friend a while back; can't be sure whether it was something I ate here or not (undercooked eggs in the omelette? spoiled avocado? bad melon?), but it scarred me so badly that I've never been back for brunch again, sadly. I have since returned a couple of times for dinner and have never had another bad experience, but part of me is still traumatized. It's unfortunate because their omelettes taste great. I recommend this place whole-heartedly, I just hope that no one else has a bad experience.
(4)
Tom M.
Quite simply, I've never left here disappointed. I probably eat during 50% of my visits, and food is pretty darn good. Bartenders are super friendly and always offer a taste of their latest rotating tap. The beer selection is great, and the pours are healthy. Great environment too, for whatever reason I find that people around the bar are noticeably friendlier than average. A gem in the heart of Porter square!
(5)
P'raka ..
Love this place for so many reasons: good food, good beer, good drinks! I came here once when the beer guy was making a delivery and got a very decent sized sample of a dark lager-style that I don't normally drink. Food-wise I'm loving the Portabello Rubeun - portobello, swiss cheese, sauerkraut, russian dressing and buttery toasted dark rye bread: SO AWESOME.
(5)
Tahani R.
came here after a book reading in Porter, nice atmosphere, tasty food, everyone at my table was happy.
(4)
Dominic Y.
First experience was not too memorable, had a black bean burger that I didn't care for. Went back last week looking for a better place to watch the ECF than the Tavern, which I really dislike. Christopher's had a great vibe, with a mix of Lesley? kids, yuppies, and Porter old-timers. I had their praised steak strips, which was good though it would have been better if they served a bigger portion. Still, I thought the service was shockingly good for a place as popular/crowded as Christopher's. I will definitely be back.
(3)
Andrew R.
I was told this was Cambridge Common but better. That's an accurate description.
(4)
James B.
So many great things to say about this place... For starters, the staff: They're incredibly friendly, helpful and work very well under pressure. And they know their beer! Never have I gotten a bad recommendation for a drink. An amazing bunch of people. The food: Fresh, good portions, cooked exactly how you like. Where else can you find a coleman beef burger for $6.95? It tastes amazing. Most places charge more for gimmicky burgers that have regular, run of the mill, factory beef. Coleman beef plus the preparation make it a gem that is not commonly found, at least not for the price. Also the nachos are awesome and they even have specialty burgers (think buffalo tofu, epic). The entrees are pretty good too but I usually stick to burgers b/c I'm cheap. The ambience: Cool and relaxing in the summer, warm and inviting in the winter. It's always clean and the layout is nice. Love the fireplace. The beer menu (OMG!): They have something like 12 rotating taps. You can tell the taps are always clean as well because the beer has never tasted anything but fresh. The selection is delicious and local and as I mentioned before, the staff know what they're talking about when you ask them about it. They also have a lot of static taps and bottled beers. Overall: This place has been a great spot for me for about 3 years now. It's one of the first places I visited when I moved to Boston and I've never thought twice about going back. I'd give them more than 5 stars if it were possible. Highly recommended!
(5)
Liana K.
I went here with the parents cause its cheap (I was paying =)) and relatively nice but lively inside. However, the food was very disappointing other than the fries. Pros- Beers Good, nice looking sitting down pub type Cheap Fries: Soft, fully cooked, but not burnt or over frieds steak fries. I don't remember the last time I actually ate my fries that came with the meal. Good selection of gin based drinks always makes me happy Cons- Black Bean burger- Although it had lots of flavour, it was so dry, I could barely swallow it and after a while gave up. The bun they used was french bread and tasted really good. My mother got the steak tips which were just as equally dry and overcooked even though we asked for medium rare. I think the only place where I've tried worse steak tips has been Porters by north station. The quality of meat wasn't too bad, it was just too overcooked and hard to chew. My dad was the only one that was happy with his meal. He had Beef stroganoff. Which for the most part was good, I personally didn't like the sauce, but I'm not a fan of very gravy like flavor. Overall, if the food was slightly better prepared, I think I would have enjoyed my experience there more. My mom was a bit cranky from the place, but nothing a few gin cocktails can't fix. I forgot the name of which one's we got, but they were all good, a little on the weak side, but yummy.
(3)
Jace F.
Christopher's is working with the sustainable business leaders to become more green...does anyone know exactly what this means? I'm only asking because I know of the green restaurant association, and was interested when I came across sbl. But anyway! My friends and I had a good time here.. awesome veggie burgers, I had to try one after reading all the yelps about it. Christopher's is a very chill place with tasty food.
(3)
Allison R.
Props for the ambiance, which consists of dark wood, brick paneling, low lights, and a gas fireplace. Props for the extensive draught list, including a rotating cast of 7ish beers in addition to the starting lineup of another 5 or so. And, props for actually cooking my burger medium rare, which most places don't do. Our waitress was good but not great, but she did arrive immediately with water, which also earned props from me. This is a classic example of a 3.5 star establishment. Solid, worthy of a handful of returns on lazy evenings like this where I just want a tasty meal in a popular place. Oh, and props to them for not making me feel awk about wearing a sweatsuit out to dinner.
(3)
Heather G.
Popped in for a quick dinner last night. I was immediately enamoured with the exposed brick walls, the old/distressed dark wood that managed to look artistic and unique but still very clean and neat, and the fireplace in the corner. The atmosphere is great - like Cambridge Common but not as dive-y-feeling and crowded. I was very excited to try the food, as the ambience was very laid back, casual, and nice. However, that's where the fun ended. The menu is priced like a pub, so there are really no complaints on the quality/value here. Christopher's knows its audience, it knows what it's trying to be, and prices itself accordingly. The food however - I've had better pub food. We started with an order of cajun cheese fries which was just a plate of steak fries (not made there, but rather the flash-frozen-and-deep-fried variety) covered with cajun seasoning powder and then topped with one giant layer of white cheese that was melted ono the entire plate. I thought the fries themselves were very moist for being the frozen type, but after having more fries w/ my burger later on, I realize that these cajun fries were only moist because the oils from the cheese made them so. The dish was overpowered with cheese, and it was messy and greasy. Ordered a burger (ordered and arrived medium, bonus points for that) with a side of fries next. Fries, as noted above, were really dry, lukewarm, and very unappealing. The burger was solid but the bun was sub-par. They say they lightly grill the bun, but it comes out thick and dry and without any trace of grilling. I prefer my hamburger rolls to be crunchier on the outside and squishier on the inside, so this dry, thick bun was not doing it for me. Lastly, we had dessert of granny smith apple pie and the fudge nut brownie sundae. Both desserts were WAY too sweet for my taste, and I was grateful for the vanilla ice cream scoop on each dessert to cut some of the sweetness. Overall, great ambience, great portion size, great service, good prices, subpar food. I would go back for beers and to hang out, but I doubt I'd look forward to having dinner here again. Add that to the list of places I should really go to for what they specialize in rather than for what I wish they specialized in.
(2)
Brian G.
This is my go to place in Porter when I need something to eat and want to grab a beer. I'm a big fan of their healthy Caesar with chicken but they have a pretty wide selection of burgers as well that are great. One of which is on an english muffin which I'm all about. I haven't tried much else to eat. They have a great beer selection as well with a few things you don't see at many other places.
(4)
Gilad S.
Burger was nothing special. Bun was good. Burger wasn't the juiciest, but I do appreciate the options that they have for burger toppings.
(3)
John D.
Inexperienced Chef and Insulting Staff. This was my third visit, and hopefully the last. I ordered seafood risotto. Halfway through the meal the waitress asked how it was. I said it was ok, but it wasn't risotto, just white rice, peas and some seafood on top. She rolled her eyes and walked away... Perhaps I shouldn't have ordered seafood, but the meal wasn't particularly complicated. If they can't make it, then take it off the menu. Also don't ask me about my meal if you don't want to know. I wasn't being rude. I didn't refuse to eat it or send it back. It was edible, just very poor quality and not what I ordered. Previous trips for burgers and fries were not memorable. So if you go, stick with bar food and you might be ok.
(1)
Steve C.
Outstanding restaurant. Met a friend from out of town along with several others on a Saturday night for dinner. I believe we had reservations, but I got there late - but unlike most places in the area, they will seat you regardless of whether or not your whole party is there! When I arrived, my friends had already ordered a plate of nachos. It was pretty picked over, but it was standard pub fare. Good beer selection, though I tend to avoid the stuff myself. Three of my companions ordered white sangria and seemed to enjoy it. I ordered the southwest burger with fried jalapenos and onions and I upgraded the fries to sweet potato fries. I ordered my burger medium rare and it was cooked perfectly. Good flavor, good char, not burnt. And the fries were crisp and plentiful. A friend probably ate a quarter of them off my plate. I think he couldn't help himself they were so good. Others around me ordered the fish tacos (he said they were 'good') and the tofu stir fry (I really wanted a taste of this dish - it looked like there was too much rice to not enough tofu / vegetables, but as a big fan of tofu, I thought it would taste good.) Pricing is beyond reasonable, especially considering the nearby competition. A lot of variety in the menu, too. In a way, it's not unlike some of the chain restaurants out there (like Uno) that have a lot of variety on their menu. The exception is this place feels very one-of-a-kind and the quality is leagues above that which you see in a chain. Wish I lived closer - this would definitely be in my monthly rotation of dine-out spots if I still lived in Somerville/Cambridge.
(4)
Sarah S.
Fine, Christopher's, fine. You got me. Hardy har har. I am now seriously addicted to your buffalo tofu and cajun cheese fries + bleu cheese. I'm a sucker, I know. Okay, fine, yuppie nachos are good too. Are you happy now?? Service continues to be meh, so I do prefer takeout. When eating in, they have Harpoon UFO on draft, which I luuuuurve, and which tempts me a good deal.
(4)
Eric W.
This place gets 4 stars if you stick to the burgers, sandwiches and nachos. Otherwise, it gets closer to 2 stars. But that said, their burgers and sandwiches are great, complete with all-natural ingredients. The YUPPIE NACHOS get their own paragraph, because that's just how good they are. They *deserve* their own paragraph. We and our friends go on a pilgrimage to Christopher's every few months specifically to satiate our YUPPIE NACHOS cravings. Bored of the usual nacho faire? Try the tranformative power of fresh cheese, goat cheese, sundried tomatoes, and guacamole on top of your tortilla chips. You won't be disappointed. And the beer selection is pretty good, too.
(4)
Joseluis A.
made it to christophers a couple of nights ago. met up with some friends there. at first the idea was just to get beers and then find another place to eat. got a couple of boddingtons and we all shared some nachos. loaded with good stuff. those disappeared quick. so then we all decided to get a table (as we were by the bar) and stay there for dinner. i had the burger of the day... filled with mushrooms and jalapenos. good stuff. i ordered medium and it came out nice and juicy. just how a like it. we got the bill, paid with cash and two different cards... but then when i got home and checked on my bank account i saw that i had been charged 3 times at christophers. not good. i got a bit worried but went back there the following morning and spoke with a manager. he gave me a logical explanation and an apology which i naturally accepted. im happy i checked my balance that night though, otherwise i would never have noticed and who knows what would have happened. nevertheless, that burger i had was fuckin delicious
(3)
Michelle K.
I ate here with friends last summer, and we ordered the Spinach and Artichoke Dip. Okay, *I* ordered the Spinach and Artichoke Dip...as my meal...(I know, don't even start) and it was fatty fat fat fat and very addictive. My dirty martinis were pretty good too, and the waiter kept 'em coming. First visit = Four stars. Some friends and I stopped by yesterday afternoon to get drinks. It was around 3 PM - too late for brunch, too early for dinner, so the restaurant wasn't at all busy. When the five of us approached the hostess stand and asked for a table, she seemed a bit put off that we weren't going to be eating anything. She went back and "checked with someone," then returned to inform us that tables were for customers who were ordering food, and that we'd have to go sit at the bar. Like, I get it. I've worked in restaurants before, and I know how it works. When the place is full, you don't want a table only ordering drinks while a bunch of people are waiting to sit. But that clearly wasn't the case here - there were plenty of open tables. It was just kind of strange. So anyway, that happened. We all sat at the bar, and I had a subpar cocktail for like $9. Second visit = Two stars. A four star experience averaged with a two star experience = three stars overall.
(3)
Scott S.
Christopher's has one thing that keeps pulling me back: buffalo tofu. The sauce and breading they use are reminiscent of the wings at Damon's, my favorite pre-vegetarian restaurant. Some of the other food is hit or miss, but the nachos and buffalo tofu are usually solid. The service and dining experience can be dreadfully inconsistent. I recommend being very assertive about what you want from the get-go, or you may never get it at all.
(4)
Matt E.
This is a solid place to take friends and family. It has a broad menu that can accommodate almost any diet and food style desired. Indoor and outdoor seating for summer and during winter they crank up the fireplace adding heat an ambiance. They always have a decent beer selection and an array of mixed cocktails. Something else that really stands out to me is you're not seeing a TV every direction you look. There's a couple in the bar area so you could watch the game if you wanted to but you can just as easily not watch it. I go there fairly regularly and see a lot of the same patrons each time. It's totally worth checking out and seeing what they have to offer.
(4)
Steve K.
Christopher's is great. It's right off the redline, right in Porter, easy to find, and a fun place to go. Whether to check out a sports game on the tv, grab some drinks, eat some dinner or just to go meet up with friends, I always find myself having a good time here. Drinks are good, service is great, food is better, and the price is exactly what I am looking for when either starting a night out on the town or just going to grab some dinner. They got an extra star from me for making the regular chicken sandwich into a buffalo chicken sandwich even though it wasn't on the menu. Christopher's always aims to please.
(4)
Jeff M.
Came here because I heard the burgers were the best around. The English burger and chicken burger were below average. I'll stick to the music at Toad.
(2)
Tennille W.
A great bar and the atmosphere is fun.
(4)
Kevin C.
even though I love sushi, this has been my favorite hangout for many years easy access, great food, warm environment ( I love the fire place in the cold months), great art on the walls, nice people, and great service favorites of mine include the fish n chips, portabello pasta. veggie burger, salmon fettucini and the daily ravioli you can get an irish coffee late at night, espresso martini, hot or cold cider I was disappointed when they decided to install LCD TV's all over the place with sports every night - plenty of sports bars in Boston for that - but the folks are still mellow and it's not impossible to strike up an intelligent conversation these days Melli at the bar will take care of you and forget all you'd worries - until it's time to go ;)
(5)
Cristina S.
This place always has good service. I will say they are always sweet, attentive and prompt. The atmosphere is really great for meals. I have never actually been here for drinks, but it seems like it would be a fun little place. I have been here for Sunday brunch a handful of times. I had stuffed french toast once, which was good, I've also had the Benedict and Breakfast skillet with andouille. I would recommend the breakfast. It's nothing to write home about, but it's home-made from fresh ingredients, which is a refreshing change from chicken fried steak and such. I have had their Espresso Martini, champagne and sometimes they have really yummy specialty drinks. The Bloody Mary is tasty too. Mother's Day was really insane, which is to be expected, but otherwise, it's pretty calm and you can walk right in before noon.
(4)
Liz L.
I went here on a date. The service was decent, the food was far better than I expected, drinks were a tad weak but tasty. Atmosphere was decent - a mix of people... not too loud but not quiet by any means. I was pleasently surprised. I always avoided this place because I figured it was a typical Boston Pub with expensive crappy food. But it wasn't!
(4)
Ploy K.
I went here really wanting to like it because my boyfriend's name is...you guessed it, Christopher. We decided to check it out and were optimistic at first. We were seated right away (6:00pm on a Friday night) and our waiter was attentive. The drinks and food all came out quickly, and I was already writing a great Yelp review in my head... until I bit into my burger. At first, I thought they had brought me a veggie burger. I had ordered the Mighty Mushroom burger, and I called our waiter back to ask him if he had brought me the wrong thing. It seriously did not taste like meat. He then told me that the mushrooms had been mixed into the burger, which I assume is what happened with the bacon as well, but I tell you what, I couldn't taste a damn bit of it. It was like a spongy veggie burger of the worst degree, which made the BBQ sauce overwhelming rather than complimentary. I got no mushroom taste all, but there was an dominate taste of red pepper, of which I am not a fan and which was not mentioned in the menu description. So much for the "mighty." My boyfriend got the English burger and was equally unimpressed by it. It was underwhelming and a bit too rare for a medium rare burger. There was nothing exciting or different about it; we have definitely made better burgers at home. I will say that the fries were pretty good. The service was ok, nothing extraordinary, but not bad either. We were served in a very timely manner, but without much personality. Some people like that, but I don't mind a little enthusiasm. The atmosphere was nice, cozy and welcoming. I would not mind giving Christopher's another chance; other things on the menu looked great, but after our first experience, we won't be in any hurry.
(2)
Kayte B.
Been here a few times - they have a really great bar and some really interesting drinks! I had a lavender ice tea (long island style) last summer that has stuck with me. The food is decent - the burgers are GREAT. There's a good variety of flavors to suit all palates. They even have some Mexican-inspired dishes, which my best girlfriend loves. Great location, decent service - I've had some slow waiters that forget to check back in, but pretty solid service the majority of the time. Good prices for the neighborhood. I'll be back!
(4)
Frank W.
Bottom Line: Decent prices (granted.. it's Porter..), good selection of beer, but food and atmosphere is nothing to write home about. So my roommate wanted some "real food" instead of having his girlfriend cook dinner for us. Therefore, we went to Christophers. The good thing, we didn't have to wait very long for a table, even though it was one of those "everyone wants to be outside" days. Thumbs up for that. Thumbs went sideways to down from there. We each ordered a burger (I got the special -- a stuffed "greek" burger), a pitcher of sangria (I dunno.. they wanted a pitcher, could I say no to that?), and some nachos, because all of the yelpers say that was the way to go. Thanks Yelpers! Those Nachos were delicious! Unfortunately we waited AGES for our burgers (good 35-40 minutes), meaning we had gone through that entire pitcher of sangria, and the nachos, and were what you might call "stavin-mahvins". When the burgers did come, they were certainly a patty served with a bun, but meh, I only ate half and didn't bother to bring the rest home. The potato wedges are deep fried and crispy, but a little too fried in my opinion, and the "side salad" ... yea well oops on that one. .. And everyone at the table had the same feelings. Come here for the beer and some drunk food. Not if you want a good meal, there are plenty of other places for that.
(3)
Jillian P.
Christopher's is a good go-to, easy to please, everyone will find something that works kind of American pub. There are a lot of great beers and a nice draft selection and the cocktails are good, too. I would recommend the Lavender Lemon Tea. Delicious and summery. The burgers are obviously the way to go with lots of choices, but all of the food is pretty good and my non-vegetarian sister is obsessed with their homemade veggie-burgers, so give that a try. The service here is consistently slow and that knocks the rating from 5 to 4. I've gone with a large group, with a table of 4, two of us at the bar... it's just really slow. There's usually a wait for a table and it's tough to find seats at the bar, so plan for that.
(4)
Z R.
I've been here twice over the past week and both times I've experienced lackluster service accompanied by sub service meals. The first time was in the evening at dinner, I was dining alone and was promptly seated at a table near the front of the restaurant. The rest was downhill from here, my server barely spoke English, was absent for at least 10 minutes before I even had a chance to place my drink order. Upon placing my order, I asked him to recommend a wine and he quickly ran off only to return with a taste of a 'Shiraz'. No explanation of where it came from or why he had arrived at this decision. I started with the mussels, which were at least served hot. The sauce was bland and you could tell there were 10 lbs of butter in it. More seasoning, less butter, and perhaps a little more lemon. The next part of the meal I barely could touch because it was honestly just poorly prepared. It was the marinated steak tips. The steamed vegetables (broccoli) were over cooked and flavorless, the mashed potatoes were probably the only edible things on the plate. The tips themselves were drenched in what tasted like Worcestershire sauce, butter, and very little pepper or salt. My request for them to be RARE resulted in medium -medium well. The server displayed very little concern about the fact the food was barely consumed and promptly decided to just run my credit card with no real mention of the fact I hadn't eaten their slop of a meal. The second time I went was a burger, which resulted in basically the same ailment of zero taste, overdone, and just overall lackluster. Look elsewhere folks.
(2)
Angela A.
I'll admit. I *want* to hate Christopher's. It feels chainey and soulless. I chafe at the idea of it. BUT, admittedly, I've never had a *bad* experience there - only really mediocre ones. One surprisingly nice touch is the beer sampler. It comes on a little wooden board, and you have four little half-pint glasses. But that, unfortunately, is it. The food feels heavy and fried, the staff seem uninterested, and the vibe is just kinda dull.
(2)
Ashley V.
Best nachos!!! They make their own tortilla chips, use free range chicken, fresh homemade guac and delicious pico!! Yum!!
(4)
Juliette V.
Nice restaurant/pub atmosphere and a great location. They have very good nachos with some interesting vegetarian twists. I feel like I do not go here enough.
(3)
Michael S.
My wife and I practically used to live here over the last couple of years. Unfortunately, our experience with Christopher's seems to be going downhill. The food in an excellent bargain for the money. My wife swears by the veggie burger and I LOVE the blackened steak salad and the salmon fettuccine. The appetizers are excellent as well. As far as I'm concerned, here's where the wheels begin to fall of the cart: 1. The tap beer selection. Maybe it's just how sick of the New England Microverse I am, but it seems as if the majority of their beer selection consists of over-hopped, quaintly-named rust water. As a lager man, I'm bummed, though I know it's par for the course in Cambridge. One can only drink Sam Adams and Miller Lite so many times. Can I get a Spaten? A Pilsner Urquell? A Leinie's? Something that's not "Old Sasquatch Triple-Hopped Cask-Conditioned Copper Ale?" 2. It's constantly crowded on weeknights. Look, I know it's a good thing that business is good, but it makes trying to get two seats at the bar into an ordeal. The worst part is that it seems to attract a good amount of grad student/NPR types who camp at the bar drinking what seems like about one glass of wine per hour. This is not the bar's fault--I know--but it does make our visits kind of annoying. Once school's back in session, forget about it. My wife and I have had to give up the last few times. 3. Service can be slow. Last time we did manage to get a seat at the bar, the bartender was a blond-haired, middle-aged lady, not one of the bartenders we've usually had. The place was quiet and we were two of maybe eight people at the bar. She handed us menus and then disappeared. We waited for almost fifteen minutes without having our drink orders taken. I finally got so ticked that I told my wife we were leaving--I wasn't about to send the message that bad service pays. It's sad that we've gotten a bit down on Christopher's, given that we used to eat there about twice a week, and that the manager and the bartenders (with one exception) have been fast and super-friendly. Maybe we'll wait until summer, in the hopes that we can get our favorite dinner spot back.
(3)
DD T.
I mostly drink here and I love the ambience. The bar is a little divy and much less crowded that the Tavern just across. Come in at 11 with a group of friends, and you're always guaranteed a table by the fireplace. Then, start plotting the revolution.
(4)
Lindsay J.
I would like to say that this place is a hit or miss most of the time! I have been there plenty of times mostly for there buffalo tofu which is Amazing! which I would give 5 stars too and I am not even vegetarian. But when it comes to there other dishes I have had some of the best dinners there and some that are just okay. The waitstaff here is always super friendly! So I would give them 5 stars as well!!
(3)
John C.
Great burgers, and great vegetarian burgers! Christopher's menu has a lot of variety and goes out of there way to have vegetarian entrees that are better the meatful versions. A great place for a dinner, whether gang of friends or romantic evening.
(5)
Evelyn I.
You know, I tried to write this review before, and was going to give this place 4 stars, but after living away from Christopers for 6 months now, I realize what a good thing it had going for it. This is a go to when I used to live in the Porter Square area and couldn't figure out what to have for dinner. It was a great choice for drinks after work. There ever changing, large draft beer selection kept me quite happy. And when the music sounded good next door, you could just slip over to Toad. Christophers was a place everyone could agree on for large groups. They accommodate everyone from vegans, to gluten free friends, to the carnivorous crew, to the friends that don't drink, but just want to go for the nachos. While not a whole lot stands up and shouts as being the best damn ________ you've ever had, it is always respectable. The prices are honest, and the service commendable, and often able to swing the group of 15 that just walked in without a reservation (sorry about that one). After traveling for several months in far off lands, I found myself wishing on several occasions to just go to Christopher's for dinner because I couldn't handle the choices, decisions, and often times, the disappointment involved. Thanks for always being there for me. You're like that friend I never appreciated enough until you were gone, then I realized how much I really did need you in my life.
(5)
Lance S.
Great spot! Love the ambiance (dark and cozy inside, especially if you get a table near the fireplace) and the beer selection is fantastic. The food is good but not great - I have tried most of the menu and recommend the chicken piccata. Burgers are also very good, but hard to get excited about a burger. TV situation is poor - certainly not ideal to watch a game. But with good prices, solid food and an excellent beer selection, Christopher's is a great spot.
(4)
Anthony V.
Nice place. I like it bunch. They have other food but i always end up getting a burger, because they are wonderful. Also delicious is the Chicken Piccata which has artichoke hearts which my date got last night. They have a lot of beers as well. nice.
(4)
Mel D.
Being too inpatient to wait in line for Sound Bites and Ball Square Cafe my girlfriends and I realized that we'll get to eat quicker by walking to Christopher's instead of remaining in line at Ball Square Cafe. I had the portobello and cheese omelette which comes with toast, fresh fruit and homefries. The french-vanilla Hazelnut iced coffee was absolutely delicious. Only downside was that they do not serve pancakes. Possibly the best brunch in a 20 block radius.
(4)
B D.
Good service, great food and drinks.
(4)
Leanne R.
Went here for the fist time over the weekend, my craving for Buffalo Tofu brought me here. It was good and it satisfied the craving but it wasn't great. Also had a veggie burger, it was Ok, nothing special. I enjoyed the atmosphere and thought the art was cool. I will go back and try something else for an entree.
(3)
Tony W.
It's like Christopher knew that on March 27, 1978 I would be born, and that I would be moving to Boston on February 2, 2006 from Portland, ME, and that I would need a brand-new favorite restaurant. He was correct. This is hands-down my favorite restaurant in the Boston area. Here are the reasons: 1. Their beer selections. Always rotating around, you never know what you're going to get, but it's always good and eclectic. I had this pumpkin ale (called Pum King - go figure) around Halloween that left me drooling. 2. Their appetizers - my personal favorite is the buffalo tofu, but their nachos and calamari is also top-notch. 3. They have a ton of vegetarian options. Although I now eat fish and shrimp, I appreciate any effort restaurants make to accommodate the Veggies. And it's almost all good. Except one time (out of many) I took a gamble on the special that wasn't very good - I take the blame for that one. 4. Their menus. The people on the cover always remind me of the 'Good Friends' Kashi cereal. Are they good friends, or are they more than good friends? Maybe they just like cooking together. 5. It's close to my work, and it's a great place to go hang out with friends and get caught up. 6. The downstairs ambiance is great, although I am all too often sat upstairs, away from the cool kids. This is the equivalent of the Thanksgiving card table detention. Attention Ladies - the way to my heart is 3-fold: 1. Good, varied beers. 2. Tasty vegetarian options. 3. An ambient and relaxed environment to chill with friends. Overall, 2 thumbs up. There'd be more, but hey, I'd have to find some more thumbs.
(5)
David L.
The best restaurant near Porter Square, bar none, with a beer selection that will keep even the most discerning microbrew lover happy as those clams that happen to be cooked into one of their diverse dishes. Christopher's offers a taste of everything, though their 'burgah' menu may take the cake. Like beef? There's a burgah for that. Vegetarian? There's a burgah for that. Like your burger to be instilled with pesto and formerly squawk? There's a burgah for that. Be ready for lip-smacking salads, antipasti, pasta dishes, seafood, and a whole lot more, as well. The decor and overall atmosphere are perfect for most casual guests. It's definitely a nice date spot, though it would be equally well-suited for a night out on the town, dinner with your (at least slightly trendy) parents, a (sadly) platonic night with a friend, etc. The burgahs will run you under $10, pasta dishes are around $12-$15, and expect around $20 for premium food like seafood. Location: Porter Square, on the west side of Massachusetts Avenue. Somerville Ave would run into it if it continued past the intersection. From the T stop, look across the wacky intersection to see a black, white, and brick facade. Watch for cars!
(5)
Adam K.
Nice play to go for drinks and simple conversation with friends. The food has been pretty standard bar fare, but they spice it up with a healthy vegetarian selection that would cause the most ravenous carnivore to contemplate becoming an omnivore. I love the tofu buffalo wings, and they have an amazingly good hamburger stuffed with mushrooms. Delicious. And you can't beat their location -- right off the T in Porter Square.
(4)
Katie B.
Have not found a thing wrong with it yet...well maybe the outside step but that was only once. Interesting menu, always something I haven't tried. Unique specials. Rotating draft selection Convient location Good prices
(5)
Meaghan M.
I've been here a few times, and I have to say, it's all about the burgers. Their burgers really are out of this world delicious. I can't comment on much other food, except for the one time I went for brunch, which was also on point - my friend got the steak & eggs and said it was extremely good. I also had a late lunch here last weekend, and my friends were iimpressed with the chowder, salmon burger, and mushroom ravioli - I'm not a seafood eater, so I can't comment personally, but they enjoyed it. I will say that last time I went both the hostess and waitress were TOTAL space cadets... they were speaking so quietly we couldn't really hear them (mind you, this is a Saturday at 3 pm - not exactly crowded in here) and were totally off their game. I'm hoping this is a rarity, not par for the course. Overall... affordable, good food, great selection of beers.
(4)
Tamar A.
Dear, dear sweet Christopher's. I can break down my Christopher's experience into three tidy, ascending categories: 1. A dining experience 2. An after-work, end-of-night, catch-up with friends over dark-paneled wood and an awesome beer list hang-out-a-thon 3. THE GREATEST BRUNCH EVER. 1. You know, much as I love this place, I'm always a little disappointed with the non-brunch food. It's the kind of restaurant where you WANT to be inspired by the menu and then have a rough time with all the yummy choices, but instead I find myself always wishing that some sandwiches could share ingredients or some salads were a smidge more thrilling. The spinach dip, for example, should, as a melty bowl of cheese, be infinitely tasty, and yet no matter now many times I order it, it's never not disappointingly bland. The same can be said for the nachos, fries, and chocolate mousse. I mean, the tasteless guac comes impaled with a tasteless piece of cucumber. What's up with that? 2. Great beer list, hands down. All the good stuff on tap, any kind of mixed drink you could fancy, and since the ambiance itself is equal parts English pub and New Hampshire ski lodge (the fireplace is deliciously toasty in the winter), and since I live just around the corner, it's pretty much my favorite default watering hole. The outdoor seating is a little suspect, though. I'd prefer not to share my summer nights with the Mass Ave traffic. 3. HAVE I MENTIONED THE BRUNCH?! Sunday mornings. 10:30am. You're so fucking welcome.
(4)
Lori D.
Average is the word I would use to describe this place. The food my group had was ok, but nothing really stood out as particularly memorable. For those prices, I expected either a nice show of creativity or truly stellar classics--we got neither. However, the atmosphere almost makes up for the ok menu. When we were there the place was crowded and noisy, but still managed to feel like an intimate gathering place (I think it was the lighting...). We were seated by the giant fireplace, which seemed so cozy when we were first seated. Call me a stickler for authenticity, but somehow the place seemed less cozy when we realized it was wasn't a real, wood-burning fireplace. For the record, we were there on a Friday night. From what I hear, the best meal at this place is Sunday brunch, and I do intend to go back to try brunch and give them a second chance.
(2)
Keri M.
I looooooove Christopher's. The atmosphere is cozy without being oppressive, the food is delicious and the company is decidedly non-sketchy and draws more of an after-work than a college crowd (yay!) The beer selection never disappoints, very good selection of seasonal beers (very important considering it's the BEST beer time of the year!). Food has always been fantastic. Several times i've ordered the specials and they have never disappointed. My favorite menu item so far is the Colombian Chicken Stew (grandma's recipe!). It's the creme de la creme as far as comfort food goes. The cozy fake fireplace and atmosphere make it a great place to go to get out of the rain. The only reason I give it four stars is cause of service. It's not bad by any means, but the prices are a bit high for the whole "hey guys whaddya want" shpeal and the bartenders can be mildly inattentive. DON'T get me wrong i'm not one of those annoying MIT/Harvard students that visits on daddy's dime and complains about prices no matter where I go, I would gladly pay even more for these dishes, i'm just saying. Still leave 20% you jerks unless it's dismal. All in all just typing this makes me want to go there again, and I think I will! :D
(4)
Patryce S.
Seriously exceeded my expectations! I ordered dining in and got the portobello mushroom sandwich and the caramel apple pie and chocolate raspberry cake..yes i know i have a serious sweet tooth lol. Even though I got it for take out it and was not so warm it was sooooooo good!!! The rueben was amazing....a little smaller than a rueben I have had in the past but the taste definately makes up for it!! Definately ordering from here again...actually just did lol. Just an update I ordered from here again and sadly had to bring my review down to 3 stars...only reason getting 3 stars is because the first time was really good. 2nd time I have no idea what happened....its like they knew I was a first time customer and did a great job the first time then the 2nd they just didnt care...sandwich was sloppy and didnt taste the same...probably not gonna order from here again.
(3)
Eric P.
A friend recommended the nachos and they were definitely what we were looking for before a night out. We went on a Saturday night around 7 and found two seats at the bar without a problem. It was busy but not overcrowded so I'm sure we could have gotten a table if we wanted to. Service was good as our bartender was friendly and attentive. The nachos had plenty of cheese and jalapeños. Salsa was chunky and tasted fresh too. As others have mentioned, the beer selection is awesome. Plenty of taps and about 8 that change regularly.
(4)
Brittany L.
Best homemade veggie burger, mabe ever. I moved back west a year ago and I haven't found a veggie burger to replace it. Veggie burger comes with a side salad and delicious wedge fries too. If you put the balsamic dressing for the salad on top of the burger, it makes for an extra tasty combo. Never had a bad dish here, love this place.
(5)
Casey F.
Great burgers, *really* excellent rotating taps, and a (nearly) always interesting specials menu. 4 stars for the bar food, 3 stars for the rest of the menu, and 5 stars for the beer list.
(4)
Jim Z.
I can fit my head in one of their Bloody Mary glasses.
(4)
Gradon T.
Went to Christopher's for lunch yesterday with a group of friends, and let me say: We were the worst customers ever. We called ahead for "between 7 and 10", but only 5 arrive; we say a couple are going to arrive shortly. The waitress is gracious and takes our drink orders -- iced teas all around -- and we start chatting and laughing. Several minutes later, one of my friends waves the waitress over to take our orders. The other two are delayed, he explains, and will order when they arrive. We order burgers all around with various fixin's, save the Southwestern Chicken Salad by one. Oh, and just for kicks, we ordered one of those burgers to go. A short wait later, our food arrives *perfect*. The to-go goes, and we start eating. My spicy pepperjack burger had a good amount of heat, but not enough to keep me from devouring it in minutes. Right as we start eating, I get a text from one of the late ones: She's stuck in traffic and starved, please order for her so it's waiting. So we open the menu and pick something that will stay room temp until they arrive: the Club Christopher. We order that and a thing of buffalo tofu for the table. Of course, the food arrives before our last two guests. But when they do arrive, one eats her already-there sandwich, the other orders something for herself, and they get just as well fed as the rest of us. We figured after all of this more people/less people, for here/to go, the bill will be a mess. Has to be, right? Nope. It was spot on. A great lunch and great (patient) service. I'll be back.
(4)
Binh L.
This review is purely for the veggie burger. Yes, it was that good. The ingredients were so fresh and seasoned. I polished this off. (Between the veggie burgers, get the homemade! Totally worth the extra bucks.) Good portion and fair price. I can see this being a nice place to grab drinks, get burgers/pub food, and good for groups, I think. They have the space, interesting art/nice decor, and the lighting can be intimate (but I didn't go at night, can't judge). Wouldn't mind going here again. Mm veggie burger..
(4)
Stephanie G.
There is one thing that differentiates Christopher's from other burger/fries/beer/cocktail/music places and that's the Burger of the Day. I'm not a fan of beef burgers (yes, I know, I'm so ashamed) but Christopher's does a Burger of the Day that is always fabulous. Maybe they do beef sometimes, but I've never seen it. Sometimes it's a chicken burger stuffed with cheese and artichokes or a turkey burger with avocados...many things that are delicious, different, and not beef! And the rest of the food - great. The drinks - great. Atmosphere - fabu. I love this place for a casual evening with friends.
(4)
Matt R.
The menu doesn't have a ton of options, nor does it change much, but I guess the old saying applies... "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". Great food (their mashed potatoes are f***ing amazing). I do try different things, but I always end back up at the chicken piccata. Two chicken breasts, those heavenly 'taters, and vegetables at a reasonable price. Tends to get pretty filled at night, mostly young professionals looking for a drink or two.
(4)
tricia r.
You go to Christopher's for the beer. Good local brews as well as the"fancy" ones from afar. Been here a million times. I belong to a group that meets in the area, and we end up drinking and dining here often. It's convenient, affordable and offers enough variety so that meat-eaters and vegetarians can all have something. The wait staff is usually very friendly. We've gotten to know some of them, which is good because I have some of the world's pickiest friends. THis one doesn't want ice, this one can't have milk, that one wants to basically rewrite the menu. We're hard to please. I really like the yuppie nachos with goat cheese and sundried tomatoes. Some items on the menu are quite good -- the burgers, particularly the veggie burger, are delicious and can be customized many ways. The salads and soups are also usually good. Problem is, there are some items to stay away from. The hummus platter. The non-Christopher's veggie burger. The black bean soup. The pasta dishes are hit or miss. It's hard to know what will be good and what will suck. I've heard rave reviews about the buffalo tofu but haven't ventured yet. We've had some probs with the management. The last escapade involved a pitcher of margarita that had almost no alcohol in it. It didn't taste right. My friends sent it back, but were still charged. The manager put the server in the middle and was too cowardly to come over and deal. I didn't have the drink, so I scuttled out of there before the end, but apparently my friends had to fight to get the returned drink removed. So, conclusion. Hard to say. Christopher's is our fall-back place and I've found my faves. I expect that many folks find it hit-or-miss.
(3)
Nick A.
Christopher's is great! I would put it a notch above your standard pub-type place but still has a very casual, laid-back vibe. The food was fantastic. It definitely exceeded my expectations. In the summer, they have a nice patio-- right on the sidewalk on Mass Ave so not a lot of privacy and a little loud but great for people watching. The price was great too and they have a good selection of drinks as well!
(4)
Lauren F.
Love love love love love Christoper's! I took my family here before my graduation on Saturday. We had a party of 11, so I made a reservation. We had drink service right away, and the servers did not seem flustered dealing with such a large party. The bartender makes great drinks; my Hendricks and tonic was spot-on, and my husband loved his milk stout for the ever-changing beer menu. I had my usual burger with Cheddar and bacon, and it was as good as ever. Their fries are delicious and thick. Also, their prices are extremely reasonable for the quality of the food, around $10 for burgers and less for sandwiches. Try the homemade ravioli too!
(5)
Katie A.
By far, my favorite restaurant. Buffalo tofu. Burger of the day. Ravioli of the day. Great beer. Great service. Great vegetarian options, and carnivore options. I recommend it to everyone. You can't go wrong here.
(5)
Mimi H.
I wanted to like Christopher's, but it has never lived up to my expectations or hopes. The wait is always too long. Always. I've waited to be seated, I've waited to give my order, I've waited for my food to arrive, I've waited for my check to arrive, and I've waited for my credit card to be returned. Downstairs has tight seating; upstairs is roomier, but the chairs are just as uncomfortable. And the food is okay. Nothing to get ecstatic about, although by the time you've waited to actually GET the food, ANYTHING would taste good. I've consistently ordered a medium burger and it has consistently been served INCONSISTENTLY cooked -- either too pink or too brown, with no happy, well, MEDIUM. I recommend the new burger joint in Davis Square, the Boston Burger Company, for a better burger and better (if smaller) accommodations.
(2)
Meghan M.
I was initially looking for a great homemade veggie burger when I came across Christopher's, the menu looked comprehensive (to say the least) and the yelp reviews while mixed were overwhelmingly positive. Thank you yelpers!! I loved Christopher's and of course my last minute decision to get fish tacos was the best idea ever - best fish tacos I've found in the boston area so far. I had read that the service can be hit or miss, to be honest the service was solid, our waitress was a bit on the odd side, but we were seated right away and food came out quickly. I will definitely be heading back to try that darn veggie burger amongst many other things.
(5)
Lisa T.
This is one of my fave neighborhood spots (hence why it's my first Yelp! review). Great atmosphere. Good service. Cheap. They have an extensive burger menu - so many options. The first time I went with guac and cheddar combo and the second time I got it with pepper jack cheese. I do have to say the first time I went I ordered a burger cooked medium and it was very rare. I actually had to send it back. I had an entirely different experience the second time I went, however, which is why I'm still giving them 4 stars. I've also had their club sandwich which is your average turkey club as well as their butternut squash ravioli in the winter. The ravioli were realllly good but not as filling as I had hoped. Even though the food is not the most amazing food I've ever had, Christopher's is still a fun, casual place to sit back and relax. They have a ton of options on the menu, lots of seating (outdoor too) and it's especially convenient if you live in Porter Sq.
(4)
Suki S.
I love Christopher's! I am usually reluctanct to give 5 stars to restaurants because there is usually something wrong I can find with it. But honestly, I love th food and the service. I'm vegetarian and the Chuck's Veggie Burger has to be one of the best burgers I've ever had including all the turkey burgers and beef burgers I've eaten. They offer a good amount of options for vegetarians including their veggie chili which is also amazing. They have great beers and their staff are all very friendly. It does get pretty packed on a Saturday night but what good restaurant in Boston doesn't right? They have two floors which helps with seating large parties and one little plus that I love is the art work they have on display and for sale (even though they're wicked expensive,) they're always really good paintings dipicting Boston...awesome. Always a good time at Christopher's.
(5)
Mike D.
Christopher's reminds me of a Facebook friend from high school who gets in touch out of the blue. I go there about every two years, and am really psyched about it at first, then I suddenly remember why it's been a few years since we've been in touch. To set the scene, I loved going here when I was a kid. I was less picky and couldn't have a beer back then. In those days there was a Ground Round on Mass. Ave., which my parents inexplicably hated taking to me despite the fact that there was free popcorn, Ms. Pacman, lots of screaming kids running around, a drunken surly Binky the clown, and a constant projection reel of the Three Stooges and Laurel and Hardy. Anyhow, Christopher's was like a grown up version of that, and my mother actually liked taking me there from time to time. It was a really big treat, but over the years the thrill has waned. On our last trip, the hostess showed up at the front podium four or five minutes after we arrived even though the place was half empty, led us to a table, then started cleaning the table right behind ours so we had to wait for her to finish before we sat. Wha?? She gave us too few menus and no specials/rotating taps list. I know it's not necessarily the job of a hostess to take an initial drink order, but given how slow the service continued to be, it would have been nice perk--and would have helped make the tip much closer to 20% than it ended up being. The menu was half brunch, which meant that our 2:00 lunch selections were fairly limited, so I got a burger. It was pretty good, though overcooked (not to order). The fries were tasty, but they continued to be tastED for several hours. Why is your cooking oil still too cold at 2:00 p.m.? I remember being impressed by the beer selection in the past too. But today, almost all of the rotating taps seemed really inappropriate for the season and the weather. I had the impression the breweries were giving them deals to use up the leftover winter stock. With a few exceptions, the list was full of porter, barleywine, a quadruple, a stout, imperial IPA... Chris, dude, it's hot and muggy out--I need some lighter, more poundable options today. Anyhow, I'm sure I'll be back in another two years, though I'm not hopeful about updating my review at that time.
(2)
Stephanie S.
I always appreciated Christopher's, but much more so now that I live in the neighborhood. It's a good go-to spot since their menu is full of choices. There's always something to satisfy me. If the black bean burger is available, you MUST try it. Any of the hamburgers are outstanding, but the homemade black bean and vegetarian burgers are exceptional. Their fish burgers are quite good as well... not overly breaded. The rotating beer selection is hit or miss and it's always heavy on the Smuttynose. They often have some unusual choices, which I appreciate... I guess everyone else appreciates this, too, because they always seem to be out of what I want!
(4)
Jessie C.
Food still fab - service, EH. She was wicked slow.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Music : Background Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : No Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Catherine D.
I frequently end up here because it is a convenient meeting point. Often there is a wait, which baffles me every single time. I suppose it is because Porter Square has so few dining options. FOOD Yeah, Okay--reliable. Their seafood linguine is actually pretty good. The chicken potpie is also fine. SERVICE Friendly DRINKS Standard Christopher's is a safe bet.
(3)Jeff D.
This is a great little spot in Porter Square. Nothing fancy, but you don't want anything fancy when you come into a place like Christopher's. You want a good beer selection. Check. You want some pub food available to soak up said beer. Check. You want a few TVs and a bar staff willing to change the channel based on what the clientele wants. Check. If I lived closer they'd probably know me by name.
(4)Amrutha R.
Food was great! I loved the beet salad.
(4)Jake H.
Totally mediocre. Came for the burger and it was about as average as it could get. I heard good things about the burger but this wasn't the tastiest and it was over cooked. Ordered medium it was closer to well done... The fries are like fat potatoes which I hate in my fries. Very disappointing experience, bartender was very friendly and good beer selection so it gets a 3 instead of a 2.
(3)Damien S.
Christopher's veggie burger is still my favorite (see original review for a full rundown). But I've noticed that in the off hour, Christopher's other range of patties - from the house-ground turkey burg to stuffed chicken breast delights - bring the savory pain like the champs they are. The latter is a rotating special, stuffed with roasted red peppers and mushrooms, with a slice of Swiss and chipotle mayo. Not entirely unhealthy and the juice saturated my shirt sleeves. Hey, that's where my arms live! Go sweet potato fries (spoiler alert: they're prepped like rippled chips) and dip 'em in a side of the spicy cranberry you'd find on the turkey burger. Not entirely healthy, making the mandatory paired beer (or $3 can o' Moxie) practically guilt-free! Again, go during the off-hours. After more than a dozen recent trips, the food quality and general madness is like night and day.
(4)Kim E.
Phenomenal service. Great atmosphere. The food is well-flavored (which is rare). Went on a Monday night and it was extremely busy. Would suggest booking ahead of time! Even with all the hustle-and-bustle, the servers remained friendly and the patrons were more than excited. The Cajun-flavored grilled chicken was the dish I ordered and I love the spicy taste! Their guacamole mix is to die for! Must try. Very affordable as well. Will be coming back for sure.
(5)Laura B.
I love this place. I came here during a time that I had a lot of dietary restrictions (no gluten, sugar, carbs). The waitress helped me find something I could eat and nicely asked the chefs to make sure there was no sugar in the spices/marinades. She made it really convenient and I really appreciated it, it's hard to go out to eat with friends when you have dietary restrictions. The Sirloin Salad was delicious and the service was great!
(5)Traci K.
I hadn't been to Christopher's in a long while - so a few of us decided to hit it up for dinner the other night. You know what I love? Consistency. The food and drinks here are just as good as ever. The burgers are great - always cooked perfectly. The fries are wedgie-potatoey heaven. Side of chipotle mayo, pls and thx. Amazing. The menu has changed a little bit, but there are still lots of great options. We noticed a few different sandwiches. My friend had a chicken BLT on this delicious looking thick toasty bread. Yum. Service was fast, friendly and attentive. Food and drink were tops. The fireplace was going so we were all comfy and cozy. Really can't ask for more.
(4)Jared S.
Great neighborhood bar. Food is decent and the beer list is great. Though their cocktails are usually pretty mediocre.
(4)P C.
The food comes out ok but takes forever. The service is slow and it is not even the kitchen's fault. The food will be in transit for so long that it is cold and unpalatable. If you order something to go, the problem will be even worse. The few times when things are ok is not enough to compensate for the high likelihood that you will have this unpleasant experience. Tip for restaurant: Improve your service execution.
(1)Alyson S.
This place is across the street from my gym and is completely the type of place I like to go from the looks of the outside so I was longing to check it out. A friend and I were out for the day and what do you know we stopped in for lunch. Great atmosphere with outdoor seating (an amazing feature as we turn the corner into spring). My friend and I ordered a sandwich, salad, and soup combined. It wasn't spectacular except those French fries. Those were probably the best wedge style fries but my chicken on the sandwich was super peppery. Otherwise it was a great meal! I would recommend the stop to check it out. They also had some amazing looking brunch options so I will be sure to stop in again and check it out.
(4)Wen-fai F.
I've been to Christopher's a number of times over the years and I am a fan. Basically, the food is much better than Cambridge Common, with a more limited beer selection. The atmosphere is similar, albeit a bit cleaner and a bit more yuppie. I would recommend the chicken pot pie which is heavenly, any of the burgers (including the veggie!), or salads. Or the chicken tenders appetizer for 6-year-olds, or adults who occasionally have the palette of a 6-year-old, i.e., me! The one thing that consistently excels here is the service. Tonight was the first game in the World Series and the place was packed. There were a number of people waiting for tables and the hostess handled everybody with grace and the waiting time estimates were basically all spot on. When we got a table, my mother ordered the parmesan crusted cod, which was a little over-cooked. When we told the waitress (Kathryn), she didn't hesitate to take it off our bill AND offer us another dish on the menu. We definitely didn't need that but were very grateful for the way things were handled. Instead of being frustrated with the customer, she just apologized profusely and said it was the restaurant's duty to take it off our bill. As my dad said, these are things that make customers want to go back.
(4)Heidi L.
Every time I go to Christopher's, I try hard to really like it, but end up comparing it to Cambridge Common (and they're obviously practically the same, given the same owner) and end up thinking that I'll go to CC next time. So what is it? They've got the fried pickles, sweet potato chips and nachos we always get at CC...okay, it might be the lack of the BLT (but that's so subjective). And they do have a pretty good beer selection (although can you post the specials sheet online?). And friendly service. Maybe it's all sentimental...but without the sentiment, the food is good, not great.
(3)Christine J.
okay place, not bad, not great. there are better places around.
(3)Julia K.
I've been a patron of Christopher's for nearly 10 years, but after several great experiences there with my toddler, I can't help but write a review. It's hard to find the right mix of good food and family-friendly, and Christopher's is right on the mark. We've never had a wait for brunch, the bloody marys are excellent, and the food, while nothing extraordinary, is consistent and yummy at a reasonable price.
(5)Maria D.
Christopher's is my go-to spot in the neighborhood. They have a solid beer menu, good food (try their nachos, French onion soup or burgers) and don't be too quick to look past the specials, they are usually pretty interesting and yummy. The waitstaff and bartenders are always super friendly and I never have a hard time finding a seat at the bar or a table.
(4)Melanie W.
Christopher's is a solid place for lunch or dinner, but, unfortunately, was a huge disappointment for brunch. The dimly lit restaurant is always clean and service friendly. The outdoor patio is really pretty in warmer weather. The first time I came here, I ordered the southwestern chicken salad, which came with pico de gallo, black beans, tortilla strips, cheddar cheese, and avocado-lime dressing. It was OK, but I thought that the black beans and pico de gallo had little flavor. The blackened sirloin steak salad was absolutely delicious blue cheese, crispy onions, and balsamic vinaigrette. The salad was perfect and one of the best I have ever had. Some people in my party got it with goat cheese instead of blue cheese and also raved about it. The chocolate chip bread pudding leaves a lot to be desired. It was dry and tasted a lot like just slightly sweetened plain bread. It could use more of a custard to sit in. Brunch was a big disappointment. My companion and I wanted a seat outside and were told it would be about a 30 minute wait. We waited about 35 minutes and the people on the patio were JUST getting their food. We then decided to just eat inside. I ordered the huevos rancheros and then we sat and waited for a long time. Everything just seemed to be moving very slow. When I got my food, I was really disappointed. It didn't taste very good at all. I think they need to season their black beans more, as I had the same problem as with my salad - they had no taste. It also came with eggs scrambled with onions, peppers, and chorizo, plain, tasteless, tortillas, sour cream, homefries (which were initially forgotten, but tasted pretty good once they got there), and melon that had seen much better days. Overall, I would go back to Christopher's for lunch or dinner without too much hesitation, but I think last week was the first and last time I will be for brunch.
(3)Katelyn P.
I really want to love Christopher's. It has a good, cozy, tavern atmosphere, especially if you're lucky enough to get seated by the fireplace. They have a decent beer selection and the specials usually look good. Overall, the food is about average. Nothing amazing, but about what you'd expect. Good burgers. Yummy salads. The highlight of my recent visits has been the nachos, they pair great with a beer and group of friends. The lowlight though was dessert. I had the apple crisp... it was bland and just tasted off, like they made it a week ago and forgot to add sugar and butter. My friend got the lava cake and it tasted like something I could've gotten at Star Market for half the price. Overall, it's hit or miss depending on what you get.
(3)Lisa D.
Christopher's is one of my go-to places for a drink, apps or dinner. It's easy to find parking with the Porter Sq. parking lot right across the street. Yes, the restaurant is often packed when I get inside, but I consider that to be a good thing! I am a huge fan of the Assorted Nachos, I'm never disappointed. I had one of the best dining experiences I've had in a long time the first time I went to Christopher's. Our waitress, Christine, was unbelievable. Attentive without being obtrusive, she checked in at all the right times and seemed to know what we needed without us having to ask. It was the type of experience that reminded me what good service is really all about!!
(4)Kayla D.
The staff is so friendly and the food is amazing. Great beer selection. The burgers are delicious but they have Good vegetarian options too. Oh and the yuppie nachos have goat cheese and are the best thing on the menu!
(5)John S.
Christopher's is precisely the kind of three star place I like. They're not revolutionizing the burger or the nacho. Rather, they're embracing tasty, pleasantly boring tradition. The service was friendly without being effusive. The ambiance was dark without being clubby. The prices were reasonable, but not so cheap that you question the quality of the food. I plan on coming here whenever I want comfort food done comfortably.
(3)Patricia J.
I ate the best veggie burger in the world today and I'm no vegetarian. It was an amazing creation. The wedge fries went well with it but I didn't have enough room to eat the salad. I took one star away because the service was really slow. Best burger ever!
(4)Jason B.
I now live down the street from Christopher's and come here on the semi-regular. On Brunch days, if you're famished and looking for a big ol' dose of RED MEAT HANGOVER CURE, their upsized 12-oz patty with steak fries is a can't-fail option. Choose your own adventure toppings (I go with boursin, sauteed mushrooms and caramelized onions) and prepare to burn through four to six napkins. They're experimenting with cocktails behind the bar, and they might have just hit honey-flavored gold with their "Honey Badger Smash" - Jack Daniels' Honey Whiskey, simple syrup, a dash of bitters and a lemon wedge. Very sweet but refreshing. The large-sized bloody mary will cure the hell out of whatever ails you - 1,237 ounces of tomatomix and booze served in a hollowed-out engine block. (OK, not really but look at the picture and you'll get the idea!) They're friendly, and there's a fireplace. I like it.
(4)Susan K.
I went to Christopher's for my birthday, with a group of friends. I hadn't been in awhile and choose this place because they take reservations, accommodating to food allergies, price and consistency of food. It met all of my expectations, except one. They used to do a great stir-fry but it's no longer on the menu, even though it's listed online. They may bring it back as a special. They recently redid their menu. The salmon with quinoa was ok. My sangria was great. All my other friends enjoyed their meals. The service was top-notch. I didn't feel rushed to leave. We hung out and stayed without desert for a little bit.
(4)Davy G.
Christopher's is the best place in Porter Square for drinks and/or a fresh meal. The ingredients are fresh and high quality (local, organic, free-range, etc.) and the vegetarian options are stupendous. All of Christopher's nachos and burgers are to die for! I'm always impressed by the draft list as well, which highlights local beers and fresh offerings galore (usually more than a few IPAs to choose from). Great place to watch the game, with a handful of big screen TVs. Beautiful, professional young women compose the vast majority of Christopher's staff, and people are always smiling and having fun here. My favorite dish is the pulled pork mac and cheese.
(5)Jessica S.
One of my favorites! Sunday brunch is good and in general! They have a surprising number of option for those who want to eat healthy or are vegetarian. Haven't been disappointed yet!
(5)Deanna D.
Our brunch experience at Christopher's in one word: Mediocre While the ambiance here is warm and welcoming, the food leaves much to be desired. We came here for a ladies brunch on Saturday and were promptly seated by the fireplace (love siting by fireplaces ;) Our server was friendly and attentive. But the trouble started when we opened the menu. Their website features a pretty extensive brunch menu but they do a limited brunch menu on Saturdays--like 6 brunch dishes that are not very exciting. Why don't they state this on their website?! We wouldn't have come there if we knew the menu was so limited ahead of time! Since we already had drinks we figured that we should give the brunch a try. We ordered the the Crab Benedict, Breakfast Burrito, and Frittata. It turns out that the Crab Benedict does not come with any eggs and was missing the sauteed spinach and tomato that was suppose to come on the dish. Seriously, why put a "Benedict" on a brunch menu and not include eggs---it has to the be one of the stupidest thing I've ever seen on a brunch menu! My bad for not catching that when ordering but when you see the word Benedict on a brunch menu, you assume that it comes with eggs! The crab cakes were good but 2 tiny crab cakes topped with hollandaise served with a tiny salad (my substitution) for $11 was definitely not worth it. The Breakfast Burrito and Firttata were both flavorless and lackluster. The coffee was fine and the blood mary was good. In conclusion 3 of the 6 items they serve on the limited brunch menu were all terrible. Needless to say it was a mediocre dining experience, at best, and I definitely won't be back unless it just for drinks.
(2)J C.
Great beer selection. I got the green burger, which was a burger with some bacon and a fried egg, and some other things. The burger was pedestrian and I had no complaints. Thes fries were good but there were too few of them. They also included a salad which was nice and healthful. It's a good basic neighborhood pub. It won't knock your socks off, but it's friendly and nice.
(3)Victor D.
The bartender, Sarah D, is the most authentic, charming server I've ever met in Boston. That alone made it excellent. I had only soup and salad, which was delicious, and the menu looked tasty with lots of options too. I was only visiting, and would definitely go back to Christopher's should I return to Boston.
(5)Ana R.
I've only heard good things about Christopher's, so when my friend wanted to meet up there last night, I didn't object. We waited 10 minutes for a table on a surprisingly busy Tuesday night. I had the turkey burger which was delicious and came with a spicy cranberry sauce. I didn't care for the sweet potato medallions, but they were an interesting alternative to fries. My friend had the burger special, which was a bean burger. It was messy to eat, but she said it was really good. Her potato wedges were yummy. Her special was more expensive than my burger, which doesn't make sense to me. In my mind, specials are items that are better priced because the restaurant wants to move higher quantities, no? Anyway, the waitress was lovely and the atmos was great for conversation. Will definitely go back again. And major points for the parking lot across the street!
(4)D G.
I've been coming here forever( 25 yrs?). Service can be iffy , especially in September when they are training new people. But food with lots of healthy choices always brings me back.
(4)Mark L.
We had an enjoyable family experience at this location. Staffing was attentive and accommodating. Atmosphere was loud but festive. Brussel sprout appetizer was an unexpected find. Fish tacos were a good pick too. Would return again.
(3)Katie K.
BEST neighborhood place for beers on draught, healthy salads or delicious burgers- Great atmosphere with fireplaces and dark wood- Also quite affordable. The bartenders knew us and would bring us out tropically drinks on our arrival- Very special!
(5)Io S.
Delicious food, interesting drinks, attractive staff, fun and local atmosphere. I've only had appetizers there and, except for the pulled-chicken nachos (which were just OK, though the portion is huge) they have been top-notch. Excellent calimari -- even a companion who's not a big fan of deep-fried squid dug them. Good, though not overly strong, margaritas and a couple of remarkable gin drinks (one mixed with cider and champagne -- a real hit). Beautiful waitresses, if that's your thing. Think slightly tattooed girls-next-door and you've got it. Friendly vibe. Prices not as good as at the nearby Cambridge Common, but service and food a bit better. There's a reason this is a Porter Square mainstay.
(4)Lauren M.
This place was very unpretentious and a solidly good pub. It was packed on a Saturday night, but we were able to secure a table near the stairs. The beer selection was adequate and the food menu was quite extensive. The steak tips were good, although the portion was a bit small (although about what you'd expect for the price). The sandwich I ordered was very flavorful and the fries were pretty addicting. Service was good, especially given how busy the place was that night. Really nothing special about this place, but really nothing bad either. Christopher's has decent prices for being in the Boston area. Finding parking was a bit of a challenge, but not terrible.
(3)Fancypants X.
3.5 stars rounded up Damnit, Christopher's! Why must your clam chowder be so buttery & creamy, yet be overflowing with huge chunks of potatoes? I hate that you use that as a filler, but aside from that, it's the best clam chowder I've tried in boston/cambridge this far. The rest of your grub is deplorable. Molten chocolate cake--2 stars. Wasted my $6 on 2 bites. Nachos, which are supposedly y'all's thang, not so much, no. 2.75 stars. Too sour & acidic from either the jalapeños or the pico. Guac--no. Chips--no. I wish it was good. But, 4 stars for your clam chowder. STOP throwing them huge chunks of potato in! You're better than that. Actually, no, no you're not, & that's ok...
(4)Anne S.
We ate at Christopher's on Thursday night. It was warm outside, so we decided to sit on the patio. I'm glad we did, because it was freezing inside! We split an appetizer basket of sweet potato fries. They were not as good as I was expecting. They were round instead of being cut like normal fries. It made them taste different than normal sweet potato fries, and not different in a good way. I ordered a Southwest Chicken salad. It was good, but a little on the small side. I wish I'd got a burger, they looked really good. (The veggie burger sounded amazing). I got to try some of the fries that came with the burgers, and those potato wedges were awesome. I wish we'd had a basket of those instead of sweet potato fries. I think I would have had a much different idea of this place if my order had been different. Overall though, it was a fine experience. It was reasonably priced and it was a good location.
(3)Corey L.
Had the Turkey burger and the English Burger. Both were fine, nothing that great. Regular fries were good, but the sweet potato fries weren't.
(3)Amy S.
I'm a huge fan of the outdoor seating, nachos, and beer/cocktail selection (the huge bloody mary could use some more spice, but I'll let that slide due to the sheer volume - nothing better than needing to lift your breakfast cocktail with two hands). I'm not such a fan of the undercooked english muffin and bacon that tasted like soap in my eggs benne this weekend - possibly something about being the first people in the restaurant.... not sure, but it kind of ruined the brunch. I'll be back but maybe I'll just drink my brunch next time.
(3)Claire N.
Burger was VERY delicious- best I've had on this side of the river. Cobb salad was mediocre. Wait staff was nice, quick, place wasn't too loud.
(5)Kim K.
Christopher's is average in exactly the right way. Sometimes you just want nachos or a sandwich with fries without overthinking it and not worrying about the price or how long you can sit and chat without getting the hairy eyeball. I love this place and can't wait to come back.
(3)Eric F.
Exceptionally well-executed traditional American food with great selections including a regular rotating handmade ravioli and great paella. My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed our meal along with a couple of good brews from the great draft list. On the note of the paella, it came chock full of seafood (mussels, fish, calamari, etc.) and sausage. And at $14, a great value as well.
(4)Chrysanthe P.
I used to be rather indifferent about Christopher's. If a friend suggested it, I was cool with it, but it wasn't a place that I would actively seek out. Prior to recent experiences my opinion was as follows: The food is alright, the cocktails aren't worth it, and I can find just as good a beer selection in Davis, so there's not much point in me skipping over to Porter to grab a beer here. Still sort of, kind of true. What made me change my mind? Three things (in order of increasing importance): 1. Delicious Israeli cous cous in their Middle Eastern Platter 2. Bloody Mary 3. TOMATO SOUP Seriously, that tomato soup is crazy good. Also, the fact that I'm allowed to order 23 oz. of vodka mixed with tomato juice and some other yummy things at 10:30am on a Sunday is so awesome that it should probably be illegal. As for the cous cous, I'm Greek-American, so I've had a foolish amount of cous cous and tabbouleh and the like in my day. That said, the fact that this Israeli cous cous stood out to me is pretty impressive, if I do say so myself. On a final note: something I've always liked about this place is the atmosphere. It's definitely the sort of place that is easy to hang out in. Really casual, but not divey either. It's certainly a nice place to go with family or with friends after a particularly long week (or during the week - I don't judge).
(4)Bridget F.
Convenient location to walk to if you live near Porter Square. Don't bother coming if you need to park. I have gone here twice. Service is slow, especially drinks. We ordered drinks before apps and the apps came out first!?! It loud, which is typical for a pub. But the food blah! Ordered Spinach and Artichok dip as an app, no idea what we actually got. Wide selection of beers. But when you ask the server about them, seems like they are guessing that's if they even know they carry it. Once your whole order is taken, good luck if your server checks back in. We never got to order a second round of drinks. Food is nothing great. A waste of $$
(2)Dave R.
This place is really great. Lively scene, well above average food, great beer selection. I've had various items here but nothing has hit the spot like the chicken avacado sandwich with aoili. If I remember correctly it comes on grilled ciabatta. Nice.
(4)Dinara E.
I ordered my TOAD burger medium, but it was well done. Which is why this place gets the 4 stars. They have lots of brews on tap and I absolutely loved the home made fries. They were delicious! My friends got the veggie burger and they said it's just beans, no tofu. Which sounded great! I cannot rave enough about the fries.
(4)Christine C.
Christopher's offers excellent service and delicious food to suit all tastes. My friend has to follow a special diet, and they prepared a creative vegetable mix to go with her salmon.
(5)Josephine L.
Yuppie nachos. YUM! Cheap drinks. SCORE! Close proximity to T. YAY! My $0.02.
(4)J T.
"Didn't we just eat?" I wondered silently as we made our way into Christopher's in Cambridge. It had been over 7 hours since my companion Dr. Moonchild and I had devoured large plates of mexican food, yet I couldn't shake the feeling that I had just eaten, or perhaps had never quite finished eating and was now expected to eat again. When in Rome, however... And what of Rome? What was it like at the end of the good days? How quickly did things descend into dark madness and how did the people take it? I imagine they might have felt as we do now, each of us chasing our own thoughts and desires while barbarian hordes close in, just beyond the city lights. But this was no time for history, we had come to eat, and Christopher's did not disappoint. The ambience was warm and lively, the meal straightforward and satisfying. We ordered too much food and could not eat it all. "If only there were a way to purge our aching stomachs and start the meal over!" We laughed. Such gluttonous logic led to thoughts of the Roman 'vomitoriums' and I wondered when we might observe the re-emergence of such a fad among the American upper classes... Outside a car horn blared and angry voices mingled with the noisy chaos of the restaurant. Our check arrived and the total for the meal was less than we had expected, and we were happy.
(5)Zack M.
I was stuck waiting for a friend and decided to come in. There is a rich beer selection. The food is good too. I had the spinach dip and the special--a mushroom-ricotta burger. Good if you just need a stop over. Also, they have lots of bathroom space because with beer you don't own it, you just rent it.
(4)Bob L.
Do I love Christopher's? Absolutely. Is 5 stars a tad bit generous? You betcha. Here's why I'm opting for 5 instead of 4: I've never had a bad experience here. The wait staff are kind and helpful, the beer list is on constant rotation, and the food is exactly what I want it to be. When I come to Christopher's I have two things in mind: beer and nachos. As mentioned, they have a great beer list (there's more on the downstair's menu vs upstairs, just ask nicely and they'll grab another menu for you) and the assorted nachos are probably the best I've ever had. Also, let's talk about the buffalo tofu! That stuff is incredible. The portions are huge, the decor is great (rotating art), the prices are reasonable... what more could you ask for?
(5)Jessica J.
I was surprised to find such a vegetarian friendly menu here. Looks like any other dark wood and brick bar, very cool atmosphere, but also has quite a few great options for those who don't eat meat. The buffalo tofu sandwich was super delicious!
(5)Ann G.
My first time here. Plantain fritters very delicious. Came with my man friend. I'm a vegetarian and he's not. We were both satisfied. This was one of the best veggie burgers I've had in a very long time. He was very pleased with the toad burger. Both plates were under $10 each and with an appetizer our total bill was under $30. It's rare to find a casual friendly environment that's relatively low in cost. If your looking for a great place with great food, this place is wonderful!
(5)Dan C.
So there was Christopher's 5 years ago and Christopher's now just like there was Dan C. 5 years ago and Dan C. now. After a 5 year exile I have returned. Let me briefly explain, In a fit of joy (after a night of Trivia at Newtowne) I dropped my scotch, and in an attempt to catch it with my foot as it fell to earth, I rocketed it across the bar and into the face of some unsuspecting female patron. I still feel bad about this. Obviously I decided that I really didn't need to spend any more time here, and frankly I wasn't too upset by that since this place seemed a little pretentious for my taste. Fast forward to present day, I found myself living in Porter and decided it was worth a look since I needed a nearby spot that was classier than Newtowne Grill. I am happy to say I really enjoyed my experience(s) here. Sure my tastes in what constitutes a good bar have changed between 22 and 27. 5 years ago I was pitchers of PBR at Newtowne to glasses of brown liquor here because someone suggested it; now I'm pitchers of PBR at Newtowne to Cucumber Gimlets here because I suggest it. Okay, maybe my tastes haven't changed that much, maybe its just the bar has become a little less serious. So, getting down to brass tacks, the food here is decent enough for a date, outing with a bunch of friends, dinner with the folks, pretty much anything where the food is not the main focus (since like I said, it's decent, not great). They have more varieties of nacho than should comfortably exist in this dimension. The yuppie nachos have the addition of goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and guac, which I have to say gave me a novel nacho experience. The burger doesn't have too much going for it, everything is average and the blue cheese burger doesn't nearly have enough blue cheese to earn it such a title. The paella, on the other hand, is packed with mussels, salmon, calamari, chicken, and chorizo--great if you love paella since you're not going to find many other places that serve it in porter square, especially at this price and portion size (one person for $14). Oh, can't forget about the drinks. This place has some serious bartenders who are more than capable of mixing the liquors you need to satisfy your thirst, so don't worry if you can't find your drink of choice in the menu. Personally I like gimlets, and I can say, every bartender there has given me an above average gimlet. Now they're no Green Street, but they're close. Bottom line: Decent food, they can manage a pretty decent Cucumber Gimlet, and it's 5 minutes from home. Yeah, 4 stars sounds about right.
(4)Shannon M.
Where Cambridge Common's artichoke dip is on one end of the spectrum, Christopher's is on the other...and it is NOT the delicious end. The quesadilla appetizer is decent, but the artichoke dip was pretty terrible. The ratio of spinach, the kind of cheese that is used (goat cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella), is just wrong. I recommend getting SUPER drunk before ordering...or just go to Cambridge Common if you are seeking a pub that serves above average food to go with your beer.
(2)Stacie R.
We had the Brussels sprouts with bacon, blue cheese and truffle oil for an appetizer which were delicious though I picked out the bacon. The menu has a variety of vegetarian options which is refreshing. I wanted to try several of the appetizers like the buffalo tofu, the spring rolls, and the yuppy nachos, along with chips and mango salsa. I had the buffalo tofu sandwich which came with fries, but I was allowed to substitute asparagus and could have had broccoli or a side salad. My date had the fish tacos which I will have to order in the future with the spring rolls as an appetizer!
(4)Dani H.
It is funny that in all the years I've lived in the area I never went to Christopher's, but decided on Friday August 23rd to check it out with my wife. It was a gorgeous summer afternoon so we sat in the little patio area in front of the restaurant (so I never actually went inside) which has about 7-9 tables. I loved the flowers around the area keeping it slightly separated from the people walking by you to and from work on the sidewalk. They had a GREAT list of local beers so I had to have the Slumbrew (Somerville Brewing Company) Porter Square Porter. How could I not since I was sitting in Porter Square at the time. I love when restaurants support local craft brewers. My wife and I enjoyed a lovely lunch. I had a delicious turkey club, while she actually had the "English Burger," which was a burger marinated in english ale with cheddar and bacon on an english muffin. It was outside her normal choice, but the gamble paid off. The service was attentive, but not overly pushy. The prices were reasonable.
(4)Amber B.
I've been coming to Christopher's for at least 5 or 6 years now, and I'm a huge fan. The ambiance is casual, the staff are SUPER welcoming, and the food is delicious. The menu is simple, mostly bar food, with some more dinner-y entree options. It's a great place to go grab a burger and a beer and sit at the bar, or even bring a bigger group (VERY kid-friendly) and share entrees. Their house-made veggie burger is phenomenal, as is their wide array of regular burgers. Both come with your choice of sweet potato fries or steak fries and a small salad. The fried pickles and buffalo tofu are also amazing and the nachos are served right out of the oven, perfectly stacked and evenly distributed with toppings. The best part is: I'm always pleasantly sated, often times with some leftovers to take home, and I never get that food-coma grease hangover that is common when ordering bar food. The beer selection is fantastic, and always changing. The only small part of constructive feedback that I have is that sometimes I feel like the rotating beer list changes TOO frequently. I'll get attached to a new belgian triple and try to order it two weeks later and it's gone. That being said, the staff are wonderful and knowledgable and can always recommend a perfectly lovely alternative. The range and variety of the beer list is impressive. The bartenders, in particular, are suburb: friendly, funny, warm. It does get quite busy at times weeknights and weekends, I usually go in during off-hours so I never really have a problem finding a seat at the bar. When there is a wait, it's short and it's well worth it. In 6 years, there was only one time that my order came out incorrectly, and the manager quickly sent over a large order of fries on the house. Overall, definitely worthy of 5 stars. Christopher's keeps it simple, and does everything right. Oh, and you can sit outside in the spring and summer time!!! Definitely a plus in the Porter Square area!!
(5)Aleksandr C.
Went here last night with a group of friends. This was my first time going here. I have to say that I was impressed with this place. It is an American bar and burgers type place but on a nice level. The setup is nice with a bar and plenty of tables for people. We were seated by the fire place which was a nice touch. The menu is extensive for food and drinks. I ordered the South West Burger which comes with potato wedges. The burger was delicious and so were the fries. My friends enjoyed their dishes as well. The bill ended up being $110 for 5 of us which wasn't bad at all including food and drinks. Will definitely be back!!!
(5)Jiyea C.
Nice neighborhood watering hole! BEST VEGGIE BURGER EVER. Ok, I guess this doesn't mean much coming from me, who has only had 2 or 3 other veggie burgers...but I heard this from a vegetarian who has had dozens of them...he said it was one of the best. One that he'd consider getting on the T to eat, which is saying a lot for him because he rarely comes north of Harvard Sq. I've tried other burgers here, but i think the veggie burger is still my favorite. I think this has to do with the consistency. The meat on the other burgers are not always cooked properly to order. Nachos here are also delish! Bar layout is kind of awkward. It's this weird U shape in the middle of the restaurant and there are tables on either side of it. Idk how I felt about the dining room being split in half like that...and the venue isn't even that big to begin with. Speaking of the small restaurant, I would not recommend coming here in groups of more than 4. I did see a few 6-tops, but there are not very many tables so either make a reservation or come before 7 if you're planning to visit on a weekday. My last visit was on a Friday at 6 and there were people waiting when my friend and I left around 8:30.
(4)Patrick A.
Service was nice and I enjoyed their half roasted chicken with broccoli and mashed potatoes.
(4)laura W.
Toad was jamming a little too hard for our catch up chat, so we meandered over to Christopher's. The beer list was great (extra points for always having a Pretty Things beer on tap) so we decided to have a seat. The hostess was MIA. We waited at least 5 minutes before a girl told us to just have a seat somewhere....even though signs say, "CHECK IN WITH THE HOSTESS!!!!!!" everywhere. So we walk around, sit at one of the many empty tables and wait for a server. Surely someone will come get our order. Nope. No one. After 15 minutes we go to the bar and get some beers which are fairly priced at $5. The televisions were playing the news... I've never seen that at a bar. Plus, a waitress was drinking a beer on a break... hmm... With so many bars to drink at, I won't be coming back.
(2)Tyler T.
This is my favorite restaurant in Boston. The perfect, handmade veggie burger, an extensive rotating beer selection, ideal mix of bar and upper-scale restaurant vibe, very reasonably priced for the quality and location, and they have Toad attached--a no-cover nightly music venue/bar. I struggle with veggie burgers as a vegetarian. The worst? Morning Star Patties... Think Burger King...that's what they serve. 2/5 stars are black bean burgers. It's just not a good taste... Some restaurants attempt a homemade patty, but end up with these frozen blocks of...something. Christopher's hits it out of the park. You can actually SEE the vegetable pieces in the patty. The patty falls apart...which is a good thing! It's real, handmade, fresh, and absolutely delicious. The spinach and artichoke dip is also delicious as an appetizer or late-night snack.
(5)Shawn L.
This review will be very short and sweet: Loved the Turkey Burger with roasted red peppers and fresh baby spinach. Loved the circular cut "waffly" Sweet Potato fries. The beer was cold...the service was right on...the vibe was casual and relaxing. Would I return...absolutely. The best part of my meal...sharing it with my incredibly handsome Son.
(4)Erin B.
If there's nothing else. I used to appreciate Christopher's, and I use to love their nachos and long islands, but a recent experience here was pretty disappointing. First of all it was very cold in there. Secondly, the long island was gross. Waaaayyy too much sour mix. It had enough alcohol but it tasted so sour. They took the chili nachos off the menu and the chicken ones were just so-so. I'd go back if other people wanted to, but it's not my first choice. Service was friendly. It's always packed here.
(3)Lisa I.
You have to have your expectations set when you come to Christopher's. This is pub food, nothing more. The burgers are good, and they even do decent salads, but it's still pub food so go elsewhere if you're in the mood for quality food. I'm knocking them a star because the service can be pretty terrible. I've had several waiters here who are really spacey/forgetful and just forget to bring your drinks/refills/etc., even when the restaurant is virtually empty.
(2)Carrie P.
I have had two very different experiences here. The first one, I sat down to eat dinner. The food took a while to make, but it was AWESOME. I have absolutely zero negative to say about the wide variety of delicious food. Everyone that I was with loved the food (from sliders, to tacos, to salmon, it is all great). It was a quiet night, and not too busy. However, I also had the experience of trying to order a drink here on a busy night. It is not very often that I will sit at a bar waiting to order something as simple as a draft beer. It took between 5 to 10 minutes for me to get a bartender's attention to grab a beer. This being said, it seems that it would be more of dinner restaurant OR a "stake out a table for the game" kind of restaurant. Trying to get to the bar on a Saturday night is too difficult to make it fun. Pick your good time to go, and head in!
(4)Shieun M.
Got a pretty awesome veggie burger. But it's pretty loud for a conversation.
(4)Leila A.
I have always had a good meal at Christopher's. I love the ravioli especially! My guy friends all love the burgers. So consistent, so delicious. (Veggie burger is good too!) Beers are also fantastic. Love it.
(5)David R.
This is a great neighborhood bar and restaurant. It's reliably crowded Thursday through Sunday after 6pm, so you'll want to get there early to avoid the crowd. I also recommend requesting seating downstairs on the main floor since the upstairs can get extremely noisy when full. The food is well prepared with great variety. I am a particular fan of the "monstah burgers," which they claim to be the best in Cambridge. They also make home-made margarita mix which is outstanding. I recommend for any casual get-together with friends, or for the random night when you don't feel like cooking.
(4)Kelly B.
Saved this draft from when I was delirious from hunger, but I'm pretty sure this restaurant was actually good. At leas the mussels were. ___________________________ Mussels are amazing. White wine sauce with capers, leeks, and roast tomato. Homemade chips and salsa also great. Note that I am starving. Burgers too large. Service good. Fried good. Prices reasonable.
(4)Brian Omar A.
As denizens of the North Shore, we are rarely in Porter Square let alone Cambridge/Somerville. It was a pleasant surprise then to have found Christopher's. We randomly choose it while on a Thursday date night. It seemed busy, but we were briskly seated upstairs. We ordered beers and an appetizer off the specials, crab cakes. The crab cakes sat on the bed of spinach and tomatoes. Unfortunately the crab cakes were not good at all, and definitely not worth the $9 we paid for them. Admittedly crab cakes are difficult to get "right". Our entrees, on the other hand, were heavenly. My husband had the Parmesan seared cod, which sat on mashed potatoes with asparagus on the side. Everything melted in your mouth. I ordered the buffalo tofu sandwich, which came with fries. It was definitely satisfying to those of us who don't eat meat but love spicy flavors and sauces. I highly recommend Christopher's: food and service were great with a casual, friendly atmosphere that'll have you keep coming back---even if you don't live right around the corner.
(4)Melissa M.
I wasn't wowed by this burger. No, ma'am, I wasn't wowed at all. Thought that this would be my GO TO burger place. Instead it is my NOT GO TO burger place. Didn't care for the charring, didn't care for the fries. Didn't care for the huge bun it's served on. Didn't care for the dark lighting. Did not care for the table they stuck me at. This table literally allowed my gaze to look into the unisex bathroom. I mean, the door to the bathroom was kept open during the whole time I ate there (with the exception of the time it was closed for good 15 minutes only to see some lady emerge). I wanted to die. I am sure this place has better stuff to offer, I just don't think I'll go back to find out.
(2)Lovan C.
Neighborhood stable. Good food, fairly priced and a reasonable drink selection, at least as it relates to beers. Add to that the kid friendly atmosphere and this is a hit for us as well as our kids. The chickpea burger that they sometimes have as a special is awesome. Their regular meat based burgers are good as well.
(4)Rana J.
I had the most wonderful time this past Saturday - a baby shower brunch at Christophers in honor of our baby girl due to arrive in February. The upstairs was reserved for our event of approx. 25 adults and 6 children. Everything was flawlessly executed, the food was delicious, the staff were attentive, and the space was large enough to accommodate many more than we had but at the same time was a cozy atmosphere for our size. I highly recommend Christophers for a private event space. It was just perfect.
(5)Mike B.
Fried pickles. Creative beer list. Delicious menu at a GREAT price. How can't it be five stars? I've gone here a handful of times -- group dinners, intimate (ooh!) dinners, and brunches -- and I've always left full and satisfied. The burger is one of the best around and is an excellent choice day or night. The servers are wonderful, too. Quick, smiling, and attentive. And the ambiance is warm and inviting. Go tomorrow. You'll be happy with your choice.
(5)Mike F.
I live in the area and go here often. Great beer selection, friendly staff and have never been disappointed in the food. Wings and buffalo tofu burger are among my favorites.
(5)Danielle W.
Christopher's is my all-time favorite default date night foodery. If you want a good burger and a good plate of nachos, this is your place. Things I like: Their menu is not extravagant but everything on it is good. You got your classy burgers, a mean veggie burger, some knife and fork burritos, sandwiches, stir-fry, salad and pasta (your average American food). They have a good array of vegetarian options both in entrees and appetizers. If you are familiar with Cambridge Common's, the menus and quality are similar (pretty sure owned by the same people but don't hold me that). Great beer selection. A lot of hearty beers from local and not-so-local microbreweries. Every time I go they have something different on their beer menu. Comfy seating. Though a little dimly lit, they have great seating both upstairs, downstairs and outside. It is deceptively big. Wait time for two people on a warm Friday or Saturday date night is usually 0 to 5 minutes. I do not kid. This is a default because whenever the boyfriend and I are hungry, we know we will be seated and fed quickly. In the winter and on colder days they have a great roaring fireplace in the back left corner of the restaurant. It is great for some downtime (pre-dinner) with a winter ale and a good friend. Things I don't like: Huge groups of families and birthday party groups love coming here which, for a date night, can be annoying. It is a pet peeve of mine but the fact that Christopher's is great for groups means that some nights you get the younger children screaming and running around while you are trying to ask your significant other how his or her day was. It can get pretty loud which is a little frustrating but on no fault of the restaurant for being group friendly.
(4)Lucy B.
Every time I go here I am sort of underwhelmed (but it's convenient so I have still been several times). I didn't realize until seeing these reviews that it has the same owner as Cambridge Common, but it makes sense because they are practically the same restaurant. For some reason I like Cambridge Common a little more - I think they have some cheaper options on the menu - and I don't love the upstairs section of Christopher's, where I am usually seated. The food is ok but it is in general a pretty mediocre place.
(3)Anshita S.
To escape the depression that a Sunday night brings along (read: end of the weekend) we decided to have dinner here. The ambiance was good and to my surprise the place was almost full. Our server was nice. Although the food took less than average time to get to our table, it was not warm. It did not taste fresh and we figured most of it would have been pre-made or frozen. Well, me and my friend did not complain as we had our eyes on the dessert. So we get the bread pudding and molten lava cake and the bread pudding is again not warm. Really !? Not only was the temperature wasn't right, but it tasted old. I don't think we will be going back again !!
(2)Tamara W.
Not a huge fan: a little over-priced, not the nicest staff, menu is nothing special AT ALL, parking is sort of a bitch around the area (who wants to risk getting towed in the Porter Sq. shopping center?!). I'd say you have a better chance getting a good meal in Harvard Square just down Mass Ave...
(1)Derek W.
First off let me just applaude this place for serving food after 11 p.m. on tuesday. thank you!! This is the 2nd time I visited this fine establishment, and having had a delicious burger the first time around I opted for a turkey rueben. This thing did not dissapoint It was quite good actually. My eating partners ha some healthy caesar salad or some shit and some fried pickles! Hey it happens when you eat past 10 oclock you order really greasy whacky foods... They have a huge selection of beer, and a handful of microbrews available. They switch em up throughout the seasons and also offer outdoor seating. Couple all of this with the fact that it is in Porter square and you really can't go wrong....
(4)Drew D.
Christopher's is an amazing restaurant! It is a regular staple for myself and my girlfriend in town. She loves the ample vegetarian options (esp the soup of the day or grilled tofu on salads by request), I appreciate their great burgers(including turkey and veggie) and really liked the fish on the menu as well as the pastas. Besides all that there is also a great beer list with many rotating local brews in tap and a great selection of cocktails and mixed drinks. It is a perfect place for many-a-date, has also been great for a large group of friends, and when my folks visit. It has something on the menu for everyone!
(5)Marnie S.
Everything about Christopher's is average. The two stars seem harsh, but I've chosen my ranking purely for the overwhelming average-ness of the Christopher's experience. I might've bumped it to three if I changed "average" to "reliable," but in fact they're not even that; sometimes the toppings on a given burger fluctuate, or the drinks shift in sweetness, etc. The burgers taste like burgers. The salads taste like salads. The sandwiches are sandwichey. The atmosphere is forgettable. The outside seating seems obligatory. The service is fine. The prices aren't bad, and there are lots of menu options, but there are so many other better places to spend 15 dollars. Go to those places instead.
(2)Bailey Z.
We ended up at Christopher's for a late dinner since most other restaurants in the area were closed. The menu looked like they served typical bar food in addition to having some pasta dishes and an assortment of different types of burgers. Their homemade burger of the day was too good of a value to pass up so I ended up getting that. It was a ground chicken burger with chipotle aioli. The burger was really good and the ground chicken was very juicy. I loved the dinner roll-type French roll bun that sandwiched the chicken. My favorite component of the meal was the salad dressing. It tasted like it was a honey-mustard and I dipped everything in it from the salad to the fries to even the end of my burger. I washed it all down with a special sarsaparilla type soda, which was grossly overpriced. Christopher's seems like a great local restaurant bar to hit up with a large selection of beers and a great atmosphere for both dinner and also catching the big game. Edit: I'm taking away two stars because I got food poisoning from the chicken and realized it was the burger when Kevin T. also got sick the next day. Undercooked chicken is inexcusable. It's too bad because I liked this place and the food up until I had a date with the bathroom.
(2)Tamarleigh G.
This place is a total crap shoot. I've had really tasty food in here, and I've had very good drinks, and I've had GREAT service. I've also had disgusting, poorly cooked, nearly inedible food, awful, nasty drinks, and truly ABYSMAL service in here. And you just never really know, when you walk in the door, whether the fates will smile upon you. So I don't go here very often. In a pinch, though, it's nice to have a place like this. The SURE WIN on the menu is the ravioli, which they get from Dave's Fresh Pasta in Davis Square. Dave's really knows how to make good ravioli. [Note: I have since been told by a different server at Christopher's that they make their own ravioli and don't get it from Dave's. I don't know what to believe, now, having been told two different things. Maybe they used to get it from Dave's? Maybe one of these people is misinformed? I have no idea.] They do better with beer than other drinks. So if I go here, I usually just order ravioli and beer, and so far that has worked.
(2)Rouzhna N.
This is a nice neighborhood spot, very close to the train and everything. The portions are huge, but the price is reasonable. I would suggest asking for the Burger of the Day, because mine was delicious, with bacon and everything. Grilled chicken sandwich is also pretty good (not too health....). But the fries are nothing to talk about. The staff is friendly, and a bonus they have full glutton-free menu (with lots of options)!
(4)Liz G.
Christoper's is great, because you'll find lots of traditional pub, comfort food, but with a delectable, pretentious twist. I.E. They actually have a dish called Yuppie Nachos (Sundried Tomatoes, artichokes, cheese, and other yummy, toppings). But, the best part about this place is that you won't pay your standard she-she prices! This has been my neighborhood joint for years!
(4)Hannah M.
There's nothing quite like Christopher's fries when a craving hits! Crispy potato wedges, fried to perfection but not greasy. Yum! The burgers never disappoint and the drinks are good too. Sometimes the salad is a bit wilty, but I don't go for the salad :-) Good, solid food at good, solid prices.
(4)Hailey B.
I've had many plates of nachos in my day, and Christopher's places in the top three all-time best nachos! Bonus points for the multiple types of nacho platters available (Yuppie nachos, anyone?). Also, really good veggie burger (but note that it's NOT vegan). Really great beer selection. Nice outdoor seating - in the shade and perfect for people watching. And our fav waitress, Melissa.
(4)Camille R.
I never thought I would enjoy food from a pub, but Christopher's is really good. And most pubs I've been to in Boston/Cambridge are good, too. Try their nachos and buffalo tofu!! they have specials each night and always have handmade raviolis. Yum!
(5)The Dude L.
As an old friend once said, sometimes you have to draw a line in the sand. Christopher's seemed worth the hassle for a while. Sometimes some amazing dinners, sometimes some mediocre. The Dude loves his oat sodas, and this place has a very nice selection of craft stuff that any beer geek could abide, but the prices make it hard to take it easy. Eight dollars for a 13oz pour is unreasonable, even if the stuff isn't for lightweights. This greed will not stand, man. The waitstaff are always great, and they've never been a problem. It's the kitchen that's the problem. Me and my special lady friend waited an HOUR for our food to come out. I understand that sh|t happens, and you know, for the sake of brevity, food service is a tough industry. But the place wasn't that busy, man. It wasn't that crowded, and then all the poor waitress was allowed to do was take half off of a dinner that we had wrapped and ate at home at 9:30 at night. Not cool. Other places in the city would have at least, you know, taken the food off the bill. But not here, man. With this new sh|t coming to light, I'm officially done with this place. It gets two stars for the oat soda selection.
(2)Dorothy W.
Well, when I return home after eating at Christopher's, I appreciate my own cooking skills more than ever. I am a modest chef, but I promise you, I make absolutely everything better than the folks at Christopher's, even their famous veggie burger. Where are the spices? Where is the spark? Where is the flavor? Serving rubbery tasteless tofu only adds to that poor bean curd's reputation. Canned beans and bland salad dressings do not help. And the prices are not cheap. I get a much better deal at so many other places nearby. We always feel rushed here. And neglected. There's a detached and remote feeling when we come in. With one exception, we have always been given our bill before ordering dessert and coffee. The first time, you chalk it up to inexperience, but when it becomes a pattern, you wonder. Come on over to my friendly house next time instead of going to Christopher's. I will show you how it should be done. My French fries are fresh and warm, I use lots of fresh herbs and spices, I always smile, I don't overcharge, won't rush you out, will always ask if you want dessert and I will always have the Sox on for you. Oh, plenty of ketchup, too.
(2)Bjoern S.
Really delicious burgers, probably the best burger that I ve had in boston so far. Very recommendable!
(5)John C.
TOAD burger is amazing! Good beer selection as well. Great place to go for a burger and beer!
(5)Quinn B.
I've lived in the Porter Square neighborhood for 6 years, and Christopher's has been the best restaurant the whole time. This place is very good in a neighborhood that lacks a truly excellent, standout restaurant. Nice but not fancy, always busy but not excessively loud, food on the menu is good across the board but falls short of great. Prices are reasonable. Beer selection is huge
(4)Dana S.
I don't travel beyond the South Shore very often so I was looking forward to a new restaurant. Went here for dinner last night and it definitely hit the spot! Started with the "Yuppie" nachos- avacado, GOAT CHEESE (are you kidding?!), melted jack and sundried tomatoes....so good! nachos were crispy and the toppings were unique and fresh. I ordered the Portabella Pasta for my entree and my coworker got a chicken burger that was a special. My pasta tasted super fresh and al dente and was topped w/ sundried tomatoes, portabellos, and provolone in a wine sauce. It also had spinach which I could have done without--too wilted in the sauce. Everything was flavorful and garlic was definitely a primary ingredient. My coworker liked her meal as well and the fact that it was served w/ wedge fries- a nice altervative to a traditional french fry. the menu here is so cheap that it's definitely worth checking out if you're in the Porter Sq. area.
(3)Bruce B.
It was just not our night at Christophers. Loud wild crowd and poor service. We've had some good nights there. I like the diversity and changing of the tap selection, but that's not enough to get quality night. Our calamari was all bodies and pretty chewy, and we never got our ravioli. It was a communication problem. Come on, it was not that busy. Time to find another go to place for a while.
(2)Alecia D.
I've been coming to Christopher's for at least 5 or 6 years now, and I'm a huge fan. The ambiance is casual, the staff are SUPER welcoming, and the food is delicious. The menu is simple, mostly bar food, with some more dinner-y entree options. It's a great place to go grab a burger and a beer and sit at the bar, or even bring a bigger group (VERY kid-friendly) and share entrees. Their house-made veggie burger is phenomenal, as is their wide array of regular burgers. Both come with your choice of sweet potato fries or steak fries and a small salad. The fried pickles and buffalo tofu are also amazing and the nachos are served right out of the oven, perfectly stacked and evenly distributed with toppings. The best part is: I'm always pleasantly sated, often times with some leftovers to take home, and I never get that food-coma grease hangover that is common when ordering bar food. The beer selection is fantastic, and always changing. The only small part of constructive feedback that I have is that sometimes I feel like the rotating beer list changes TOO frequently. I'll get attached to a new belgian triple and try to order it two weeks later and it's gone. That being said, the staff are wonderful and knowledgable and can always recommend a perfectly lovely alternative. The range and variety of the beer list is impressive. The bartenders, in particular, are suburb: friendly, funny, warm. In 6 years, there was only one time that my order came out incorrectly, and the manager quickly sent over a large order of fries on the house. Overall, definitely worthy of 5 stars. Christopher's keeps it simple, and does everything right. Oh, and you can sit outside in the spring and summer time!!! Definitely a plus in the Porter Square area!!
(5)Amy L.
Christopher's is a great neighborhood restaurant with a good beer list and consistently tasty food. The staff are friendly and courteous. The only mark against the place is the upstairs dining room - it's a little lacking in character; I prefer seating on the first floor.
(4)erin n.
I'm surprised that the overall rating for Christopher's is only 3.5 stars because I adore this place. I just finished my master's at Lesley which is just across the street, and I've eaten there more times with classmates that I care to admit! Not to mention the many times I've been there with my husband... I have tried so many dishes there, but as silly as it sounds, the chicken burrito is so dang good it's mouth watering! Love the fish and chips and fish tacos also. Most of the the time their specials are actually very special indeed...not too long ago i ordered a parm encrusted cod fillet atop creamy asparagus risotto...yowzah! The Seinfeld episode comes to mind: "was it [sex] good as the risotto?" Not only is the food fresh and all natural, it is consistent. And, above all, the wait/host staff is very kind yet not fake in the least. Other amazing perks are the massive local beer selections, cozy fire place, and local art displaying. This may sound tots cheese, but Christopher's has personal sentiment because so many hours of celebrating birthdays, thesis completion, and friendship were spent with some amazing friends and colleagues over delicious food and drink. Definitely a schmoozy-type place.
(4)Jeremy K.
Took my roommate there for his birthday on a completely improvised trip to Porter Square. We were both hungry and had both talked about going there at some point so I said "Sure, my treat". We got seated and I immediately noticed the awesome artwork on the walls. After grabbing a couple of beers we ordered our food: we decided to split their artichoke dip appetizer and then I ordered chicken piccata, one of my all-time favorite dishes. The food arrived fairly quickly and I even lied about going to the bathroom and instead caught our waiter and asked him if there was a way for us to have a slice of cake with a candle brought to our table once we are done. It was no problem and instants later Erick H. was sitting across from me with a slice of cake. He wanted to kill me but I'm sure will admit that he was happy. The food was pretty good, portion sized good, the prices are good, the beer selection and the staff is prompt and attentive. I'd definitely return there sometime in the future.
(4)Jayda S.
I enjoyed everything I had here. The nachos were DELICIOUS, not just because I was hungry, but because they really were delicious. I also tried the fried pickles, which I had never tried before, and they were also amazing. The salt from the pickle and the crunch from the batter made a great taste/texture combo. The pickle didn't even make the exterior soggy which I was expecting. For my entree I had the Greek Salad with Chicken. It was one of the best salads I've had in a while. I love greek salad in general, but this salad was turned up a notch because of the lemon vinaigrette dressing. A lot of people at my table had burgers and described them as "everything". Next time I visit, I must get a burger.
(4)Courtney H.
We finally went to Christopher's after a trip to porter square to go Michael's. I thought it would be good but it was awesome! My husband now wants to move to Porter Square just to go here on a regular basis. The beer selection is great and it was some of the best burgers we've ever had. I had the burger with the fried jalapeños and fired onions and pepperjack and chipotle BBQ sauce. It literally has all my favorite things! It was so so delicious! I am super excited to go back, just wish it was closer!
(5)Ross D.
Christophers has a great beer list, and a ton of good food for both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. I liked this place so much that I came back the next day! I've had their pulled chicken burrito, the nachos, the vegetarian chili, and the buffalo tofu. The nachos, the burrito, and the chili were all really good, and the buffalo tofu was a good effort. It is breaded and fried, then covered in buffalo sauce. It ended up being too much tofu, and not enough flavor. Their brunch menu is a little bit more egg and meat heavy, but there are choices for everyone on there. My one complaint is that they were playing music quite loudly during dinner while a sox game was on AND people were cheering on top of that. I'm all for a sports bar, or a sit down dinner place with music, but not both.
(4)Katie H.
There are better options. Not a lot in Porter, unfortunately, but just go to Davis. The Pros: - outside seating - extensive beer list The Cons: - pretty much all the food - last salad I got there was actually 50% rotten lettuce. Sent it back. They were really nice about it, but that's totally unacceptable in my book. Go to Christophers if you must eat outside, and be in Porter Square. Or if you're only drinking.
(2)Tiff D.
Maybe I hyped it up? I could not wait to try it. Once I did, I was very disappointed. The service was SO slow. Worst I ever had. We waited 30minutes for our spinach/artichoke dip appetizer!! The food was bland. We left half a pizza on the table. Did even take it home. That's how unappealing it was. And the spinach/artichoke dip lacked some serious seasoning. Garlic and salt would have been nice. The decor was odd. The outside looks classy, nice gold letters, table cloths, then you go inside and it looks old and dingy like a typical Boston pub. And the art on the walls is ridiculous. Like museum of bad art. Overall I had a bad experience here. So bad, I'm not sure I'd come back....unfortunately.
(2)Jim S.
Nice pub-bar place. Fireplace, brick walls, decent atmosphere. Been here 3 or 4 times -always stick to the burger menu. Good selection of not-beef burgers (veggie, chicken, etc). All were pretty good. Sweet potato and regular fries were fine. Good beer selection as you might expect. Service has always been very good. One caveat - might want to take public transportation. Street parking is pretty dicey in Porter Square. There is the lot for the Porter Sq shopping ctr across the street. Technically you're not supposed to park there unless you're patronizing one of the shopping ctr places (max 2 hrs), but I'm not sure how they can effectively enforce this. B ut this may also be moot since everybody has the same idea and it's not unusual for the lot to be full.
(4)Brittany B.
I'm surprised this place only has 3.5 stars! I absolutely love their burgers; my dad (who lives in VT) won't stop talking about the one he had. Their fries are pretty good, too, and they have some pretty imaginative cocktails. Their regular entrees vary in quality slightly. Their chicken piccatta was not the best I've had, but their take on chicken parmesan is amazing!
(4)Rob M.
Went once. Nothing particularly remarkable or memorable about it. I like that it exists but I wish they would try harder to be an English pub as you can see that's what they are doing, just half heartedly.
(3)Megan E.
Omg BURGERS!!! mmmm. so a group of us decided to go to Christophers because we heard that they had amazing burgers. no really. They do. There were four of us and we all offered a different burger, one even ventured to make their burger the larger verizon of they one they selected. Holy meat! I can't even imagine needing that much beef in one sitting. The regular sized burgers are delicious and filling enough not to mention they all come with fries. The burgers were incredible, each one was delicious. I ordered the Andouille burger which was a mix of sausage and beef. The texture of the burger was incredible. The bun was absolutely amazing, and the roasted red pepper on top, I can't believe I've been eating burgers with out it. My Boyfriend got the peperjack burger and I of course snagged a bite of it. Oh my god. It like was an explosion in my mouth of peperjack and sauces. Mmmm. But I still prefered my burger. The fries on the other hand...were pretty subpar. I mean I just douched them in ketchup...but they were pretty average, I've made more steller fries in my kitchen. if I'm in Mass again craving a burger this is absolutely my first stop.
(4)Joseph D.
I go to Christophers every couple of weeks. They always have big portions for moderate prices - it's such a good value. Last night, they had a special: "Chicken Poutine" It is probably the best thing I have eaten in the past 5 years. This place is unbelievable yummy.
(5)EricaLynn J.
Christopher's reminds me of a little more upscale version of Mount Vernon - but not too much more. Which is exactly as I'd like it. The food is more on the pub side of the ledger, but the atmosphere is eerily similar: no real identity except for a little from one column, a little from another, that sort of thing. The food and service have always been excellent every time I have gone, and my friends trust Christopher's enough to have it be the go-to for when parents are in town or when a date night is in order. Though I have never gone there just to drink, the aforementioned friends have - often - and I am not too far behind them.
(3)Lauren A.
Either I've lost my taste for Mexican food, or Christopher's has a chef who knows how to make a real enchilada. Last night at Christopher's I had the best enchilada I've had in the northeast since I moved to Boston. It wasn't completely faithful in texture (too crispy), but the flavors were right on. Puckery-spicy verde sauce, tomato-cheesy chicken pieces...yum. Overall I prefer Cambridge Common to Christopher's, but they get three stars for a delicious vegetarian selection and overall good food. It's just too crowded to hang around for a pint, and I'd rather pay less for bar food.
(3)Mister Chub S.
Recently went to Christopher's and got the fish tacos with mango slaw and an aioli ($13). They were tasty but didn't make it to the table fast enough and the fish was just warm and the tortillas were kind of chewy. It was served with a really tasty mango slaw and pretty standard black beans and rice. I also pretty recently had their spicy pulled chicken burrito ($8) served with mango slaw and fresh crispy tortilla chips. Again, it was tasty but there was just a bit too much liquid in the burrito which made it difficult to eat. Bonus points for great staff!
(3)jim b.
Overpriced mediocre drinks. Food is slightly above average for a corporate bar type place (even if it isn't very corporate, it's run like it) but you pay for it, no bargains. The crowd is really the drawback, mostly post grad school late 20 year olds of the "enlightened" liberal sect, you know what I'm talking about: the "I traveled for a few years after college to figure out what I wanted to do, now I know I want to help people by __________" that fail to mention this lifestyle is made possible by the wealth of the parents (which they see as standard middle class income) who still get their cell phone bills.
(2)Kaitlyn L.
one of the better chowder's i've had in MA. i always get the steak tips and green beans.
(4)Nicole P.
This is a great brunch place. Their home fries are so good, more like potato wedges with lots of yummy spices. Usually only have to wait for a few minutes for a table. Each time I've been there, the wall decor (paintings, weavings...) were so interesting and beautiful. Would recommend!
(4)Laura A.
christopher's food is just okay, not very flavorful or interesting. and the bar area kind of has the 30-something, having a drink before going home to pay the babysitter feel -- yawn. update 6/06: i've tried it a couple more times. i still don't feel anything about it. basically it's the same food as cambridge common but more expensive. i ordered the tofu fajitas, and it was totally weird because the "fajitas" were almost like two different meals -- the guacamole/salsa/pico etc were part of a mexican meal, while the grilled tofu had an almost asian kind of flavor to it and had all kinds of vegetables that just didn't jive with the salsa/tortilla thing. i feel like the best word to describe christopher's would be "nice"...like, it's good enough to eat when there's nothing else around. but i certainly wouldn't go out of my way to eat there. it depresses the hell out of me.
(3)Brian M.
Decent mid-range restaurant. The menu is broad, ranging from Tex-mex to burgers to pizza. I got sirloin tips with mash potato and snowpeas, all of which were great,esp the mash. Also tasted their fries which were divine - big crunchy-on-the-outside-fluffy-on-the-inside steak fries. They also have a great beer selection. Atmosphere-wise I would describe it as being like a nice pub; the sort you could take your parents to. They also seem to cope well with larger numbers. Service was v good.
(4)R. T.
One of our stand-bys in Porter Sq, Christopher's is casual and reliable for good burgers and drinks. We had brunch here a few months ago and were pleasantly surprised that the food was equally good for breakfast. The beer selection is also great.
(4)Erica E.
Buffalo Tofu...need I say more? No, really the menu is great! It's definitely very vegetarian friendly with quite a few options. I hear the meat options are great too. The buffalo tofu is tasty and a rare find. I have never been disappointed. Their brunch menu on Sundays is great too..try the fruit stuffed french toast!
(4)Jim K.
Terrible food. Had a turkey burger that tasted like it came from Costco freezer, and tomato soup that was glorified Heinz ketchup. No.
(1)m b.
not a full review here, but just a snapshot of our recent experience at christophers; i think youll get the idea.......... we ordered a plate of buffalo wings- which came out cold, a measly portion, and WITHOUT any sauce or coating of any kind- just a sorry 5 or 6 small, withered chicken wings completely "nude". we pointed it out to the waitress, who then returned within a minute with the exact same plate of wings (even tho 1 or two had been eaten/partially eaten) with some sauce poured on top- didnt even seem heated up! if this is what youre looking for, youll be fine; if not- go elsewhere!!! we also ordered some kind of squash soup- which seemed & tasted more like a cup of applesauce. this experience was so bad- wed never go back, even tho some of the brunch dishes looked good. dont bother going here, as there are so many better alternatives out there.
(1)Jared S.
Stopped in for a couple drinks on Sunday around 3:30. Did not complete my mission. It shouldn't be difficult to order a drink on a Sunday afternoon in a dead bar. But for some reason, the bartender at Christopher's couldn't handle life. The place was basically dead, and the wifey and I chose to post up at the bar as per our M.O. The bar kind of wraps around a wall and we sat at the end near the bathrooms, almost on the other side of the wall just barely in view of the bartender (only because a large party of 6 was wrapping up and leaving so we gave them some space). The bartender did greet us when we sat down and gave us menus, so she definitely knew we were there. She was basically dressed in workout clothes - yoga pants and a cotton tank - which should have indicated her level of commitment to her job right away. We had our drink choices selected in seconds, but unfortunately the bartender had wandered back to the other side of the bar and proceeded to ignore us while she made drinks and gabbed with her friends at the other end of the bar. A number of EXCUSE ME's and hand waving didn't work at getting her attention. 9 minutes had passed since we sat down and were greeted, and I had to use the restroom really badly, so I told my wife to order my beer for me if the bartender came by. I got back to the bar and my wife miraculously had her "cocktail" in front of her (more about that later), but I had no beer. I sat down and watched the bartender continue to ignore us, still gabbing and making drinks for her friends at the other end of the bar. Another 5 minutes had passed, for a total of 15 minutes in Christopher's with 0 service - so I literally got out of my seat, walked to the other end of the bar, stood behind her friends, jumped up and down waving my hands. The bartender then acknowledged my presence - another miracle - and said "Oh, you wanted the Peak Organic, right?" No, I don't want a beer from you anymore. I want you to come over to our end of the bar. My wife had ordered a mimosa and got a flute filled with oj and a splash of sparkling wine. It was opaque orange and no indication of effervescence. I don't understand a bartender that makes a shitty mimosa. A toddler could make a proper mimosa. "Oops, sorry mommy, I spilled some of my oj into your champagne!" So I showed the bartender her ridiculous excuse for a drink, and she had the gonads to argue with me! "I DEFINITELY put champagne in that!" Oh really? Where do you see champagne in that glass? If there were champagne, would I be able to do this? I then took down the whole glass of oj in one big gulp, threw $3 down on the bar for the glass of oj, and left for Tavern in the Square across the street, which had a more upbeat atmosphere with people watching the Sox game and talking, where the bartender made proper drinks and gave us great service, and where we proceeded to spend the next 2 hours and $60.
(1)Down P.
We've been going to Christopher's for 20+ years, so there are some ups and downs, but I think they can all be expressed in the Steak Frite. I've had it 6 times in the last year. Every time has been completely different. Sometimes the meat is succulent, sometimes it's 4 ounces of leather. Sometimes the fries are crisp, lately they've been soggy. And the sauce? Anything from a bit of greens to a massive red sauce. The veggie burger is consistently good. The fact that I go with a veggie-burger eater tells you why I keep playing Steak Frite roulette.
(4)Lauren E.
I woke up this morning craving a veggie burger. Not just any veggie burger, but one with cheese, caramelized onions, and sauteed mushrooms. Kind of a strange way to start the day, but that's what happened. At lunch, I decided I'd just ignore the craving since I had no veggie ingredients. Then dinner got delayed, and at 10pm, I was about to keel over, for hunger and for want of veggie burger. I searched on yelp for veggie burgers in Cambridge, and this place came up. So around 10:30, off we went to Christopher's. It amazed me that I could (almost literally) get the veggie burger of my dreams. I got the home-made veggie burger with caramelized onions, grilled mushrooms, and cheddar cheese (instead of the peppers and pesto that were supposed to come with it). The lovely waitress asked if I wanted a multi-grain or French roll. Multi-grain please. Wow. As I said--veggie burger of my dreams. And it was as delicious as I had hoped, so good that I almost gave the place 5 stars. I'll have to try more things first, though. The nachos were okay. Cheese was good, but the chips were insansely oily, and the salsa was kind of blah. The salad was way better than another yelper had described--romaine with onions, cucumbers, and olives, with a good dressing on the side. The fries were incredible, too. Also, on the back of their menu they describe their high-quality, responsible food deal. It makes me happy to know that they are conscious of this stuff. And now I can go to bed happy, because I had the veggie burger I woke up dreaming of.
(4)Sanjay K.
Love the beers on draft, the drinks and the atmosphere. Good local boozer.
(4)Diva T.
It always breaks my heart a little bit to leave a negative review as I *hate* being that person, but sometimes spending my hard-earned money on mediocrity warrants it. My friend and I decided to try brunch at Christopher's after reading some of the more positive reviews, which leaves me scratching my head in confusion. Our experience there was not pleasant at all, and completely not worth the money we spent splitting a meal. Positive: when we walked in, we were instantly greeted and seated at a booth per our request. When I let her know the sun was in my eyes, she let us select our own table with no problems at all. The staff was friendly and accomodating. Cons: the entire meal. We decided to get a couple things and split them. We started with the corn chowder, which came lukewarm and fairly tasteless to our table. We had requested two spoons, but got only one. Not a huge deal until we realized we had NO utensils at all to use. We decided to split the "Breakfast of Champions" because we liked the idea of sweet french toast filled with fruit complimented by buffalo spicy tenders. Except, we didn't get the tenders we received, or the blue cheese we requested, or syrup. These were finally brought around by the end of the meal, when we had given up on the lackluster food. We order a side of toast which was one piece of scali cut in half, and I'm pretty sure we were charged several dollars for that. I ordered coffee, my friend had water. So for one cup of coffee, one cup of lukewarm chowder, and one sub-par french toast breakfast (not even a little powdered sugar to try and dress it up a little bit!), we paid $25. We were unimpressed to say the least. The staff was friendly and accomodating, but the food was pretty horrible and way overpriced. We will never do brunch there again, unfortunately.
(1)Jessica W.
Lots of places have veggie burgers on their menus nowadays. Chances are, though, that what you'll get is a heated Gardenburger or Boca or some other pre-made frozen patty. But don't pass up the veggie burger at Christopher's--it's house-made, and is one of the best, if not the best, ones I've ever had. Even if you're a vegetarian and not feeling a veggie burger during your visit, there are still other options. If you felt left out back when sliders were all the rage, you can take consolation in the tofu sliders here. They're also good for the commitment-phobe, as each of the three sliders is fixed differently: one has buffalo sauce, another BBQ sauce and asiago, and another with roasted pepper and pesto. Between the tofu sliders and the veggie burger, though, the veggie burger ranks higher in my book. (My non-veggie friends like the regular burgers, too.) The nachos? I can never turn down sharing a small order of nachos as an appetizer. It's practically a JW Friendship Litmus Test. As for the cocktails, they're delicious but dangerous because they go down easy. Dark and Stormy? It's hard for me to maintain a slow and steady pace. The Lakeside, which has gin and St. Germaine, tastes like juice but will hit you if you drink it too quickly. All in all, I've usually walked out of Christopher's full and happy-tipsy. What more can I ask?
(4)Chris D.
Terrific spot right off the T. Excellent food, the servers have always been great, and the bar always had what I wanted on tap.
(5)Victoria T.
I always have a good meal at christophers washed down with a beer or cocktail. Id recommend trying one of their specials because they are always tasty and original. their Cuban chicken stew is always my go to because its a great spin on a Cuban classic. They always have rotating beers on tap so there's always something to test and you never get bored of their rotating beer/cocktail menus. service is always great and friendly.
(4)Markey-Mark M.
Hmmm, had heard great things about this place, but wasn't that impressed. The service was slow, the waitress kept forgetting about our drinks and then brought them right at the end of the meal when we were all finished and would be leaving soon, so that we felt obliged to pay for them since we had ordered them (about 20 minutes earlier). The food was not great either - the veggie burger was only warm, not hot, the ravioli was nowhere near enough to feed a fully grown man and the steak mac'n'cheese had only 2 small bits of steak in it. Sangrias were good, but as noted, they took forever to arrive. Nice atmosphere, though they had the AC up to high, but doubt I'll be going back or recommending this place to others.
(2)Erin M.
It's a 3 star menu but 5 star service. Great beers, great burgers that are thick and cooked right. I love the environment and service I get every time. English burger tonight...delish!
(4)Marie S.
Nice drinks and food, reasonable prices and great service! I'm only not giving them five stars because I've had the service be lackluster at times (not rude, just forgetful), but this place has a really nice "hang out in a pub" ambiance and so I don't usually mind if things take a while.
(4)Abbey L.
I love Christopher's. It has many things I look for in a restaurant/bar and for that reason I return again and again: Consistently GOOD food with a lot of variety on the menu, great beer selection, low key but good service and a nice bar scene as well. Their veggie burger is really great and so are their regular burgers, cobb salad, nachos, and all of the sandwiches.
(4)Ali C V.
Not bad at all. I'd go again. Of note: Their Sangria (red) is mmmm-mmmm. Ambiance: Casual. Sidewalk tables are great in warm weather. Service: Pleasant and diligent. They know their menu. Menu: Something for everyone. Food: Fresh and cooked to order. Pricing: Very reasonable for the offerings. Location: Excellent as it's across from the Porter T station. If you're driving, park across the street at the plaza.
(3)Cherie C.
I was craving a good pub burger, and we found this place via Yelp. My burger was just what I was looking for: thick, juicy, homemade beef patty with pickles, lettuce, onions, and cheese. It fit the bill perfectly. I'd considered the yummy-sounding English burger (which is made with Sam Adams lager), but I don't like English muffins. Just a few days later, I learn that Food Network (specifically Bobby Flay) named this the best burger in Massachusetts. Hmm...considering the fact that Flay is a jerk and voted a fast-food burger best in California, I'd be quick to dismiss that. But my burger was good, so I think Christopher's still was a respectable choice for best in state. The beer menu is varied and interesting. The appetizers come in ridiculous portions (the large nachos are easily a meal for two). Christopher's is definitely a place to come when you are very hungry and want some serious comfort food.
(4)Jon S.
Randomly stumbled into here late at night after playing ultimate frisbee (so was very hungry). Left thinking this was a great pub and wished I stopped by more often. I ordered the English burger (with bacon, cheddar, and on an English muffin). It was fantastic and definitely hit the spot. I know it is just a burger but people definitely mess them up. The dark, wood paneled decor was nice. All in all, a very solid establishment.
(4)Chris M.
Christopher's is my multi-purpose, go-to restaurant for any and all occasions. It's pub like enough to meet a friend for a beer yet the wallart from local artists and creativity with the menu make it a great place to bring a date. I've been there with groups of friends, family members and occasionally alone to have dinner at the bar on a random weeknight -- it all works! If you focus on one element of this place you may consider it 3 or 4 star worthy but when the take in the sum of all it's parts it's definitely a 5. A few specifics: Great burgers (i.e. "burgahs"), friendly wait staff and bartenders, dark pub-like feel, standard American menu, close to Redline.
(5)Barbara A.
I have not been here in almost 15 years and it was ok, but I would not go out of my way to go here again. We asked to be seated outside and although we enjoyed it, it was hard to hear because of the traffic on that corner. We started with drinks and they were very refreshing. My partner got lemonade and I got a Swedish Summer drink (basically an alcoholic lemonade). My companion had a hamburger which had some andouille sausage mixed in and he said it was different but in a good way - spicy. The fries were good but I tend to like potato wedges (and the pickle was just dilly enough). I asked for a regular steak tips - what I got was the steak tips over a salad. Now, normally I would have sent it back, but I thought this was a cosmic decision for me to have more veggies. I have to say it was a good karmic choice - the greens were a nice mix (no iceberg - yay) with a balsamic dressing. The tips were a little overcooked for my taste, but all-in-all it was very tasty. I seem to recall the burgers in general are a good choice, but unless I am meeting people in the area, I would not make the effort.
(3)Jason M.
Beer. Yes. Christopher's has a great selection of beer. Patio. Yes. Christopher's has a patio where you can sit and watch traffic on Mass Ave. Bad Food. Yes. Christopher's has bad food. My first time there, I tried the chicken fingers. Fingers seems to be an appropriate word for the meat. Here is a list of other words to describe the chicken: Scraps Scrapple Bits Shreds Gristle Needless to say, the quality was not there but I appreciate their desire to use every scrap of chicken... or their desire to use skinny, underweight chickens. Being a forgiving person, we tried it again. This time, I gave another appetizer a whirl: The Spinach and Artichoke Dip. H1orrid. I think their fatal flaw is they forget to squeeze the water out of the spinach... which makes the dip soggy and wet. The excess water really robs the dip of any flavor... Stick to the bar. Grab a beer. You're better off walking across the street to the Shaw's and cooking your own food.
(2)Natalia M.
I arrived hungry as a hippo and unfortunately had to wait awhile to receive my food. The waitress was kind enough to comp our drinks but once the food arrived I had a half egg shell in my food (I ordered an eggs Benedict) which was unacceptable. The manager came over and apologized in which he comped the whole meal. The waitress was outstanding and I enjoyed the environment as I was with a bff. Overall, I would say it's a nice place for bar food with great service.
(4)Emily W.
A few friends and I came here late one night for a quick bite. I made the mistake of ordering the calamari. It was dry and tough and flavorless. Everyone else seemed impressed and enjoyed their meals... so I give it 3 stars instead of 2. I must try this place again and update my opinion. The sweet potato fry I stole from my friend was delicious! But the service was slow and not friendly. I'll get back there eventually... and try a burger - I've heard that's the way to go at Christopher's.
(3)Kenneth M.
My wife and I came in for a quick bite to eat, looked ok from the outside and based on the number of stars. The food was ok, Chicken fingers tasted like Fish and Chips and Diet Coke was on the menu and bill, but was informed by the server it was not Coke, but that the establishment serves a local brand. Service was not the best, considering it was not packed felt like service could have been better. I am in the area a lot and don't think I will be back.
(2)Amanda H.
I like this place a lot. You might be wondering why, so let me back up my opinion with some data. -For those with gluten sensitivities: The staff here is knowledgeable and flexible. I talked to Kim, a manager, and she knew about cross-contamination through shared fryer oil. She also was able to tell me which sauces/sides/foods contained gluten. She told me that corn tortillas can be requested in place of flour tortillas -- all you have to do is ask. When I explained to her that I am not only gluten intolerant, but also a hungry Catholic on a Lenten Friday, she didn't even flinch. She quickly offered to work with me to find a vegetarian, gluten-free meal that would be satisfying. I love that the staff here is so willing to work with me to find me not just a meal, but a meal that I will enjoy. -For everyone: 1. Good drinks -- a wide selection of things to make you intoxicated and relatively reasonable prices 2. Brunch -- mmmm... mimosas! And solid egg dishes. And I have a weakness for good homefries. Oh, and you can have brunch outside on warm mornings 3. Burgers -- their andouille burger is a divine mix of andouille and beef and has a roasted red pepper on top of it. If you prefer your burgers sans-sausage, their beef burgers are delicious and they have a wide variety of toppings to choose from 4. They're really close to the Porter Square T stop, so you don't have to waddle far to get home
(5)Dan C.
Its hardly fair for a place to serve delicious pitchers of sangria that are the size of fish bowls. FISH BOWLS ARE NOT NORMAL SERVING SIZES! That said, it WAS damn tasty. Split it with a friend and have a refreshingly buzzed summer afternoon! Or have it solo and make some bad decisions... Your call.
(4)Dee D.
Hubby and I had hamburgers, the house burgah. Not bad food, not bad service, but I do wish they had yellow mustard. Not a Dijon fan.
(3)Ted B.
Nope. Never again. Meals are overpriced and made with subpar ingredients. The waitstaff is down right rude at one point refusing to serve me drinks or food. When the drinks do come the drinks come out too slow. My friends like this place because they "serve beer" and have "hamburgers". I hate this place because they don't know how to make a proper cocktail or make anything in the kitchen that I couldn't make in my own kitchen while hammered and blinded using only half of the needed ingredients. If I am dragged here again I will only get whiskey in a glass since I know they will not mess this up.
(2)Jenn S.
After a not-so-great brunch experience a few weeks ago, I was looking forward to my "lunch date" with friends the next day. Despite having just been to Christopher's in November (and not realizing my fiance had been there 2 weeks previously), we met my friend and her boyfriend there. There are several great things about Christopher's. 1) It's conveniently located - It's RIGHT across the street from the Porter Square T stop, so it's easy to get to and there is parking in the area. 2) They have a large regular menu and an even bigger brunch menu - with more than just breakfast options. My fiance & I went lunch-y, my friend and her boyfriend went brunch-y. Perfect for everyone! 3) It's family owned and environmentally friendly! 4) The food is good! I got the same thing that I got when I was there a few months ago - the Southwestern Grilled Chicken Salad: Tossed greens, corn, black beans, scallions, cilantro, and grilled chicken with a creamy avocado lime dressing. My friend had gotten the vegetarian chili when I was there last time, and I loved it, so I got that as well (it's COLD here in Boston!). At one point I looked down at my soup & salad and realized "that's quite a lot of beans," but they were both awesome! Healthy, filling, warm... YUM! My fiance got the Club Christopher: A triple-decker made with real turkey breast, Applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo. Served on toasted scallion bread. And the huge steak fries that came with it? YUM! (His $4 hot chocolate? Not worth the price, but apparently still good. If you want a drink, get the Bloody Mary - we ran into one of his friends who had it in front of him. It's HUGE and apparently great.) My friend got a special omelet that sounded amazing and looked quite tasty. Her boyfriend got the Belgian Waffles: With whipped cream and raspberry sauce, served with maple syrup and fresh fruit. We all cleared our plates and it was a really decent price. Although it's not super close to us, we will most likely be back to Christopher's. This is the 3rd time I'd been there (the 1st was years ago) and I have been significantly impressed and happy every time. A+!
(4)Elizabeth K.
I think I would give it a 3.5 if given the option but I've feeling generous today and rounding up. I've been here like 5ish times. I've never had good service. However, the people are usually very very friendly, just not so good at the whole serving in a timely manner thing or getting your order right part. The food is pretty tasty (though I pretty much stick to their burgers - which they actually cook medium rare - yay!) and their beer selection is pretty great. The prices are totally reasonable too. My mom is also (inexplicably) a huge fan of this place so if you're looking for a place to take your parents when they visit, this may work for a suitable brunch/lunch spot!
(4)Sean B.
Every now and then, people find a favorite thing to do - check out a Yoga Class that offers free mats, go to a karaoke bar with Ke$ha songs, have a brownie-sundae eating contest at the Cheesecake Facotry (note: do not do this, or at least, don't try to win). Going to Sunday brunch at Christopher's is one of my new favorite things to do. From the stuffed french toast to the omelets, it's hard to go wrong. My one comment is that many dishes are served with fruit, but they dont' really separate the fruit from the rest of the dish. I had an omelet that was served OVER the fruit, so the fruit wasn't too appetizing, but everything else tasted good. Overall a great find.
(4)Amanda G.
I live within walking distance to here, so I must admit I had brunch and dinner here in the course of one week. I'd say brunch is 3 stars, dinner is 4 stars. Brunch is definitely good here - and they're known for their GIGANTIC Bloody Marys - but I'm a bit of a brunch snob and it's not necessarily my favorite. I do think it's great for a big group, because there's always seating on Sunday, and the prices are really reasonable for the amount of food served. Also, the servers here are always friendly. Now for the good part - I had dinner here a million years ago and didn't love it (can't totally remember why) but more recently am singing a different tune. Food is really good, the atmosphere is fun and there's always people at the bar. I prefer to sit at the bar, actually, because you get face time with the bartenders, and because it's a livelier vibe. If you have a choice, sit downstairs, because upstairs is too quiet. I've had the spinach and artichoke burrito here (SO good, very filling though) and most recently, the salmon fettuccine, which I loved. I also love that my pasta cost under $15 and I could have a giant Cosmo with it, for only $25 total. To me, that's a perfect cheap date. Christopher's is also known for their nachos... for good reason. In short, I definitely do recommend going here for brunch or dinner, especially if you're looking for a straightforward, casual atmosphere with a solid menu and kind-to-the-wallet prices.
(4)Purvi R.
Relatively safe place in that most people coming here will find something acceptable to eat. The first time I was here, it was after yet another subpar Michigan football game at Tavern (that caused us to down a few SoCo limes before gracing Christopher's with our presence, so I don't recall many details from that visit). On that night, I sampled the Yuppie Nachos (OK), Veggie Chili (pretty good), and the Buffalo Tofu burger (very memorable). So memorable was the buffalo tofu that I finally convinced the bf to return here (it's not his fave place) last night, and I promptly ordered the buffalo tofu appetizer. It. Did. Not. Disappoint. In fact, it's 9am and I seriously considered how buffalo tofu would taste with my eggs this morning, that's how much I'm still thinking about it. To help wash down the spicy soy strips (say that 3x fast), I had a Lavender Lemon Tea - a nicely balanced array of flavors that was a great compliment to the hot sauce. For an entree, the bf had a chicken sandwich (he thought it was "good") and fries (high potato-to-fry ratio; thicker fries aren't really my thing). I had the blackened tofu fajitas. These were kind of....what's the word....awkward. The "fajita" filling was your typical assortment of Mexican veggies -- onion, pepper, etc. -- but this blend came with....Asian vegetables as well (pea pods, cabbage, broccoli). And the tofu was decidedly not blackened, and not seasoned much at all. The accouterments were OK, but nothing special. I brought home the leftovers with the intention of putting them over rice and drizzling with soy sauce...really how this should be prepared. All in all - reasonably priced, good selection including many veg options, decent drink/beer list, average service. I'll be back for the buffalo tofu, if nothing else.
(3)Brittany T.
Great bar with a ton of food choices. It is nice that the bar wraps all the way around so you can find seats on either side. This place is great for a date or a big group and is right by the porter T. Nothing fancy, very simple, but a nice dinner or drinks spot!
(4)Wendy K.
I've enjoyed Christopher's on many occasions, so I suppose it's time to review it. The burgers are always great (try the Andouille and Beef Burgah), and the beer/wine selection is good. The atmosphere is comfy, and I have had good experiences the last several times I went there. This last time, I decided on the Blackened Sirloin Salad instead of a sandwich (I'm on a blue cheese kick lately). The salad was good, but my sirloin tips were super underdone. I like my meat medium rare, and that's often a risky choice, but my beef was blue (raw). I sent it back (the waitress was very apologetic and understanding) and it was back on my plate in less than five minutes, cooked to my standards. We also had a water spillage issue, and without even blinking, another waitress had a towel and sopped everything up in the blink of an eye. Try it, and it might become your new favorite haunt!
(4)Dana G.
I loved this place! Five huge reasons warrants five huge stars: ---Tried it last Friday night, approximately 8:30 pm and was seated with my date right away, no wait. That's a huge turn on for me. By the time we left, the bar area was full and so were tables, but it didn't seem like the wait would have been very long.... ---Fire in the Ham...any eatery with this beer gets my love ---They play KILLER music! With no indie radio here in Boston, I was shocked to hear some hometown Minneapolis music while dining ---Ambiance: you can sit fireside at a table, contemporarily intimate at a booth, or casually at the bar. I'd be comfortable here doing any. Wait staff is attentive and not annoying =) ---FOOD! I ordered a burger blue, and they did this, no questions! Toppings were fresh, delish, and the meat was also FABULOUS. Their meats are ground just for them (so it says on the menu) and maybe that is the key to the deliciousness. I couldn't stop eating the fries. They're thick like steak fries and not those tiny crispy crap fries. I saw the table next to me eating pasta which smelled awesome, and they scarfed it down, so that's probably good too... I look forward to returning!
(5)Elizabeth C.
Christopher's is a delight. We had brunch there over the summer and enjoyed the outside seating, a very friendly and professional waitress and amazing food. This is by far our favorite place to brunch in the Porter/Davis area.
(5)Elena E.
Christopher's is a good place if you're in Porter Square and want to grab a casual lunch or dinner or just drinks and some apps, especially if the weather's nice and you can sit outside. They have a nice beer list, but nothing in comparison to Five Horses down the street in Davis. They also have good cocktails and very reasonably priced. I had the Del Maguey Sunrise and loved it. For bar food, it's pretty good. Definitely better than Tavern across the street but again, not as good as Five Horses. I've had the nachos (pretty standard) and fried pickles (not a fan - breading too thick). But what I'd come back for was the bread pudding. My husband wanted to share but it was so good I made him order his own. My friend had the chicken pot pie and liked it as well. So nothing to go out of your way for but if you're in the area and want to sit outside for a drink or casual meal and not have to spend too much for it, Christopher's is a good option.
(4)Christopher B.
A solid choice.very nice beer selection, many local brews giving a chance to try some things I can't get at home. Nice nachos, a decent but small burger. I was even able to find street parking- much to my surprise.
(3)Lisa K.
For general dining I'd give this place 3-4 stars - safe, solid, nothing particularly exceptional. BUT we were here with a group of 16 for brunch on a Sunday, and I was really impressed with the level of service we received. We were given the whole top floor, which was perfect, and our waitress was quite attentive despite the fact that we spent the first half hour or so milling around rather than figuring out what we wanted. She happily took our drink orders, and once we sat down, our brunch orders. As far as I can tell, everyone's meal came out correctly, which is quite a feat with such a large group. I was totally happy with my hamburger and huge wedge fries.
(5)Tom K.
3.5 stars, rounded up. I'm not sure what it is about this place. I don't remember ever actually loving this place while I'm there, but I also want to go back. In fact, I don't think any single aspect of the experience was fantastic or perhaps even very-good but its an overall experience I wouldn't mind having again. I've been here a number of times for drinks or food or a combination of both, in groups as small as two and as large as 6 or 7. The foods always satisfies and the drink menu seems to have something for everyone. The beer list is definitely a refreshing change of pace from many establishments similar to Christopher's. I think the main draw for me here is the atmosphere. Its nearly a perfect combination of sophistication and comfort. Its classy without getting angry at you for showing up in jeans and a t-shirt. Definitely on my short list of places to go out around Porter- both for dinner or drinks.
(4)Peter W.
Really a 3.5 stars. This place has been around a while. It has a good location in Porter Square, but parking can be really tough. Service was very good. I had a hamburger (good), the buffalo tofu (very good), and a margarita (ok). I recommend people try the buffalo tofu.
(3)L K.
Decent usual patio-restaurant fare with late food service, though we were a big group so the lateness was understandable. The salmon dish was not particularly well done--or rather, it was cooked *very* well done, which is bad on most accounts of what's valuable about eating salmon at a restaurant.
(3)Roman K.
I really like the location. It's sometimes pretty crowed (thus too noisy) - food is delicious (try the huge burger). We where a little surprised to get some extremely (!) spicy sides; of course they where not supposed to be THAT flavored.
(4)Joanna F.
A short 7 minute walk from my apartment, I've been to Christopher's several times over the past 3 years. I've gone for breakfast, lunch, dinner and just to hang out at the bar at night. I have never had a bad experience. The restaurant is welcoming and homey. Dark wood paneling, a fireplace and a beautiful bar right in the middle make a charming atmosphere. All of the food is really good. I recommend the turkey reuben and any type of burger I've had here has been awesome. Their beer selection is surprisingly good and they have a sampler for 6 bucks that includes tastes of 4 beers. It's a pretty good deal in my opinion. The bar scene isn't exciting, but it's a great place to go to have a few beers and talk to your friends. If you're looking for a wild time, this is not the place. But if you're looking for a quiet place to grab a few drinks, there's not a better bar in the area.
(5)Amanda H.
I went to the place on a Sunday, and it wasn't very busy, so I expected my server to be on top of us the whole time, needless to say that didn't happen. I met a few people there and sat for about 15 minutes before someone came over. The beer list is good, however my food tasted burnt and my friend ordered sweet potato fries and got regular. All and all, I doubt ill be going back, just didn't live up to standards.
(2)Mickey M.
It's a restaurant that has lots of people that hang out around the bar. That was my first thought about this place. I didn't eat here, but the food looked like typical bar food. I believe they have a late last call, opposed to the bar restaurant across the square. It's not bad, it's an all-right option among an area where there are plenty of places to grab a drink. I'd stop by again, but probably not go out of my way. Decent selection of beer.
(3)Amy R.
I LOVE Christopher's... love love love! It has such a chill vibe and I always stop in whenever I visit one of my besties in Porter Square! They have a really great, rotating beer selection for starters. The last time I went w/ my friend, we split a pitcher of sangria. We were expecting to get maybe a glass and a half to 2 glasses each. No, wrong. We both ended up consuming 3 glasses a piece. I haven't really been that adventurous with the menu, but have a few go-to's. The assorted nachos are heaven... guacamole, jalapenos, melted cheese, and black olives. I could eat pounds of these nachos. Also, I really like their "healthy" Caesar salad w/ chicken. The chicken always has been blackened enough for me and their housemade Caesar dressing (made from egg whites) is really tasty and not to overpowering. And a surprise favorite is the buffalo tofu. My roommate had it once and it was really, really tasty. Christopher's has a cozy/friendly vibe. I haven't really found many bars in the Porter area that have made me feel as comfortable as I do here!
(4)Michelle K.
Great place to come and chill with friends, drink beer, and order some pretty decent cheap foods. I love the ambiance!
(3)K B.
I was torn on how many stars, as I like Christopher's for a night out that's not too far from home. A rotating specials list usually has some tasty treats and new beers to try. Great cocktail ideas, too. Service is usually good and the staff are very friendly. My only beef really is about the takeout. Being so close to home it's nice to order something that isn't from a sandwich or pizza joint. They usually give you a 15 minute wait, which is perfect timing for me to walk down. Most of the time the food is OK, if a little cold by the time we get it home and unwrapped. Twice now I've ordered something, only to come home with the item and surprised once) it wasn't what I ordered and second) ingredients were missing. The first time I ordered a Caesar w/steak tips, only to get a blue cheese garden salad w/tips. I wrote an email to management letting them know of the snafu, since my receipt and the kitchen ticket said Caesar w/tips. They were very generous and apologized for the mistake, also offering a gift card, which wasn't expected but very much appreciated, and we enjoyed a great meal there a few weeks later. The second time was just last night. I called to order the special Guinness stew, which sounded great. When I called I was told it wasn't on the menu, which I found odd as their website said the specials were just updated the afternoon before. If it was a case of just not having the containers for stew, I would have completely understood. So I ordered the special Black Bean Burger. Arrive home, unwrap, and there's items missing! No fried onions, no avocado. Granted, I probably didn't need the onions in my diet, but the missing avocado was really disappointing. So I'd say feel free to order for pickup (they don't deliver), but w/reservations.
(3)Naomi B.
Loveeeee their yuppie nachos. I crave them often. Waiters are always friendly and attentive and they are open late. Veggie burger is also super delicious.
(5)Scott B.
What's better than a romantic candlight dinner? A romantic fireside dinner. In the winter, the ambiance is perfect for first dates and 50th anniversaries alike. The service has been superb each time I've gone... I went on a date there last night, and the bartender actually brought our drinks right over. One vodka tonic and one gin and tonic. They looked exactly the same. As he got to the table he shouted, "OMG." He's probably in his 40's, tall, very masculine looking... and he shouted an online acronym at us. Ha ha... provided great laughter to break the ice. The food is good... not AMAZING... and the prices are reasonable. Christopher's actually has a sister restaurant someplace in Boston... I'll have to check that out too... I hear they have sweet potato fries. If it's as good as Christopher's AND has SPF then we'll be granting a 5 star review.
(4)Daniel S.
This is my go-to restaurant in Cambridge. The food is fresh and reasonably priced. The service is attentive and fun. The drinks are good, with plenty of beer on tap. And the atmosphere is a step up from Cambridge Common. Give it a try.
(5)Rachel M.
Great craft beers and micro-brews (on tap and by the bottle), good food, and happy people... Christopher's is the perfect place to go when you can't decide what you want but you know you want to enjoy it. Buffalo Tofu meets big-beefy-burgers and not so beefy veggie patties at this eclectic joint masquerading as a pub. Pub or not, it's yummy-tastic. Extra tip: Christopher's has a "healthy" Caesar Salad. I am quite certain it is not low fat, but holy cow is it good. And why not eat something you can feel good about (even if the greens are barely visible under the thick blanket of fresh shaved asiago and parmesan)?
(4)Kate F.
VEGGIE BURGER VEGGIE BURGER VEGGIE BURGER Why oh why don't more places make homemade patties? Christopher's makes a spectacular one - sometimes the peas in them can be a little chewy but hey I like that. I have been to Christopher's half a dozen times and I've ordered the veggie burger each and every visit. $8.99 I think, AND they throw in some awesome steak fries and a side salad (homemade Caesar dressing please). Such a good deal! Not to mention the amazing draught options. Other restaurants and grills, take note. Boca/Garden burgers? Blegh. There should be a law against serving frozen convenience foods to vegetarians. Where's the effort? Where's the innovation? I come to a restaurant to have someone cook for me, not to use a microwave. I KNOW how to use a microwave... Christopher's, thank you for respecting my veggie wishes. You rock.
(5)Lia M.
I loved the feel and ambience - the dark wood, the music, but the food just wasn't great. The fries were good, but the chicken sandwich was lacking in flavor. My sis had the black bean burger, which she liked. It was around 1pm on a Friday, and there were a few others inside, but not many. And the service was slow! It took a 1/2 hour for our meals. Our server was friendly, though. I would not come back for food - not worth the hassle of trying to find parking in the 'bridge.
(2)Griffin J.
Dependably good food at VERY reasonable prices. Christopher's is a go-to for my wife and I when I don't have the energy to cook at the end of the day, and we don't want to spend an arm-and-a-leg dining out. You'll never be disappointed by their burgers, but the specials are usually pretty good, too.
(4)Crystal S.
Christopher's Restaurant's secret weapon that keeps me coming back for more = Young's Chocolate Stout Float. Oh yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh The food and atmosphere are pretty good too. There can be long waits on weekend evenings, as happens in most decent places on weekends...
(4)Kristin C.
I've been here a few times, mostly for brunch. Service is OK, can be hit or miss, but the Wait staff is not all to blame, the host/ess must not triple load. The menu has enough variety. Food has been tasty and the portions are plentiful. Side note, I had my first veggie burger here and it was very, very good. If you want to try one, I suggest you order the Christopher's homemade patty platter -- you won't be disappointed.
(3)Anna P.
This is my "big group" place. They can seat parties of 8-12 quite comfortably upstairs, and the waiters are all very friendly and attentive, even to large parties. The food is healthy and has enough variety to please highly picky eaters (there are as many salad choices as burger choices). The beer selection is outstanding, and their mixed drinks are damn tasty. The biggest draw for me is outstanding service. From the hostess stand to the bar to the table, these are really nice people. Once a friend and I were having trouble getting a cab late at night in Porter. We walked into the restaurant and asked if they had the number for a cab company. They called for us, and let us wait inside. It might be a small gesture, but it makes a huge difference.
(5)Kara S.
I could punch myself in the face for not having gone to Christopher's sooner. I have walked by it a million times, but never ventured in until last night, when I was starving after going to the gym. It was so completely not what I expected, from the way it looks on the outside. It has exposed brick and colorful art on the walls, and my friend pointed out the fireplace in the back, which she says makes it a super cozy place for a meal in the winter. Since we had just gone to the gym and were feeling light and healthy, we both opted for salads, sharing the buffalo tofu appetizer. Everything was incredibly tasty, and all the less healthy food I saw around us (pizzas and burgers and appetizers) looked and smelled delectable. One thing I really liked too was that the left side of the restaurant feels like a cozy restaurant, whereas the right side feels like a bustling bar. It's nice to have the option of what kind of mood you want.
(4)Valeria A.
I'm not a "regular" by any means, but Christopher's is one of my favorite places in the area. The food is delicious (and consistent), the menu has a nice variety for a great price, and the staff is really nice and attentive. Although I'm not a vegetarian, some of my favorite dishes there are the veggie burger and the portabella reuben.
(4)Laura M.
I like Christopher's and here's why: the atmosphere is warm and cozy and inviting (I especially like sitting near the fireplace in the back on a cold night). The food is truly really good. They claim to have the best veggie burger in town...and they might be right. As a vegetarian, I really love a good veggie burger and this one is so good, I have a hard time ordering anything else. But, on my last visit, I meandered away from the burger (or 'burgah') section of the menu and ordered a vegetable gnocchi dish off the specials page. It was delicious. I mean, really really good. So good I ate wayyyy to much and didn't have room for dessert. The boyfriend got steak tips and fries. He reported that the steak tips were cooked perfectly and the fries were quite yummy. They were thick cut - more like wedges really. Another reason I like Christopher's: the beer menu. Their taps offering is always changing, and they usually offer a good selection. Usually on the darker side, though, which is my thing, so I don't mind. Service has always been really good when I've gone, even on busy nights. Overall, a good place for a nice casual dinner and a beer.
(4)Julie B.
This is a great place to come during the week. They have plenty of local and unique brews on tap. There's even a sampler that comes with four different types, which I love. The bartenders are nice and attentive and there's plenty of seating at the bar and all around. It does get a little packed around 7/730, but that's a clear sign it's good. While I haven't had a meal here (yet), I have tried the nachos - which by the way come in two sizes! Perfect little sharable plates that solves the whole sogginess issue towards the end. Fantastic! I've been here twice now and I'll be back for sure.
(5)Anna W.
It was good. Not spectacular, but not piss-poor. Somewhere right smack dab in the middle! I went here with a large party of about 18 people. They took a reservation for us and sat us right away. Everything was really efficient -- we got our drinks right away, and were able to order in a respectable amount of time. The menu is pretty extensive -- we had vegetarians and vegans in our group and everyone was able to find something on the menu that suited them. Our food came out pretty quickly and it was good. Nothing to write home to Mom about, but it saved me from the fast-food drive-thru or having to cook for myself! I would definitely go here again to try out more stuff on their menu that caught my eye!
(3)Jane C.
Christopher's is for people who like beer but don't really give a crap about food, and it's too dark in there.
(2)D C.
Christopher's is my favorite restaurant in Boston. I love the exposed brick on the interior and the local art on the walls. The lighting is soft and relaxing. Great atmosphere. The food is very reasonably priced. I love their hamburgers, which taste excellent and start at $6. Make sure to get a table on the main floor. It's just not the same upstairs.
(5)Courtney B.
Ugh. My love hate relationship with this place lives on. Sometimes the food is really good. Sometimes it sucks. Sometimes you get great service, sometimes you don't. Sometimes the hosts are efficient and friendly, other times they chat to eachother and totally ignore you. There is one bartender woman there who is just SO rude consistently and just seems generally pissed off. That's always a downer if she is serving you in any way. I would call this place inconsistent. Moderately good pub food. It's a meh.
(3)Kelsey W.
the sangria here rocks - get the pitcher. its an awesome deal. they have darling outdoor seating, which is worth the wait. the inside is nice too, though i prefer sitting downstairs to upstairs. the vast beer selection is awesome. i love knowing that they use local ingredients whenever possible and reduce consumption where possible, like only giving water to customers that request it. the english burger is delicious, as is the spinach & artichoke dip. and the brownie sundae is an awesome topper to an already-filling meal. a great staple in our neighborhood.
(4)Erica S.
Christopher's was the first restaurant I ever went to when I moved to Somerville from Oregon, and it was a great first impression of what was to come. I was immediately impressed by the beer menu-- there's an extensive regular beer list, as well as a long list of beer specials that change weekly. I recommend the beer sampler as an affordable way to try multiple beers, and still save room for dinner. The food is really, really good, and there is something for everyone. I'm almost embarrassed to say that at this point I've tried almost everything on the menu. Their burgers are awesome, and they have the BEST fries (little crispy potato wedges), their homemade veggie burger is one of the best I've had, the salads and soups are always gourmet quality, and even their Mexican-inspired menu options hit the spot. Oh, and veggies, try the buffalo tofu! Yum. Only at Christopher's can you order a pizza, a stir fry, a burger, or a fajita plate all the in same place. I mean, artichoke chimichangas at a bar? Word. They serve a full menu every day of the week until close (1am Sun-Wed, 2am Thurs-Sat.). It's a great spot to grab some dinner and then head next door for some live music at Toad.
(4)Tim F.
Fun pub. Good pub grub. Outdoor seating in nice weather, and a fireplace inside for cold nights. It's not near the bar sadly, so your ambiance comes in passing.
(5)Mike S.
Worst service I've ever received. For lunch today 30 minutes for someone to take our drink orders, 30 more minutes for food to arrive. Over an hour lunch for 3 burgers. The hostess was clearing tables, seating others, and refilling drinks. The one waitress was working the bar, taking orders, and appeared to be either high or just didn't care one bit. There was some "dude" hanging out in the back stretching, manager? I don't even know, it was that bad. Clearly a management issue. Will never go back.
(1)Lauren L.
Frankly, we live here so I am a little biased. This place is right around the corner and it is such a nice atmosphere and a menu where anyone can find something they like. The veggie burger is amazing. I recommend it with avocado and caramelized onions. They will make you a salad with tofu instead of chicken or tofu fajitas or really anything you ask for. Brunch rocks and the bloody mary kicks butt! If you like beer and burgers or wine and salad you should go here for a relaxing cool night out!
(4)Anne R.
Hoping to grab a quick dinner in Cambridge while trying to find a parking spot- we rolled into Porter Square where we had no problem parking at 6:30 pm on Thrusday evening and then ventured to find a place to eat from there. Talk about prime real estate for Christopher's! It was practically the first thing we saw! Right off of a major intersection with high visibility, plenty of parking and right off the T. No wonder this place has so many reviews! If you can't find it, it's because your leader dog is lying to you about his reading abilities. Once we stepped inside we were greeted by a hostess who took us upstairs before we even had a chance to check the place out. I got the sense that she was fed up with people requesting where they wanted to sit and was determined to put us where she wanted us to sit. I gotta give the girl props for getting down to business. Upstairs was pretty quiet- a regular dining room with carpeted floors, wood accents, and small moveable wooden tables and chairs. There were only two other tables with guests in the room, so there wasn't much competition for the server's attention. We opened the menu to find a fairly standard American menu with plenty of options for different tastes. Within minutes our server was at the table with waters ready to take our drink order. For a starter, I couldn't decide between starting with the Spinach Artichoke Dip or the Veggie Chili Nachos and the server suggested that if I wanted the appetizer to come out sooner rather than later, the Veggie Chili Nachos would be the quicker choice, as the Spin Art dip was going to take about 20 minutes. 20 minutes for dip? Are they milking the cows and cutting the greens from the garden!?! Obviously I couldn't wait that long so I went with the veggie chili nachos. Bonus points to the server for mentioning the wait time and now my curiosity is piqued to go back and try this Spin Art dip that takes so long to prepare. After a few sips of my lemonade, I notice this isn't just any lemonade that gets pumped out of a soda gun, it's like fresh lemonade, with maybe even a touch of grapefruit or lime in it? Whatever it was, it was some of the best damn lemonade I've had from a restaurant in a long time! The veggie chili nachos were great. Don't let the name scare you- you won't be scarfing down tofu, just hearty vegetables in a rich chili sauce over homemade chips. The chips were a little too done for my tastes, but it didn't stop me from devouring them to get every last bit of the tasty chili off the plate. When the burger section of the menu is labeled "Burgahs"- you know they aren't messin' around. (Of course, this only makes sense if you know the deep Boston accent.) The homemade veggie burger was highlighted on the menu as one of the best veggie burgers in Boston, so I decided to give it a try... to which my husband asked, "what's up with ordering vegetarian today?" Can't a girl order something that's vegetarian friendly without actually BEING a vegetarian?! *GOSH!* Our food arrived pretty quickly and after a few bites of my veggie burger, I kinda wish I hadn't trusted those reviewers. I was expecting a veggie burgers that had the same juicy texture as a regular burger, just made with something other than meat... ala Bocca burgers. What I got was a squashed ball of veggies and beans with no distinct flavor other than the pesto and roasted red pepper on top. The patty itself kept falling apart and into my lap, making me feel like a three year old who can't keep a burger together, and the large french roll bun just added to the dry texture and lack of overall flavor. I determined that no amount of ketchup was going to make up for the overall texture and lack of taste. I looked over at my husband's Roquefort Burger which he was devouring like it was his last meal and kept my jealousy to myself to avoid the mocking I would have suffered for my vegetarian choice in "Burgah". Perhaps a true vegetarian would have appreciated the culinary mastery of the items that were combined into this veggie filled patty, but Anne-the-Omnivore craved something more, well.. meat-like. Shame on me. Overall, this is a great place. Its large menu, full bar, and proximity to shopping and transportation make it a great destination for an afternoon lunch or evening out. I wouldn't mind going back... and I really want to know what they put in the lemonade!
(4)Michael L.
Great place to go for some food and a couple of beers. Their food is very good, relatively healthy, and moderately priced. Their beer list is great. Not the most lively of scenes if you are looking for a crazy night, but if you want to sit down with friends you can't lose.
(4)ana l.
Co-workers raved about the buffalo tofu and they were right in doing so. They were delicious! Fall means pumpkins to me..so I went for one of their special's: Pumpkin Ravioli. It was sweet and fulfilling. My sister went for the andouille burger, but substituted the red peppers and asiago cheese for mushrooms and pepperjack-she said the burger was "OK" but I think she defeated the purpose by changing up their burger. Our friend went for the veggie burger. The burgers were HUGE and came with a side of very tasty fries (of which I ate half my sister's). Our waitress was very friendly and attentive. Space is a little tight, but we got there around 6:30 (on a Friday night) and didn't have to wait for a table.
(4)Jennifer A.
This place is seriously amazing. Great bar food at an affordable price which, as we all know, is rare to find. This place is also super veggie friendly, with more then just a choice of a burger or a salad. The nachoes are killer. The beer is cold. And te mixed drinks actually contain alcohol. There is an outdoor patio as well for those warm nights; just be ware of Cambridge drinking laws. You have to order food.
(5)Julia W.
I've got to say, I was pretty surprised to read many of the reviews of Christopher's. This place has been my favorite for years. I moved away for 3 years, and I couldn't get their nachos off my mind. I think the simple explanation for why so many people have mediocre reviews to this place is that they don't know when to go. Don't go on a weekend night. It is too crowded and does not allow you to enjoy the relaxing time that Christopher's should be. Reasons I like this place: 1. The atmosphere. Who doesn't love dark wood and a fireplace? Cozy but not tight. Upstairs not as great-- that is one reason to avoid the weekend night. 2. Decent pricing. Not too expensive, good food. Not as cheap as it's sister Cambridge Common, but much better nachos. (See #3). 3. The nachos. My favorite is the assorted. A small is a perfect size for a starter. Anything bigger and you are in meal territory. You need to ask for a side of sour cream. (can't remember if they come with gauc.) 4. Beer. I love it; they got it. Good ones, too. Not as good a selection as Cambridge Common, but not as loud either. 5. The veggie burger/veggie options. As a lifer-veg, I must say this is one of my favorite "vegetarian" restaurants. I like it because they have excellent vegetarian food (and choices! and not just one or two!) but also good (so I'm told) meat choices. Two veggie burgers- one fancy with fries and a salad, one cheaper (but good) with fries. 6. Daily specials. I almost always get a special. Their butternut squash soup with walnuts and cranberry sauce rocks. Their pesto veggie burger is also a hit. 7. Service. I see your complaints below, but I've always had good experiences (again, I credit the non-busy nights). Overall, I recommend Christopher's for a beer, for a nice dinner out with a loved one, a date, a place to bring relatives. There is little I wouldn't recommend it for.
(4)D H.
I'm so mad I could spit. My family and I have been coming to Christopher's for dinner for years, and we love the food, it's a great place, etc. But today Christopher's really screwed us, and that is just not right. Not too long ago, we noticed that Christopher's was now open for lunch, so my husband and I went there for lunch, thinking we could get a quick burger and have time to get back to work. The place was practically empty, so we were quickly seated, each ordered a burger, got some water and chatted for a while. The waitress brought over a bottle of ketchup and some mustard, and we waited some more. There were two other parties in the place, and we watched them get their food, eat it, and pay. We got hungrier and hungrier, and more and more worried, as our precious lunch break ticked away, with no sign of our burgers. Finally, after 40 minutes of staring down the increasingly nervous wait staff, who were continually wandering in and out of the bar and the kitchen but scrupulously avoiding our table, I called one of them over and asked if our food was coming out any time soon. She went and chatted with our original waitress; the two of them went behind the bar, where we couldn't see them. I looked at my watch for the fiftieth time; 1:15pm, and just about out of time. Finally our original waitress emerged from behind the bar and admitted that she had punched in our order, but didn't press "Send" on her order machine thingy. Our food was not coming out, really sorry. Would that be a problem for us? ??? Yes, it is a problem. Having no lunch after a 40 minute wait, with nothing but water - not even a goddam roll!?! - IS A PROBLEM. We had no choice but to leave, hungry and empty-handed. My husband ran to work on an empty stomach, while I went to the grocery store for some fig newtons, and returned to my work. What I don't get is, our waitress was in and out of the kitchen throughout the entire 40 minutes that we waited. There were only two other parties in the restaurant, and they had already gotten their food. How could she have failed to notice that the cook wasn't making our burgers? Christopher's, your food may be good, but you really let us down today, and that's no way to treat your customers. They handle dinner just fine, but the lunch wait staff are incompetent, and ruined what should have been a really nice, easy lunch. Worst was the failure to even attempt to make amends. Now I understand why the place was virtually empty. Either do lunch right - with proper wait staff - or don't.
(1)Kristen F.
I've been for dinner and most recently, Sunday brunch. Dinner was decent, brunch was amazing. Had the belgian waffle with raspberry sauce and whipped cream. Yum! Didn't have time for a morning cocktail but there Bloody Mary sounds delightful. I'll be back.
(4)Chris W.
They do great burgers and their fries are awesome, like crispy crunchy outside into mashpotato magic on the inside. They don't do such a great brunch
(4)Shelter T.
Christopher's is a favorite restaurant of a co-worker, and i decided to try for myself. I have to say that it was "all-that" and more. The service was great, the atmosphere was a little more audible than i would have liked, and the prices were good. My main selling point with Christopher's is the burgers...you gotta have the burgers. Whether its veggie or beef, the burgers are very well done, and they have a great taste to them. I was surprised that for a place such as this that one of the best things on the menu was their burgers. I had a great time, and the location in Porter Square is very accessible. Didnt do the beer, but i saw that there was a lot of people that were happy about the selection. Definitely a new spot for me.
(4)Kate S.
Tastes kind of like a chain restaurant. The food is fine, the wait staff boring. Good location though!!!
(3)Molly N.
I came here again, a year later, now as a legal drinker, with the purpose of having a little to eat and plenty of good beer to go around. I was disappointed to learn that they don't do pitchers, but I found their prices fairly reasonable considering how incredible the selection is. I recommend the Bad Apple! This is a great place to get beer and the food isn't bad at all :) I like the homey feeling. Also, our server was fantastic, helping us decide what to eat and drink. She really knew her stuff.
(4)Kim L.
They had me at the Lime-Ricky! Christopher's has a nice selection of fun drinks. I chose the Lime-Ricky, a delightful concoction of raspberry vodka, chambord, sprite and some limey stuff - and it came in a pint glass. Horray for big CHEAP drinks! They have nice vegan and veggie choices. Like the Buffalo to-fu. Me, a meat-eating wing fanatic actually enjoyed these too. I had the turkey club, and my friend had the homemade black bean burger. We both had leftovers. It was pretty crowded, so service was pretty slow. But it was still a good atmosphere with surprisingly decent prices.
(4)Amy C.
I'll start w/ the good -- Christopher's had a GREAT atmosphere, and a number of delicious beers on tap. Cocktail menu was also extensive, and many drinks sounded delish. The fries ...potato wedges...were also quite good! The bad -- The food was sub par. The crustini appetizer was kind of eh. The dipping sauce was good, but whatever was slathered all over it (resembled cream cheese), had NO taste. I had the turkey club, and it came on onion & scallion bread. Now, I usually prefer wheat, but this bread sounded SO GOOD, I had to try it. Again, it had NO taste. The turkey seemed just semi-fresh. It was in no way bad...just sub-par. My friend had the ravioli special of the day. The portion size was small, I thought, but he enjoyed it. I didn't taste it so I have no clue, but the sauce did look yummy. Prices were good for burgers/sandwiches...but the entrees were a bit pricey for what they were, I thought. Our waiter seemed kind of spacey..he was very unmemorable, in general, but service was good. Overall, I might give this place another try..but doubtful b/c I don't live near it.
(2)KitKat J.
I have yet to have a bad meal there. I love love love this place. They have great appetizers and dinners. I love going here after work for some great Sangria. Very conveniently located right across from the red line Porter!
(5)Raj B.
Don't let the vegetarian tags on Yelp fool you. Christopher's was sub-par at best when we had brunch there recently. Nothing exciting. Not even well-done boring fare. Nothing to see here. Keep moving folks. Two stars because because they were nice.
(2)Mariko W.
I first fell in love with a steak salad here. Their steak has great flavor and melds nicely with the blue cheese... *drool* To be fair, I also was really really hungry and anything could have been served to me and I would have thought it was all amazing. But, I have enjoyed the salad on subsequent occasions as well, so I think it was more than me just being hungry. Their burgers are pretty decent, and I've had a really really good plate of gnocci here (it was a special), that I really enjoyed. And they have good beer. Overall, a fan.
(4)Jessica P.
I really enjoyed my meal here. I am a vegetarian, and I went with my non-vegetarian boyfriend. We went for dinner on a Saturday night, and both loved it. The food was excellent- I got the tofu fajitas, a very large portion...couldn't finish it. He got the stuffed turkey burger. The atmosphere was fun, pretty lively. We got there around 7 and got a table right away, but when we left it was packed, so if you want dinner I wouldn't wait until much later than 7 on a weekend. Beer was good too. Overall, a nice local pub, with some vegetarian and environmentally friendly options, reasonable prices, and great location across from the Porter Square T.
(5)Amy O.
This is a great place to go when you have no idea what you want. They have Italian, Mexican and traditional American fare. Their salads are good too. The location couldn't be better (right across the street from Porter Square T station) if you are a lazy broad like me and the weather is hazy, hot and humid and you want to take your Mom somewhere that's easy to get to and not too pricey. Not my fave by a long shot, but it doesn't suck either. Also, their waiters are always very pleasant and the place is full-staffed.
(3)Katy D.
I've been here a few times, and it hasn't disappointed, The Yuppie Nachos are AMAZING- some of the best nachos I've ever had. I also tried the Portabella Reuben...wasn't the most amazing sandwich I've ever had, but I enjoyed it and it came with thick delicious fries. There were a lot of other delicious-looking vegetarian options that I'm looking forward to trying. I've been here with a group of people for drinks at night, and also for a dinner with my boyfriend and his parents. The atmosphere was perfect for both occasions.
(4)Hope R.
Two years before I moved in, my friends in Boston took me for a beer at Christopher's. Convenient location, right across from Porter Square Shopping Mall, and nice chill atmosphere. Gets really crowded on Friday and Saturday nights, but was perfect for a weekday lunch, which I went there for today. I highly recommend the quesadilla (thick, spicy, substantial) as well as the house salad (only $3.99 for a pretty full plate). Waitress was funny and nice.
(4)Socal C.
This place deserves 3 stars for food and 4 stars for beer. Service is closer to a 3 than a 4. The waiters who walk around the dining room are a bit pushy about customers getting another drink but they are polite. Of course, we want attentive service, but a good pub/restaurant allows customers to relax, sip their beverages and chat--at least for a bit. I avoid the dining room and sit at the bar where it's better for me. I've only had the burgers--they're decent fare and well-priced. The best part at Christophers: the choices in tap beer. Outstanding and well poured. You can "up" a pint from 16 oz. to 22 oz. I like that. All in all, I recommend it---oh, it's far superior to Tavern on The Square---go to Christopher's instead--that's an easy decision.
(3)JeNnIfEr S.
I definitely am a fan of Christopher's Restaurant. I find the food to be really good, and the prices are reasonable. I also like the atmoshpere, especially if you get to sit next to the fireplace in the winter. However, I give Christophers 4 out of 5 stars because the service is consistently slow! Do not come here unless you have some time to spare. Overall it is a great find. I love the blackened chicken sandwich!
(4)Matt H.
I'm not a Boston native, and this was the first meal I had had since setting out for Boston from Maryland the previous night. So please read this review taking into account the fact that I was cold, tired, and VERY hungry. We were greeted and promptly shown to a table right near a lovely gas fireplace. The restaurant was busy, but not uncomfortably so, just enough to give it atmosphere. The decor was very warm and cozy, lots of wood used throughout the restaurant. So altogether the atmosphere was a nice pick-me-up from the cold, wet New England winter weather outside. It did have a sort of predictable look to it though. As in, there was not much going on decor-wise that I haven't seen in dozens of other restaurants in my life. Not a bad thing, but nothing amazing either. Our waitress took an inordinate amount of time getting to our table. In fact, I had to ask a passing waitress who our server was, and where they were? The passing waitress was very helpful though. She took our drink orders and went and fetched our own waitress. A word on their drink selection. AWESOME! Maybe this is a New England thing, or maybe just a Boston thing, but this place had a fantastic beer selection. I was very impressed. They had at least a dozen or so beers on tap and they were almost all very high quality brews. So big thumbs up there. Our waitress was knowledgeable about the menu, she made several good recommendations. And she was quite friendly. My girlfriend ordered the Chicken Picata, and I ordered the Chicken and Broccoli Penne. The food was out within about 15 minutes. My meal was quite good. The pasta was well cooked, the chicken wasn't overcooked, and the dish was well seasoned. There could have been more fresh basil in the dish and the sauce was a bit thick for a "light cream sauce" but on the whole I'd say it was good. My girlfriends meal was also very good. The the standout of the meal though, in my opinion, were the potatoes that came with it. "Christopher's Potatoes" as they were called. DELICIOUS! The were like a cross between hash browns and mashed potatoes, all with lovely cheese! The chicken was nice, I think they might have been a bit heavy handed on the citrus (the menu says they use lime instead of the traditional lemon, it was a nice deviation from the ordinary). The chicken was nice and thinly breaded, not caked in a thick greasy coat of flour as you would usually find in places that don't know Italian food. Again, I think the fresh herbs described on the menu were very sparse. But other than that, the dish was quite good. As for the price, at first it struck me as a bit on the pricey side, considering that the menu seemed at first-glance, pretty standard fare. Upon closer examination, though, I found that there were a lot of interesting things (the Buffalo Tofu seems intriguing, and they do seem to have a reputation for awesome burgers), that I had missed the first time round. And they seem to be fairly committed to using all natural meat too. So, on the whole, I think the pricing was fair. All in all, this place was very good. I think they make efforts distinguish themselves amongst the sea of family restaurants in a way that is subtle enough to not scare off dad, mom, and their two kids, but interesting enough to give a couple out on a date some cool choices as well. I do think that they could've gone the extra mile and put some more effort into the presentation though. Big thumbs up on the beer selection. So all in all I would give this place a solid four stars. Again, it's an all around safe bet, for someone looking for a place to have a good meal in a nice atmosphere.
(4)Matt S.
parmesan crusted haddock!
(5)Michelle A.
i'm bummed that others who have reviewed christopher's have not always had the best service or food - but in my experience christopher's is perfect for brunch, drinks, outdoor summer dining, and cozy comfort food in the winter...it's an all around great spot in cambridge. the burgers really are the thing to get here, but their omlettes at breakfast are great, too...they offer rotating omlettes of the day and they are always creative with the ingredients. the beer selection is the one thing I'm not the hugest fan of - I like a lot of selection which they offer, but it's a lot of rotation and there's not a ton of new england stand-bys always on tap. i recommend this place especially for a weekend or nice day - the vibe is great and they have a decent amount of outdoor seating.
(4)Theodore B.
not bad considering their price points noisy, cramped space and very casual. its kinda like a bar as they have a few good flat screens, but they are certainly bias to boston sports i come to find that bostonians really love their teams, unlike some houstonians *uuhhmmph* we started with the calamari. over battered and the sauce was just marinara I had the sirloin, med rare, with champagne or wine wine mushrooms. Their potato square side was really good mo had a boring salmon [under seasoned] with mix veggies and the same potato dish overall ...underrated for valentines go beer. the best thing was their beer sampler
(3)Graham C.
I don't quite know why people are so down on this place. It has one of the better beer lists in Porter Square. I think Cambridge Common, owned by the same people, has a better list. My favorites here would be the steak tips. I had the English burger tonight, which I usually like, but tonight had the most giant mutant English Muffin I've ever seen. But for Porter, the food is fine. Sure it attracts a lot of yuppie couples. But c'mon, this is Cambridge. Throw a rock and hit a Banana Republic sweater. Solid choice....and Toad has some awesome music.
(4)D H.
I always order the burger. A fantastic burger. (Especially the ale-marianted "English Burger"). And a great beer list. It's not a large list, but they certainly know how to pick them. The buffalo wings are pretty good too. But the service has dragged it down too many times. Seated and ignored some times, drink orders taken and forgotten until appetizers sometimes, having to retrieve ketchup from the bar because the waitress forgot after two requests (or is chatting with another waitress near the bar constantly), and then listening to this waitress blab on for 10 minutes about the menu items she likes (customer's really don't care. Really.) in an attempt to be friendly to save her tip. One time they wouldn't seat a friend, myself, and my wife on an off-night unless we promised to order dinner - I say "they" but I mean a 5"4 or so waitress with shoulder-length straight black hair. Trust me, we would've run up a much larger tab on beer alone without ordering, but we left because this pissed us off. Long waits Fri&Sat -- attesting to burgers' and beer's redeeming qualities. Update: Having eaten here many times since writing the review, I've upped it to four stars because the service problems ceased and did not return.
(4)Tricia W.
Christopher's is my stand-by, go-to place in the area. I've not had a bad meal here. They are, above all, consistent. The menu has a nice variety, the atmosphere is casual and comfortable, and the wait staff are friendly. Bonus features include the selection of beers on tap, the fireplace, and display of local artist's work on the walls. I've had many great meals here- grilled chicken, some amazing pumpkin ravioli, and a chicken ziti dish for dinner, as well as a yummy brunch (a delicious omelette) on New Year's day. All in all, I'd say it's worth checking out.
(4)Maria Z.
Very reasonably priced, good quality food. The atmosphere is comfortable and our waitress was very quick and pleasant. If you're in the area, then I would recommend Christopher's for predictably good pub food.
(4)Boogie S.
When I first moved to Somerville, I ended up going here a lot because I didn't really know any better. My food was always meh. Burgers, salads, anything. It's always busy, so I must be missing something. The staff are attractive but inattentive. It feels like Uno's, but without the consistency of a chain restaurant. If you're in Porter, there are 20 other superior restaurants on the block, and the T is right there! I'd go somewhere else.
(3)C P.
This could have potentially been a disastrous brunch experience, however the customer service made up for it and then some. Half an hour after placing our orders, our server approached us apologizing for the "back up" in the kitchen and gave us drinks on the house. Great, thanks! That's proper customer service. Our brunch was delicious. I got the blueberry challah french toast (wow, wow, wow) and my friend got the deviled eggs (delicious). Unfortunately, there was a significant piece of shell on one of the eggs. The waitress had offered to bring her a new meal, my friend refused as she had already worked her way around the shell. Within minutes the manager came out, genuinely apologized and generously offered to comp our entire bill. NOW THAT IS CUSTOMER SERVICE! I would go back in a heart beat as they made me feel like a valued customer
(4)Terri T.
We found parking here relatively easy which was surprising for a Saturday night in Cambridge around 7:30. Our server was very efficient and pleasant. A friend and I ordered some red sangria and it was very good. We ordered fried calamari for an appetizer. It came with fried onions and jalapenos which was different and delicious. I ordered the tofu stir fry for my entree. The brown rice that came with it was cooked perfectly. Lots of fresh veggies. Ordered chocolate raspberry cake to go for dessert since I was stuffed. Ate it at friends house and it was yummy. Very nice dining experience.
(4)Andrew R.
Used to be one of my favorite local places. Good beers and food, with the specials sometimes being great. The drink specials sound interesting, but have always been too sweet or off for my tastes, so I stopped trying. If I were only reviewing the downstairs, I'd be giving Christopher's 4 or even 5 stars. My last three visits however have been upstairs (partly because of going with larger groups) and that's what this review reflects. I've decided it's only worth going if downstairs seating is available. The ambiance is downright depressing upstairs: no bar, no artwork, no fireplace. It's just packed seating, coat racks and shelves storing the baby booster seats. The service is much worse upstairs, slower and you have to ask to get the full beer menu. Even then you can't keep it. The beer specials are printed on plain (legal sized) paper, but the server explained they don't print enough. An odd business choice for a bar with an impressive selection of rotating taps. To summarize, I would only go to Christopher's with small groups (4 at most) to increase the odds of getting seated downstairs.
(2)Nicole E.
I had been here before and thought I would give it a shot again. The space was pretty cramped in the dining area but we were comfortable against the back wall. Plus there was some great eye candy in my line of vision to get me going. Our waitress seemed a bit inexperienced but was very polite and always did what we asked of her. When the appetizers arrived, no plates were brought to eat said app from. We grabbed the hostess who politely brought them. The cocktails were mediocre at best and the Calamari was lacking. But the saving grace was the entrees. I had the ravoli special of the evening and my friend had some sort of mushroom dish. Both were filling and delicious. We left, ready for a fun evening. Would I go back? Probably but I'll stick with beer next time.
(3)Crystal S.
I've been here several times and have never had a bad experience. The fresh haddock sandwich is my favorite, the breading is just crispy enough and not greasy. Portion sizes are ample. And I always have to order water at restaurants so I don't know why it's a big thing that they have signs on the table telling you to do so. As a recovering vegetarian, I also like that they have several tasty veggie options because I remember those days of having nothing to choose from but salad.
(4)Cierra C.
I came on a freezing desperate Friday night in a low blood sugar frenzy on which I could not be picky. I had had bad experiences here so I figured I would be safe and order the veggie burger which the menu claims is "Best of Boston". Blegh. Never again. I think parts of it were still frozen and the bun was stale, soggy fries. Pretty hard to screw up a veggie burger if you ask me. It is strange to me that Cambridge Common, which is owned by the same folk is cheaper and yummier by far. (Although I have heard from multiple sources they treat their employees like absolute crap) The one thing Christopher's has going for it is a mellow 30- something bar scene which can be hard to find in this increasingly collegey college town.
(2)S W.
Back in the day, when I was a single gal, Christopher's was a go-to place for first dates-- Not because it is romantic or even tasty-- just because they have a menu that can accommodate most palates and dietary restrictions. But that aside, food ranges from mediocre to totally sh*tty. From sub par caesar salads (with chemical tasting dressings) to overcooked, underseasoned meats of all varieties, Christophers, like dating(sometimes), can be an exercise in lowering your standards. That said, I have had worse, but that is as close to a compliment as I can give it.
(2)nicole p.
Christophers is a great stand-by, a dear old friend you can depend on. Food is generally pretty good, they have rotating specials which are always fun to try and an ever changing and large beer list, plus fun yummy drinks. Yuppie nachos, buffalo tofu, mediteranean plate, all good. Great salads, good burgers, decent tex mex. I had salmon with mango salsa here recently that rocked. Christophers is open late, you can always find parking in the porter lot, and yes, it is next to toad so you can catch some free live music nearby too. There is a huge menu, so always something for everyone and a good place to go when you can't decide what the hell to eat with a group of people. I've never had a bad experience here. Plus, they have KICK ASS brunch with really good eggs benedict and their potatoes are so yummy, plus you can get smashed on espresso martinis that are perfectly justifiable as a vehicle for caffiene that just happens to contain lots and lots of booze too. what's wrong with multi-tasking?
(3)Natasha A.
I still love the food (you can not beat their burgers and the beer selection is great) but have to take them down a star for the deterioration in service. On a recent evening, they would not sit us down because we wanted to just share a few apps. The hostess that night said we each had to get a meal..never mind the fact that we would order more in alcohol than a typical diner. Next time, the waitress was a complete airhead. It was 3 pm, not at all busy. She could not remember to bring us anything..our beer was late, the ketchup was ignored until we had to ask the bartender. Then in the end she decided to be all chatty, as if that would make up for it. Now that we finally have everything we ordered after asking about 10 times, please don't bother us with your banter. Like I said before, I will come back because of the beer and the food, and the fact that it is around the corner, but I sure hope they work on their service, which used to match the quality of the food back in the day.
(4)Whitney W.
If you want a reliable cornucopia of drinks to choose from, like a whole lot of beer, a wonderfully consistent sangria, and exciting hard liquor, then Christopher's is for you. Foodwise, though, I would recommend sticking to two sections of the menu: the burgers and the Mexican-oriented food items. Once you get into other things, it is sort of hit or miss, which is a shame, because I wanted so badly to like their seafood risotto. The other benefits of the burgers (which are veggie and not) and the enchiladas are that they are way affordable in addition to being great on a regular basis.
(4)Amanda L.
After busting my ass at the YWC, we decided to NOT eat at the Porter Exchange, but to go down the street to Christopher's. Nate had mentioned that they were pretty good so we headed on over. We waited less than 10 minutes for them to scrounge up a table for us. The hostess looked a little freaked out that 3 parties walked in at the same time. Amateur. So we sat upstairs, it was pretty nice inside, half pub half restaurant feel. Our waiter was nice enough, but he was nervous. Don't know if he was a newbie as well..... The brunch menu was still going on, which made some of our party members grumble. Anyway, we ordered drinks and food at the same time. So, the boys drinks came, but not me and Jess. Fine, he only has two hands after all. Then....the food came out, and me and Jess still did not have our drinks (she a tropical smoothie, me an iced coffee with Kahlua and Godiva Chocolate liqueur). He mentioned something about the smoothie being frozen? And they were defrosting it. Nothing about my drink, until Jess mentioned it. "Oh, I'll get it right now!" Clearly he had forgotten my drink....but whatever, I was in a good mood. So, 10 MORE minutes go by, and I don't eat slow by the way....so I'm trying not to finish my Huevos Rancheros. He comes back, I'm giving him the Evil Eye, and he tells me the manager is going to come with my drink.....OK. 5 more minutes. WTF?! So finally, my drink comes, and it barely tastes like it has any liqueur, never mind 3 different kinds. It's tasty and everything, but seriously..... He gets points for taking that shit off the check. Otherwise, I would have raised hell. He should have taken Jess' drink off as well, since she waited almost until the end of the meal as well, but Jess is nice like that =) Anyway, the meal was pretty tasty other than that. I'd probably come back if I'm in the area, especially since I want to try one of their yummy burgers. 3.5 stars.
(4)john e.
this place had a very good ale list and in greast condition. The food was served as if prepared bya gourmet chef. Very impressive.
(4)Dave C.
Christophers has the best veggie burger I have ever had. Their buffalo tenders are also in my top 5 best in New England.
(5)Molly C.
HORRIBLE service with snotty, spoiled trust-fund baby servers who must be destined for bigger things but in all reality ladies, chill, you are just servers - no need to share your crap attitude or indignation at this cruel world. . I don't know Miss High-n-Mighty's real name but she took FOREVER in serving the food and check. Both the hostess and the server gave us attitude when asking for a booth and for change. The yuppie eatery food itself - sub-par. Buffalo tofu was probably yummy if it wasn't WAY too spicy, but we couldn't get a server to give us much needed water! We didn't leave a tip - first time in my life. Sad to say, this place was awful. Please feel free to visit if you want bad treatment and overpriced food.
(1)Jessica C.
I have to be honest, I wasn't sure if I should give Christopher's 3 stars or 4 stars. The beer menu is always great, they have a nice selection of micro brews, plus a good selection of other beers. Although it is a beer bar, their cocktails are always strong, tasty and well priced. They always have an interesting drink special and their taps change frequently which means you're getting something fresh. So the bar certainly deserves a four. The food, stick to the burgers even the veggie burgers (which are homemade) are excellent. The fries are hand cut (worth every calorie) and most meals come with a small salad. I've had a few soups and tex-mex items that weren't very good. The rice was undercooked and the enchiladas were soggy. Perhaps I was in the wrong ordering tex-mex at a pub. Overall, you can't go wrong with a burger and a tall cool beer.
(4)Greg D.
Great burgers and terrific beer selection.
(4)Selene K.
I went with friends on a Friday night for drinks and appetizers. I loved the nachos, some of the best I've had in years! The service was great, we ate upstairs and were seated right away. I would go back again.
(4)soxygal E.
I am a regular here - you can often find me at the bar reading a book and savouring the Christophers' Veggie burger and having a few beers. Friendly staff, GREAT beer, great, standard comfort food that's good for various diets (vegans, weight watchers, glucose, etc.) - they are very accommadating - I eat meat but happen to just love the veggie burger (the special one). They also have great appetizers and salads. I'd recommend sticking to the basic bar food - salad, burgers, apps, beer - and staying away from the more creative selections. But for bar food - and a friendly atmosphere - you won't go wrong. Also a great first date place!
(4)Natalia B.
Like everyone said, this is a good place to go when you can't think of what you want, but I'm indecisive, so for me, that's an awesome thing. Their homemade veggie burger is absolutely delicious, and my favorite thing to get. The weekly burger specials are interesting and usually very tasty. I like the stuffed turkey burger with chipotle bbq sauce. The best thing about this place is their beer selection. They have a constantly rotating selection of good craft beer, and they have a ton of stuff on tap. Plus, the prices are low, and the service is quick and friendly, so what's not to like?
(4)Nicole W.
I love this place for many reasons. It is super convenient for me to get there from my house. The menu has a pretty wide variety of options for a pub style restaurant. They often change up the menu, so you can usually try something new each time. They have an extensive list of great beers on tap. They even do brunch on the weekends. I've only ever had one bad meal here, and the staff was very nice in accommodating me by bringing me a new meal at no extra cost.
(5)Jonathan S.
Christopher's is where you go when you can't come up with a better idea. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Sometimes it's comforting to hit up the place that is more familiar than exciting. The menu has something for everyone (carnivores and vegetarians alike), and the burgers (at around $6) are delicious. The beer selection is great and changes weekly; I've had a few beers here I've never seen anywhere else. Service is good (the weeknight bartender is the man) and decor is very warm and inviting, especially when the weather turns cold. I'd give it 4 stars, but I've had sketchy cleanliness experiences more than twice. I won't go into details, but let's say... bad enough that I didn't eat there for a while, but not bad enough that I never went back. Christopher's is the Camry of Porter Square. It's reliable, responsible, and predictable. Kind of boring, too.
(3)Stephen K.
I came here yesterday and had a huge bowl of homemade chowder for only $4. They also have a great selection of draughts, including several from the CBC and others such as Victory and Southern Tier. We also had the calamari and nachos, both were good.
(4)Ryan C.
I ate here the other night with a group of eight. We made reservations late, but were still able to have a table reserved. I ordered the steak tips with garlic butter sauce, potato cake, and haricot verts. The steak tips were amazing (very tender, and the sauce was a great accompaniment) but the potatoes had absolutely no seasoning of any kind and the grean beans were cold and under-cooked. Even though my entree was a bit disappointing, the remaining seven at the table (most of whom were vegetarians) were very satisfied with the abundance of options and the food in general. The place has a nice atmosphere, the prices are reasonable, and the service is ok. Overall worth a trip.
(4)shannon r.
Christopher's is a solid option for a nice meal in porter square. The best word I can use to describe it is "comfortable." The cozy booths, the fireplace, the extensive menu of familiar favorites (burgers, steak tips, tex mex). There's something here for everyone, though the upstairs dining area leaves alot to be desired and is not as cozy as downstairs. The bf and I came here recently on a Saturday night at 6:55. The waiting area was empty and we only had very short wait. By the time our table was ready 5 minutes later, the waiting area had completely filled up and the line to put names on the list was out the door. It seems like getting here slightly before the 7pm rush makes a world of difference. My faves: buffalo tofu (weird but good), the turkey burger special, and steak tips. Some dishes are better than others but I've never had a dud.
(4)Dave M.
Tasty food, good atmosphere. There's usually a pretty decent wait around dinner time on the weekend's. Basically, a big step up from your standard bar fair, while still serving things of the same ilk. Great place to start a night out in Cambridge/Somerville.
(4)Kate S.
Always a good meal for the money. Go for the salmon and white sangria. Skip the french fries.
(4)Leigh S.
This place is so balanced. It's part pub--full of exposed bricks, an expansive bar and that local-charm feel--and it's part swanky eatery--GREAT veggie options, inventive menu trappings and knowledgeable staff. The 2 times I've been here, I've loved it. The vibe is hip enough to be a great meeting spot for all you twenty-somethings looking for a regular place to hang, without feeling like Cheers. It's also low-key and comfortable enough to have out-of-towners meet up there for a birthday dinner, with children in tow! I commend the staff on being so genial and patient with questions and requests. Their beer menu is fantastic. Try their veggie burgers--even if you're an omnivore!! All of this stuff--it makes Christopher's a real gem.
(4)Ben K.
My friends and I had long been regular at the Cambridge Common before coming to Christopher's, so it's inevitable that any judgment we make will be couched in a "Well, it's like Cambridge Common, but..." mentality. I think every time I've been there, someone has ordered the "blackjack, or whatever it is you call it here" burger. And there's certainly overlap here. The establishments share ownership and play to similar crowds. In my head Christopher's skews slightly more upscale, but they both hit the same price point. Both have excellent beer menus (varied enough to give everyone something to like, short enough to actually get you to order). Both have stellar burgers, although I think I have to give the by-a-nose victory to Christopher's there. Christopher's also wins for still having deli spears, not bread-and-butter slices. Blech. Despite hewing close together, I take Christopher's over the Common any day of the week (although we often argue between the two, and I never complain about going to either.) The bar is nicer for sitting with a cocktail, the patio is nicer for sitting through a meal on a hot day, and it's never quite as hectic-crowded as the Common always seems to be. Porter Square gets some shit for not really having anything going on, which is at least somewhat deserved, but Christopher's is a reason to come to Porter.
(4)Alyssa B.
I've been here twice and so far I love it. The location is perfect - I can walk to and from, though it's also right next to the Porter T if you don't live right there. I ordered the veggie burger both times and it's one of the few places that have quality hand-made ones. So good! I also love that it is served with salad. There are specials that actually look yummy and the staff is super friendly and doesn't bother you too much throughout the meal. The sweet potato soup was amazing! As were the sweet potato fries.... anything sweet potato! They also have really cool paintings hanging up that are also for sale.
(4)Jessi L.
Let me preface this review by saying that I love where I live. Cambridge has everything a young professional could possibly want: a wide-variety of delicious restaurants, easily accessible to public transportation and friendly to those without vehicles, great places to jog, etc., etc. However, the people in Cambridge can be AWFUL. Which is why I love Christopher's. Christopher's is just a good neighborhood restaurant that has great beers on tap, a solid menu, and is not over-ridden with hipster douches. It's one of those places you can roll into, be able to find a seat at the bar, and be able to share a delightful meal and brewski with your friends.
(4)Sara S.
Everyone raves about the veggie burgers and yuppy nachos, so Brett M. and I came here and tried both. Yuppy Nachos- seriously? They were pathetic and a terrible excuse for a nacho. The sun-dried tomatoes were flavorless, and the only evidence of goat cheese was a massive blog smack in the middle of the chip plate. At least spread the cheese out! We asked for the guacamole on the side, and were served a TINY portion. The salsa was good, but not homemade. I got the Chuck's veggie burger patty, but added my own toppings rather than going with the roasted red peppers and pesto which are listed on the menu. The chuck patty is oatey and has lots of veggies in it, whereas the traditional veggie patty is more like a Morningstar burger (boring). So, I'd recommend getting the Chuck's patty and picking and choosing whatever toppings you'd like on it. The salad served with the veggie burger was really pathetic. Romaine lettuce, a slice of cucumber. That's it! The food took a little longer than it should have to come out... we put in our nacho order with our drinks, and it took at least 20 minutes to arrive. Service in general was just OK. I'd come here if I were in the area and wanted a veggie burger, but I'd never specifically pick going back to Christopher's for a meal.
(3)Yoonie C.
Maybe my bf hyped it up a bit too much for me... hence 3 stars in my book. Ordered "mighty mushroom" burger... a mixed patty of chopped mushrooms, bacon, and beef. Requested it at medium temp - got it medium-rare. Also, the patty had a faint BO-like smell... why? Chipotle BBQ sauce shouldn't be stank. Lemonade was good. Extra slice of lemon with the appropriate amount of ice made it extra nice. Other 2 in my party got the English muffin burger with bacon and cheddar. One got his cooked perfectly to medium, the other got a very dry almost well-done patty instead of his requested medium-well. I also got a side salad with lemon vineagrette on the side. Maybe I'm kinda diggin' lemon vineagrette now, but the dressing was pretty good... slightly oilier than I'd like, but not too bad considering it's a bar. A taste of my bf's beer on tap was also pretty good. Didn't want to over-do it at just shy of noon on a Saturday. Bottom line: Get a burger - request it medium - and get some beer.
(3)Paul W.
One of my favorite places to go to for good food and beer! The crowd here is a mix of yuppies, hippies, and hipsters ;-) But I don't think I fit into any of those categories, maybe a food yuppie who doesn't fit into the Wiki ( en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yu… ) defined category so much. The crowd is a mainly a younger fun crowd either way. Anyways, back to the review. I had the mighty mushroom burger which really didn't live up to the mushroom hype and had more of a bbq sauce to give the flavor. The meat patty was a little thin for my liking for a burger but it satisfied by once in a while burger craving. Their other main courses are ok and I typically don't even consider ordering a burger unless the rest of the menu is not looking appealing. Their appetizers though are good but for this visit, I was not looking for just appetizers. Their bloody mary is huge but full of ice. It has a kick to it that is nice but it was lacking the bloody mary character that I enjoy and if I was hungover, I would not want this bloody mary to be my "hair of the dog" choice. But it fulfilled by desire for a bloody mary and I will not be ordering one here again. I still give it 3 stars because not all items on the menu are great and the service is only ok. Don't get me wrong, I love the place still and would still go back for their appetizers and the good beer selection.
(3)Christian H.
I love this place. With a great drink selection, good food and great atmosphere, this is probably one of the best places in Porter Square. That being said, this is an overall score, not based on my last experience. I appreciate that this place serves food really late. Its always a good go to place to grab food and drinks after a night on the town, or a movie or a theatre show. I think they do certain things better than a few things, like their app selection is great. Also, its just a fun place to be. The fireplace is a great touch, especially on those colder nights. Though, I wasn't wowed by their burgers, but they are still good enough to hit the spot. However, overall, I enjoy this place. I went the other night with my friend. Our service was pretty good, but my friend ordered a flight of beer samples and one random waiter came by and served it. He didn't even tell us which beer was what. At least a card or something would've been nice. We were just going off of tastes. Despite this, our food was still something to look forward to. We started with the nachos. I wonder if they did something different this time, because the chicken on the nachos were really tasty. Seriously. It was this shredded, lime flavored, herb induced taste. It was really good. The melted cheese was great as well. With nachos, it can be a crap shoot, considering the cheese isn't always melted all the way through and there isn't nearly enough cheese on there to begin with. With the chicken nachos this wasn't the case. With a nice pico de gallo, it was a great taste and multiple flavors were hitting me at once. The chips were nice and warm as well. As for my main entree, I got the Christopher Club. Usually, when I get a turkey club, I expect it to have REAL turkey. Especially when the menu says that its real turkey. It was served on onion/garlicy wheat or something. And it was processed. It was kind of a let down. Everything else about the sandwich was fine, but its amazing how little things can take away the moment. The bread it wasn't working for me as far as tastes. It kind of overwhelmed the rest of the sandwich. It was still good, but the processed turkey and the bread took away from the experience. Their fries, however, were good. They were more like little seasoned potato wedges. They usually make every meal slightly better. Again, this is one of my favorite go to places in my neighborhood. Its open late, serves good food and I can get my drink on. Its a great place to bring friends and family alike. Most of the food choices there are pretty decent and there is a lot to choose from. With a chill and reasonbly quiet atmosphere, Christopher's is a good experience.
(4)Denise W.
Had actually been asked here a few times for drinks but never got the opportunity to go so when I was meeting up with someone for dinner/drinks and was in the Porter Sq area, I decided that this place was a go. Because we were also having dinner, we chose to dine outside (apparently a law that you can't do drinks-only outside in Cambridge, which is LAMESAUCE). Ordered some excellent sangria for 5 or 6$ a glass which is par for the course and some 8-10$ means - I had a mozzarella, tomato, lettuce, and basil sandwich and my friend an apple, walnut, gorgonzola, etc. salad (neither of us are veggie but did the veggie thing here with zero complaints). Nothing to complain about as fas as service was concerned, either. Pro: costs are par for the course, great food, excellent sangria, option to eat outside, good service, convenient location right outside Porter Sq T stop Con: If anything it's that the patio area was a little squished-feeling
(5)Calli C.
We stumbled in the door late on a weeknight, looking for some drinks. The bartender didn't know what a gin mule was, nor a Moscow mule for that matter. I was able to make up the recipe one the spot, and they surprisingly had really good ginger beer available. I'm a sucker for anything ginger related, so they're a solid three stars for that. The bar is crowded and awkwardly narrow, so sitting there means you're practically behind the bar with the bartender (which I wouldn't have minded, as she was pretty good looking). They also had some really weird game show/video clip channel going that was like a bad Japanese game show, and then UFC or something like that, which clashed with the classy-comfy decor the place has going for it. I'll update more when I go back for food.
(3)Haley T.
Veggie options galore! They now have a good variety of vegan and vegetarian options for dinner. The beer is also excellent, and the outdoor tables are great in the summer.
(4)Apolinaras S.
Staff needs to get a bit more expedient and attentive. We came at 11PM and we almost had to chase after our server to get service. Food redeemed bad service (hence 3 stars and not 2). Burgers were good and fries were good too. Nothing to write home about.
(3)Jon W.
You would think that since it's closely tied with the Cambridge Common that it would be at least on par with them, but it's not. The selection is limited, the food is okay, but I seriously expect a little more since Cambridge Common is fantastic. It's also often populated with some really irritating clientele and if you want to eat, you wait long to both sit and be served.
(2)Todd R.
I have been to Christopher's before and really enjoyed the burgers and nachos. On my latest outing, however, I decided to go healthy and went with the southwestern chicken salad. one of the things i liked about christopher's was portion size. no cheesecake factory ginormity nonsense, but a decent amount of food. since I was switching from a meat-centric item (the burger) to a veggie-centric one, I assumed that if anything, there'd be more salad-y goodness. not so. I watched jealously as my companions' burgers and club sandwiches arrived, spilling over the the edge of the plate in their abundance. my salad was comparatively paltry. yes, the chicken was reasonably sized. however, I believe the chef was challenging himself to not let the salad beneath poke out past the chicken on any side. adding insult to injury, my meal was priced at or above the level of my carnivorous companions. it was only by shamelessly plundering the plates of my friends that I was sated. the service was friendly and, as I said, I've enjoyed other meals I've had there very much. stay away from the salads, though.
(3)Karlis B.
What I like most about this place is that when you walk in, you feel like you're walking into someone's home. The place is dark, lush and comfortable. They accommodate large parties very well and the staff was very friendly. The food was solid. This place has six kinds of nachos and we went for the most "alternative": Yuppie Nachos with melted cheddar, jack and goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and guacamole. The chips were thin and pack a nice crunch. Ingredients were not evenly distributed which created that whole "who gets the chip with everything on it" situation. In this case, there was one chip just drenched in goat cheese, so I passed on it. I don't remember any particular ingredient being stellar, but I remember enjoying the nachos overall. My boyfriend tried the drink special, The Molasses Cookie. I didn't recognize any of the ingredients (woo hoo! I'm not a total alcholic), but I did recognize the comforting taste of a molasses cookie (and booze). After a while, the whole table ordered one. Their special holiday beer, Seriously Bad Elf, was also popular. I'm thinking it's popularity was due to its high alcohol content (11.2%) and not good cheer. For some reason, I was craving Chicken Picatta all day and I was thrilled they had it on the menu. Christopher's uses lime instead of the traditional lemon, so it didn't have that sour ping I was really looking for. The chicken was very moist and tender and the breading was tasty. So I'm not complaining at all. The green beans were buttery and well cooked. And the house potatoes is actually like a pancake of mashed potatoes that are a little seared on the outside: quite delicious. Everyone else ordered one of the many burgers they offer and each person devoured the whole burger, so I'm guessing they were good. And if you don't have a personal goal of not putting on weight this season (cuz you know you're too lazy to want to go through the effort to lose it again) consider the weekly burger special. The trend seems to be cheese and various other heart clogging ingredients stuffed into a hamburger patty with more artery hardening ingredients on top. That's the kind of food my tongue screams for and I kinda wish I tried it.
(3)John K.
This place was horrible! I went there for brunch today the service was terrible and the food was just nasty. The stuff french toast had no "stuffing" but a few blueberries, no cream cheese or custard and it was under cooked and disgusting. I would never go there again and I would never recommend it.
(1)Nikki I.
I stopped in here with a few friends for drinks later on in the evening. It seemed as though this place would have been good around dinner time, but as for the drinking atmosphere.... it was lacking.
(2)Lena N.
I had an intense craving for a burger one weekend so I decided to go to Christopher's for lunch with my burger buddy. The atmosphere was like every other pub. Nothing out of the ordinary. Not that I cared about the atmosphere at the time because I was about ready to chew my arm off. I had their English burger. A burger in an english muffin? Well, that's a bit genius. The burger was good. Nothing was terribly wrong with it. But nothing was life changing about it. But forget the burger, their fries are amazing! I finished my whole plate of fries and a bit of my friend's too. Bottom line: Your average pub with somewhat above average burgers and awesome fries to make your inner fat kid happy.
(3)Kat O.
My mom and I wanted to do a late lunch yesterday and the little outdoor seating area at Christopher's always caught her eye when we drove through Porter, so I suggested we finally give it a try. It was close to 3pm when we arrived, so the place was pretty empty. We got our outdoor seat and ordered a few appetizers each for lunch. We both enjoyed the summer spring rolls (cucumber, carrots, red pepper, avocado wrapped in rice paper with a soy dipping sauce), and she ordered a white bean and vegetable soup special while I had the bruschetta. The soup was tasty, but a little heavy on the salt, and the bruschetta was fantastic! It wasn't completely traditional, as it had olives on it, but it was so so good. The bread was definitely fresh and crispy and awesome. It was a great lunch stop but it didn't blow us away, so I wouldn't feel the need to return. I do appreciate the outdoor seating though, so that's why it gets 4 stars instead of 3!
(4)Peg P.
I like going to Christopher's for brunch, lunch and dinner. Their menu is a funky mix of American fare, some Tex Mex, and some Bistro-like options. I like the look and feel of the place, they have a lot of original artwork up and it had a cool fireplace in the back section. They have a nice bar selection and their prices are pretty reasonable. The service is great, everyone is really laid back and friendly. I really like going there for their brunch. It is usually pretty crowded, but is worth the wait!
(4)Kristine A.
I think this place is really neat. There are two floors & plenty of space for groups. They have a very well thought out menu that has great vegetarian options. It's a pretty chill place to go & totally recommend.
(4)Jamie L.
I've had some luck my last few times through here and the food seems more consistantly delicious, thanks Christopher's!
(3)Sara C.
Great menu, very nice wine and beer selections. Love the homemade veggie burger.
(5)Ben H.
I love this place! It's got great bar food and a wide drink selection. The buffalo tofu was absolutely delicious, and the veggie burgers were great too. It's extremely unusual to find such a good selection of vegetarian options at a place that serves hearty pub food. One of my favorite spots in Boston. The non-vegetarian burgers are supposed to be the best in Massachusetts if Bobby Flay is to be believed.
(5)Christopher M.
For those of you unaware, I love being Christopher, and hate being called "chris". As such, Christopher's has a special place in my heart. . . Ohhh but the five stars go deeper than that. The staff, friendly and on top of their shit. The burgers, delectable. The beer, tasty. The atmosphere, existential (ok maybe not, but I enjoying being a nihilist while sitting at the bar cursing God) All in all, a place I enjoy going, when i'm going somewhere. And if you see me there, please, feel free to buy me a beer or pick up my tab. It's the sociable thing to do.
(5)Elaine L.
This place is pretty good, like 3.5 star good, but I'll round up. I've been here a handful of times now. The food doesn't push any limits - this is pretty standard home-y food with an occasional twist (burgers with bacon bits and mushroom in it? intriguing). However, the menu does span quite a few cuisines, from Mexican (enchiladas, burritos, and a few other classics) to as-American-as-it-gets sandwiches/burgers, to Italian (daily ravioli special?!). It's hard to decide what to get! I've had the enchiladas, portobello pasta, and Chuck's veggie burger. All of them tasted great but not excellent. Not that that's a bad thing at all, especially since the prices are completely reasonable for the quality of food, and in some cases, it's a steal (especially since a good number of restaurants would charge $4-5 more for the same exact thing). Chuck's veggie burger is supposedly the best of Boston. While I haven't had any other veggie burgers since moving to Boston, I remain unconvinced that none of the other veggie burgers out there are better. The patty was sort of thin and potato-based -- I guess it kind of reminded me of a latke. I'm not a veggie burger conoisseur but I have had veggie burgers before and enjoyed them. This one was only $5.95 so I didn't feel too disappointed. Perhaps Christopher's eponymous veggie burger was the awesome burger that all the rave reviewers are talking about? Food aside, the service was excellent every time. Food and drinks were served reasonably quickly. I never had to wait long for a table since this place is big. I'd take friends here for a casual meal for sure -- it's one of my go-to places. This place probably won't cut it as conventional first-date restaurant, but it's a very pragmatic choice for those willing to defy convention.
(4)Lee M.
I had two major impressions after eating at Christopher's. The first was "man, that was a really good burger" and the second was "man, it was hotter than sin in there." I went on one of the first cold nights of the season, so maybe they just hadn't figured out their heating yet, but it was just uncomfortably hot in there. But the food was good. I generally operate under the assumption that the burger I order won't be cooked as I order it. I find that restaurants usually tend towards medium no matter what. Christopher's actually cooked the burger as I requested it, which impressed me a lot. We were able to have drinks at the bar before we got a table, which was nice. But they couldn't transfer the tab to the table, and the bartender wasn't the most attentive, so we had to wait almost 10 minutes until we could settle the bill and actually get our 4 person party to our table.
(4)Jenna B.
I love this place. And I am lucky enough to have it as my neighborhood pub. I go in here either to sit down and eat or for take out at least twice a week. Their menu is diverse, it's not overly pricey and everything I tried here so far has been delicious. I had a friend visiting from the UK and he ordered their chicken, broccoli and penne dish and said it was one of the best dishes he's ever had. Waitstaff and bar staff are friendly, too. Not much else to say about it except that I wish I hadn't waited so long to check it out!
(4)Mac P.
Pretty middle of the road.... Go here if you dont really want any suprizes
(2)K J.
Since I have been slacking on my reviews lately and am absolutely bored out of my mind, I decided to add my € 0.02 on a place I like to go to get my beer and burger fill. It is in a easily accessible location, close to the Porter Square T station if you are environmentally friendly person. Petrol heads need not be disappointed because parking is conveniently located at the Porter Square Exchange mall right across the road. I have never seen them get super crowded, even on Friday evenings, so usually I have got a table pretty quickly. Like I said, I have always liked this place to a beer and burger joint. On the occasions I ventured into the appetizer territory, I was disappointed; especially their tortilla chips. The spicy pepperjack burger is my perennial favorite to go with a few of their ever changing beers on tap. Burgers, standard or made to order, are served with thick fatty fries and I have a number of occasions tried hard to finish all of them. Service has been standard as well. P.S. Never talk about beer when you are really bored doing nothing at work. It just makes you want to have one
(4)Daniel M.
Get drunk here and forget about the food. On second thought, get drunk and then eat the food, then you won't be disappointed by the mediocrity of Christopher's. This is a BAR that tries desperately to be an eatery but just fails miserably, they don't know whether they're coming or going. They have a fire place, HD televisions everywhere and a wrap around bar with a bazillion bar tenders. They're so well staffed at the bar, it's like they're expecting the homeless to stampede from off the streets and into the bar for happy hour! The famous veggie burger should be rated B because no one really needs to know about it and only cult followers will want to appreciate it's subtle nothingness. The black bean soup, um....I think Trader Joe's stole their recipe and offer it out of a can in stores throughout the state. The fries were ok but I really couldn't tell because I think they gave me 4 total (literally, no joke). The burger also comes with a "side salad" which is basically a handful of baby spinach that's smooshed into a ball next to 4 french fries. Drinks are plentiful and I believe good ole Christopher specifically offers a wide variety of drinks so that his patrons are so wasted that they won't care if they're eating a dead rat from the tracks of the Porter Square T stop. The staff - I hadn't had a bite of food and the waitress asked how everything was, this is just an indication of how welcome I felt while dinning at their establishment. If she could have, this impatient waitress would have sat customers on my lap just to seat more people even though there were lots of tables available. Unfriendly, unprofessional and impatient, very distracting. Christopher's should stick to what they're good at and that's getting people drunk.
(2)Caitlin I.
Does Christopher's need its 300th something review from me? Probably not, but it's gonna happen anyways. I've been here a few times. All aspects of it actually. Upstairs for dinner and drinks with friends, downstairs for the first date drinks, and the other side for what can only be described as "I feel out of place because I have boobs but don't have a cowboy hat" music night. First time for dinner and drinks, we headed upstairs. The server was incredibly sweet about making sure we had our bartender from downstairs make our drinks the way we had while we were waiting and was completely attentive and understanding about one of my friends who has food allergies. She went back multiple times to check with the cook about ingredients and oils and I know that my friend was appreciative since that's not always the case. The food (the burger at least) was tasty, no confusion or delays, and reasonably priced for the amount of food that they place down in front of you. It weirded me out a little that there were parties of people with babies there (not the ones that can actually move around on their own, the "won't stop crying til a pacifier or bottle is shoved in my mouth" kind) that put a little damper on the vibe of the place, but at that point, it was pretty loud that they barely made a dent in the cacophony of the night. Drinks downstairs at the bar. This might be my new official go to place for the first date drinks as well. All drinks are priced that I don't feel completely ripped off when I get my bill and they're well made. And they've got some interesting choices if you choose to be adventurous with your liquor. Perfect place to sit down with someone new, get to know them between drinks and the game on the tv, but not feel like everyone is watching you knowing exactly what you're up to. It puts you at ease and creates a cozy environment until the guy next to you tries to get off his chair and kicks you in the shins. I'll just pretend that adds to the ambiance of Christopher's. And lastly...the other side with the music. I can't really comment because I didn't stay past chugging my beer down with my date when we saw the guys in the cowboy hats come out. Apparently they've got live music every night which I can completely respect, but the cowboy hats, not so much. Sorry fellas. It was a nice mix of younger hipsters with an older crowd which made for some interesting people watching, but for now, I think I'll be sticking to the other side of Christopher's.
(4)Lindsay L.
I don't know what everyone else is looking for in a bar & grill setting, but I love this place. Vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike eat well here in this casual dining setting. Vegetarians who like spicy food will be delighted by their buffalo tofu! They always have a vegetarian soup of the day, and their chili is vegetarian as well. Don't miss the portabello mushroom rueben. My very picky NON-VEGETARIAN boyfriend loves their burgers, chicken sandwiches, and buffalo wings. I also enjoy their tongue-in-cheek apps menu, which boasts "yuppie nachos" with goat cheese as well as traditional "buenos nachos." They have a great selection of microbrew beers, and for a girl who loves a good dark beer, Christopher's is a great place to get something heartier and fresher than Guinness. Christopher's is heads and tails above the other bar and grill places I've eaten at in the Boston area. If you're looking for fine dining, don't go to a bar and grill. But if you're looking for not-too-expensive, tasty casual food that is fresh and made with real ingredients (even the olives here are good), then Christopher's is the right place to go.
(5)Leighann F.
It pains me to do it, but I've been left with no choice! Christopher's brunch experience just hasn't been up to par as of late and it really merits the removal of a star. The eggs on my eggs benedict were so overdone that when I cut into them, they looked more like the inside of a hard-boiled egg. And when our server refilled the coffee, the dumped the last half cup into the mug, along with all the coffee grinds and said she'd have to brew more and left the table! She came back and we had to ask for a new cup! The quality of the food and service have just been a bit sub par over the past few visits, and with so many other option in the area, it makes me wonder if there's a reason to keep going back?
(3)Rebecca K.
Considering that Christopher's is a mere 15 minute stroll from my front door, I'm a quasi-regular. I've come here for multiple reasons: for a drink before dinner, a drink after my orchestra's rehearsal, for a pleasant dinner, and for brunch. It serves well for all of those occasions. Christopher's serves what I would say is better than average pub food. They have a large selection of your typical appetizers and their burger and sandwich choices are excellent. They have specials every day, covering a burger/sandwich, a pizza, and a ravioli. I've never ordered any of the pasta dishes, but I've tasted them and they are superb. (Avoid desserts, though. The one down side.) As others have said, their nachos are dynamite, although a bit pricey. I think it's worth it because the toppings are better quality. (If you want big, cheap nachos, go to Tavern on the Square.) Also, the draft beer selection is top notch. One days when I'm feeling more adventurous and a bit more spendy, I get the prickly pear margarita or the lime rickey, but all of the cocktails look good. Christopher's is a solid pub and one that I'm glad is walkable.
(4)Jennifer B.
I seem to be one of the few unimpressed by their veggie burgers. However I tried again and fell in love with their Portabella Ruben. The boyfriend hated their Steak but loved their Cajun Cheese Fries so much so that I've had to recreate them at home no less than twice a week. You have to try the Portabella Ruben and the Cajun Cheese Fries, I mean that is if you get there late enough. Too early and you'll be stuck with the limited menu.. booo.
(4)Vanessa C.
I know I have reviewed this place before FOR A FACT, since it is home to my favorite burger in boston. yeah you read that right, and its no small claim. I pretty much had my own table here when I still lived in somerville. ok then I will review it ONE MORE TIME but I'll stick to the facts ma'am: THE BURGERS RULE - will cook to specification. medium rare? still moo-ing? check. THE LITTLE POTATO WEDGEY FRIES RULE - just get them. get them and forget you ever learned the word "trans fat" THE NACHOS RULE - giant humungo plate of awesome nachohhhz yum yum BRUNCH - meh.... skip it. DESSERT - recommended. I dont drink but there are tons of beer choices here. ALSO! ! ! they have the most amazing 80's satellite radio station here that plays like GOOD stuff not the overdone cliche stuff. like back to back depeche mode - the cure - the smiths - tears for fears kind of playlist. some days I would just want to sit & hang out with the ex-gf & listen to our "old people" music. *sigh* one of my favorite spots in somerville.
(4)Deb L.
2.5 stars - nothing memorable about the brunch, maybe it was what I ordered (omlet). Fun location/space.
(2)Chris H.
I'll sum up in three words: Good Value Food! (plus a few extra words: Awesome beer selection!) This is my 'local' as i like to call it. it's friendly, has great atmosphere, and not too expensive. Dont get me wrong though - it aint the cheapest place in town - a beer will set you back 5 bucks minimum and the average main is about 13 dollars. But it's good. Real good. So, I like to break my reviews down into four parts: The Food, The Drink, The Service and "Chris' Final Thoughts'. So, lets break-it-daaoooown! The Food (3.8/5) It's good! not great, but good. You will never have a meal you dont like (in my humble opinion) - cooked well, good ingredients and well seasoned. it's not stunning, but simple honest food. They have weekly specials for burgers, pizzas and pastas. Their specials usually rock alot more than their standard menu - but my favourite dishes by far are the Buffalo Wings and the Chorizo Burger - awesome! The Drink (5/5) The beer selection ABSOLUTELY ROCKS. They have ever changing taps - 12 rolling beers from various local micro-breweries as well as a great wine selection and all not massively expensive. A great place to put down 'the base layer' with some good quality drinks. The Service (4.5/5) They are mega attentive but not pushy. I prefer to sit at the bar, but hey - that's just me. The staff are friendly, like to talk, and know their stuff. The only downer is that they cant always keep up their super smiles and friendliness when it gets mega busy. Chris' Final Thoughts (4/5) Great for a second or third date and also great for a tried and trusted place to booze and eat at the same time. If i were to relate it to my favourite music, with radiohead at the top and jeff buckley's new tunes at the bottom, i'd put it as an old school U2 b-side. Rock on.
(4)Jessica M.
Dear Christopher's - Thank you for serving good food and a variety of edible delights, they make me happy. More than that, thank you for being stumbling distance from my house, and therefore providing me with plenty of opportunities to, well, stumble home from a bar. Looking forward to your steak tips and another pint! Cheers!
(5)Yumiko F.
Beer selection is good. ( not only just cheap beer.. they got more of nicer beers on tap! ) Food is pretty good. I tried potato cream soup was very yummy! Also tried Spinach apple salad and was tons of it but was really good! They have vege burger so even if you only eat vegetable, You can definitely go there and enjoy! I like the atmosphere and all the stuff are very nice! Tip them well!!
(5)Annie L.
Sunday Brunch: Huevos Rancheros: Not bad. Potatoes on the Side: Delish. Crispy, seasoned outer, soft, perfectly warm inner. "Side of Fruit": 4 apple slices, 7 grapes, and a strawberry...? "Iced Coffee": If you're out of iced coffee, please ask me if I would want hot coffee poured over ice before assuming that will be the best solution. "Service": Okay, I was sitting at the bar. Very friendly when attentive, but impossible to flag down. Please note that the two of us still gave 20%. Total Hangover Reduction: 96% ...Goal accomplished.
(3)Kimberly N.
I love this place! Went here one Friday night because we had hurt great things about this bar; however it is so much more! The food is awesome, much better than typically pub food. My boyfriend got the jambalya and it was amazing! I got the chicken piccatta and I enjoyed every bite! Great beer selection and friendly service! Will definitely go back!
(4)Brooke W.
The ambiance wasn't above average in any way, although generally pleasant, but I really enjoyed my meal here. Great for a hangover. I had the english person's burger or whatever it's called, and it came to me medium like i requested cooked in ale with cheddar cheese and bacon I think. FELT SO RIGHT. Also, I am not generally a fan of thick cut potato wedges, but these somehow were amaazzing. The outside was perfectly crispy, not soggy or undercooked. They also had a nice beer selection, and good sangria. I have heard great things about the stuffed turkey burgers and veggie burgers as well. Based on my delicious experience, I would not be afraid to try anything on Christopher's menu.
(4)Torvic V.
I've been a vegetarian all my life so naturally one of the first menu items I try out are the veggie burgers. Let me just say that I've had A LOT of veggie burgers in my time and the one I'm always comparing them to is Christopher's Homemade Veggie burger. It's a must have for veggie burger lovers. Staff is always friendly and prompt. Great place!
(4)Jess L.
Went for my birthday. The waitress noticed on my ID that it was my birthday! The stuffed turkey burger of the day was great. How could you not get a burger? Nice ambiance. Great selection of beers. I'd definitely go again.
(4)Shauna G.
I've only lived in Porter Square for a few weeks, and already I've been to Christopher's three - maybe even four? - times. Now, I probably wouldn't go here so frequently if it wasn't so convenient, but that doesn't mean the food and drinks aren't damn good. My favorite drink so far is the raspberry lime rickey drink. You'll swear you're drinking the sweet, cool, non-alcoholic version - I actually asked the waiter if she might have gotten my order mixed up! By contrast, my other drink orders - a standard rum and coke, and a pomegranate martini, were decidedly uninspiring. As far as food goes, my favorite appetizer is the nachos. I was really excited by the buffalo tofu, but it turned out to be way to spicy for me. Their veggie burgers are delish, and I have it on good authority that their animal burgers aren't bad, either. Where they really shine is their brunch. A bunch of friends and I went there on a late Sunday morning, got a table easily, and treated ourselves to their variety of creative brunch options. I got a delicious mozarella and tomato omellete, and we all agreed that their potato-and-vegetable sides that came with our meals were as good as the entree itself. I will come back and keep updating this review with more opinions as I continue to sample Christopher's menu.
(4)Hugh R.
I've had mixed experiences at Christopher's. At times the food is superb, while other times it's just "meh." I've enjoyed the fish & chips but came away feeling underwhelmed by the blackened chicken sandwich. The portion sizes (generous) and the price (quite right!) for my fruit stuffed french toast and chorizo omlette during Sunday brunch were to my liking, but I feel like each could have had just a litttttle bit more flavor. Overall, a pleasant dining experience. The staff is pleasant and attentive and the food is generally good enough to keep bringing me back. A nice place to grab a bite to eat before hopping (get it!) on over to Toad for some live music.
(4)Sarah D.
For what it's worth, I go to this place a LOT. Like, really a lot. Like this is my "you wanna go where everybody knows your name" place. So with that disclaimer/admission, here goes. Rob the bartender is a master! Note to self & others: don't even bother getting a periodista if he's not making it. Melissa and the other staff whose names I don't remember are great too -- super friendly, attentive, etc. The yuppy nachos sound kind of ridiculous, I know, but they are truly a great culinary invention. Anything on the menu here that involves homemade fettucine is a must-try. Boneless buffalo wings are by far the most flavorful I've had anywhere, plus a good dose of heat. The chicken ziti & broccoli here has the genius addition of a little fresh basil (not to mention a light sauce) that makes it sooo delish -- though it is v. garlicky, be forewarned. Salads are big and fresh and varied. Also, the reuben is grilled cheesy goodness. Don't bother with the pizzas or the spinach artichoke dip. There's plenty of other great stuff to eat.
(5)Micah W.
MY favorite place to eat in Porter. Great beer selection, super food and I can get out with a couple'a beers and two dinners for under 40. Which is tough in our fair city of Boston.
(5)Jesse F.
Sunday brunch is great but $4 for a very small fruit platter of melon, grapes and strawberries is not.
(3)Dave W.
Love the yuppie nachos and the rotating taps, but the place is a little too yuppie for me. Having to ask for water? Come on. If I don't order something else bring me a water. Its not like they serve bottled water, and you can water a plant with it if I don't finish it. I still go to Christophers for the yuppie nachos. I love them. Main courses arent my favorites. Sometimes service is iffy but never horrible. Good place to go with friends, get a burger and have some beers.
(3)Ely S.
TL;DR -- Christopher's always serves consistently good food with good prices and a good, diverse beer list. Sometimes their special items are exceptionally good, but in general you won't find the best meal of your life. It's a great place for a date and their brunch menu is also good and well-priced. Lastly, Christopher's has excellent options for vegetarians. Full Review: Christopher's is a hip-looking landmark in Porter Square just about 1 minute away from the subway station. The interior is always classy with a nice fireplace and lots of seating (including an entire upstairs area). I live close by and have been going here for about two years regularly. I've never had a bad meal or bad service at Christopher's. I'm a vegetarian, so I frequently order dishes with blackened or buffalo tofu in place of meat and the tofu at Christopher's is very good. There is also a unique spinach and artichoke burrito on the regular menu that's pretty tasty. The veggie burger isn't bad but it's also nothing special. They frequently have vegetarian soups and special entrees. Almost any vegetarian ravioli they make is bound to be delicious (I've had the 3-cheese ravioli and the pumpkin ravioli and both were excellent). As much as it pains me to order a dish called "yuppie nachos", they really are delicious (goat cheese, guacamole, and sun dried tomatoes on tortilla chips). The blackened tofu / black bean empanadas are also a great appetizer. In terms of beer, Christopher's is right up there with Cambridge Common in terms of having a large, rotating menu. The stuff they always have is decent, but you can always count on 4 or 5 really good rotating draught beers. They also serve good cocktails (I've had a few at brunch). Lastly, the brunch menu is great. I highly recommend the blackened tofu breakfast skillet. If you arrive by 11 am, the place is almost never crowded. Around noon it starts to pick up and there can be a long wait. I find it pretty uncomfortable to sit at their bar for brunch; it's just something about the seats and how far away they are from the counter. Waiting for a table is better. There's no better place to sneak into on a cold, snowy, or rainy Cambridge evening to warm up and have good food and good beer. You wouldn't think of it as a dive bar or a "go-to bar" because the interior is so nice, but it really is a staple of Porter Square.
(4)G S.
One thing I love about Christopher's is that I can choose to have a delicious stylish meal (homemade ravioli) or regular bar and grill food. Well...I should reword that sentence. Their bar food is anything but 'regular'. They have many vegetarian selections (in appetizers as well as main courses). I come here a few times a month to snack on bbq tofu or tofu southwestern dip and a cold beer. With the friendly staff and good food (for both vegetarians and meat eaters), I can say that I highly recommend Christopher's!
(4)Kaajal M.
This is my #1 favorite place to get burgers in Boston. They make the most delicious burgers with such great toppings. I've yet to have a single meal here that isn't perfect. The beer selection is always changing (they do flights of beer for tasting as well) and they do pitchers of sangria that are huge!
(5)Shaina P.
Christopher's always has a a clever selection of booze, but the shape of the bar leaves no room for bystanders (yet they try anyway). The food is forgettable, the service just fine. Things that I think of when I think of C's is the dark wood-y interior, the beer, and Toad.
(3)Erin M.
Now we're down to 3 stars. Sorry Christopher's, you lost your half star. Look, I know my friends and I came on a Sunday. But is that really a reason for the waiter to ignore us and chat with his friends all night two tables over? We were thirsty and would have appreciated refills of our water. We would have appreciated getting our food a little faster. We also would have appreciated our food being a bit above "eh/ok/average" because I KNOW last time I was here the food was a bit better than "eh/ok/average". That is why I picked you to eat at in the first place! The OTHER waiter who came to help us was very attentive and kid. I hope he got the "eh/ok/average" tip we left instead of the inattentive one. We had to cover our bases though. Oh, and all because it's Sunday doesn't mean the portions should get smaller. We were hungry! We might come back...if necessary.
(3)Will W.
To get things straight, I've only had the beer there. Going there for whatever kind of game has always been a treat. The people are quite nice and low key and the barkeeps really do help you out. The selection is above par for beers and as far as food goes, I've heard their nachos are incredible. I'll have an update eventually... after I actually by some eats.
(4)Evan M.
Wow, I must say I'm surprised by the mixed reviews, I've eaten here almost a dozen times since moving to Porter square and not once have I had a bad experience (knock on wood...) I've tried a number of items from their vegetarian options to their real burgers and even the salmon burger once or twice and it's always been good. They make my gin and tonics strong enough, and I usually don't have too much of a wait. All in all, I'd say try it yourself and go in with an open mind. I really like this place.
(4)Schae K.
this is a great go-to place. their food is yummy, their selection is great...they do a decent brunch & make good drinks at totally reasonable prices. i will say this though - i'm so glad they changed their wall art...they had really strange paintings up for a while that were totally obtrusive & distracting...thank buddah they're gone now! other than that, solid all around place with good grub & drinks. also, awesome location, chill & unassuming atmosphere, and pretty much always has seating thanks to the second dining room upstairs!
(4)Evonne S.
I ate here last weekend with my husbands family because of the reviews I read here. It was nice. Staff was super friendly and attentive. Enough room for the kids to come out. Food prices were not bad compared to every where else we have eaten so far. Location was ok but the parking situation was bad - not for me since I found parking right next to it but for the family it was down right bad. So if you come, come by train or be prepared to really struggle with parking. Our food was not bad - my only gripe is that it wasnt hot. It wasnt cold but it kinda freaked me out it was not hot meaning it has been sitting there for a little bit. All in all, I would probably try it again just to make sure.
(4)Betts C.
I'm slightly uncertain of how many stars to give Christopher's. I sort of want to give it four, but it's just not that amazing. It's good. It's really good pub food, they make excellent drinks, and they have a good beer selection. However, in comparison with other similar options in the region, it's just not phenomenal. But it is a good place to get a burger (the English on the English muffin is pretty tasty, and the Andouille is a more interesting but still delicious burger) and their fries are nice and thick-cut. They are not, however, the burgers that I could get back in the Midwest (sorry, it's true), nor do the fries hold up on that scale. I fear that living in Missouri for a year, being the fatty and fried Midwest, has sort of shifted my ability to judge such things. It's also not helpful that I had Craigie on Main's burger fairly recently. That, which is pretty much like ground up filet, shouldn't even be called a burger. But it is, and it too has tainted my judgment. But that said, Christopher's burgers are also entirely reasonably priced for what you get, and you get a whole lot of food. I've heard very good things about their black bean burger, and have every intention of getting it in the next couple times I go there. I've also sampled two different fish and pasta specials. They were both good, but slightly less than phenomenal. However, their short ribs that they had on special, which were a sort of barbecue flavored affair, were delicious. Hands down the best thing I've had there. And I'm coming from one of the undisputed barbecue capitals, and I have to give them this one: those are some very tender (if yes, fatty) short ribs (they're going to be fatty, that's the thing with short ribs). The mashed potatoes they come with are an excellent support, even if the other accompaniment, some broccoli, doesn't hold up to this level. Again, it's pub food. The vegetables aren't even supposed to hold up. So it's good. It's somewhere to which I will happily return. Their staff has always been super friendly and very good to us. The drinks may not be of the likes one can get at Craigie or Hungry Mother, but this is a pub, not a super adorable little chi-chi restaurant, and they know their stuff.
(3)Brandon T.
The services was slow and the run/coke was only average. The food was nothing to write home about. The Bloody Mary was actually above average I thought though.
(2)Sara J.
This place is great! Wonderful beer choices and unique cocktails. Good menu with a lot of interesting and tastey vegetarian options. Service is always quick and kind, but the wait can be long for dinner time since it's so popular. Brunch is also great here.
(4)Barney B.
often times with siblings, there is the older, cool one you really enjoy hanging with - and the younger, uncool one that's awkward, tries too hard (and not enough) and just fails socially. Christopher's is Cambridge Common's baby brother, for sure. Odd setup, awkward service, mediocre food - yet a menu and owner shared by the terribly-more-efficient sibling up the road. I had some annoying times here in the past, but held off reviewing because maybe things have changed. they haven't - it's really meh
(2)Rachel B.
Dear Christopher's, Your prices are great. Your food is pretty good. And you have a bunch of alcohol. That's all fine and dandy. But you must do something about your outdoor seating area. It's pretty ridiculous. As a pedestrian (yes I just said that), I walk by your restaurant during peak hours, and I fear that I will smash into one of your food-and-drink-carrying servers as they enter and exit the front door. It's dangerous stuff, you know. Outdoor seating is a great idea. But when you are consuming 80% of the sidewalk, it's pretty annoying. Now, I have never dined outside at Christopher's (as a customer -- not pedestrian -- as technically one cannot ambulate and dine at the same time), but I can imagine it would be rather awkward to be gawked at by the passersby as they try to avoid smashing their briefcases into my face. That would definitely be problematic for all parties involved. I know you will not change your ways, as one yelp review means squat. But perhaps your future customers will take the "inside or outside?" question commonly asked by your hosts/hostesses into serious consideration. Thank you. Sincerely, Ordinary Pedestrian/Occasional Customer
(3)Ashley A.
Food and drinks were very good, overpriced for the food and the portions are very small.
(3)Chanel R.
I have mixed feelings about this place but since I am sure that I will keep going back, it gets 4 stars. The one and only reason I hate going there is because I always get stuck upstairs which is the awfullest atmosphere! Brown wood paneling, no art work. It is hard to describe it with precision but I hate being there. Here is why I love it when I don't feel like cooking: For light eaters- I love the low-fat ceasar and their veggie soups are usually great. Black bean burger is great. Homemade raviolis are good. Heavy but good. They taste homemade. Espresso Martini at brunch was to die for. Blood Mary's are really good. Nachos are really good- I like that they come in small and large. Although, the small nachos is more than enough for two people.
(4)Kathryn H.
Perfect for cozy, comfort food. Can be crowded, but affordable and with great vegetarian options. We go here regularly, have never had anything terrible. There are some hit and miss waitstaff, but overall they are quite good. Will continue to go there for low key dinner with friends or family.
(4)Kelly W.
This bar is pretty non-descript. Not in a bad way, but it could just as easily be a Pizza Uno or another Joshua Tree (albeit with less annoying blasting music & TVs). That being said, the place gains most of its points by having a fantastic variety of beers on tap--tonight I think I counted 2 different pumpkin ales and 4 Oktoberfests (and I love my seasonal beers, mmm) as well as a Magic Hat Chocolate Stout and a Watermelon Wheat. All the beer was around $4.50-5.00 a pint, I believe. Also, the service was really great--friendly and quick. I'll probably only be back if I can't find a bar with just as decent a beer list that has a little more personality.
(3)Jamie G.
Came here with a group of 6 (luckily they do they reservations for groups of 6 or more). We ordered a pitcher of white sangria and then later red. I personally thought the wine was better but others in my group liked the red. They were both tasty and drinkable though not nearly my fave. My friend had a martini which she said was awful. So dont order a cocktail here! We started with cajun fries... which were WAY too cajun for me but others quite enjoyted them. But dont order if you're like me and cant handle spice! Then I had the special raviolis, which were pumpkin and DELICIOUS. Others in my group had beers, burgers, and wings, and enjoyed them as well. Good casual atmosphere, good beer selection, good food. Not my fave, but not bad either!
(4)Anthony R.
Did you know: Christopher's is the the "sister" restaurant of my old standby, Cambridge Common. The similarities run deep, so much that my friends and I refer to it as "Bizarro Cambridge Common." Some things aren't as good : there aren't any fried pickles (damn), everything costs about a dollar more (damn), and there aren't quite as many beer choices (damn!) but in return you get a slightly nicer atmosphere and a bit more interesting food options. I had the Andouille burger last night and it was very tasty - there's something about packing two animals into one patty that's just pure, inspired brilliance. They also serve the Cambridge Common's blackjack burger (nice!) but call it the "cajun burger" and serve it with steak fries. Whatever, I'm happy with that. I think I'd usually pick Cambridge Common over Christopher's, but it is closer to my place - if only slightly - and it's nice to vary it up.
(4)Nhi N.
I looove brunch at this place. I had a pesto lentil burger the first time - so delicious! And I almost never like fries but their fries are addictive. My friend had the mushroom omelet which was really good as well. The 2nd time, we had buffalo wings with blue cheese sauce - accidentally inhaled the smell and it was strong, in a good way! And the blue cheese sauce probably had creme fraiche in it, it was sooo good. My eggs benedict had 2 perfectly poached eggs (that broke into beautiful yellow yolk liqud when you cut into it) and the hollandaise wasn't breaking or greasy or too thick at all. I'll have to come back here for the fruit stuffed french toast! And the best thing is it wasn't expensive at all :) love this place!
(5)John W.
after posting a "meh" review of Tavern in the (Porter) Square, some folks asked what in the hood was better. Christopher's, i tell you. they have a wonderful tap selection. the menu is mostly bar food but with many options for vegetarians. the Buffalo Tofu Wings are good, their homemade Vegetarian Burgahs are terrific. minus one star cause the service is hit-or-miss.
(4)Rachel Z.
Good brunch!
(5)Richard C.
I have to stop with the expectations. Whenever I have high hopes for a place (see: O'Sullivans or UBurger to start) I'm severely disappointed. I read "best of" lists or read a great review on Yelp or plain old word of mouth that gets me excited for a burger, but 9 times out of ten it's just not very good. Christopher's has all the accolades, in fact, Food Network recently claimed it to be the best burger in Massachusetts. But it's painstakingly average, it's a pub burger and no more. I love the location, it's Cambridge, and the Porter Square area, and it brings back fond memories of culinary school for me as we used to frequent here for a drink or four after a hard day in the kitchen. Walking over to Christopher's last night we walked by my alma mater and saw some hopeful culinary students in class, ah the memories. I was excited to be back in my old neighborhood and I was excited because I was so sure we were in for great burger. They list a few different options, but to be fair and consistent, I have to keep ordering the same thing, a bacon burger for me and the English burger for Nick (marinated in Ale, topped with cheddar, bacon and served on an English muffin). I immediately know I'm in trouble when presented open-faced, there is a good inch between the meat and the space to the bun, too much bread will be a problem. The burger has grill marks on it, and of course my preference is griddled, but I'm open-minded, unfortunately the meat, while relatively tasty, is totally dry despite being cooked properly. (no easy feat) The fries are good, pub fries basically, but seasoned good, if not a little skimpy on the portions. The burger is supposed to be six ounces, but it doesn't feel six ounces, and the biggest problem really is the bread. It takes a couple of warm-up bites to get through the first layer of bread to even reach the meat, even then it's a struggle, it's way too big a bite while still being cheap with the meat. (again, no easy feat) It's totally average, and a huge letdown. Nick claims to barely pick up any hint of the Ale, his cheese is not fully melted (surprise surprise) and he also faces the same bread problem. Despite having a cool neighborhood feel, it's quiet enough that you can actually have a conversation, and the menu at least boasts several options for everyone, it just isn't very good, and certainly not very memorable. Next time I have high hopes for a restaurant based on some list, I'll run the other way in horror, because I already know it's not going to be any good.
(2)John D.
A real, real good place...but not spectacular or outstanding. Just really good. Good food, good atmosphere, never a wait, attentive waitstaff, so what's the problem? Don't ask me, because I think that's just the thing. It's a B+ type of place, not a straight A place. Fun place to go and you can bring your parents or the date you want to get into bed...or the date that you want to take to your parents sooner or later. It can work out for anyone, and anyone can find something on the menu that they'd like to try, and then like what they tried.
(4)Cynthia S.
This place is truly hit or miss. don't get me wrong the food is good. It's the service I'm talking about. Either you get a very attentive server or the worst server in the WORLD! I go back when a friend suggests it, but never on my own.
(3)Joseph R.
I just went here for the first time the other day and am really amazed it only has a 3.5 star rating over all. This place was excellent. The prices were decent. The specialty beers rocked. I will definitely be back!
(5)David T.
pretty good place to get a drink, dinner, and still be able to talk to the people around you. ended up going just on a whim, and was pleasantly surprised. definitely going back for seconds! had a pitcher of sangria with a friend, which, mind you, is a lot more drink than i expected! about 5 or 6 glasses in a koolaid style pitcher hehe. they mix the sangria at the bar, which is a whole other deal. i thought it would be presoaking in fruits and stuff, but the bartender just whipped it up right there. wasn't expecting much, but it was surprisingly alright. also had the cajun cheese fries - they are the devil! haha. you'll be craving more and more. they definitely hit the spot when you are drinking. overall good service and good times.
(4)Arnab M.
I've only been here for brunch and it was bloody fantastic. Perfectly done hash browns, omelets and French toast make for a delightfully delicious and fattening brunch. There was no wait, which is always great, but it filled up shortly after we got there, which is also a good sign. If you like Sunday brunch out, this would be a good outing.
(4)Lena S.
If I could eat their smoked salmon eggs benedict every day I would die a morbidly obese by insanely happy woman..... I've only been here for brunch but it's my favorite place to be on a Sunday.
(4)Ben B.
I think I love everything about this place. The beer selection and bartenders make it easy to stick around for hours.
(5)Amanda B.
We went out with a group. There were two vegetarians in the group. The veggie burger was really good, but the portobella reuben was just okay. Vegetarians beware: the fries are fried in the same oil with meat, etc. So, we were slightly disappointed not to have any fries. Had a salad with balsamic dressing. Their house made balsamic is too heavy for my taste. The meat eaters seemed pleased with their hamburgers and fries.
(3)Daniel C.
Classic pub food, good beer list. I have a few small gripes: The burgers aren't very consistent; sometimes "medium rare" gets you a blackened patty, other times bloody. The upstairs dining area has a limited beer list, so if you want something from the full list, you have to hike downstairs to get it yourself. (They'll carry food upstairs, but not beer, apparently.) Anyway, generally a positive experience though.
(4)Jonathan S.
Count me as a Christopher's fan. They make good burgers, have a good beer selection, and competitive prices, especially considering they use all natural ingredients. Their homemade veggie burger is excellent!
(4)Dave L.
I like! Great range of veggie options here for the GF. Some of which I was very impressed by. The buffalo tofu was great, and this farfale dish I had was also quite good. The food quality is above the price range, and above the general "vibe" of this place (which I do like). Good range of beers, and you can get beer samplers! I really need to come by here more often.
(4)aine f.
Christopher's has been our go to place for years- casual, convenient and dependable, with a great beer list. In the last few months though- we have noticed a steady decline in all aspects of the place. The only stand out bartender, Melissa, has left and the remaining bar staff are sorely lacking in either personality or efficiency. I would suggest that Christopher's take note of the Highland Kitchen model and hire some "career" bartenders who give a sh*t. Food quality has also declined, not sure if kitchen staff has changed? But given that it has been our "local" for so long- we still continue to go and hope that the decline is temporary. Last night though, we sat at the bar for 10 minutes without even being acknowledged. Having been in the service industry for longer that I care to remember, I understand that the customer may not be aware of all that is going on- but a simple greeting- to let me know that you'll get to us when you can- goes a long way. The second bartender went off the bar just after we sat down- and it wasn't busy- but no no-one so much as looked at us. We left without being greeted- let alone served. Time to find a new local.
(1)Bhuvana H.
I've been going to Christopher's for years and have always liked it. The beer selection is good, and the food is tasty, especially the nachos, burgers, and sandwiches. There are good vegetarian options, and the service has always been fast & friendly when I've gone there. Most of the menu is great but a couple of their appetizers (cajun fries, spinach & artichoke dip) are a bit weak. However, their yuppie nachos (with sundried tomatoes!) make up for those.
(4)chungo m.
this place sucks. it's filled with wanna be yuppies who can't quite make it into Boston. gross food.
(2)Will E.
A great place to meet for a drink or some food in the Porter area. Convenient to the Porter Red Line. Good beer selection. Small but welcoming bar area. The food at Christophers is better than it needs to be - with a surprising amount of vegetarian options. I had the avocado quesadilla - a little heavy but good. My wife had a personal pizza - quite enjoyable.
(4)Bryanne R.
Was here twice...once to get dinner on a Saturday (too long a wait...we left) and tonight to grab a quick dinner after the gym. My friend and I split the andouille and beef burgah. It was really good! Highly recommended if you're looking for a safety meal with an awesome flair.
(4)Zachary B.
My group has held a half dozen large brunches at Christopher's in the past few years -- anywhere from 12-40 people -- and I've been happy with the service. As other reviews have noted, the food is satisfying. But there seems to be a new policy on group reservations; I asked to schedule a brunch for 24 people on Sunday morning, and the manager informed me that they'd seat us only if we guaranteed that our party would spend at least $1,000 -- after a moment, he adjusted that to $800 -- for our brunch. The reason he gave, when I asked about this new policy, is that the upstairs (where large groups are seated) "isn't usually open on Sundays." This contradicts my experience, and I don't find it a friendly change in procedure. We'll be taking our group business elsewhere from now on..
(2)Jen H.
I can only give this an A-OK. It was crowded and not really constructed well for a group of people to stand and talk b/c of the barricade between the bar area and some of the dining area. Also... it smelled like fish for most of the time I was there. This is probably due to someone in the dining area behind me ordering something fishy... but MY GOD... P-U!!! I don't like fish. In fact, the smell of fish cooking makes me sick to my stomach.... and this fish after it had been cooked and was on someone's plate smelled so fishy, that i had to leave and go get fresh air, and then come back b/c it was making me sick. You KNOW that was some smelly fish when generally I can go to seafood restaurants, and so long as i'm not sitting close to the kitchen, I'm ok - even with everyone at my table ordering fish. Yuck. I will refrain from this place b/c of that smell... and the poor bar setup for groups.... but if you try it and have a good time with the food (non fish of course - hah) tell me, make me go back, convince me to give this place another try.
(3)Ryan L.
Only been here once because the line was too long at Town Diner (watertown) but was pleasantly surprised. it's got a sports bar type look inside with all the TVs but the food was decent for breakfast.
(3)Lynda M.
Not as horrible as people describe it. It is pub grub, with two floors of benign decor. The food is decent and the prices are good. Staff was very friendly and our waitress was attentive. Sure the wine glasses were small, but so was the price of $5.95 per glass. The Cajun cheese fries were delish. If you want a local joint with no frills, this is the place.
(3)Sheena F.
This is one of my best restaurants in all the city for casual, pub-like fare. I'm a vegetarian so I normally shy away from restaurants such as this because they normally serve your trypical chicken wings, burgers, and beer (which I'm not a huge fan of). But, between the portobello-stuffed ravioli, soups and salads, veggie burgers, and tofu Buffalo wings (strange but true and actually delicious), the only problem I normally have is deciding! The beer choice is pretty extensive as is their mixed drink menu. I definitely recommend their Long Island Iced Teas, but make sure to have a designated driver that night, as they are strong. I agree that the service leaves a little something to be lacking during peak hours, like Friday and Saturday nights, but when I went for a Saturday late lunch, the staff was perfectly attentive. The ambience is also great, very relaxed. The prices are also really good, pretty average, I think, for the type of food and atmosphere they serve.
(4)Heidi E.
Four stars because you can get wings and a really good burger on Sundays when the rest of the city is ONLY serving Sunday brunch.
(4)Malcolm F.
This is a fantastic place. If you're feeling social, grab a seat at the bar and strike up a conversation with Rob, Jon, or Anne, some of the best bartenders you'll ever meet. The Assorted Nachos are killer.
(5)Sandi H.
This is a basic joint- burgers, beer, neighborhood spot. What I love about it, though,is it feels like you are in someone's home. This is my go-to for casual. Rock solid. Have been going there for years. There is something about the vibe. Love it.
(4)Jennifer T.
Fun, laid back atmosphere. Not fine dining but that's not why people go there. It's a pub with great beer and good food. They have beer paddles (always fun!), and a really interesting beer selection. Veggie burger is homemade and great, and I hear the regular burgers are good too.
(4)erin e.
Higher-end pub-style restaurant. Great Sunday brunch also. I prefer to go in the winter, when it's particularly cozy in there with the view of snow-covered Mass Ave, as well as the fireplace lit in the main dining room. The food is much better than can be expected of most pubs, but still doesn't compete with nearby Temple Bar or West Side Lounge (although it's far cheaper). Bottom line: if you want pub food, go to Christopher's and then catch a show at Toad after a few drinks.
(4)matt o.
I'm going with 3 stars cause the clam chowder is delicious, the burgers are pretty damn good, and i had a breakfast burrito for brunch that was pretty damn good, but they lose 2 stars for the worst and damn near disgusting Shepard's pie I had there once, Shepard's pie is pretty simple and I don't mind adding somethings but I don't even know what was in this it was horrible, but this was like 3 years ago and I haven't been back since so i could be completely wrong and holding a grudge but I will gladly drive by and stick out my tongue.
(3)Kayle S.
Whenever I'm in the Porter Square area and looking for a hearty, comfortable meal, Christopher's is the first place I think of. I like the gas fireplace, good beer selection (on tap and bottled), and wholesome American food. Excellent buffalo (and tofu) wings, tasty home-made veggie burger, great big soups, and all-around good atmosphere. And it's easy to make your way to Toad next door.
(4)Ashley M.
I went for brunch and was impressed by the menu. I hate typical breakfast food, but portabella eggs benedict and the like varied just enough to make it interesting. However the service was horrendous. Maybe they were really busy. I don't know. Didn't seem like it. I can serve food to myself at home for free, so you know I'm paying to be served food, I um expect to be served food.
(2)clare m.
such a great place. the homemade veggie burger with caramelized onions and guacamole and white sangria is my current death row meal.
(5)Ken M.
My favorite place to hang out and bring friends or family in Cambridge. Always accomodating to large parties. Food comes in large portions, is good, and is cheap. Servers and bartenders are friendly. Lots of beers on tap. The wings (real chicken or even tofu) are awesome. Chicken or spinach burritos are exceptional.
(5)Stacey D.
Went here a few years back and wasn't super-impressed, but this chilly night my hubby & I wanted some good hot comfort food and Christopher's delivered. We started with the buffalo tofu (thanks Maria!) and it was very tasty - not totally like chicken, but good texture & sauce. I then had a veggie burger with blue cheese & carmelized onios - very tasty - not amazing, but good. My hubby had steak tips with mashed potatoes and really enjoyed both. I tried the potatoes and they were excellent! As others have mentioned, there's a great selection of drinks too.
(4)Bridget D.
I was listening to the tunes at the Toad next door and bartender man said we could get takeout from Christopher's and bring it on in. My dude wanted a burger, so I skedaddled over to check out the menu and see if they had something i could eat. I strolled in and went up to the hostess who was leaning on the podium with the blankest of faces. "Hi," I say, "I would like to order some takeout please." She glances at me, "You have to order it from the bar." She said this and jerked her head in an upward tilt motion, which I thought was in the direction of the stairs next to her. "Okay, thanks, " I replied as I make an usure step towards the stairs. "No, at the bar," she repeats as she continues to lean on her podium, expressionless. "I am sorry. I have never been here before. Can you point me towards the bar?" She releases a sigh, "It is behind me and around the corner." WOW! So I make the move behind her and around the corner and low and behold there actually is a bar. I approach and attempt to get the attention of several bartenders. No dice. I finally go straight up to one as she is about to leave and she gives me a menu. A quick glance indicates to me that this menu is fruitful and has offerings for me to enjoy. I order up a meat burger for my fella and I notice they have a few veggie burgers. The nice bartender lady says the homemade veggie burger is great, rave reviews, but it has pesto on it. Now, I love pesto, but me boyfriend is allergic to pine nuts. Dang. So if I want some smooches, tis best to avoid spreading the allergens. I go for the regular veggie burger instead. For a total of 15ish bucks and approximately a 15ish minute wait, I am content and I head back to the Toad to see my fella and inform him of the situation. I had to make a quick dash back to adjust the order after I told him that I ordered his meats medium well. I don't know about meats, but he says he likes it medium rare. (G-ross!!!) It was not a problem and the bartender assured me that they could do that. Sweet. So me boy picked up the food and we sat at our mini table in the bar next door. The meat burger was huge and they both came with lots of fries and a long pickle sliver. My veg burger was okay. It was the standard/generic grainy circle, but the fries were nice and crispy. They supplied us with many packets of condiments and utensils, so that was pleasant.
(3)Jud P.
There is nothing terribly wrong with Christopher's, they just don't do anything well and there are much better options to get the same kind of bar grub in the surrounding area. As a lot of other people have mentioned, the service sucks, the food is mediocre (there are much better burgers available in Boston), they charge too much for what you get, and the beer selection is limited. The atmosphere is nice, and that's probably the best thing about this restaurant. But you need more then ambiance to please your customers. Save your dough and hit up someplace more worthy.
(2)Stephen J.
Chrostpher's is okay, but going with the theme of a few yelpers on here, there are definitely better similar options nearby (eh hem, Cambridge Common down the road 1/2 mile on Mass Ave). I think the food is overpriced, the beer selection too limited, and you can wait a while for this place if you catch them on a busy spell. They do have decent specials with enormous portions (I remember having a catfish burger special there once, which certainly was delicious that night but then I finished it the morning after, yea bad idea). But all together, I think you can do better in the area - nothing too special here. I originally gave it two stars, but it doesn't quite deserve that in my opinion - maybe a 2.5?
(3)Rina R.
A nice, friendly, place. - the kind you'd bring your parents and kid sister to if they were visiting. While you won't find anything exotic or too fancy, Christophers sells good burgers and pasta, and you won't be broke by the time you leave.
(3)Ace Z.
Christopher's is weird. As a friend of mine put it, it's a solid "almost." Service is generally OK (cute servers), atmosphere is pleasant, (usually) good music... but there's always something not quite right with the food (cf. my earlier comment about the bun issue). Last night for dessert I got the special, which was basically vanilla ice cream with two chocolate chip cookies "in a goblet," as the waitress made sure to point out. The goblet did not disappoint but if we hadn't asked for some chocolate sauce on the ice cream it would have been just plain boring - not particularly tasty ice cream, though the cookies were good (but would have been better heated)... I dunno. I end up at Christopher's a lot because of the buffalo tofu, beer, and ambience, but it's a definitely a place to take on its own terms. For a better overall experience, head to Cambridge Common, where I am going in about five minutes.
(3)Alison T.
The first time I was at Christopher's was for sunday Brunch. We sat at the bar, which is fine, but the waitress/bartender was mean, slow, inattentive, and obviously wanted to be doing anything but waiting on us. I enjoyed the eggs benedict and my boyfriend's omlete was pretty good. The second time was also brunch and we were seated upstairs which has a nice inn feel to it. Our waitress was one of the worst i've ever had. She chose to communicate in single words, possible three if necessary. We waited a really long time for our food. My order came out wrong (an omelete instead of a burger), but since she basically dumped the plates with us and then left i didn't have a chance to tell her it wasn't what i ordered. it took another 5 minutes for us to catch her attention. She said NOTHING, took the plate away and came back about 10 minutes later with my order, once again saying NOTHING! some may claim that because she was from Brazil she may not have had the language to say 'sorry for the mix up', or 'i'll be right back', i don't buy it. she was fluent when she spoke more than one work and her accent was minimal. she obviously just didn't care. And to top it all of, it was one of the worst burgers i've ever had. I would've only given one star except that i do like the omelete and eggs benedict. terrible service and otherwise bad food. Maybe i should try the vegan and vegetarian options, if i can stand the bad service.
(2)evan b.
As a vegetarian i love Christopher's. They have a great beer selection that always has me trying something new. The buffalo tofu is excellent, the nachos are good, their veggie burgers are tasty, and they have a range of options from burgers to asian to mexican food. When i'm in the mood to go our for bar food, Christopher's is my top choice.
(5)el e.
the food is great, the prices are great. the first time i got a pesto grilled chicken sandwich something or other, the second time i got the andoullie burger -- equally delicious, though a bit too greasy -- but hey, that's what it's all about. pretty big portions. open late, good vibe, cute artwork (which is somewhat out of sync from the general restaurant decor, but much appreciated anyway). recommended!
(5)Irene F.
I have spent many a night waiting for the commuter rail with Natasha in this place. The bartenders are great, and will mix you up whatever. They also have a good wine selection and some yummy grub. It can get a little crowded on weekends, but well worth fighting your way in. They have some great mussels, and the salads are fab also. The people who go there are also friendly and fun, which adds to the great atmosphere!
(5)Anonymous P.
Stick to the basics and the beer. Nice local atmosphere, decent simple food. I really like the boneless buffalo wings. I'm not sure why I'm giving it 4 stars as opposed to 3--maybe for healthiness, vegetarian friendliness, nice bartender, and reliability.
(4)Sara B.
I've been holding a grudge against this place for a while. I had the kind of night there that turns you off of a place forever. The kind of dinner that, halfway through you think, "I can't believe this sucks this badly" and then three other, entirely unrelated, things go wrong. Screwed up orders, missed orders, unrepentant waitstaff, an "incident" in the bathroom"... it just went on and on. And of course, the food that we did get wasn't nearly good enough to make me think I should suck it up and come back anyway.
(2)al e c.
i love christopher's'. there was a time when i'd enjoy nachos and beers at christopher's twice a week, minimum. as a vegetarian, christopher's is my favorite place to take carnivores because there are ample options for herbivores and omnivores alike. their nachos are amazing, the veggie chili is great and their buffalo tofu fills the "hot wings void" created by my vegetarianism. (and my carnivorous friends have given the meat version high marks). christopher's has a great beer menu and the seasonal beer sampler is a great deal. their martini's are a little disappointing but i'm more of a gin and tonic girl anyway. in general, the food and drink are excellent, the staff is friendly and the atmosphere downstairs is fun and relaxed. the downside? the upstairs dining area is sterile and uninspiring (plus, they only have about 1/2 of the beers on tap on the upstairs menu) . recent menu changes did away with the "small" size nacho plate (which was *not* small) also, prices have gone up a lot (as they have everywhere) so i've had to cut my former christopher's habit down to a few times a month.
(4)edition o.
we love this place. sure it can get crowded but if you hit it at the right time, you'll get a great meal for a great price and a little ambiance thrown in. the buffalo tofu is superb as is their french fries. they have some great drink specials and i love their alcoholic rickey.
(5)M S.
This place is a little on the pricey side for a pub. The food and drinks were good, but I wasn't expecting to pay $20 for two drinks (incl. tax and tip). I was impressed by the selection of vegetarian food. On a Friday night, there was a long wait (which we skipped thanks to our reservation, available to parties of 6+), and a bustling atmosphere inside. The waitress was nice and had good recommendations, despite being insanely busy. She definitely earned that 20% tip. So if you want to spend some money on a fun night out, Christopher's is the place for you. If you want to spend less money on a fun night out, head down to Grendel's Den in Harvard Square during happy hour.
(4)Scarlett L.
My friend and I dined at this restaurant on a cold, wintry Thursday night. We arrived at 6:30 and intended to have a leisure dinner and good conversation. The hostess was not very friendly at all and this is a problem considering she's the first person greeting you at this establishment. The atmosphere was dark and dingy and did not give me an over all clean feeling. Our server was by far the most disappointing part of our evening. He approached our table seconds after we were seated asking us what we'd like to drink. We wanted waters to start and needed time to choose wine. He came back less than 2 minutes later asking if we had decided. We told him we had not and that we needed more time to peruse the selection. Less than 2 minutes later he was back and we felt rushed to choose, so we did. He asked if we were ready to order and of course since we were focused on the wine selection, we had not decided on our meal for the night and told him we needed more time. He came back 2 minutes later asking us yet again if we had made any decisions. The whole evening went on in this way, with him being there when we didn't want him and then when we did he was no where to be found. Finally, I decided to speak up at the end of our dinner to our server about his rushed and arrogant attitude. His response was that he was sorry that we felt that way!!! We will never be returning to such a place where staff like this is hired!!! The food was just okay, but certainly not good enough to come back and withstand a server that just could not leave us alone and get the point!
(1)Patrick B.
A good place to stop in every once in a while. I've had some wonderful nacho's here and the burgers are very good - even the turkey burgers. And, there's a good selection of beer on tap - though what you can get depends on whether you're upstairs or downstairs. There are a few TV's above the bar, but they're small so its not a great place to watch a game.
(3)Dr. Sweetpickles Ph D.
This is the only place worth driving to Porter for. This and that guy that sells those black market copy's off The Clapper out of his van (that little device that shuts the lights off when you clap?) Good food, quick enough.
(4)Jake L.
OK - I'm a fan. I've been to Christophers a couple of times for eating out with friends - the food is good and reasonably priced - they have a great selection of draft beer - you can usually try something new. My one complaint would be the desserts - they were very average and for the price I expected something more.
(4)Melissa B.
Christopher's is one of those mid-price restaurants that is great for a large group. They will most assuredly have something for everyone on their menu (meat and potatoes, healthy, vegetarian) and the prices are really quite reasonable.
(3)Melissa A.
Ok, so I had always heard that they had the best burgers around...so not true! Everything was incredibly mediocre, the service was bad and the drinks were worse. No thanks!
(1)Aaron S.
This is a great place to meet a friend to have a drink and grab a bite. They have lots of vegi options, and are just a cool place overall. I would tell anyone to go there.
(5)k v.
the food was mediocre to pretty good. i recommend the homefries & the calamari. however, the bloody mary was the worst i've ever had. but when i told the waitress that i wasn't enjoying it she did offer to take it off the bill. nice atmosphere, decent service--just avoid the bloody mary!
(3)Sarah C.
Christopher's is just SO easy. It's a convenient (and for the most part, reliable) little bar and restaurant with decent prices, interesting specials, surprisingly good beer (AND beer flights!), and friendly service. They aren't trying to be anything they are not... not posh or over the top, just easy. This evening was my fourth visit, and I must admit it is usually hit or somewhat miss here. Tonight was great (last time was crazy slow service with TERRIBLE seating, I mean...right next to the host stand with foot traffic on either side). So tonight, we sat immediately, got our wine right away, and apps like 2 minutes after ordering (just soup and salad). If our waitress wasn't there, the floor manager or another server was ready to help (and did). I ordered the trout special and DAMN what a surprise. Loads of fresh green beans, and topped with delicious capers and fresh tomatoes. The trout was coated with rosemary... which completely won me over... I'm a huge fan of rosemary. My friend Amy ( a new Grad student at Longy in Cambridge woo! And I'm going to get her hooked on Yelp) Got a nice fresh goat cheese and sun-dried tomato salad. All in all, the service was right on, timing good, portions actually quite large, prices easy on the wallet, dim relaxing yet active atmosphere, filled with locals, parking easy... like I said Christopher's is seriously an easy place to just go relax and have inexpensive, yummy food with old friends :)
(3)Kate S.
I used to really like Christopher's. It was decently priced with a menu that could satisfy anyone (veggie options, burgers, burritos, stir fry, tasty salads). But over the last two years, their service has absolutely gone to sh*t. I still end up here every 3 or 4 months because it is close by and I cannot believe that their service could have so completely tanked. Every time I leave I promise never to go back. Half of the table won't get their order, it will take 45 minutes between ordering and receiving your (by that time) lukewarm food, never getting refills of water or even a waiter coming by to ask if everything is okay. The food is still pretty decent (when you actually get what you ordered and it isn't cold), but the crappy service just isn't worth it to me anymore. Also, there are plenty of better places to eat in the area - Kaya, Sugar & Spice, Ana's Taqueria, West Side, Temple Bar, just to name a few! Even Uno's (across the street) will guarantee you a burger with less than a one hour wait.
(2)Jessica H.
This is a really great place to go for a burger. The atmosphere is awesome too. Their menu is very surprising. The place just looks like a bar and you would think all they have is burgers, but that is just not true! They have mexican appetizers and great vegetarian options as well.
(4)Trish F.
Me: Two shots of tequila and the check please. Bartender: Um.. what kind of tequila? Me: Whatever's closest to your pouring hand. Bartender: IDs please. You okay? Me: Swell. Sweeeeellllllll. I liked that bartender. 14 hour work days make Trishie a sassy bleotch. PS - I was with a friend.. so they weren't both for me. We went to another bar afterwards. hah.. And side note.. other stops into the bar have been quite enjoyable. I went to the restaurant (I usually pop into the bar) for the first time this week. This place made me really think about the whole restaurant experience because although our waiter didn't really interact with us much (didn't introduce himself, only stopped by the table about twice), the food was fantastic and the service was very quick. Despite being packed, we were seated right away. I ordered a pomegranate margarita (yummmm.. and I'm not normally pomegrantey) and an eggplant burger (with pesto and feta.. kind of crazy but hit the spot). Like Laura M., I thought the salad was unnecessary. The fries were executed well, crispy but not hard... although at the end of the meal I picked up a fry that had been sitting for about 15 minutes and I think it absorbed all the oil from the plate because it tasted like super cardiac arrest fry. Yuck. Soo.. the waiter wasn't mean or over attentive.. just rather indifferent? Didn't effect me much.. but I know some patrons do enjoy being doted on. I just like anecdotes for my Yelp reviews... but we can forgo that for great food. Update: 11.9.07 Stopped in again for French Onion soup and a catfish burger (I have weird cravings). The soup had huge chunks of onions, but it was rather delicious and I slurped up the whole thing. I think it also had to do with me being cold. The catfish burger patty was HUGE which I was excited about, but it was too much. Fries weren't as great this time. The waitress was also pretty slow, but seemed like she was the only one on the floor. Sad. No stars deducted though. Slash.. Guinness topped with cherry ale. Hello lover.... Update: 2.08 Catfish burger was perfection! And the service has definitely improved. Yay! Props to the server that knew exactly when to stop by after my friend and I had small teary breakdowns. haha
(4)Corey P.
Now I work in Central Square, but will often take the T to Porter to have lunch at Christopher's, when it is a bit more quiet than the late night. Yuppie nachos are always a must, as the goat cheese just adds a whole new twist to nachos. Burgers, especially the Andouille Beef and English, will always fill you up. Plus, you can tell their french fries are actually made from potatoes. Never had an issue with service, and the price is pretty reasonable. Overall, I would say a solid place for lunch when you're about and about in Porter.
(4)Penelope T.
I used to come to this place often as I loved their homemade veggie burger, the nachos (with homemade chips), caesar salad, and tofu buffalo burger. However, they have recently changed main head cooks and the food is really not what it used to be. The salad is not fresh anymore. The nachos are smaller and not as good and nothing tastes as good as it did before. In addition the new fries are gross.
(2)Sarah G.
I went to Christopher's with a large group. Everyone in my group seemed to enjoy their food but I was really disappointed with what I had ordered.... I ordered a BBQ chicken sandwich and the chicken was so dry. There were barely any toppings on the sandwich. Oh well.......I guess I've been spoiled by other chicken sandwiches: - ((
(3)Laura M.
This place kinda gave me "Cheesecake Factory Syndrome" as I examined the lengthy and somewhat unfocused menu. But, I had heard good things about the veggie burger, and sometimes all a girl needs is a cold one and a veggie burger, so that's what I ordered. Burger was pretty damn good (house made) but fries were huge chunky style, and in short supply. I got a side salad that I didn't really want -- just give me more, crispier fries! (Although, for the chunky style of fry, they were pretty well executed, not mealy inside.) I'm not sure I'd order something fancier than a burger and fries here, though. Beer selection was wide and I was allowed to sample before buying my first pint of an untried variety (Rapscallion). Tasty! And our waitress was like, the best sport ever, really great. So, overall, I'd give Christopher's a repeat.
(4)Chana B.
Fantastic Mussels, Great Salad, Great Service, nice prices, and good wine. Sometimes the pub/tavern atmosphere is just right, and Christopher's has it going on. My One Wish is that someone cared enough to notice when an empty water glass needs filled. Maybe if Christopher's reads this, they'll go on water-glass high alert and then the place will be virtually flawless.
(4)Kevin M.
Overall good bar , Great food and bartenders are great.
(3)Doris K.
I really hate it when places are out of items. If it's a special and you've posted it then you should have it - else remove it. I think that food is a hit or miss at Christopher's. Some things have been surprisingly good and some staples bad. I didn't like the nachos or spinach artichoke dip. They were bad, very bad and yet their burgers and chicken piccata were great. As for the avocado quesadilla there wasn't any avocado in there. I certainly didn't see anything green, and although the server was nice enough to bring us some slices of avocado what bothers me is the conversation that led up to those slices. David: Excuse me. I don't think there's any avocado in my quesadillas. Server: Sure there is. Don't you taste it? Me: Uhh I don't see anything green in here do you? Server: Well I've had it several times before and there's always been avocado. There just wasn't a need for it. Restrooms: Very spacious ladies! Plenty of room to hang my little purse on the door and dance around if I feel the need to! Most importantly - CLEAN.
(3)Katherine M.
I've been here several times before and have had several enjoyable burgers, but tonight I can say, confidently, I had the best burger of my life. My friend also elevated hers to the same status. We didn't even particularly notice their greatness while we were eating, but after we'd finished our meal we both sort of took a moment before realizing: that...was...amazing. The best descriptor I can give is that I felt like I'd given my stomach a hug. Lame, but this was a truly spiritual experience. Perfect contentment realized. I had the Mighty Mushroom, if you were wondering. The waitress was fine.
(4)F F.
I agree with all the positive comments. This place introduced me to one of my favorite drinks Dark & Stormy so always glad to come back home again. This place is great for first dates because if the date is lame at least the food, drinks and atmosphere will be great. The televisions everywhere made me take one star but the masses love them so I forgive them for the business decision.
(4)Marlene S.
A HUGE thank you to the friendly staff at Christopher's--my boyfriend and I go here frequently and the service is always great. Most notably, I have a number of difficult allergies, and the staff is always patient and helpful about helping me find a dish I can eat or tweaking one to make it work. This is not the case in many restaurants, and in fact since I have developed the allergies I have found it nearly impossible to dine out. Not so at Christopher's--they have a great food and drink menu, nice atmosphere, a huge amount of tables (upstairs too!), and are SO NICE!
(5)Meghan W.
This was the perfect place to meet up with friends for a casual dinner. The menu was extremely varied and there was something for everyone. The service was attentive and the atmosphere was nice. It's conveniently located near the T and there is usually street parking available. While the food didn't knock my socks off, it was what I was expecting and looking for and I would definitely go back.
(4)Alex M.
Ive been here twice and the food was up and down. The first time I came here I got the cajun burger or something to that effect and it was cooked properly and was delicious. The second time I came, I had their famous "english burger" on an english muffin and it was lackluster compared to the reviews I had heard. On the upside though, Christophers has a great selection of beer, a good atmosphere, and good service so I will give it three and hopefully it will suprise me next time.
(3)Muttley D.
Very run of the mill bar fare...the burgers are so-so...and there's not much I can say to make you go there...there's not much I can say against this Porter Square joint...except it's very very average at best...it does have a decent atmosphere and might be an okay place to knock back a pint....
(2)Steve G.
Well my journey up and down the east coast continued with my stop yesterday for lunch at Christoper's and I was not disappointed. First off our server was fantastic and very helpful. I started off with the bruschetta which while not made in the traditional manner was nonetheless fantastic. Next I had a Caesar salad which I enjoyed very much. While I was there noticed many people ordering burgers,that looked great. I will definitely be back on my next trip to Cambridge and looking forward to having a burger at that time.
(4)Veronica A.
OMG the HOME-MADE VEGGIE BURGER!!!! EXCELLENT! That meal will beat any tasty burger in the world. It's FILLLLED with taste! And their fries are HUGE and yummy. The nachos are excellent. Their menu is very large. Their food of the day always has great options. There is literally nothing wrong with this place. Parking takes place in the Porter Square parking lot and then you have to walk across the street. But very very good for a solid meal that you can revisit over and over again. The poopy part? It can be packed sometimes...and if it is, then the chances of you not getting a booth and sitting really close to someone near another table is high. But again, worth the food.
(4)Sarah L.
I have such mixed feelings about this place. I keep going back, feeble attempts to make it into something it just isn't. I like the feel of the place. Dim lighting, dark wood, cozy (sort of), fireplace (though a pointless gas fireplace). Good beer selection...and that's about it. The food is the definition of mediocre. There's always something missing. Brunch in particular is a disappointment. "Waffles" on the menu is actually just one waffle, huevos rancheros is served sans salsa, service is so-so, and coffee is not free-flowing. Dinner service and quality is a little better, probably because they get more tips off booze. I'll probably go back because it's an easy place to meet up with people, and because I'm still a little hopeful that it will live up to expectations.
(2)Jennifer D.
Moved to Porter Square a few months ago, and I first discovered Christopher's while looking for an 11pm dinner on my way home from a long shift at work. Someone pointed me in their direction and I am so happy they did! I've been there for lunch, dinner, and drinks, and have shown up alone, with boyfriend, with the girls, with roommate, and with a friend visiting from NY. Every time has been a great time. I've never experienced a long wait for seating. Sometimes the table service can be a little on the slow side, but the servers are always friendly and happy to answer any questions about the drinks or menu specials. The food is awesome and very reasonably priced. They take pride in making most of their sauces, dressings, etc. in-house (including their hummus... and OMG, it's delicious.... the middle-eastern appetizer platter is probably my favorite thing on the menu!) I love their "healthy" caesar salad, and I liked the veggie burger. Also, I don't eat red meat very often, but find it very hard to resist their steak tips. They always have interesting daily food and drink specials, and a rotating beer list that is, to say the least, pretty kick-ass. I had some Apple Ephemere (?) beer from the rotating list a few times over the fall, and it's probably one of my all-time top 5 beers... I hope they get it back this year! Solid food, casual atmosphere, great drinks, and a very friendly bartender make this place a perfect neighborhood hangout. I definitely plan on going back often :)
(5)Nikki T.
Two words: CLAM CHOWDER!!!! I was in Boston this past weekend for my best friends graduation and we stopped at Christophers for dinner. I had Clam Chowder 3 times on that trip and Christopher's was the best! YUMMMY!!!
(5)Stephanie F.
The burgers at Christopher's is pretty tasty. So far I've had the: - Spicy Pepperjack burger, and the - Roquefort burger (with BBQ marinated onions!) I haven't had any entrees other than burgers 'cuz I'm always craving burgers when I go to this place. Anyway, I haven't been displeased with any of the food yet. The service was pretty good whenever we went. But if you're looking for a larger selection of burger variety, go to O'Sullivan's on the corner of Beacon Street and Sacramento Street in Somerville (right in front of the sketchy Star Market). Their whole menu is burgers galore!
(4)Renee L.
I went here last week, and I can't believe how, every time I come here, there is a wait, I think the restaurant is fairly decent sized. So we got there, and we waited, then we sat down. The waitress was very friendly, and I liked how they had a big recycling/sustainable mantra. I ordered the veggie burger, and it was really good! It came with a salad which had avocado dressing on it (which was TO DIE FOR) and really yummy french fries! My boyfriend got their "famous" burger, and said it was good also. I would totally go back to eat for a nice, casual bite to eat.
(4)Daniel M.
What's wrong with being uncomplicated? Let's say that you're not in the mood to try out that new Malaysian/Indonesian fusion dumpling house. What if you just want a burger and a beer? Christopher's has got you covered. Their food is a cut above standard pub fare, they always have different beers on tap and their cocktails are the reason that my wife suddenly developed a liking for cocktails(that damn Raspberry Lime Rickey). Give it a shot. Try the catfish burger.
(4)Bradley D.
I also like going here when there is nowhere else to go. Everyone I'm with can always agree on coming here and there is something for everyone. Last time I was there I was with a group of 8 or 9 other people. The service was good and the food came out really quick considering the table size. I opted for some variation of a cheeseburger and I can't complain. Cooked just right, and very juicy. Everyone else I was with seemed to enjoy their food too, wether it was the fish and chips, a salad, or some pasta. The beer selection is also decent. All around a good place to go for a good bite to eat.
(4)Emily F.
I think this is a place very dependent upon the day you go and who you go with. I met my old man there, we both had the black bean burger and some beers.. The fries were tasty! Big hunks of potato. The bartender was really nice too. Very attentive. It's not a crazy place, the crowd is mild mannered. A good escape when Toad's next door is too crowded to think.
(4)Kelly N Z R.
GREAT vegetarian and vegan options. Try the buffalo tofu. Or any of their great vegetarian options. I read a review somewhere that said something like "the best place to go if you want a great burger, but your vegetarian friend wants to eat too," and I think that sums it up perfectly. The food is good, the service is good, the ambience is pleasant. It's not romantic, but it has a fun atmosphere. The drinks are good, and from what I can tell, the bartenders seem really knowledgeable. You can often hear the music from Toad, next door.
(4)Rich P.
The food/atmosphere was good enough, but I've spent the past 12 hours with severe stomach problems, clearly related to something I ate there. Look out!
(1)Denise G.
Cheap beer compared to the overpriced place across the street near Lesley and all those Japanese Restaurants. :P Haven't had the food, and probably never will other than an appetizer to go with my gluten-free cider. Cheers!
(4)Charlotte H.
Very consistent. Burgers or brunch, the food's always decent and the service is good. Nice place to go in Porter for all occasions.
(4)Meredith K.
So I'm probably a little biased. My friend worked here for a while, and I got know know a few of her co-workers as well - so of course any time I've gone in there my service has been totally awesome. For a small place they have a decent beer/wine selection and pretty good cocktails too. Food isn't amazing, but it's not bad either. Good salads, burgers, apps etc. and I like the weekend brunches. LOVE the cozy fireplace in the winter. Decent place to grab a beer and burger with friends.
(4)dan m.
An overall nice place that you'll always end up spending lots more time/money than you planned to. They make good rare burgers and the buffalo tofu burger is a great alternative. (I had each of the former on two separate visits) Beer selection is pretty good and pricing not out of this world. Food was beter than most in this category, slight edge over cambridge common (in the food dept only.) For some reason however, my dinner always ends up being around 50-60 when I go here. Booze drinks can build a tab up quick (as they can anywhere)
(4)Danielle M.
I work nearby and go here often for lunch. It's great, the staff is friendly and attentive whether you sit at the tables or at the bar. Rotating local art adds a nice neighborhood feel to the place. Food is yummy - my favorite is the Mozzarella Sandwhich and the Butternut Squash soup when they have it. Cobb Salad is also good, but it is HUGE. Good for weekend drinks as well, has a very cozy atmosphere.
(4)Steve K.
I can make pretty good nachos on my own, at home, for a fraction of the price one normally pays at a restaurant. However, the 'yuppie nachos' at Christopher's cannot be replicated and cannot be beat! The atmosphere is great, there's plenty of seating available (I've never had to wait for a table), and they are one of a few places I've ever been that have Boddingtons on tap! Definitely a great place to get together with friends or family.
(5)Thomas J.
I can't say enough about how much I love this place. I've been so many times and never have I had a bad experience, which is rare when you've been to a place a number of times. The staff is very friendly but not intrusive, the food is excellence and the selection of beer is just fancy enough to try new things but still have the old favorites without a hyped price. The overall feel is calm and you really could sit in a warm wooden booth with friends for hours here and feel like your sitting at home. It's a great place and the kind of place more people should know about or at least try once, I doubt it will disappoint.
(5)B. B.
In my opinion, the only edible dinner item on Christopher's menu is the Roquefort burger, which is extremely tasty. They usually actually cook their burgers to order- a feature which seems increasingly pleasant as it becomes harder to come by. The pasta is always a gamble, and is quite often hideously oversalted. The Mexican is hardly worth clogging an artery. They have a good number of options for drinks. Lots of beer and a decent selection of wine and cocktails. Desserts are overpriced and very bad, with the exception of the carrot cake. The carrot cake is OK.
(3)Katy P.
Christopher's is a great place to go if you're with a group of people who can't decide what to order. They have a broad menu that offers great burgers and other sandwiches, pasta, salads, a daily pizza, and a spattering of Mexican fare and other goodies. The Mexican is decent. It takes care of my cravings, but there are better places to go for this cuisine. The burgers are always yummy and I love their cobb salad. Also, if you're in the mood to indulge, the cajun cheese fries and the variety of nachos they serve are pretty delicious (and WAY cheesy). The wait can be long and the servers are always friendly (though we had one unfortunate issue that I won't mention) My favorite waitress is the one with all the tattoos. I don't recall her name, but she was awesome.
(4)Marina P.
I've only been here for brunch - apparently they have one of the best burgers in America here? - but I thought the food and service were totally satisfactory and the place overall was well priced. I had a breakfast scramble with basil, goat cheese and sundried tomatos. It was really quite delicious and light. Their bloody mary also had a great kick and made for a perfect boozy brunch drink. The interior is cool and relaxing - total dark pub - and makes for a nice place to hang out with friends. I'd definitely come back here to try the burger and perhaps hang out at night!
(3)Nicole K.
I think I'm getting old. I was sold on Christopher's because I could hold a conversation without yelling "WHAT?" over some obnoxious thumping base, and I didn't have to elbow my way up to the bar to order a glass of wine. Yes, I'm so old I now order wine at bars instead of tequila shots. Thank you Christopher's for not judging me. Added bonuses (or is it boni?) - decent food to nosh on and great art on the walls.
(4)Elizabeth F.
I'd heard so many rave about the burgers at Christopher's, and having been there several times now, I don't see what the fuss is about. The food's fine, but not necessarily passionate-recommendation-worthy. The atmosphere is fine, but nothing special. The waitstaff is nice, which is better than a lot of places. The beer selection is good, but then, lots of places have good beer selections. But it's convenient to get to and not ridiculously priced, and there's nothing wrong with it, really. I've been a bunch of times and as long as it's easy to access, I'll keep coming back. So far I've found no reason not to.
(3)Amie R.
I love Christopher's for brunch. While it's not your cheapest option, it's arguably one of the better-tasting. I've had their huevos rancheros and the portobello omlette (and a few others that I can't remember now -- I do remember they were all good though!). This is a cozy, quiet place to meet friends for brunch. The table service isn't always top-notch, but it's never ruined a meal here. Great lunch menu, too! (And drink selection... )
(5)Al A.
Bad hamburgers. Over priced. Slow service.
(2)Erin B.
I love Christopher's, even though the first fifteen minutes I spent in the restaurant came dangerously close to putting me off forever. A friend and I were looking for a restaurant for our birthday dinner, and seeing as half the people coming were vegetarians, we wanted a place that had a wide variety of meat-free options. Christopher's seemed like the perfect place, so I called and made a reservation for 14 people for the next evening. We showed up and I gave the hostess my name...she couldn't find the reservation in the book. "Oh, well that's ok, how many people did you have in your party- four?" Hmm...no, a few more than four people. Somehow, they had a free table upstairs that would fit all of us, so either we had some great luck or they actually did hold a table for us and the hostess just messed up. After that close call, we took our seats and just sat around for a while until I had to go downstairs and ask them for some menus. Not the best start to my Christopher's experience. However, everything else was great that night and has been fine the other times I have gone. Now, on to the food and drink. I LOVE the drinks here. I always seem to spend at least twice as much on drinks as I do on food. My favorite is Ben's Chocolate Espresso Layered Martini. So good! They have a good beer selection too. The food is decent as well. I'm not too adventurous with my food choices, and for dinner I stick with the chicken pesto sandwich. The pesto is delicious, and I like the fries too. I've also been here a couple times for brunch. I get the two eggs any way (scrambled). The quality is better at some other places I've been to, but the meal also comes with bacon, toast, home fries, and fruit, which covers practically all my favorite breakfast foods. The coffee is also some of the best coffee I've ever had, and they keep it coming your whole meal. I can't give Christopher's 5 stars due to the issues I had here at first and the fact that I don't always get the best service by my waiters and waitresses, but I love this place and bring all my visitors here at some point during their trip. If you're in the Porter Square area, I highly recommend this place.
(4)Rachel K.
We went here with a multi-generational gaggle of family members and we all were easily able to find food we loved. The burgers were cooked perfectly, nachos were super-loaded and club sandwich was stacked with deliciousness. The services was quick, friendly - my grandmother even referred to it as "chirpy"...quite a compliment from her! We will have to try the desserts next time we are in...yes we are absolutely planning to go back!
(5)Elmer S.
I love this place. The burgers are excellent and it has a really good beer selection. One of my favorite places to grab food in the Porter area.
(5)Patricia H.
It was after 11 pm so my choices of places for a late supper were small, but in the distant past I had ok food at Christopher's. Not last night -- I had over-salted dried out salmon that didn't taste very fresh, over-salted mashed potatoes, and 5 or 6 tiny sprigs of asparagus for about $15, about the same price they charge for much fresher better salmon and a more generous portion of vegetables at Tavern in the Square. Christopher's was totally uncrowded, quiet enough that even though I was trying to read, I couldn't avoid overhearing a tawdry conversation a few tables away from me. Even at a quiet time, the waitress couldn't be bothered to ask if the food was all right. In the future, I'll try to finish at Healthworks earlier so I can go to Tavern in the Square and get decent food.
(1)Iska B.
Lots of negative reviews here but I didn't have that bad a time at all! I came on a Wednesday night at about 8pm and there was a line, which was surprising but we were allowed to go sit at the bar and wait for a table which was fine and dandy. When we were seated the waitress was really friendly and talkative and I really liked the decor inside. All warm and cozy and dark. The food was totally decent. The burgers were really big and come with a lot of thick meaty fries. We also had some chicken nachos which were generously piled with chicken (though it was rather bland) and cheese. The salsa was a bit too mild and tasted more like tomatoes in lime juice then like actual salsa but hey it's not a real Mexican place or anything. The drinks were decent too, no skimping on the booze although the scorpion bowl seemed a bit weak to me (but then I've never had any scorpion bowl compare to the ones at Rick's Cafe in Billerica) but it was full of fresh fruit which was nice. All in all a very nice experience. It was a little pricey but not overly so. I'd totally come back here for another burger.
(4)Mike H.
I kinda dig this place for a variety of reasons. Mainly because they have the best beer selection of anyplace within walking distance. They have the standard pretty good taps (Boddingtons, Harpoon, Sierra Nevada, Stella) plus a rotating draft list that has some happy notes (I had an Allagash Dubbel last night, one of my favorites). I'm a total tap beer snob and I gotta say their taps are well kept. Their liquor selection is pretty decent as well. Food wise, I've had a bunch of things there and I'd say their pub food is where they shine. Burgers and nachos are well above average goodness. Their fajitas and quesadillas are also good. Prices are average. Plus, it's right across from the T stop. Quieter and better beer than at Tavern at the Square across the way.
(4)Liz W.
Stopped in last night for an early dinner with the kids and met our cousin. She lives in Porter Square but had not been . Pleasantly surprised with the freshness of the food. PJ had the Fettucine with mushrooms and loved the fresh pasta and the dish. Ev was in heaven with his spaghetti and meatballs (licked the plate clean) I had the fish tacos - the fish was a bit disappointing but all the accompaniments were fresh and great. Cuz had the veggie burger - huge but delicious. Will definitely be back - 4 stars for service- while not bad, not stellar.
(4)Heather C.
I love Christopher's food. From salads, to burgers, to veggie burgers and buffalo tofu, I am always satisfied. Ambiance is young (but not too young) and fun. Service can be slow, but not too bad. We had a large party here once, and it worked out great for our friends of various palates. Great beer menu too!
(4)Christopher R.
This place was a bit nice than I had thought. Defintely a bit more classier than Cambridge Common. They have a great menu for vegetarians. We had the Buffalo Tofu and the sauce was out of this world and I dont know how they did it without the tofu becoming mushy and the breading soggy. It was crisp, delicious and the tofu was very firm. Perfect. I had a Cherry Wheat Truffle which was an interesting mix. Id love to go back and try them for brunch.
(5)Michael C.
Good burgers and good beer, no need to consider anything else. Highly recommend.
(4)Mimi W.
Living in Porter Sq, Christopher's is my neighborhood bar. I like it because it's got a fair amount of seating, the place has a nice sophisticated look about it and there's a nice fireplace in the back which is really inviting in the winter. I also love their spicy pepperjack burger, and their lobster ravioli was good. I think it's a nice option that they have buffalo tofu for the vegetarians. The spiked lime rickey is good too. I wouldn't say the food is stellar, but it's a good price, and it's a nice hearty meal. What I don't like is that sometimes the host is rude. Once there was a young (like 17) boy who was hosting. Must have been the owner's son or something. When someone told him to give us the dessert menu, he tossed them up carelessly on our table without looking away from his conversation with some other staff person.
(3)Maureen D.
I have been to Christopher's maybe three or four times, never my choice, and this past time will be my last. I have never been impressed with the food, sometimes finding it bland, sometimes just bad, and the service has been reliably poor. Yesterday we were seated for brunch, then our waitress eventually came over, and then 25 minutes later we had to flag her down to ask where our food was. When she came back from the kitchen without our food, she essentially yelled at me that there wasn't anything *she* could do, the food would be out. Sorry! Ummmmm, there's a whole bunch you could do. You could stay on top of our order, you could seem sincere when you have customers who have been delayed so long that one of them misses their connection at South Station, you could provide service. I don't know if the order never went in or if the kitchen screwed it up, but this was the last bad experience I'm having at Christopher's. Next time someone wants to go there, I'm opting out.
(1)Karen P.
What can I say about this place, my FAVORITE all-around place to hang out in the Boston area so far? Consistently great food. Consistently great service. Consistent friendliness. Consistent comfortable-ness (yes I made up a word for them). Consistent great prices. Consistent awesome beer list and strong drinks! I could be biased because this place is a 10-minute walk from my house. But I'd say there are a few other reasons to go: first of all, they have a very good selection of items for vegetarians, or people who eat only seafood, like myself. (their angel hair/shrimp/scallop pasta is to die for). I CRAVE THEIR BUFFALO TOFU LIKE THERE IS NO TOMORROW. MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM OH MY OH MY OH MY!! yes that was a tofu gasm. ... Secondly, the place is always full but not too full, and I've never ever seen a scowling face inside the warm, cozy wooden-floored place. Try sitting with your back to the fireplace when it's cold out, it's great! But let's get back to the food. Seriously. Where else in Boston can you get an enormous nacho plate for $5.95? And that's just the SMALL portion. Thirdly, they are one of the only bars in the area serving food until at least 12. GREAT food, and a full menu. yay! and they always have different food and drink specials ... Fourthly, I BELIEVE (not entirely sure) their menu indicates that all their meat is farm-raised ... if not organic ... YAY for responsible feeding of the public! so lacking from so many restaurants today ... And finally, if you like bars with great atmosphere but not dark and grimy and way too loud, you'll love Christopher's as much as I do. Its clientele are educated, laid-back, and just there to catch up with friends/have great conversation. Try to skip the mixed drinks, though (even though one of the bartenders makes great martinis, as he used to work in a martini bar, try and get him to make the Snickers Bar one on a slow night). This is a beer bar all the way. So ... my five-star rating stands ... HOW-ever, my only complaint is that they need to put the Texas Ruby chocolate cake back on the menu. Won't stop me from hanging out at least once a week, though ... great job you guys!! p.s. i read every review on here, many of which talk about crappy service. as a waitress, maybe i'm just the most patient of eaters, but i have never had a problem. ok, they're not acting like they're your best friend, i can see that, but i've never had a major problem. when i'm waiting for food, i just talk to who i'm with and the time flies by. don't go in there starving, i guess. it's just food, people, and i mean that with all kindness. really. look around. if your server seems a bit harried, it's probably just because he/she has a large section and is very busy. cut he/she a break. : ) and tip well!
(5)Merida F.
We went for dinner on a Sunday to celebrate a friend leaving for a trip. It wasn't too crowded and we were seated right away. We ordered the Salmon Fettuccine, Chicken Broccoli Penne, Burger, and the house special Ravioli. Everyone enjoyed their dinners and the portions were quite large. Our actual server wasn't very attentive and spent the time talking to his friends-so the other server ended up helping us with our needs more.
(3)Angela M.
This place was right down the street from my old apt. in Porter Square. The place was usually pretty busy, but the wait was never ridiculous. They have a burger on an English muffin which is pretty delightful. They also know how to pour a pint of Guinness, which is always appreciated. Cheap, convenient to the train and a nice, laid-back atmosphere.
(4)Patrick B.
Don't let the wall of awards in the foyer fool you--Christopher's has earned its 3 stars on Yelp by being "nice" and "all right" but "nothing special." It looks like it should be so much better than you end up feeling on your way out. This visit supplied us with a great waiter. He was always there and always polite but not overbearing. My first mistake was to stray from the specials menu--should have tried the Sunday brunch Huevos Rancheros, but opted, instead, for the Spinach and Artichoke Chimichanga ($7.95). I love chimis cause they're crispy, but the menu warned it would be covered in a red sauce, and this made it kind of, well, flabby and soggy. Plus, artichoke is a tough flavor to pull off in large amounts, and this poor drowned chimi was absolutely stuffed with it. Serves me right. She had the real reason you should grace this place with your presence: Blackened Sirloin Salad ($12.95). The conundrum was this: can they blacken the sirloin while still serving it rare? Yes, they can do that, and did, dammit. Taking in those greens with onion, tomato, peppers, blue cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette, she announced it her new favorite salad. Allowed a few precious bites, I'd say it would be hard to beat.
(3)David G.
I've been going to Christophers on and off for the past two years, but I've pretty much given up on it at this point. It's the kind of place that I want to like, and seems at first glance that I should, but never seems to deliver. If I could sun this place up in one word it would be "forgettable". The food isn't bad in anyway, but it's never very good either. It's just usually adequate and I guess that's fine. The wait times aren't usually very good for this place unfortunately, and a long time always seems to pass no matter what you choose to order there. The service has been pretty bad for me on most visits, but not because the waitress was rude, but usually because they make one visit to the table and go missing the rest of the night. Also, some of the waitresses are a little flakey and seems to be a little spaced out. Not all of them, but some surely shouldn't be waiting tables for a living. The atmosphere doesn't do anything for me. There's nothing specifically wrong with it, but it seems a bit open and cold to me, and the 1970's dark wood interior doesn't help. In summary Christopher's is a place you might go when you can't decide where to go, but get reminded afterwards that you wish you had tried something else instead. Boring and adequate with a blah staff.
(3)K M.
I've been a few times to Christophers and always seem to order the same thing: yuppie nachos and a lime/cucumber cocktail. So if my opinions on food are a little limited, it's only because these are two great options! Overall, Christophers is a bit run-of-the-mill. It doesn't have too much outstanding in the way of decor or atmosphere, except for the god-awful local "art" that covers the downstairs walls (honestly, there was a artist who made scraps of knitting with 'found' yarn and twigs... that's not art, that's the unfortunate aftermath of a craft-store tornado.) The one time I've gone with a pickier friend, our waiter was very understanding about her last-minute order swap, although it arrived with a few errors.
(3)Todd W.
Extremely mediocre food. The staff has typically been a downer. But if you're going for good beer and good surrounds, then this place is great. The ever-changing, and well selected beer menu, is the really the only reason this place even gets three stars.
(3)Gracie B.
First Impressions: I had always wanted to try Christopher's. From the outside I always thought I'd find a darkly inviting and cozy little neighborhood spot. It did feel that way when I walked in on a recent cold and snowy day.. But unfortunately the feeling didn't last as I was whisked right past the available tables near the fireplace, only to be seated in a tiny spot near a drafty brick wall on the other side of the room. (The place was crowded, but there were still at least 2 or 3 other good seating options.) You should try to please the customer from the minute they walk through the door, and that starts with where you seat them. Service: The servers were young, and eager to please but missed the mark on many levels. The best example I have of that is when our waitress kept asking us how we were or if we needed anything, but never stayed around for our answers. It was comical. I actually had to shout after her that yes I would in fact like some more coffee. I know this might really be pushing in in the needy-customer department. And tell me if you think this is an outrageous request. But I have always felt that the mark of a great server is when the ask you how your food is after first noticing whether or not your mouth is full. We asked at least twice for spoons to stir our coffee, and more creamers to put in that coffee. (Side note: Yes, I said creamers. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with that. But again, I just expected more; like actual milk in a pitcher, or half and half. Not a huge deal though). She did finally bring the creamers, but forgot the spoon. I just stirred my coffee with my fork. (Again, not a huge deal, I'm just saying....) The meal: I don't know, maybe I shouldn't have waited until 2:30 to go there when brunch ends at 3:00. But I don't think that was the problem. They have good menu choices. But the food quality and presentation was comparable to your basic TGIF type places. It's great if you like those kinds of places, but I was expecting more. I ordered huevos rancheros. I thought the portion size was just fine, no complaints there. I also liked how they added plenty of fruit to the plate. Some places will put 1 strawberry on a brunch plate and consider it brunchy. My dish had lots of strawberries, cantaloupe, grapes, and honeydew. That was very nice. Even though the cantaloupe was totally not ripe. My home fries were cold. The flour tortillas were stale and hard. Not only were the onions inside the omelet totally undercooked and crunchy, but there were a *million* of them. Coming over the 1st time to check on us, the waitress asked me if I wanted some salsa. The dish came with 2 little containers of black beans and sour cream. But the fact that it did not come with salsa, and she asked me if I wanted some almost as an after thought struck me and my fellow diner as odd. Bottom line: Our waitress was a real sweetheart, who was not refined or very smooth and did not seem to be working in a place that had any desire to teach her. I do not blame her *at all* and we tipped her 20%. My sense is that management just does not have extremely high expectations of giving an above average dining experience because they know they can get away with less. They are in a great location, and do not seem to hurt for customers. The funny part is that I would go there again. One reason is just to give them another chance. It could have been an off day or bad timing. But like I said in the beginning, I kind of doubt it. Secondly, I think this must be a much better place to go at night before or after some other activities, like hearing music or hanging out with friends. I went here as a brunch destination and I had high hopes. I would probably be much happier with a beer and a burger and a bunch of friends. I'll probably go once more and call it a day on Christopher's.
(2)stacey l.
Big place with a big menu. I haven't had a lot here, but I love the burger menu at this place. The house veggie burger is tasty as I am always looking for a nice fresh veggie burger. Not the best, but respectable. Nice service.
(3)Sarah G.
9/8/11: Must update, as I've been taking Christopher's for granted for too long. Great for vegetarians. Mexican menu items are still sub par, but tofu sliders, salads, and veggie burger are all great. Nice beer selection, decent atmosphere. I like the amount of vegetarian options on the menu and the healthier than normal pub food pub food, but nothing is spectacular. That said, tonight I wanted a veggie reuben but all they have on the menu is a portabello reuben. It was no problem for them to sub tofu for shroom and mmmm, the sandwich was tasty. The tofu fajitas leave much to be desired - some unfrozen vegetable mix with Mrs. Dash and tofu, yuck. Not a huge beer selection, but their variety is decent and well thought out. Waits are never super long because they've got tons of tables.
(4)Phil D.
One star for the fireplace. One star for the convenient location. This place is usually last on my list of options in the Porter Square area.
(2)molly f.
So aside from the fact that we nearly got into a fight with an old lady there giving us the stink eye for over an hour, dinner & drinks at Christopher's was fun, affordable, and low key. Our server was friendly and the selection of entrees, appetizers and adult beverages was plentiful. I ended up with a delicious burger topped with boursin cheese and caramelized onions and it was seriously yummy. Everyone we were with seemed to enjoy their food & the atmosphere...I would like to come back & try some of the other options on the menu & to see what the bar scene is like when a bunch of old women aren't trying to evil eyeball you out of the place.
(4)Rooster L.
I really like this place. It is a nice size and has a good feel to it. Good beer and booze selection and the prices for food are reasonable. I got the slider special which had a salmon burger with pesto, chicken sandwich, and beef burger with garlic aioli. The chicken and beef were great with alot of flavor. The salmon burger was good, although I've never had one before so I don't know what it was supposed to taste like. My boyfriend had the chicken wings and loved them. They were breaded and had a tastey sauce although not too spicy. I appreciate that they use all natural beef (grass fed I think) and chicken and don't charge an arm and a leg for it. The bartender was very busy but I thought the service was ok to good. My complaint would be the music - it was really cheesy 80's when we were there. It is right next door to TOAD, so a good spot to grab a bite then go listen to some live music (no cover there). Will definitely go back.
(4)Lily C.
I've been to Christopher's a few times because my sister lives near it. Usually the food is pretty good and the service is fine. The nachos are very good and I like that they have Woodchuck Cider on their menu. Last week I went to Christopher's with my Mom and my sister around 6:30-7pm. After a fairly short wait we were brought to our table. We ordered drinks and an appetizer and our entrees. The nachos took a while to come out but not outrageously long. Our entrees took forever. The waitress came over twice to apologize and my sister stopped her once more to ask about our food. The parties sitting on either side of us, who had been seated long after us, had already been served. Finally, our entrees came with the explanation that there was a party of 65 upstairs and a lot of them had ordered pasta so our pasta took a while. There was no mention of compensation for the time we waited and waited and waited (gratis drinks would have been appreciated), management never came over to apologize for the delay, nothing. They must have known they were going to have a party of 65 in that night. Why not plan a little better and, if you didn't, try to placate the customers who had to suffer for your lack of planning.
(2)Julia F.
I went to Christopher's for the first and only time with my friend - both in dire need of libation. We parked the car in the Porter Sq parking lot and strolled in to the restaurant and plopped down at the bar. We ordered Appletinis. This wasn't the first time I'd had them, but it was the first time I'd had one made with any real amount of alcohol in them. The bartender was generous from the start. Since we were drinking the same drink - and at different paces, he would top the other class off every time he made a drink. Due to the nice-nice mixing by the bartender, I was in need of a cigarette shortly there after and frequently from then on. Each time I went out for a smoke the hostess would open the door for me (nice) and say goodbye (clearly confused...) I sheepishly explained my extreme addiction to nicotine, and yet each time she would say goodbye to me. When I jokingly asked if they wanted me to leave, she was confused and seemed to take affront to the comment. The bathroom was clean - though I still wouldn't use it, I like to at least look at public bathrooms that my friends dub "not scary, but still not Julia friendly" you could park a freaking BUS in the bathroom at this joint. It puts most handicap bathrooms to shame! We had some appetizers, but I'll be damned if I remember what they were or how they tasted. The bartender got me drunk. I appreciated it - except for the fact that I drove there... We didn't even end up paying for all the drinks we drank. At least we still had some of our wits about us in the end, cause we tipped appropriately for the drinkage.
(3)First L.
I have been going to Christopher's for years, it's a great neighborhood restaurant with friendly wait staff, good food at reasonable prices, a down-to-earth bar with a great drink selection. It even has a cozy fireplace for cold winter days/nights. And for late owls looking for a place to eat after 10pm, this place serves dinner until midnight! Highly recommended to anyone looking for an overall good meal experience.
(4)Joe D.
Fun atmosphere and good food. I had the special Haddock Cakes and they were mediocre. There was very little Haddock and the meal as a whole felt like an appetizer. Everything else was great!
(4)Ryan P.
I've gone to Christopher's several times and have enjoyed myself every night. It's the prefect place to bring the family, or have a great date. The beer selection is decent and you know the stock is rotated quickly. I would definitely recommend.
(4)Gail F.
The food was fine, but the service is always slow! Too bad!
(2)William B.
Poor service, bad food, moderately pleasant environment. I live nearby, and about every two to three years forget my last experience and go back, thinking I must have made a mistake, and it's really okay. Sigh. The worst ever was what they claimed was a Cobb salad. No way.
(1)Mihir P.
I ate here before Yelp was even around and I still vividly remember how bad the food was. The Thai chicken sandwich was a sad piece of grilled chicken breast with a diluted peanut butter for the peanut sauce. Yes, gross. The mango jerked chicken had no jerk to it and was dry as hell - and the piece was a chicken leg. Then I tried the risotto which was undercooked and crunchy. The menu has changed since but now it looks as though they are trying to please everyone. You'll see what I mean. I give Christopher's two stars as the manager was extremely polite and took two meals off the check without us asking.
(2)Sherry F.
I always enjoy going to Christopher's. There burgers are awesome, nachos are great and there mixed drinks are good also. I usually go preety early so I never have to wait more than 5-10 minutes. Parking can be a pain, I usually park in the lot across the street which you are not supposed to do but I haven't gotten a ticket yet.
(4)Jamie A.
Both of the times we've been to Christopher's, I've been pleased. For my first visit (it was right after we signed our lease to move to the area!), Tim & I ordered some beers, split the nacho appetizer (tasty, but nothing out of the ordinary), and the fish & chips (highlight of the night...very good.) I also recommend their Healthy Ceasar Salad...it's great for not feeling tooooo bad about dinner if you're watching your calories and such. It's light and very filling.
(3)Liz D.
Just wanted to add that one of their rotating taps always features a Magic Hat beer now, nice!
(5)Jason K.
I'm having communication issues...the long and short of it: Christopher's used to be really good. Now it is not. The breakdown: It's next to Toad - good. The food is marginal - not good. Nice beer selection - good. Waitress had trouble taking orders - not good. Hostess was checking me out - good. That last line was a big, fat lie - downright sad.
(2)Becka D.
Good place if you are looking for a casual, sit-down place. Huge menu with enough options for everyone...including a decent amount of vegetarian options. Great burgers & tex-mex, and the salads are pretty tasty too. And the fries are those thick-cut wedge kind...mmmm. The ambiance is typical for the Irish-pub. Lots of wood inside, and has a warm feel to it.
(4)Quita C.
I can't believe I haven't eaten here yet. I live fairly close to Porter Square and usually only end up at Christopher's for drinks. My friend and I decided to get dinner here after an exhausting day of shopping and mayhem. We were seated right away and our server was so pleasant. Order the fried pickles! They were amazing and I can't even describe the love I now have for the buttermilk dipping sauce that came with them. So Tasty! Also my friend and I ordered one of their specials her the chicken burger and I the gnocchi. Neither of us were disappointed in the slightest. I will tell you they give generous portions for the prices and they are just as good as leftovers. Also I can't forget to mention how decently priced the cocktails were. I will definitely be coming back here again.
(5)Charles C.
very slow service. I've been here for 25 minutes now and am still waiting for my food. no idea when it is coming and it doesn't look promising. the restaurant is not even full. absolutely terrible service and unacceptable update: got my food 30 mins later. staff slightly apologetic. home fries is too oily and there are some bad chunks... French toast also too heavy. I ate here 6 months ago and loved it. I was excited to come back, but this time it was incredibly underwhelming. this ruined my day. i feel depressed.
(1)Gonen M.
I really don't like to write bad reviews, but... Christopher's really doesn't deserve a good review. I've been here for 3 times and I don't think I'll go again. The service is super slow. One time, I had to wait almost 40 minutes for a sandwich. The food is not so great. The environment is depressing and dark. If you want to eat something and have a beer with friends, I suggest McCabes on Mass, which is like a block away from C's. Tavern in the Square across the street is also another option.
(2)Susan S.
My commute to work takes me by this little hole in the wall restaurant every day and it has been bookmarked on my Yelp list. This is a decent place overall with good food at reasonable prices and friendly service. It was very busy for a Wednesday night with a short wait for a table and this is a good indicator of its popularity. My favorite part of this restaurant is the atmosphere. The building has an older, dimly lit, historic feel to it and is very cozy. I loved our little table for two tucked away in the corner. A little candle was in the window next to us and it provided a perfect romantic backdrop on a summer rainy evening. We started our dinner with fried calamari as an appetizer and it was quite good. I went with the grilled salmon dinner as a healthier option after splurging on the fried calamari. The salmon was cooked perfectly with just the right amount of crisp to the outside. The side dishes, however, were a little disappointing. I have given risotto a chance in the past, but I am not a big fan. Their risotto creation mixed with kale and corn may be appealing to some, but is not my thing. It was accompanied by parsnip purée which tasted okay, but paired next to the risotto it all seemed very mushy. I would have loved a side of rice and asparagus instead. My dining partner chose the steak tips which I sampled, but was not super impressed with the flavor. We both had a truly amazing steak earlier in the week, so in all fairness it may be hard for any steak to compete after that. Parking is tricky as Christopher's is located right along Mass Ave, but don't let that be a deterrent to giving this little spot a try.
(4)Felix G.
Christopher's is the friendly Porter Square bar that everyone knows and goes to. It has everything you need in a solid bar: a variety of decent burgers, a surprisingly wide selection of beers that changes seasonally, and wonderful service. While Christopher's won't change how you view bars or transcend food, it does provide an ideal bar experience, and anyone in the Porter Square area would be remiss to avoid it.
(4)Stella B.
I went this place for dinner with my husband tonight and we had healthy Cesar salad, boneless Buffalo , English burger and fish and chips with some beers. Their food were great because we were starving but nothing special . I mean, I know our choices are nothing special so I don't complain . Lol I wanted to give 4stars but I'm considering we were starving so I give 3 stars . Service was just okay , no complain but nothing great. Pictures I took are great though .
(3)Shirley E.
Christopher's is definitely my go-to neighborhood bar. Most importantly: TRY THE JOHNNY DEPP RUM PUNCH! This not-to-sweet fruity drink that has a splash of pineapple juice was introduced a few summer's ago and became such a hit that they put it on the menu permanently. The burgers are always perfectly portioned and juicy with a decent size helping of fries to share with your dining partner (or you can substitute it for a salad, of course). Service is always swift and efficient, even during peak times and the staff sets the bar for 'welcoming service with a smile'. I'm not a beer fan, however, if you are you'll love the variety draft selection offered. Based solely on what I've read in the descriptions or over heard from patrons their selection has something for everyone.
(4)Ali L.
Everything about this place is cute and a nice neighborhood space. I'm a fan.
(4)Keo H.
The bf & I had a nice chill & relaxing brunch here. Its considerate on the wallet & outdoor seating. Service was prompt. The brussel sprouts a tad bit overcioked but the cheese & bacon made up for the shortfall. The burger was good but the muffin it came in was a lil dry for me. The fries are freekin awesome!! Crispy outside & soft inside. Our drinks were really good for less than $10 each. Its ur good ol' neighborhood restaurant grill. Nothing fancy schimanchy.
(3)Catarina D.
Quite consistently acceptable food. Nothing out of this world, nothing I'd want to spit out. I know it's not a high compliment, but it's true. Do me a favor and don't crowd up this place on nights when I don't want to spend an hour in line at the all-star restaurants a short walk away in Davis Square ;)
(3)E F.
Yum! Fun mixed drinks, tasty food every time, a bit crowded some nights, but as I always say, that's not a bad sign. The mussels and fries were super tasty! Shoestring fries with just the right amount of salt and mussels that made my stomach super happy. The mixed drinks do have silly names. You may not say them right the first time. But they will come promptly, with lots of mango flavor, and rather strong. A regular for date night.
(4)Renee F.
The kitchen is very slow. We came here at 1:00pm and the restaurant was only half full, but it took 30 min for our food to arrive. And the food wasn't good either. The fries and the chicken were overfried and hard. The french toast was okay. Would not recommend this to anyone.
(1)Robyn B.
Nice beer selection, friendly staff, cozy & comfortable environment. The veggie burger isn't anything special...but I had to try it given the other yelp reviews. I much prefer the mushroom burger! For appetizers, get the fried pickles and/or mussels. So good.
(4)Sarah M.
I'm always skeptical of places literally across the street from T stations-- somehow, it seems logical that they don't have to work as hard to serve good food, since they're guaranteed a crowd from the T. Christopher's, however, disproves this point. They're one block from Porter and are one of the ass-kickingist bars/restaurants in Porter Square. There's plenty of seating at the bar and around the restaurant-- don't forget the upstairs. Service is friendly. The menu is pretty extensive, and most importantly, NOT expensive. You can do well for yourself for $15-20 here, which is not common for a sit-down restaurant in Cambridge. Culinary highlights include the Brussels sprouts with bacon and cheese, chicken panini, veggie burger (though I am not yet comfortable calling it the best veg burger in the area), and fries of all types. They've also got a great beer list with a sizeable list of rotating specials. Ultimately, in an era when limited-selection menus and small plates are the trend, Christopher's provides a welcome respite to those who prefer choice and bigger portions in an unpretentious, cozy space. Whether you're veg, gluten free, alcohol-only-- chances are you'll find something here you want to try, and you'll want to stay a while, too.
(5)Misato P.
We went to Christopher's on a week night(Tuesday night) around 6:30pm. The place filled up pretty quickly at dinner time. My friends had Cobb salad (large portion with fresh everything- she loved it) and cod fish plate(hearty fresh grilled cod fish- again, she loved it!). I ordered their famous toad burger: it has all natural beef burger with melted cheddar, pickles, crispy onions, chopped lettuce and special toad sauce, on an onion roll. What is a special toad sauce? It is a mixture of ketchup, mustard, mayo and I'm pretty sure it had some tangy stuff like BBQ sauce or something! I really enjoyed this burger a lot and no wonder it is their famous go-to burger for many patrons. Their fries are steak fries which I loved! I'm definitely going back there for more :-)
(5)Brie P.
Beer, good food, and family friendly atmosphere. I've been here a few times, and have enjoyed my time here. I always try the turkey club (something so simple, how can you screw it up?) And they made it perfectly. Great turkey, awesome bacon, bread nicely toasted and their fries were good. They made some great hearty food too, and their soup is great on a cold New England day. Two floors, comfortable seating, great staff. Not a bad spot to hit up with a small group.
(5)Chris J.
Finally made it! I'm new to the area and have been attempting to systematically taste my way around somerville. Sunday afternoon late lunch/early dinner. I ordered the appetizer special which was "Cajun" cheese fries with bacon and a buffalo ranch sauce. They were yummy. Initially my first order was wrong, but the waitress happily took it away and the manager promptly returned with the correct order and I was only charged half price for the app. My entree was the Greek salad. That thing was on point. A salad hearty enough for a man of my size. Chicken was seasoned well and moist. The feta was nice and creamy and veggies were immaculate. As I was good watching, I noticed quite a few sandwiches roll out of the kitchen. They were definitely calling me. Until my next visit I guess.
(5)Faith K.
I don't know why I haven't reviewed Christopher's sooner, but I love this place. I kept meaning to get in here and would always forget because porter wasn't really on my radar, but we ended up in here one day for lunch and never looked back. This is one of those awesome restaurants where vegetarians and meat eaters can go together and both leave satisfied. Service is great and always friendly. Sometimes it seems slow and like they're understaffed, but it's worth a little patience. Good food, reasonable pricing, vegetarian friendly, clean and cozy inside (love the fireplace!) I've enjoyed everything I have tried, except for the spinach dip. That was weird and gross in my opinion. BUT, the salads are huge and tasty, the fries are on point every time and never greasy or salty, the veggie burger is different with the pesto and roasted peppers and it is absolutely delicious, and there are always vegetarian soup options. Just go, you won't regret it.
(5)Rick M.
Love Christopher's burgers! Especially the ghost pepper burger. Ghost pepper cheese with Sriracha sauce mixed in with the beef. Delicious!! I enjoy the Sriracha pulled pork too, but they don't put enough meat in it.
(5)Tanya S.
This place is so friendly! We've had good luck here on weekends, during world cup, etc. Big TVs, friendly service, very accommodating. They have a lot of different burgers, and eating gluten free was not an issue at all. Food was delicious.
(4)Kim A.
No parking, you may have a wait, and I have never had anything that I like here. My husband likes it though, good beer selection and the yuppy nachos. The staff are always nice and the fireplace is a great touch during the cold months!
(3)Lynette S.
I really liked this restaurant. We ate outside for convenience ( I had a stroller and a kiddo who wanted to move around). The food was excellent! I got the veggie burger (house-made) and my friend got the tofu salad. We spilt the chocolate bread pudding. Mojito was also very, very good. Service was nice as well. Only thing missing from this place is no baby changing table in the bathroom.
(4)Jake F.
Solid burger here at Christopher's. I love places that will serve their burgers on an english muffin. Really lets the meat shine. Subtracting one star for fries being a bit on the soggy side. This meal would have been perfect with hotter, crispier fries. Overall a great vibe and excellent beer list. Definitely a go-to in Porter.
(4)M B.
Amelia! Amelia! Amelia! Best waitress we have ever had. She goes above and beyond to make sure our orders are correct. We specifically asked for her name just so we could write this review. We have been there a few other times and have been less impressed with the service. I just wished they learned a thing or two from Amelia. The food is pretty good and reasonably priced. We like the assorted nachos. Other items have been more mediocre. Overall we will keep coming back, especially if Amelia is working.
(5)Daniel F.
I can't remember the last time I left a Yelp review, but I feel compelled to after a seriously disappointing meal this evening. Christopher's is a fun place to be, with great decor, a nice beer list and friendly staff, but the food itself leaves something to be desired. I got the chicken pot pie, which came with a Caesar salad on the side. It was really bad. The salad was over-dressed, warm, and wilted, as was the salad that came with my girlfriend's meal. The chicken pot pie felt, smelled, and tasted like really thick clam chowder without the benefit of clams, with an unwieldy tuft of puff pastry atop the gloopy white mass. My girlfriend got the salmon burger. It had way too much going on in terms of toppings, and the salmon patty was bready, but it was great by comparison. We shared her meal and left mine. We also got the fried pickles. They were ok, but there was way too much breading and you could hardly taste the pickles. Still the highlight of the meal. Needless to say, we were disappointed. I remember having a nice meal at Christopher's a couple years ago and have brought my girlfriend by a couple times, promising that our last experience was just a fluke and they really do serve good food. I think I'll give up now. Seriously good beers, though, so at least there's that. Maybe after enough beer, the food would start tasting better.
(2)Nicole C.
Christopher's is a great cozy, reliable spot with friendly service and an awesome brownie sundae! My favorite bartender, Tami, always has a smile and is on top of her game! Good beer selection and cocktails as well!
(4)Marina G.
I was going to give this place a four star rating, but then I remember I once found somebody's loong light brown hair in my food (not mine!). The burgers are pretty OK, the specials are pretty good, and the local cider is great. Unfortunately the sweet potato fries are awful, I always find myself freezing here. At least it's never a long wait for dinner or brunch.
(3)Molly G.
Christopher's is my favorite american restaurant in Cambridge. I would describe their menu as upscale bar food, and everything I've had has been really tasty. The blue cheese burger is the best burger I've ever had. The tater tots with ghost chili cheese are really good, too. The only thing keeping me from giving them five stars are their desserts- definitely not on par with the rest of the food. I've had the bread pudding, the molten lava cake and the brownie sundae, and didn't really like any of them. Their draft selection is really good and changes pretty often.
(4)Anna W.
Excellent all around. Great pub style ambience and friendly staff. Our orders arrived quickly and everything we got was soooo good. I had the chicken pot pie, super rich, delicious comfort food.
(5)Bryan K.
Met up with friends for a celebration dinner. I had the veggie burger with french fries. The burger was remarkably moist and delicious. It almost tasted like stuffing from Thanksgiving. The french fries were large chip style, and it also came with a salad for only $10. Service was very pleasant and not rushed. Will definitely go back the next time I'm in Porter Square.
(4)Izzy G.
It's everything you want in a neighborhood restaurant! But better. The chicken nachos.. Amazing. Not greasy at all and really filling. I like to add extra jalapeños. The English burger is a favorite and my husband enjoys the rotating burger specials. Great kids menu, always friendly service and such a great list of drinks at a reasonable price. We used to be regulars when we lived across the street, but we still pop in from time to time and it's consistently good food and drinks.
(4)Alan T.
This review is long overdue. Christopher's is my go to place - PERIOD! If I am alone and want a dinner, maybe a veggie burger, a blackened chicken sandwich or anything else on the inviting yet simple menu - with or without a tap beer or mixed drink, this is where i sit. I can get excellent service at the bar or at a nice table. When I'm hosting an event, I bring my guests to Christophers afterwards. When someone i really want to communicate with is around and we're hungry and want to continue our discussion, we all go to Christophers. I've been coming her since 1990. That's 25 years! I used to live in Porter Square. There are other places BUT not as good food, service, atmosphere and price. You can get a fine meal for under $10.- !
(5)Karmen C.
Definitely my favorite place to go for a burger in the area. I've tried a bunch of places in the Cambridge area that supposedly have amazing burgers but I still come back to ranking the Christopher's burger as my go-to-spot. The price is also unbeatable, $9.95! For a while I was also obsessed with their fries that come as a side with the burgers. Their salads are also sizeable and delicious.
(5)Lauren E.
This place is huge! There's 2 floors of seating plus outdoor tables for when it gets warm in Boston. It's in a great location too -- steps away from the Porter T station. The food here was delicious! They are known for their veggie burgers but I had the turkey burger. It was flavorful, tasty, and just great. It came with avocado, lettuce, and tomato (plus pickled onions but I removed those) and chipotle mayo. So many delicious flavors and just the right size. The French fries were thick but crispy and had just the right amount of salt. Delicious all around! Would definitely go back! The only reason I'm not giving it 5 stars is because the service wasn't amazing.
(4)Inês L.
Well, this was a huge disappointment. Thanks to Yelp, I read that this place offers some vegan friendly options. Cool! The waitress was nice enough to double check and confirm for me that the veggie burger HAS eggs but the tofu beet burger does NOT. I got the tofu beet burger and it was pretty pathetic. It had absolutely no flavor. It was just a crispy, red, flat patty. Not even the lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup could save it :( My bf got the turkey reuben and he said it wasn't good either. How do you mess that one up? Shame. We also got the spring rolls and they were pretty tasty but pricey considering it only came with three little rolls. Our meals were just a $1 more than the appetizer and the meals had much more food. The best part of our meal was the fact that it was pretty cheap and the fries were decent. Otherwise, not visiting this place again.
(1)Dennis M.
Kinda made up my own thing. Burger and a bloody. A perfectly cooked southwest burger and a spot on Bloody Mary. Thank you sir, may I have another? This really should be a daily special
(4)Steph H.
Best service I think I have ever had at a restaurant! Came here after the Boston Marathon after seeing it had one of the top 10 veggie burgers in Boston. It did not disappoint. The craft beer selection was pretty great, which was another draw to this place. I subbed the gluten free potato cake for the fries, which I HIGHLY recommend. The brussel sprout appetizer was amazing. They actually messed up one person's order but the way our waitress handled it was beyond professional. She brought out chips and salsa in the meantime as well as a salad for the person. There is an entire gluten free menu for those that are in need of that sort of thing. Overall, our party of 8 was highly impressed and we all left raving about this place. Thanks Christophers and our amazing waitress for a most memorable post marathon experience!
(5)Jo M.
Christopher's is pretty good. A great selection of beers, and the burger list is great. Definitely worth dropping in to.
(3)Will M.
This is my go-to bar for burgers and beer and I have never been let down once. The service is prompt, friendly, and helpful. The burgers are absolutely to-die-for, and you can get huge size ones too if you are feeling ravenous. Best of all though is the great draft beer selection - highly recommend the nitro stouts, mayflower porter, or some of their pale ale selection.
(5)Noreen A.
I love most if their menu but especially the diversity of burgers. Wonderfully made and very filling! The staff are very courteous and nice. The ambiance and prices are great too. For 2 years, this place has made it to the top 3 places to go when in or around porter Sq. When I need time to eat by myself and not feel so awkward that I'm lonely. I'd totally recommend it
(4)Lana A.
Our party of three enjoyed perfectly cooked meals for lunch here, with each of us choosing different entrees as well as side dishes. Meal delivery was timely. The only down side was having been assigned a somewhat inattentive (though friendly) wait staff, but this only caused minor problems during our visit. All three of us would recommend Christopher's to others and we will definitely return in the future.
(4)Stephanie M.
I've been coming here for a while now, and have never really been disappointed. If you're looking for a casual dining experience with an assorted menu ranging from vegetarian friendly to a burger this is always at the top of my list. It's not fancy, the food isn't gourmet, but it's always a good time. I generally never order anything except one of their salads or a burger. I usually just get too excited that I'm here and get to have one or the other that I never want to try anything else. I've had the boneless wings, nachos, and various other shared plates as well. The spicy artichoke dip is indeed, a bit spicy. The wait staff have always been friendly and courteous. There can be times when you're seated near a big party that it gets far too loud for you to carry on a conversation with your own party, but eh it's a restaurant. One of my favorite features? The bathrooms are one holers.. I hate large restaurant bathrooms. Yea yea.. Weird I know. A couple of years ago we brought my girlfriends parents here for her mothers birthday. She loved it and her dad went nuts over the beer selection. Overall? Yeah, it's good stuff.
(5)S R.
Food is Excellent but service is just OK. I've been here twice now and the waitstaff seems overwhelmed. On Sunday, for example, my friend and I were served by Nicole. She came over once without being flagged down, to take our drink and food order, but was otherwise unavailable. I waited almost 10 minutes for my tea before asking for it again; Nicole got it immediately but it would have been nice to get an apology or smile. I had ordered a side of avocado with my meal that didn't come, but I disregarded it because I couldn't flag Nicole down in time to reminder her about it, I decided to eat my meal without it. We had to be on the lookout for her to get our water and coffee refill. I asked for a tea refill and she waved me away. A few minutes later, she returned and explained that tea refills just included hot water; a second tea bag would cost me an additional $2.50. I've never heard of that policy but I suggest they change it. Worth going for the food and drink selections, though!
(3)Howard L.
When in for drinks in the afternoon and met a bartender named Tami. Service was slow and the drinks were weak. Will never return... Save your money guys and go to another bar
(1)MaryGrace A.
I had the veggie burger and nachos-I don't remember which kind, but they had black beans, cheese, and avocado on them. Everything was delicious! I like how they included both a salad and their signature fries with the veggie burger order. So good!
(5)Joe T.
How have I lived here so long without knowing about the glory of Christophers!? First, I love the environment. It feels like a fun, dark, solid place where deviant, fun, adventurous things happen in the nighttime. I plan to return here often. Second, Crisopher's has so many vegetarian options! I got a great veggie burger that tasted like it came right off a barbecue. Next time I want to try the deep-fried tofu!!! Third, Cristophers had very reasonable prices.
(4)Dave Y.
The best fried pickles in the city. Normally love this place, but today the eggs Benedict was not done well. English muffin was soggy, maybe a new cook or something. Their food is usually amazing.
(3)Jim B.
Let me be honest.. this place is my regular "local" so word to the wise, the review could be biased. I have watched the Red Sox win 2 World Series championships and the Bruins win 1 Stanley Cup, both while sitting on my back door perch in this establishment. I first walked in back in 1992 and ordered a Margarita that gave me mean heartburn, but was otherwise lubricant for the soul. I have met many others like myself here, made friends here, buried friends I've met here, and even met a few ladies here over the years. Like most locals here or abroad, your experience out of this place depends on what you put in. If you are seeking a low-key, low-lit, but not so low-priced hang-out, and you came in via Hush Puppies or 2 wheels, then you shan't be dissatisfied. Try driving to Porter for any reason, and you'll probably really need a drink by the time you get to the bar. Staff has changed endlessly over the years, but some above-line staffers have been here since it's early 80's days, including Charlie himself (also the owner of Cambridge Common, Lizard Lounge, and the ever-hip West Side Lounge, all down the street). I've enjoyed good times here, and although the original crowd for me has thinned out, its still a fun place to grab a beer and some halfway decent food. The food... OK, it's, well, OK. Nothing special, but you can be sure of the consistency. They have some rotating specials, but the basics are reliable comfort food favorites (burgers, salads, Dave's Pasta specials on most nights). Lately, they've had an obsession with ghost pepper cheese (its addictive..). Parties of 8 or fewer can be easily accommodated. Service is friendly. C's and restaurants like it are fading in America, being replaced by chains (the new Earl's in Assembly Row to name one, Not Your Average Joe's, Tavern In The Square, etc). I like C's and its general neighborhood street cred; it will remain a part of my weekly "wheel" hopefully for a long time. If you catch me by the back door on my stool, knock four times on the door glass and maybe, just maybe, I'll let you in through the wrong door. Cheers.
(4)Emily V.
I went here a few weeks ago, so it's kind of hard to remember everything. A definite stand out was the homemade clam chowder. Yowza! The portions are huge, so come hungry or split with someone. I got the beet salad with goat cheese after the chowder. While it was good, I expected many more beets (especially with the name!). The salad was mostly greens and a few pieces of beets on the side. Sadness. I wouldn't get it again. Everyone else in my party seemed happy. Someone got salmon on cous cous...someone else a burger (huge)... Cute place. Nice atmosphere. Decent prices. Much bigger than it looks; there is an entire upstairs.
(4)Gordon B.
This is my go-to spot in Porter Square. Great selection of draughts, great burgers ( including one made with sriracha sauce in the beef and ghost pepper cheese on top), fireplace, good value... headed there now!
(4)Lisa M.
This place is full of surprises. Sometimes the service is great, but it's usually adequate. Usually the temp is too cold, but sometimes it's comfortable. Sometimes the table by the fireplace is available, but usually it's not. The one thing I can say for sure is the food is always good. Usually it's typical, uninspired bar food, but sometimes the stars align & you get something special. It happens enough that I return again & again. There are many things that are attractive about Christopher's that keep me coming back but I admit; it takes a bit of strategy to decide whether to go. On my last return the food was on par with us showing up after midnight. The experience was heightened by a new bartender. She was not only attentive & charming, she was extremely knowledgeable about beer & local customs. I hope she becomes a fixture.
(4)Ian S.
Great bar and grill in Porter Square. I love the classy, old-fashioned feel of this place which (if the original sign is to be believed) dates back to 1920. It's casual and the food is modestly priced, but you don't feel like you're getting a cheap dining experience. It's a great place to enjoy a relaxing Friday night. About the food: I've enjoyed everything I've had here--mostly burgers and sandwiches. I also came here for brunch a couple of times and LOVED that, especially during warmer weather when outside seating was available. However I got severely ill after coming here for brunch with a friend a while back; can't be sure whether it was something I ate here or not (undercooked eggs in the omelette? spoiled avocado? bad melon?), but it scarred me so badly that I've never been back for brunch again, sadly. I have since returned a couple of times for dinner and have never had another bad experience, but part of me is still traumatized. It's unfortunate because their omelettes taste great. I recommend this place whole-heartedly, I just hope that no one else has a bad experience.
(4)Tom M.
Quite simply, I've never left here disappointed. I probably eat during 50% of my visits, and food is pretty darn good. Bartenders are super friendly and always offer a taste of their latest rotating tap. The beer selection is great, and the pours are healthy. Great environment too, for whatever reason I find that people around the bar are noticeably friendlier than average. A gem in the heart of Porter square!
(5)P'raka ..
Love this place for so many reasons: good food, good beer, good drinks! I came here once when the beer guy was making a delivery and got a very decent sized sample of a dark lager-style that I don't normally drink. Food-wise I'm loving the Portabello Rubeun - portobello, swiss cheese, sauerkraut, russian dressing and buttery toasted dark rye bread: SO AWESOME.
(5)Tahani R.
came here after a book reading in Porter, nice atmosphere, tasty food, everyone at my table was happy.
(4)Dominic Y.
First experience was not too memorable, had a black bean burger that I didn't care for. Went back last week looking for a better place to watch the ECF than the Tavern, which I really dislike. Christopher's had a great vibe, with a mix of Lesley? kids, yuppies, and Porter old-timers. I had their praised steak strips, which was good though it would have been better if they served a bigger portion. Still, I thought the service was shockingly good for a place as popular/crowded as Christopher's. I will definitely be back.
(3)Andrew R.
I was told this was Cambridge Common but better. That's an accurate description.
(4)James B.
So many great things to say about this place... For starters, the staff: They're incredibly friendly, helpful and work very well under pressure. And they know their beer! Never have I gotten a bad recommendation for a drink. An amazing bunch of people. The food: Fresh, good portions, cooked exactly how you like. Where else can you find a coleman beef burger for $6.95? It tastes amazing. Most places charge more for gimmicky burgers that have regular, run of the mill, factory beef. Coleman beef plus the preparation make it a gem that is not commonly found, at least not for the price. Also the nachos are awesome and they even have specialty burgers (think buffalo tofu, epic). The entrees are pretty good too but I usually stick to burgers b/c I'm cheap. The ambience: Cool and relaxing in the summer, warm and inviting in the winter. It's always clean and the layout is nice. Love the fireplace. The beer menu (OMG!): They have something like 12 rotating taps. You can tell the taps are always clean as well because the beer has never tasted anything but fresh. The selection is delicious and local and as I mentioned before, the staff know what they're talking about when you ask them about it. They also have a lot of static taps and bottled beers. Overall: This place has been a great spot for me for about 3 years now. It's one of the first places I visited when I moved to Boston and I've never thought twice about going back. I'd give them more than 5 stars if it were possible. Highly recommended!
(5)Liana K.
I went here with the parents cause its cheap (I was paying =)) and relatively nice but lively inside. However, the food was very disappointing other than the fries. Pros- Beers Good, nice looking sitting down pub type Cheap Fries: Soft, fully cooked, but not burnt or over frieds steak fries. I don't remember the last time I actually ate my fries that came with the meal. Good selection of gin based drinks always makes me happy Cons- Black Bean burger- Although it had lots of flavour, it was so dry, I could barely swallow it and after a while gave up. The bun they used was french bread and tasted really good. My mother got the steak tips which were just as equally dry and overcooked even though we asked for medium rare. I think the only place where I've tried worse steak tips has been Porters by north station. The quality of meat wasn't too bad, it was just too overcooked and hard to chew. My dad was the only one that was happy with his meal. He had Beef stroganoff. Which for the most part was good, I personally didn't like the sauce, but I'm not a fan of very gravy like flavor. Overall, if the food was slightly better prepared, I think I would have enjoyed my experience there more. My mom was a bit cranky from the place, but nothing a few gin cocktails can't fix. I forgot the name of which one's we got, but they were all good, a little on the weak side, but yummy.
(3)Jace F.
Christopher's is working with the sustainable business leaders to become more green...does anyone know exactly what this means? I'm only asking because I know of the green restaurant association, and was interested when I came across sbl. But anyway! My friends and I had a good time here.. awesome veggie burgers, I had to try one after reading all the yelps about it. Christopher's is a very chill place with tasty food.
(3)Allison R.
Props for the ambiance, which consists of dark wood, brick paneling, low lights, and a gas fireplace. Props for the extensive draught list, including a rotating cast of 7ish beers in addition to the starting lineup of another 5 or so. And, props for actually cooking my burger medium rare, which most places don't do. Our waitress was good but not great, but she did arrive immediately with water, which also earned props from me. This is a classic example of a 3.5 star establishment. Solid, worthy of a handful of returns on lazy evenings like this where I just want a tasty meal in a popular place. Oh, and props to them for not making me feel awk about wearing a sweatsuit out to dinner.
(3)Heather G.
Popped in for a quick dinner last night. I was immediately enamoured with the exposed brick walls, the old/distressed dark wood that managed to look artistic and unique but still very clean and neat, and the fireplace in the corner. The atmosphere is great - like Cambridge Common but not as dive-y-feeling and crowded. I was very excited to try the food, as the ambience was very laid back, casual, and nice. However, that's where the fun ended. The menu is priced like a pub, so there are really no complaints on the quality/value here. Christopher's knows its audience, it knows what it's trying to be, and prices itself accordingly. The food however - I've had better pub food. We started with an order of cajun cheese fries which was just a plate of steak fries (not made there, but rather the flash-frozen-and-deep-fried variety) covered with cajun seasoning powder and then topped with one giant layer of white cheese that was melted ono the entire plate. I thought the fries themselves were very moist for being the frozen type, but after having more fries w/ my burger later on, I realize that these cajun fries were only moist because the oils from the cheese made them so. The dish was overpowered with cheese, and it was messy and greasy. Ordered a burger (ordered and arrived medium, bonus points for that) with a side of fries next. Fries, as noted above, were really dry, lukewarm, and very unappealing. The burger was solid but the bun was sub-par. They say they lightly grill the bun, but it comes out thick and dry and without any trace of grilling. I prefer my hamburger rolls to be crunchier on the outside and squishier on the inside, so this dry, thick bun was not doing it for me. Lastly, we had dessert of granny smith apple pie and the fudge nut brownie sundae. Both desserts were WAY too sweet for my taste, and I was grateful for the vanilla ice cream scoop on each dessert to cut some of the sweetness. Overall, great ambience, great portion size, great service, good prices, subpar food. I would go back for beers and to hang out, but I doubt I'd look forward to having dinner here again. Add that to the list of places I should really go to for what they specialize in rather than for what I wish they specialized in.
(2)Brian G.
This is my go to place in Porter when I need something to eat and want to grab a beer. I'm a big fan of their healthy Caesar with chicken but they have a pretty wide selection of burgers as well that are great. One of which is on an english muffin which I'm all about. I haven't tried much else to eat. They have a great beer selection as well with a few things you don't see at many other places.
(4)Gilad S.
Burger was nothing special. Bun was good. Burger wasn't the juiciest, but I do appreciate the options that they have for burger toppings.
(3)John D.
Inexperienced Chef and Insulting Staff. This was my third visit, and hopefully the last. I ordered seafood risotto. Halfway through the meal the waitress asked how it was. I said it was ok, but it wasn't risotto, just white rice, peas and some seafood on top. She rolled her eyes and walked away... Perhaps I shouldn't have ordered seafood, but the meal wasn't particularly complicated. If they can't make it, then take it off the menu. Also don't ask me about my meal if you don't want to know. I wasn't being rude. I didn't refuse to eat it or send it back. It was edible, just very poor quality and not what I ordered. Previous trips for burgers and fries were not memorable. So if you go, stick with bar food and you might be ok.
(1)Steve C.
Outstanding restaurant. Met a friend from out of town along with several others on a Saturday night for dinner. I believe we had reservations, but I got there late - but unlike most places in the area, they will seat you regardless of whether or not your whole party is there! When I arrived, my friends had already ordered a plate of nachos. It was pretty picked over, but it was standard pub fare. Good beer selection, though I tend to avoid the stuff myself. Three of my companions ordered white sangria and seemed to enjoy it. I ordered the southwest burger with fried jalapenos and onions and I upgraded the fries to sweet potato fries. I ordered my burger medium rare and it was cooked perfectly. Good flavor, good char, not burnt. And the fries were crisp and plentiful. A friend probably ate a quarter of them off my plate. I think he couldn't help himself they were so good. Others around me ordered the fish tacos (he said they were 'good') and the tofu stir fry (I really wanted a taste of this dish - it looked like there was too much rice to not enough tofu / vegetables, but as a big fan of tofu, I thought it would taste good.) Pricing is beyond reasonable, especially considering the nearby competition. A lot of variety in the menu, too. In a way, it's not unlike some of the chain restaurants out there (like Uno) that have a lot of variety on their menu. The exception is this place feels very one-of-a-kind and the quality is leagues above that which you see in a chain. Wish I lived closer - this would definitely be in my monthly rotation of dine-out spots if I still lived in Somerville/Cambridge.
(4)Sarah S.
Fine, Christopher's, fine. You got me. Hardy har har. I am now seriously addicted to your buffalo tofu and cajun cheese fries + bleu cheese. I'm a sucker, I know. Okay, fine, yuppie nachos are good too. Are you happy now?? Service continues to be meh, so I do prefer takeout. When eating in, they have Harpoon UFO on draft, which I luuuuurve, and which tempts me a good deal.
(4)Eric W.
This place gets 4 stars if you stick to the burgers, sandwiches and nachos. Otherwise, it gets closer to 2 stars. But that said, their burgers and sandwiches are great, complete with all-natural ingredients. The YUPPIE NACHOS get their own paragraph, because that's just how good they are. They *deserve* their own paragraph. We and our friends go on a pilgrimage to Christopher's every few months specifically to satiate our YUPPIE NACHOS cravings. Bored of the usual nacho faire? Try the tranformative power of fresh cheese, goat cheese, sundried tomatoes, and guacamole on top of your tortilla chips. You won't be disappointed. And the beer selection is pretty good, too.
(4)Joseluis A.
made it to christophers a couple of nights ago. met up with some friends there. at first the idea was just to get beers and then find another place to eat. got a couple of boddingtons and we all shared some nachos. loaded with good stuff. those disappeared quick. so then we all decided to get a table (as we were by the bar) and stay there for dinner. i had the burger of the day... filled with mushrooms and jalapenos. good stuff. i ordered medium and it came out nice and juicy. just how a like it. we got the bill, paid with cash and two different cards... but then when i got home and checked on my bank account i saw that i had been charged 3 times at christophers. not good. i got a bit worried but went back there the following morning and spoke with a manager. he gave me a logical explanation and an apology which i naturally accepted. im happy i checked my balance that night though, otherwise i would never have noticed and who knows what would have happened. nevertheless, that burger i had was fuckin delicious
(3)Michelle K.
I ate here with friends last summer, and we ordered the Spinach and Artichoke Dip. Okay, *I* ordered the Spinach and Artichoke Dip...as my meal...(I know, don't even start) and it was fatty fat fat fat and very addictive. My dirty martinis were pretty good too, and the waiter kept 'em coming. First visit = Four stars. Some friends and I stopped by yesterday afternoon to get drinks. It was around 3 PM - too late for brunch, too early for dinner, so the restaurant wasn't at all busy. When the five of us approached the hostess stand and asked for a table, she seemed a bit put off that we weren't going to be eating anything. She went back and "checked with someone," then returned to inform us that tables were for customers who were ordering food, and that we'd have to go sit at the bar. Like, I get it. I've worked in restaurants before, and I know how it works. When the place is full, you don't want a table only ordering drinks while a bunch of people are waiting to sit. But that clearly wasn't the case here - there were plenty of open tables. It was just kind of strange. So anyway, that happened. We all sat at the bar, and I had a subpar cocktail for like $9. Second visit = Two stars. A four star experience averaged with a two star experience = three stars overall.
(3)Scott S.
Christopher's has one thing that keeps pulling me back: buffalo tofu. The sauce and breading they use are reminiscent of the wings at Damon's, my favorite pre-vegetarian restaurant. Some of the other food is hit or miss, but the nachos and buffalo tofu are usually solid. The service and dining experience can be dreadfully inconsistent. I recommend being very assertive about what you want from the get-go, or you may never get it at all.
(4)Matt E.
This is a solid place to take friends and family. It has a broad menu that can accommodate almost any diet and food style desired. Indoor and outdoor seating for summer and during winter they crank up the fireplace adding heat an ambiance. They always have a decent beer selection and an array of mixed cocktails. Something else that really stands out to me is you're not seeing a TV every direction you look. There's a couple in the bar area so you could watch the game if you wanted to but you can just as easily not watch it. I go there fairly regularly and see a lot of the same patrons each time. It's totally worth checking out and seeing what they have to offer.
(4)Steve K.
Christopher's is great. It's right off the redline, right in Porter, easy to find, and a fun place to go. Whether to check out a sports game on the tv, grab some drinks, eat some dinner or just to go meet up with friends, I always find myself having a good time here. Drinks are good, service is great, food is better, and the price is exactly what I am looking for when either starting a night out on the town or just going to grab some dinner. They got an extra star from me for making the regular chicken sandwich into a buffalo chicken sandwich even though it wasn't on the menu. Christopher's always aims to please.
(4)Jeff M.
Came here because I heard the burgers were the best around. The English burger and chicken burger were below average. I'll stick to the music at Toad.
(2)Tennille W.
A great bar and the atmosphere is fun.
(4)Kevin C.
even though I love sushi, this has been my favorite hangout for many years easy access, great food, warm environment ( I love the fire place in the cold months), great art on the walls, nice people, and great service favorites of mine include the fish n chips, portabello pasta. veggie burger, salmon fettucini and the daily ravioli you can get an irish coffee late at night, espresso martini, hot or cold cider I was disappointed when they decided to install LCD TV's all over the place with sports every night - plenty of sports bars in Boston for that - but the folks are still mellow and it's not impossible to strike up an intelligent conversation these days Melli at the bar will take care of you and forget all you'd worries - until it's time to go ;)
(5)Cristina S.
This place always has good service. I will say they are always sweet, attentive and prompt. The atmosphere is really great for meals. I have never actually been here for drinks, but it seems like it would be a fun little place. I have been here for Sunday brunch a handful of times. I had stuffed french toast once, which was good, I've also had the Benedict and Breakfast skillet with andouille. I would recommend the breakfast. It's nothing to write home about, but it's home-made from fresh ingredients, which is a refreshing change from chicken fried steak and such. I have had their Espresso Martini, champagne and sometimes they have really yummy specialty drinks. The Bloody Mary is tasty too. Mother's Day was really insane, which is to be expected, but otherwise, it's pretty calm and you can walk right in before noon.
(4)Liz L.
I went here on a date. The service was decent, the food was far better than I expected, drinks were a tad weak but tasty. Atmosphere was decent - a mix of people... not too loud but not quiet by any means. I was pleasently surprised. I always avoided this place because I figured it was a typical Boston Pub with expensive crappy food. But it wasn't!
(4)Ploy K.
I went here really wanting to like it because my boyfriend's name is...you guessed it, Christopher. We decided to check it out and were optimistic at first. We were seated right away (6:00pm on a Friday night) and our waiter was attentive. The drinks and food all came out quickly, and I was already writing a great Yelp review in my head... until I bit into my burger. At first, I thought they had brought me a veggie burger. I had ordered the Mighty Mushroom burger, and I called our waiter back to ask him if he had brought me the wrong thing. It seriously did not taste like meat. He then told me that the mushrooms had been mixed into the burger, which I assume is what happened with the bacon as well, but I tell you what, I couldn't taste a damn bit of it. It was like a spongy veggie burger of the worst degree, which made the BBQ sauce overwhelming rather than complimentary. I got no mushroom taste all, but there was an dominate taste of red pepper, of which I am not a fan and which was not mentioned in the menu description. So much for the "mighty." My boyfriend got the English burger and was equally unimpressed by it. It was underwhelming and a bit too rare for a medium rare burger. There was nothing exciting or different about it; we have definitely made better burgers at home. I will say that the fries were pretty good. The service was ok, nothing extraordinary, but not bad either. We were served in a very timely manner, but without much personality. Some people like that, but I don't mind a little enthusiasm. The atmosphere was nice, cozy and welcoming. I would not mind giving Christopher's another chance; other things on the menu looked great, but after our first experience, we won't be in any hurry.
(2)Kayte B.
Been here a few times - they have a really great bar and some really interesting drinks! I had a lavender ice tea (long island style) last summer that has stuck with me. The food is decent - the burgers are GREAT. There's a good variety of flavors to suit all palates. They even have some Mexican-inspired dishes, which my best girlfriend loves. Great location, decent service - I've had some slow waiters that forget to check back in, but pretty solid service the majority of the time. Good prices for the neighborhood. I'll be back!
(4)Frank W.
Bottom Line: Decent prices (granted.. it's Porter..), good selection of beer, but food and atmosphere is nothing to write home about. So my roommate wanted some "real food" instead of having his girlfriend cook dinner for us. Therefore, we went to Christophers. The good thing, we didn't have to wait very long for a table, even though it was one of those "everyone wants to be outside" days. Thumbs up for that. Thumbs went sideways to down from there. We each ordered a burger (I got the special -- a stuffed "greek" burger), a pitcher of sangria (I dunno.. they wanted a pitcher, could I say no to that?), and some nachos, because all of the yelpers say that was the way to go. Thanks Yelpers! Those Nachos were delicious! Unfortunately we waited AGES for our burgers (good 35-40 minutes), meaning we had gone through that entire pitcher of sangria, and the nachos, and were what you might call "stavin-mahvins". When the burgers did come, they were certainly a patty served with a bun, but meh, I only ate half and didn't bother to bring the rest home. The potato wedges are deep fried and crispy, but a little too fried in my opinion, and the "side salad" ... yea well oops on that one. .. And everyone at the table had the same feelings. Come here for the beer and some drunk food. Not if you want a good meal, there are plenty of other places for that.
(3)Jillian P.
Christopher's is a good go-to, easy to please, everyone will find something that works kind of American pub. There are a lot of great beers and a nice draft selection and the cocktails are good, too. I would recommend the Lavender Lemon Tea. Delicious and summery. The burgers are obviously the way to go with lots of choices, but all of the food is pretty good and my non-vegetarian sister is obsessed with their homemade veggie-burgers, so give that a try. The service here is consistently slow and that knocks the rating from 5 to 4. I've gone with a large group, with a table of 4, two of us at the bar... it's just really slow. There's usually a wait for a table and it's tough to find seats at the bar, so plan for that.
(4)Z R.
I've been here twice over the past week and both times I've experienced lackluster service accompanied by sub service meals. The first time was in the evening at dinner, I was dining alone and was promptly seated at a table near the front of the restaurant. The rest was downhill from here, my server barely spoke English, was absent for at least 10 minutes before I even had a chance to place my drink order. Upon placing my order, I asked him to recommend a wine and he quickly ran off only to return with a taste of a 'Shiraz'. No explanation of where it came from or why he had arrived at this decision. I started with the mussels, which were at least served hot. The sauce was bland and you could tell there were 10 lbs of butter in it. More seasoning, less butter, and perhaps a little more lemon. The next part of the meal I barely could touch because it was honestly just poorly prepared. It was the marinated steak tips. The steamed vegetables (broccoli) were over cooked and flavorless, the mashed potatoes were probably the only edible things on the plate. The tips themselves were drenched in what tasted like Worcestershire sauce, butter, and very little pepper or salt. My request for them to be RARE resulted in medium -medium well. The server displayed very little concern about the fact the food was barely consumed and promptly decided to just run my credit card with no real mention of the fact I hadn't eaten their slop of a meal. The second time I went was a burger, which resulted in basically the same ailment of zero taste, overdone, and just overall lackluster. Look elsewhere folks.
(2)Angela A.
I'll admit. I *want* to hate Christopher's. It feels chainey and soulless. I chafe at the idea of it. BUT, admittedly, I've never had a *bad* experience there - only really mediocre ones. One surprisingly nice touch is the beer sampler. It comes on a little wooden board, and you have four little half-pint glasses. But that, unfortunately, is it. The food feels heavy and fried, the staff seem uninterested, and the vibe is just kinda dull.
(2)Ashley V.
Best nachos!!! They make their own tortilla chips, use free range chicken, fresh homemade guac and delicious pico!! Yum!!
(4)Juliette V.
Nice restaurant/pub atmosphere and a great location. They have very good nachos with some interesting vegetarian twists. I feel like I do not go here enough.
(3)Michael S.
My wife and I practically used to live here over the last couple of years. Unfortunately, our experience with Christopher's seems to be going downhill. The food in an excellent bargain for the money. My wife swears by the veggie burger and I LOVE the blackened steak salad and the salmon fettuccine. The appetizers are excellent as well. As far as I'm concerned, here's where the wheels begin to fall of the cart: 1. The tap beer selection. Maybe it's just how sick of the New England Microverse I am, but it seems as if the majority of their beer selection consists of over-hopped, quaintly-named rust water. As a lager man, I'm bummed, though I know it's par for the course in Cambridge. One can only drink Sam Adams and Miller Lite so many times. Can I get a Spaten? A Pilsner Urquell? A Leinie's? Something that's not "Old Sasquatch Triple-Hopped Cask-Conditioned Copper Ale?" 2. It's constantly crowded on weeknights. Look, I know it's a good thing that business is good, but it makes trying to get two seats at the bar into an ordeal. The worst part is that it seems to attract a good amount of grad student/NPR types who camp at the bar drinking what seems like about one glass of wine per hour. This is not the bar's fault--I know--but it does make our visits kind of annoying. Once school's back in session, forget about it. My wife and I have had to give up the last few times. 3. Service can be slow. Last time we did manage to get a seat at the bar, the bartender was a blond-haired, middle-aged lady, not one of the bartenders we've usually had. The place was quiet and we were two of maybe eight people at the bar. She handed us menus and then disappeared. We waited for almost fifteen minutes without having our drink orders taken. I finally got so ticked that I told my wife we were leaving--I wasn't about to send the message that bad service pays. It's sad that we've gotten a bit down on Christopher's, given that we used to eat there about twice a week, and that the manager and the bartenders (with one exception) have been fast and super-friendly. Maybe we'll wait until summer, in the hopes that we can get our favorite dinner spot back.
(3)DD T.
I mostly drink here and I love the ambience. The bar is a little divy and much less crowded that the Tavern just across. Come in at 11 with a group of friends, and you're always guaranteed a table by the fireplace. Then, start plotting the revolution.
(4)Lindsay J.
I would like to say that this place is a hit or miss most of the time! I have been there plenty of times mostly for there buffalo tofu which is Amazing! which I would give 5 stars too and I am not even vegetarian. But when it comes to there other dishes I have had some of the best dinners there and some that are just okay. The waitstaff here is always super friendly! So I would give them 5 stars as well!!
(3)John C.
Great burgers, and great vegetarian burgers! Christopher's menu has a lot of variety and goes out of there way to have vegetarian entrees that are better the meatful versions. A great place for a dinner, whether gang of friends or romantic evening.
(5)Evelyn I.
You know, I tried to write this review before, and was going to give this place 4 stars, but after living away from Christopers for 6 months now, I realize what a good thing it had going for it. This is a go to when I used to live in the Porter Square area and couldn't figure out what to have for dinner. It was a great choice for drinks after work. There ever changing, large draft beer selection kept me quite happy. And when the music sounded good next door, you could just slip over to Toad. Christophers was a place everyone could agree on for large groups. They accommodate everyone from vegans, to gluten free friends, to the carnivorous crew, to the friends that don't drink, but just want to go for the nachos. While not a whole lot stands up and shouts as being the best damn ________ you've ever had, it is always respectable. The prices are honest, and the service commendable, and often able to swing the group of 15 that just walked in without a reservation (sorry about that one). After traveling for several months in far off lands, I found myself wishing on several occasions to just go to Christopher's for dinner because I couldn't handle the choices, decisions, and often times, the disappointment involved. Thanks for always being there for me. You're like that friend I never appreciated enough until you were gone, then I realized how much I really did need you in my life.
(5)Lance S.
Great spot! Love the ambiance (dark and cozy inside, especially if you get a table near the fireplace) and the beer selection is fantastic. The food is good but not great - I have tried most of the menu and recommend the chicken piccata. Burgers are also very good, but hard to get excited about a burger. TV situation is poor - certainly not ideal to watch a game. But with good prices, solid food and an excellent beer selection, Christopher's is a great spot.
(4)Anthony V.
Nice place. I like it bunch. They have other food but i always end up getting a burger, because they are wonderful. Also delicious is the Chicken Piccata which has artichoke hearts which my date got last night. They have a lot of beers as well. nice.
(4)Mel D.
Being too inpatient to wait in line for Sound Bites and Ball Square Cafe my girlfriends and I realized that we'll get to eat quicker by walking to Christopher's instead of remaining in line at Ball Square Cafe. I had the portobello and cheese omelette which comes with toast, fresh fruit and homefries. The french-vanilla Hazelnut iced coffee was absolutely delicious. Only downside was that they do not serve pancakes. Possibly the best brunch in a 20 block radius.
(4)B D.
Good service, great food and drinks.
(4)Leanne R.
Went here for the fist time over the weekend, my craving for Buffalo Tofu brought me here. It was good and it satisfied the craving but it wasn't great. Also had a veggie burger, it was Ok, nothing special. I enjoyed the atmosphere and thought the art was cool. I will go back and try something else for an entree.
(3)Tony W.
It's like Christopher knew that on March 27, 1978 I would be born, and that I would be moving to Boston on February 2, 2006 from Portland, ME, and that I would need a brand-new favorite restaurant. He was correct. This is hands-down my favorite restaurant in the Boston area. Here are the reasons: 1. Their beer selections. Always rotating around, you never know what you're going to get, but it's always good and eclectic. I had this pumpkin ale (called Pum King - go figure) around Halloween that left me drooling. 2. Their appetizers - my personal favorite is the buffalo tofu, but their nachos and calamari is also top-notch. 3. They have a ton of vegetarian options. Although I now eat fish and shrimp, I appreciate any effort restaurants make to accommodate the Veggies. And it's almost all good. Except one time (out of many) I took a gamble on the special that wasn't very good - I take the blame for that one. 4. Their menus. The people on the cover always remind me of the 'Good Friends' Kashi cereal. Are they good friends, or are they more than good friends? Maybe they just like cooking together. 5. It's close to my work, and it's a great place to go hang out with friends and get caught up. 6. The downstairs ambiance is great, although I am all too often sat upstairs, away from the cool kids. This is the equivalent of the Thanksgiving card table detention. Attention Ladies - the way to my heart is 3-fold: 1. Good, varied beers. 2. Tasty vegetarian options. 3. An ambient and relaxed environment to chill with friends. Overall, 2 thumbs up. There'd be more, but hey, I'd have to find some more thumbs.
(5)David L.
The best restaurant near Porter Square, bar none, with a beer selection that will keep even the most discerning microbrew lover happy as those clams that happen to be cooked into one of their diverse dishes. Christopher's offers a taste of everything, though their 'burgah' menu may take the cake. Like beef? There's a burgah for that. Vegetarian? There's a burgah for that. Like your burger to be instilled with pesto and formerly squawk? There's a burgah for that. Be ready for lip-smacking salads, antipasti, pasta dishes, seafood, and a whole lot more, as well. The decor and overall atmosphere are perfect for most casual guests. It's definitely a nice date spot, though it would be equally well-suited for a night out on the town, dinner with your (at least slightly trendy) parents, a (sadly) platonic night with a friend, etc. The burgahs will run you under $10, pasta dishes are around $12-$15, and expect around $20 for premium food like seafood. Location: Porter Square, on the west side of Massachusetts Avenue. Somerville Ave would run into it if it continued past the intersection. From the T stop, look across the wacky intersection to see a black, white, and brick facade. Watch for cars!
(5)Adam K.
Nice play to go for drinks and simple conversation with friends. The food has been pretty standard bar fare, but they spice it up with a healthy vegetarian selection that would cause the most ravenous carnivore to contemplate becoming an omnivore. I love the tofu buffalo wings, and they have an amazingly good hamburger stuffed with mushrooms. Delicious. And you can't beat their location -- right off the T in Porter Square.
(4)Katie B.
Have not found a thing wrong with it yet...well maybe the outside step but that was only once. Interesting menu, always something I haven't tried. Unique specials. Rotating draft selection Convient location Good prices
(5)Meaghan M.
I've been here a few times, and I have to say, it's all about the burgers. Their burgers really are out of this world delicious. I can't comment on much other food, except for the one time I went for brunch, which was also on point - my friend got the steak & eggs and said it was extremely good. I also had a late lunch here last weekend, and my friends were iimpressed with the chowder, salmon burger, and mushroom ravioli - I'm not a seafood eater, so I can't comment personally, but they enjoyed it. I will say that last time I went both the hostess and waitress were TOTAL space cadets... they were speaking so quietly we couldn't really hear them (mind you, this is a Saturday at 3 pm - not exactly crowded in here) and were totally off their game. I'm hoping this is a rarity, not par for the course. Overall... affordable, good food, great selection of beers.
(4)Tamar A.
Dear, dear sweet Christopher's. I can break down my Christopher's experience into three tidy, ascending categories: 1. A dining experience 2. An after-work, end-of-night, catch-up with friends over dark-paneled wood and an awesome beer list hang-out-a-thon 3. THE GREATEST BRUNCH EVER. 1. You know, much as I love this place, I'm always a little disappointed with the non-brunch food. It's the kind of restaurant where you WANT to be inspired by the menu and then have a rough time with all the yummy choices, but instead I find myself always wishing that some sandwiches could share ingredients or some salads were a smidge more thrilling. The spinach dip, for example, should, as a melty bowl of cheese, be infinitely tasty, and yet no matter now many times I order it, it's never not disappointingly bland. The same can be said for the nachos, fries, and chocolate mousse. I mean, the tasteless guac comes impaled with a tasteless piece of cucumber. What's up with that? 2. Great beer list, hands down. All the good stuff on tap, any kind of mixed drink you could fancy, and since the ambiance itself is equal parts English pub and New Hampshire ski lodge (the fireplace is deliciously toasty in the winter), and since I live just around the corner, it's pretty much my favorite default watering hole. The outdoor seating is a little suspect, though. I'd prefer not to share my summer nights with the Mass Ave traffic. 3. HAVE I MENTIONED THE BRUNCH?! Sunday mornings. 10:30am. You're so fucking welcome.
(4)Lori D.
Average is the word I would use to describe this place. The food my group had was ok, but nothing really stood out as particularly memorable. For those prices, I expected either a nice show of creativity or truly stellar classics--we got neither. However, the atmosphere almost makes up for the ok menu. When we were there the place was crowded and noisy, but still managed to feel like an intimate gathering place (I think it was the lighting...). We were seated by the giant fireplace, which seemed so cozy when we were first seated. Call me a stickler for authenticity, but somehow the place seemed less cozy when we realized it was wasn't a real, wood-burning fireplace. For the record, we were there on a Friday night. From what I hear, the best meal at this place is Sunday brunch, and I do intend to go back to try brunch and give them a second chance.
(2)Keri M.
I looooooove Christopher's. The atmosphere is cozy without being oppressive, the food is delicious and the company is decidedly non-sketchy and draws more of an after-work than a college crowd (yay!) The beer selection never disappoints, very good selection of seasonal beers (very important considering it's the BEST beer time of the year!). Food has always been fantastic. Several times i've ordered the specials and they have never disappointed. My favorite menu item so far is the Colombian Chicken Stew (grandma's recipe!). It's the creme de la creme as far as comfort food goes. The cozy fake fireplace and atmosphere make it a great place to go to get out of the rain. The only reason I give it four stars is cause of service. It's not bad by any means, but the prices are a bit high for the whole "hey guys whaddya want" shpeal and the bartenders can be mildly inattentive. DON'T get me wrong i'm not one of those annoying MIT/Harvard students that visits on daddy's dime and complains about prices no matter where I go, I would gladly pay even more for these dishes, i'm just saying. Still leave 20% you jerks unless it's dismal. All in all just typing this makes me want to go there again, and I think I will! :D
(4)Patryce S.
Seriously exceeded my expectations! I ordered dining in and got the portobello mushroom sandwich and the caramel apple pie and chocolate raspberry cake..yes i know i have a serious sweet tooth lol. Even though I got it for take out it and was not so warm it was sooooooo good!!! The rueben was amazing....a little smaller than a rueben I have had in the past but the taste definately makes up for it!! Definately ordering from here again...actually just did lol. Just an update I ordered from here again and sadly had to bring my review down to 3 stars...only reason getting 3 stars is because the first time was really good. 2nd time I have no idea what happened....its like they knew I was a first time customer and did a great job the first time then the 2nd they just didnt care...sandwich was sloppy and didnt taste the same...probably not gonna order from here again.
(3)Eric P.
A friend recommended the nachos and they were definitely what we were looking for before a night out. We went on a Saturday night around 7 and found two seats at the bar without a problem. It was busy but not overcrowded so I'm sure we could have gotten a table if we wanted to. Service was good as our bartender was friendly and attentive. The nachos had plenty of cheese and jalapeños. Salsa was chunky and tasted fresh too. As others have mentioned, the beer selection is awesome. Plenty of taps and about 8 that change regularly.
(4)Brittany L.
Best homemade veggie burger, mabe ever. I moved back west a year ago and I haven't found a veggie burger to replace it. Veggie burger comes with a side salad and delicious wedge fries too. If you put the balsamic dressing for the salad on top of the burger, it makes for an extra tasty combo. Never had a bad dish here, love this place.
(5)Casey F.
Great burgers, *really* excellent rotating taps, and a (nearly) always interesting specials menu. 4 stars for the bar food, 3 stars for the rest of the menu, and 5 stars for the beer list.
(4)Jim Z.
I can fit my head in one of their Bloody Mary glasses.
(4)Gradon T.
Went to Christopher's for lunch yesterday with a group of friends, and let me say: We were the worst customers ever. We called ahead for "between 7 and 10", but only 5 arrive; we say a couple are going to arrive shortly. The waitress is gracious and takes our drink orders -- iced teas all around -- and we start chatting and laughing. Several minutes later, one of my friends waves the waitress over to take our orders. The other two are delayed, he explains, and will order when they arrive. We order burgers all around with various fixin's, save the Southwestern Chicken Salad by one. Oh, and just for kicks, we ordered one of those burgers to go. A short wait later, our food arrives *perfect*. The to-go goes, and we start eating. My spicy pepperjack burger had a good amount of heat, but not enough to keep me from devouring it in minutes. Right as we start eating, I get a text from one of the late ones: She's stuck in traffic and starved, please order for her so it's waiting. So we open the menu and pick something that will stay room temp until they arrive: the Club Christopher. We order that and a thing of buffalo tofu for the table. Of course, the food arrives before our last two guests. But when they do arrive, one eats her already-there sandwich, the other orders something for herself, and they get just as well fed as the rest of us. We figured after all of this more people/less people, for here/to go, the bill will be a mess. Has to be, right? Nope. It was spot on. A great lunch and great (patient) service. I'll be back.
(4)Binh L.
This review is purely for the veggie burger. Yes, it was that good. The ingredients were so fresh and seasoned. I polished this off. (Between the veggie burgers, get the homemade! Totally worth the extra bucks.) Good portion and fair price. I can see this being a nice place to grab drinks, get burgers/pub food, and good for groups, I think. They have the space, interesting art/nice decor, and the lighting can be intimate (but I didn't go at night, can't judge). Wouldn't mind going here again. Mm veggie burger..
(4)Stephanie G.
There is one thing that differentiates Christopher's from other burger/fries/beer/cocktail/music places and that's the Burger of the Day. I'm not a fan of beef burgers (yes, I know, I'm so ashamed) but Christopher's does a Burger of the Day that is always fabulous. Maybe they do beef sometimes, but I've never seen it. Sometimes it's a chicken burger stuffed with cheese and artichokes or a turkey burger with avocados...many things that are delicious, different, and not beef! And the rest of the food - great. The drinks - great. Atmosphere - fabu. I love this place for a casual evening with friends.
(4)Matt R.
The menu doesn't have a ton of options, nor does it change much, but I guess the old saying applies... "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". Great food (their mashed potatoes are f***ing amazing). I do try different things, but I always end back up at the chicken piccata. Two chicken breasts, those heavenly 'taters, and vegetables at a reasonable price. Tends to get pretty filled at night, mostly young professionals looking for a drink or two.
(4)tricia r.
You go to Christopher's for the beer. Good local brews as well as the"fancy" ones from afar. Been here a million times. I belong to a group that meets in the area, and we end up drinking and dining here often. It's convenient, affordable and offers enough variety so that meat-eaters and vegetarians can all have something. The wait staff is usually very friendly. We've gotten to know some of them, which is good because I have some of the world's pickiest friends. THis one doesn't want ice, this one can't have milk, that one wants to basically rewrite the menu. We're hard to please. I really like the yuppie nachos with goat cheese and sundried tomatoes. Some items on the menu are quite good -- the burgers, particularly the veggie burger, are delicious and can be customized many ways. The salads and soups are also usually good. Problem is, there are some items to stay away from. The hummus platter. The non-Christopher's veggie burger. The black bean soup. The pasta dishes are hit or miss. It's hard to know what will be good and what will suck. I've heard rave reviews about the buffalo tofu but haven't ventured yet. We've had some probs with the management. The last escapade involved a pitcher of margarita that had almost no alcohol in it. It didn't taste right. My friends sent it back, but were still charged. The manager put the server in the middle and was too cowardly to come over and deal. I didn't have the drink, so I scuttled out of there before the end, but apparently my friends had to fight to get the returned drink removed. So, conclusion. Hard to say. Christopher's is our fall-back place and I've found my faves. I expect that many folks find it hit-or-miss.
(3)Nick A.
Christopher's is great! I would put it a notch above your standard pub-type place but still has a very casual, laid-back vibe. The food was fantastic. It definitely exceeded my expectations. In the summer, they have a nice patio-- right on the sidewalk on Mass Ave so not a lot of privacy and a little loud but great for people watching. The price was great too and they have a good selection of drinks as well!
(4)Lauren F.
Love love love love love Christoper's! I took my family here before my graduation on Saturday. We had a party of 11, so I made a reservation. We had drink service right away, and the servers did not seem flustered dealing with such a large party. The bartender makes great drinks; my Hendricks and tonic was spot-on, and my husband loved his milk stout for the ever-changing beer menu. I had my usual burger with Cheddar and bacon, and it was as good as ever. Their fries are delicious and thick. Also, their prices are extremely reasonable for the quality of the food, around $10 for burgers and less for sandwiches. Try the homemade ravioli too!
(5)Katie A.
By far, my favorite restaurant. Buffalo tofu. Burger of the day. Ravioli of the day. Great beer. Great service. Great vegetarian options, and carnivore options. I recommend it to everyone. You can't go wrong here.
(5)Mimi H.
I wanted to like Christopher's, but it has never lived up to my expectations or hopes. The wait is always too long. Always. I've waited to be seated, I've waited to give my order, I've waited for my food to arrive, I've waited for my check to arrive, and I've waited for my credit card to be returned. Downstairs has tight seating; upstairs is roomier, but the chairs are just as uncomfortable. And the food is okay. Nothing to get ecstatic about, although by the time you've waited to actually GET the food, ANYTHING would taste good. I've consistently ordered a medium burger and it has consistently been served INCONSISTENTLY cooked -- either too pink or too brown, with no happy, well, MEDIUM. I recommend the new burger joint in Davis Square, the Boston Burger Company, for a better burger and better (if smaller) accommodations.
(2)Meghan M.
I was initially looking for a great homemade veggie burger when I came across Christopher's, the menu looked comprehensive (to say the least) and the yelp reviews while mixed were overwhelmingly positive. Thank you yelpers!! I loved Christopher's and of course my last minute decision to get fish tacos was the best idea ever - best fish tacos I've found in the boston area so far. I had read that the service can be hit or miss, to be honest the service was solid, our waitress was a bit on the odd side, but we were seated right away and food came out quickly. I will definitely be heading back to try that darn veggie burger amongst many other things.
(5)Lisa T.
This is one of my fave neighborhood spots (hence why it's my first Yelp! review). Great atmosphere. Good service. Cheap. They have an extensive burger menu - so many options. The first time I went with guac and cheddar combo and the second time I got it with pepper jack cheese. I do have to say the first time I went I ordered a burger cooked medium and it was very rare. I actually had to send it back. I had an entirely different experience the second time I went, however, which is why I'm still giving them 4 stars. I've also had their club sandwich which is your average turkey club as well as their butternut squash ravioli in the winter. The ravioli were realllly good but not as filling as I had hoped. Even though the food is not the most amazing food I've ever had, Christopher's is still a fun, casual place to sit back and relax. They have a ton of options on the menu, lots of seating (outdoor too) and it's especially convenient if you live in Porter Sq.
(4)Suki S.
I love Christopher's! I am usually reluctanct to give 5 stars to restaurants because there is usually something wrong I can find with it. But honestly, I love th food and the service. I'm vegetarian and the Chuck's Veggie Burger has to be one of the best burgers I've ever had including all the turkey burgers and beef burgers I've eaten. They offer a good amount of options for vegetarians including their veggie chili which is also amazing. They have great beers and their staff are all very friendly. It does get pretty packed on a Saturday night but what good restaurant in Boston doesn't right? They have two floors which helps with seating large parties and one little plus that I love is the art work they have on display and for sale (even though they're wicked expensive,) they're always really good paintings dipicting Boston...awesome. Always a good time at Christopher's.
(5)Mike D.
Christopher's reminds me of a Facebook friend from high school who gets in touch out of the blue. I go there about every two years, and am really psyched about it at first, then I suddenly remember why it's been a few years since we've been in touch. To set the scene, I loved going here when I was a kid. I was less picky and couldn't have a beer back then. In those days there was a Ground Round on Mass. Ave., which my parents inexplicably hated taking to me despite the fact that there was free popcorn, Ms. Pacman, lots of screaming kids running around, a drunken surly Binky the clown, and a constant projection reel of the Three Stooges and Laurel and Hardy. Anyhow, Christopher's was like a grown up version of that, and my mother actually liked taking me there from time to time. It was a really big treat, but over the years the thrill has waned. On our last trip, the hostess showed up at the front podium four or five minutes after we arrived even though the place was half empty, led us to a table, then started cleaning the table right behind ours so we had to wait for her to finish before we sat. Wha?? She gave us too few menus and no specials/rotating taps list. I know it's not necessarily the job of a hostess to take an initial drink order, but given how slow the service continued to be, it would have been nice perk--and would have helped make the tip much closer to 20% than it ended up being. The menu was half brunch, which meant that our 2:00 lunch selections were fairly limited, so I got a burger. It was pretty good, though overcooked (not to order). The fries were tasty, but they continued to be tastED for several hours. Why is your cooking oil still too cold at 2:00 p.m.? I remember being impressed by the beer selection in the past too. But today, almost all of the rotating taps seemed really inappropriate for the season and the weather. I had the impression the breweries were giving them deals to use up the leftover winter stock. With a few exceptions, the list was full of porter, barleywine, a quadruple, a stout, imperial IPA... Chris, dude, it's hot and muggy out--I need some lighter, more poundable options today. Anyhow, I'm sure I'll be back in another two years, though I'm not hopeful about updating my review at that time.
(2)Stephanie S.
I always appreciated Christopher's, but much more so now that I live in the neighborhood. It's a good go-to spot since their menu is full of choices. There's always something to satisfy me. If the black bean burger is available, you MUST try it. Any of the hamburgers are outstanding, but the homemade black bean and vegetarian burgers are exceptional. Their fish burgers are quite good as well... not overly breaded. The rotating beer selection is hit or miss and it's always heavy on the Smuttynose. They often have some unusual choices, which I appreciate... I guess everyone else appreciates this, too, because they always seem to be out of what I want!
(4)Jessie C.
Food still fab - service, EH. She was wicked slow.
(3)